Xcacel-Xcacelito
A protected natural beach and sea turtle sanctuary in the Riviera Maya, offering pristine shores and incredible snorkeling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Xcacel-Xcacelito
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A protected natural beach and sea turtle sanctuary in the Riviera Maya, offering pristine shores and incredible snorkeling.
"Best Beach I have been at Riviera Maya! Water is very calm and we had the beach almost to ourself."
Pack Smart: Essentials Only
Bring your own umbrella and towel. No food or alcohol allowed, just fruit and water.
Respect the Rules
This is a protected area. No plastic, no loud music, and no sunscreen (use reef-safe if necessary).
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine Natural Beach
Untouched shores with calm, clear waters, offering a rare natural escape in the Riviera Maya.
Sea Turtle Sanctuary
A vital nesting ground for sea turtles, contributing to conservation efforts.
Incredible Snorkeling
Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life in protected, clear waters.
Sacred Cenote
Discover a beautiful cenote within the sanctuary, recently restored for visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Natural Vibe
Timing is Key for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Smart: Essentials Only
Bring your own umbrella and towel. No food or alcohol allowed, just fruit and water.
Respect the Rules
This is a protected area. No plastic, no loud music, and no sunscreen (use reef-safe if necessary).
Snorkel Like a Pro
Head north and swim out 40-50m for amazing coral and marine life.
Cash for Entry
Entrance fee is around 105-114 MXN per person. Bring cash as cards may not be accepted.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Smart: Essentials Only
Bring your own umbrella and towel. No food or alcohol allowed, just fruit and water.
Respect the Rules
This is a protected area. No plastic, no loud music, and no sunscreen (use reef-safe if necessary).
Snorkel Like a Pro
Head north and swim out 40-50m for amazing coral and marine life.
Cash for Entry
Entrance fee is around 105-114 MXN per person. Bring cash as cards may not be accepted.
Early Bird Gets the Beach
Arrive at 10 AM when gates open to enjoy the beach with minimal visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Xcacel-Xcacelito's pristine, natural beauty and calm waters, calling it a rare untouched gem in the Riviera Maya. While some find the entrance fee and strict rules (no food/alcohol) a bit much for a beach with no services, most agree the conservation efforts and excellent snorkeling make it well worth the visit for a peaceful, nature-focused experience.
"Best Beach i have been at riviera Maya! Water is very calm and we had the beach almost to ourself. Only 3 other people were there. The beach is very natural, something that is pretty rare in this touristy area. Step out of the jungle and you are right at the beach. No hotel, no loud music, just you and the calm beach. It looks like it is almost untouched by humans.
Make sure to come at low tide because that’s the moment with the least amount of Sargassum (August 2025). We arrived at low tide and left at high tide and there was much more seaweed when we left than at the start of our stay at the beach.
But make sure to bring an umbrella since there are no shadow areas and of course you can’t rent some.
The snorkeling here is also very good. The coral reef is almost untouched since the whole are around the beach is protected. Just enter the water at the northern beach access and swim about 40-50 meters right into the sea and there you will get one of the best snorkeling experience among riviera maya.
The entrance fee was 114 Pesos per person (foreigner) but it is totally worth the price since the money is goes into nature conservation.
The only negative aspect is that the park and with that the beach closes at 4pm."
elmar
"A beautiful little beach that clearly puts wildlife first. There’s a strict policy of no plastic or food allowed, which really helps protect the environment and keep the area pristine.
We visited on a Friday at the end of March, and while there was seaweed on the shore, that’s completely natural for the season—and actually added to the experience. It gave us the chance to watch birds diving and catching their lunch, which was a lovely touch of nature in action.
The gates opened right on time at 10am, and entry was 114 MXN per person. We stayed for a couple of peaceful hours and shared the beach with no more than 10 other visitors. It was wonderfully quiet and calm—perfect if you’re looking for a tranquil, respectful place to enjoy the coast."
Kerry Whitelegg
"THIS IS AN NON MAINTAINED BEACH. all those that complain about the seaweed and lack of shade should stay at the resorts.
For nature lovers and people who want a quiet beach experience, this is the place to visit.
Bring something to sit on and an umbrella if possible.
The snorkeling is in the top 10 of the entire area.
The beach is beautiful.
Seaweed season affects the entire coast, so plan accordingly.
There are bathrooms, but I recommend bringing toilet paper just to be safe. Lol.
The cost is 105 mex per person
They are closed Monday
Other days are open 10am to 4pm"
Robert Edwards
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Xcacel-Xcacelito is located about 46 km from Playa del Carmen. You can drive, take a taxi, or a colectivo heading towards Tulum. It's approximately 19 km before reaching Tulum.
Yes, colectivos (shared vans) that run between Playa del Carmen and Tulum often pass by Xcacel. You can ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance.
If you're staying nearby, cycling is a great option! It's just 5 minutes from some accommodations, making it an easy and eco-friendly way to visit.
From Playa del Carmen, head south on Federal Highway 307. Xcacel-Xcacelito will be on your left, marked by signs. It's a well-known spot, so keep an eye out.
Yes, there is parking available at the entrance to the beach area. It's usually included or a small additional fee.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 105-114 Mexican Pesos per person for foreigners. It's recommended to bring cash as card payments may not always be accepted.
Xcacel-Xcacelito is generally open from 10 AM to 4 PM. It's important to note that they are closed on Mondays.
No, advance booking is usually not required. You can purchase your entrance ticket upon arrival at the gate.
Yes, there are strict rules. You cannot bring food, alcoholic beverages, or plastic items. Only water and fruit are permitted.
Absolutely. Xcacel-Xcacelito is a protected natural area and a sanctuary for sea turtles, which is why conservation rules are strictly enforced.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's a beautiful, natural, and undeveloped beach with calm, clear waters. You'll find it's a peaceful escape from the more touristy areas, with minimal infrastructure.
There is very limited natural shade. It's highly recommended to bring your own umbrella for comfort, as rentals are not available.
The water is typically very calm and shallow near the shore, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Yes, the calm waters are great for families. However, the strict no-food policy might require some planning for younger children.
For the best snorkeling, enter the water at the northern beach access and swim about 40-50 meters into the sea. You'll find a well-preserved coral reef.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire beach offers stunning natural beauty. Capture the pristine shoreline, the jungle meeting the sea, and the vibrant cenote.
Drone usage might be restricted due to it being a protected natural area and turtle sanctuary. It's best to check local regulations upon arrival.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful soft light. However, the clear turquoise water is stunning throughout the day.
If you're lucky, you might spot birds diving for fish or even sea turtles if visiting during nesting season (though access to nesting areas is restricted).
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach. Waterproof gear is useful if you plan on snorkeling or getting close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be prepared for the strict no-food policy; packing only permitted fruits and water is essential. Bringing an umbrella for shade is also a must, as there are no facilities for renting them. The entrance fee is reasonable and supports conservation, making it a worthwhile family outing focused on natural beauty.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Eco-Tourists
Appreciate the untouched landscape, the sound of the waves, and the opportunity for excellent snorkeling in a healthy reef system. This is the place to visit if you want to escape the commercialized tourist traps and immerse yourself in the raw, natural beauty of the Riviera Maya.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
The natural setting, free from distractions like beach clubs and vendors, allows for a truly peaceful experience. It’s a place to unwind, read a book under your own umbrella, or take a refreshing swim in the calm waters. The focus on conservation also means a respectful atmosphere among visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Importance of Conservation at Xcacel-Xcacelito
Visitors are asked to be mindful of their presence, understanding that the money from entrance fees directly supports the preservation efforts. This commitment to nature is what makes Xcacel-Xcacelito a rare gem in the increasingly developed Riviera Maya. It offers a chance to experience the Caribbean as it once was – wild, serene, and teeming with life.
When you visit, you're not just enjoying a beach; you're contributing to the survival of sea turtles and the health of the coral reefs. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature in a meaningful way, appreciating the efforts made to keep this paradise intact for future generations.
Snorkeling and Marine Life
To get the most out of your snorkeling experience, it's recommended to enter the water at the northern beach access point. Swim approximately 40-50 meters directly out into the sea. This area typically offers the clearest visibility and the densest concentration of marine activity. The calm, shallow waters near the shore are also pleasant for a gentle dip, but the real magic happens a bit further out.
Remember that sunscreen can harm coral reefs. If you need sun protection, opt for reef-safe sunscreen or wear a rash guard. Being mindful of the marine environment ensures that this incredible snorkeling spot remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.
Experiencing the Sacred Cenote
The cenote provides a tranquil spot for a dip, surrounded by the lush jungle vegetation. It's a perfect place to cool off after spending time on the beach or to simply enjoy the serene atmosphere. The experience of swimming in a cenote is often described as magical and is a quintessential Yucatan adventure.
While the beach has strict rules about what you can bring, the cenote area offers a peaceful retreat. It’s a reminder of the diverse natural beauty that Xcacel-Xcacelito protects, from its coastline to its hidden freshwater pools.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit