Playa Tortugas
A local-feeling beach with rocky swimming spots and a bustling ferry terminal to Isla Mujeres, offering unique activities and beach bars.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Claim your spot on the sand
Playa Tortugas
Best Time
Claim your spot on the sand
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A local-feeling beach with rocky swimming spots and a bustling ferry terminal to Isla Mujeres, offering unique activities and beach bars.
"Cool area among the rocks to swim. Cool activities like bungie jumping."
🚢 Ferry to Isla Mujeres
Arrive early for ferry tickets and seating. Consider Puerto Juarez ferry if you need to leave before 9 am.
🏖️ Beach Space
Sandy beach areas can be small and get crowded. Cafe tables are often set up early. [^review1]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ferry to Isla Mujeres
Ferry Terminal
Catch a ferry to Isla Mujeres for a day trip or longer. Catamaran tours also depart from here.
Rocky Swimming Areas
Along the shoreline
Explore the rocky formations for a unique swimming experience with calm waters.
Bungee Jumping
Beachfront
For thrill-seekers, experience the excitement of bungee jumping right on the beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry to Isla Mujeres
Beach Vibe & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry to Isla Mujeres
Arrive early for ferry tickets and seating. Consider Puerto Juarez ferry if you need to leave before 9 am.
🏖️ Beach Space
Sandy beach areas can be small and get crowded. Cafe tables are often set up early. [^review1]
💰 Souvenir Shopping
Little shops offer souvenirs, but prices are higher than downtown Walmart. [^review3]
🚗 Return Taxi Costs
Be prepared for potentially high taxi fares for the ride back from Playa Tortugas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry to Isla Mujeres
Arrive early for ferry tickets and seating. Consider Puerto Juarez ferry if you need to leave before 9 am.
🏖️ Beach Space
Sandy beach areas can be small and get crowded. Cafe tables are often set up early. [^review1]
💰 Souvenir Shopping
Little shops offer souvenirs, but prices are higher than downtown Walmart. [^review3]
🚗 Return Taxi Costs
Be prepared for potentially high taxi fares for the ride back from Playa Tortugas.
🏊♀️ Rocky Swimming
Enjoy swimming among the rocks for a different beach experience. [^review1]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Tortugas offers a local beach experience with rocky swimming areas and a popular ferry terminal to Isla Mujeres. While some visitors enjoy the beach bars and activities like bungee jumping, others note limited sandy space, potential for crowds, and higher prices for souvenirs. The water is generally good and calm, making it suitable for swimming. [^review1] [^review2] [^review3]
"Cool, more of a local beach. Might get harassed by some locals. Really cool, small beach bars though. Cool area among the rocks to swim. Cool activities like bungie jumping. There's ferries/boats in and out of here and some souvenir shopping too .....cool 😅"
Kristi Emmons
"No sandy beach available.
Rocky only.
If you settle on 15m wide sandy beach early morning, cafe staff will set plastic tables in 15 cm around you.
Extremely unfriendly."
urikrem
"Beautiful sand and landscape view, but rather small."
Andreia Silva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa Tortugas is accessible by taxi or bus from Cancun. It's also a popular departure point for ferries to Isla Mujeres.
Playa Tortugas is located in the hotel zone, making it relatively easy to reach from most accommodations.
Ferries depart regularly from Playa Tortugas to Isla Mujeres. It's a straightforward DIY trip.
While Ubers may be available, local taxis are also a common option. Be aware of potential high fares for return trips.
Yes, local buses that run along the hotel zone typically stop near Playa Tortugas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Playa Tortugas itself is generally free, but you will need to purchase tickets for the ferry to Isla Mujeres or any organized tours. [^review3]
Ferry prices can vary, but expect to pay around 55 USD for a round trip, with additional fees upon arrival on the island. [^review3]
Ferries to Isla Mujeres typically start running early in the morning. It's advisable to check the latest schedules as they can change.
Playa Tortugas is a public beach, so there are no direct entrance fees. However, beach clubs or restaurants may have minimum consumption policies. [^review1]
While you can often purchase tickets at the terminal, arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Playa Tortugas is known for its rocky areas suitable for swimming and a smaller sandy section. It offers a more local vibe compared to other beaches. [^review1]
Yes, visitors can enjoy activities like bungee jumping, swimming in the rocky areas, and browsing souvenir shops. [^review1]
While it has calm waters, the limited sandy space and rocky areas might be less ideal for very young children compared to other beaches. [^review1]
The water is generally good and calm, with no big waves, making it suitable for swimming. [^review2]
The beach can get crowded, especially the sandy areas. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot. [^review1]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are small beach bars and cafes offering food and drinks. [^review1]
You can find typical beach bar fare, including snacks and drinks. [^review1]
Some reviews suggest that prices at the beach bars and souvenir shops can be a bit high compared to downtown options. [^review3]
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to check with individual establishments or be discreet if bringing outside food. [^review1]
For more affordable food and gifts, consider walking to the nearby grocery store (Select) or downtown Walmart. [^review3]
📸 📸 Photography
Capture shots of the ferry boats, the rocky coastline, and the vibrant beach bars. The views towards Isla Mujeres are also scenic. [^review1]
While not specifically mentioned for sunsets, the beach offers a lively atmosphere that can be captured at any time of day. [^review1]
Yes, the bungee jumping provides a dynamic and exciting subject for photography. [^review1]
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, it's always respectful to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals or private property. [^review1]
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, while afternoons provide a more vibrant and active scene for photos. [^review1]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ferry to Isla Mujeres
For those needing to depart before 9 am, the Puerto Juarez ferry terminal might be a better option, though Playa Tortugas is generally closer to the hotel zone.
Understanding the Playa Tortugas Beach Experience
The beach also features souvenir shops, though prices are noted to be higher than in downtown areas like Walmart. [^review3] If you're looking for a vast expanse of soft sand, Playa Tortugas might not be your ideal spot. However, for those seeking a more laid-back, local vibe with opportunities for swimming among rocks and enjoying a drink at a beach bar, it can be a worthwhile visit. [^review1]
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