Xpu-Ha Beach - a white post on a beach
1 / 10

Xpu-Ha Beach

4.5
·5k reviews·, Mexico

Xpu-Ha Beach: A stunning stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering a relaxed vibe between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more tranquility

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Xpu-Ha Beach - a white post on a beach

Xpu-Ha Beach

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more tranquility

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Xpu-Ha Beach: A stunning stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering a relaxed vibe between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

4.5
(5k reviews)

"Our favourite beach in Playa by far. The sand is so soft, the water was clear and beautiful."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Easy Access via Colectivo

Take the colectivo from Playa del Carmen towards Tulum; ask to be dropped off at the Xpu-Ha entrance on the highway.

💰 Entrance Fee & Rentals

Expect an entrance fee (around 100 MXN) and consider chair/umbrella rentals (around 400 MXN).

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters

Crystal Clear Waters

Xpu-Ha Beach

Dive into transparent turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and spotting marine life.

La Playa Xpu-Ha Beach Club

La Playa Xpu-Ha Beach Club

Xpu-Ha Beach

Enjoy vibrant beach vibes with live music, delicious food, and comfortable seating.

Secluded Stretches

Secluded Stretches

Xpu-Ha Beach

Walk a bit further to find quieter spots for a more private and relaxing beach experience.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Beach Access & Fees

Xpu-Ha Beach charges an entrance fee (around 100 MXN per person) which often includes parking and access to facilities. Some beach clubs offer chair and umbrella rentals for an additional cost (around 400 MXN). Consider this when budgeting for your beach day.

Safety & Algae Watch

While beautiful, be aware of potential safety concerns like petty theft, especially when leaving belongings unattended. Sargassum (algae) can sometimes affect the water quality, so check recent conditions before your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Beautiful sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mejor Playa De México ? Xpuha 25 Febrero 2025 🌴#playadelcarmen #cancun
@chachoriveraoficial
103.2K likes • 1.7M views

🚗 Easy Access via Colectivo

Take the colectivo from Playa del Carmen towards Tulum; ask to be dropped off at the Xpu-Ha entrance on the highway. Instagram

💰 Entrance Fee & Rentals

Expect an entrance fee (around 100 MXN) and consider chair/umbrella rentals (around 400 MXN). Reddit

Playa Xpu-Ha #tulum #quintanaroo #xpuhabeach #playasquintanaroo #lfpppppppppppppppppppppppppppppppp #solidaridad #rivieramaya #caribemexicano #fotografoencancu
@vannabuh
19.8K likes • 420.4K views
📍 XPU HA 🏖🇲🇽🤩 De mis playas favoritas 🤩✌️ 📸 Se encuentra entre Playa del carmen y Tulum💚 📸 Toma el colectivo en Playa del carmen vía Tulum en el chedraui de la carretera federal por $40, le dices al conductor que te deje en la entrada de Xpu Ha.. ojo aquí no hay puente así que con cuidado al cruzar la calle 📸 La entrada esta sobre la carretera y tiene un valor de $60 con derecho a baños y re...
viajandoconange
209 likes • 4.3K views

🐠 Snorkeling Adventures

Bring your gear! You can spot stingrays and various fish in the clear waters. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Crowds

Arrive early on weekdays for a more peaceful experience and to secure a good spot. TikTok

😎 Los leo: (además este beachclub lo limpian de sargazo todas las mañanas, tienen música en vivo desde las 2:30pm y todo Julio y Agosto 2025, si ordenas 4 platillos fuertes, te incluyen un ceviche mixto 😌) 🤓 gracias a Fego por enseñarnos sus platillos favs🫰🏼 #xpuha #xpuhabeach #xpuhabeachclub #laplayaxpuha
yantarello
46 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Easy Access via Colectivo

Take the colectivo from Playa del Carmen towards Tulum; ask to be dropped off at the Xpu-Ha entrance on the highway. Instagram

💰 Entrance Fee & Rentals

Expect an entrance fee (around 100 MXN) and consider chair/umbrella rentals (around 400 MXN). Reddit

🐠 Snorkeling Adventures

Bring your gear! You can spot stingrays and various fish in the clear waters. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Crowds

Arrive early on weekdays for a more peaceful experience and to secure a good spot. TikTok

📱 Stay Aware of Surroundings

Be cautious of your belongings, especially when swimming, as theft can occur. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Xpu-Ha Beach is widely praised for its beautiful, clear waters and softer sand, offering a more authentic feel than some crowded tourist spots. Visitors appreciate the reasonable entrance fee and the option to find secluded areas. However, some reviewers note concerns about sargassum and potential theft, and beach club amenities like food and chair rentals can be pricey.

"This is a great choice for a beach. Most of the beaches are associated with a resort, who charges a lot for outside visitors. This one only charge 100 MXN per person with parking and bath facilities. You can walk a couple of hundred meters and have a secluded experience. Definitely recommend"

Jakob Svendsen

"Beautiful beach and if you go a bit further out you can literally have the beach to yourself which is a nice escape from the crowded beaches in Tulum. Unfortunately there was a lot of algae so we didn’t go in the water a lot but still a very nice experience!"

Andrea P

"We had the best time at this beach and want to stay somewhere near here next time we come!! It’s perfect and kinda how playa del Carmen used to be back in the day!! When we visited we were at a little shack on the beach that rented chairs and had food! It was amazing!"

Teresa Tims

What People Like

Beautiful clear water
Softer sand
Less crowded feel

What People Dislike

Sargassum presence
Potential theft
Pricey food/rentals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take a 'colectivo' (shared van) heading towards Tulum. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Xpu-Ha entrance on the federal highway. Be prepared to cross the highway carefully as there isn't a bridge. Instagram

Yes, you can drive to Xpu-Ha Beach. Many beach clubs, like 'La Playa Xpu-Ha Beach Club', offer parking for visitors. Instagram

Xpu-Ha Beach is located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, approximately a 25-30 minute drive from Playa del Carmen and a shorter drive from Tulum. TikTokInstagram

Yes, taxis are available, but they can be more expensive than colectivos. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

Colectivos are a budget-friendly option for traveling along the Riviera Maya, connecting Xpu-Ha with Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and other points of interest. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically an entrance fee of around 100 MXN per person, which often includes access to parking and basic facilities. Reddit

Yes, renting chairs and umbrellas is usually an additional cost, often around 400 MXN for a set. Reddit

While many beaches are resort-affiliated, Xpu-Ha is known for being more accessible to the public with a reasonable entrance fee, rather than requiring expensive day passes. Reddit

While not explicitly prohibited, it's common for beach clubs to encourage purchasing from their establishments. Bringing a few snacks is usually fine, but large coolers might be discouraged.

Beach clubs and access points generally operate from morning until early evening, typically around 9 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM, but it's best to check with specific establishments.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots along the shoreline with the clear turquoise water as your backdrop. The beach clubs, especially 'La Playa Xpu-Ha', offer vibrant settings. Don't miss the sunset for golden hour photos. Instagram+1

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of other beachgoers before flying a drone. The expansive coastline offers great aerial photo opportunities.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. Waterproof protection for your camera is recommended due to the proximity to water. TikTok

Look for colorful beach umbrellas, rustic palapa restaurants, and the natural beauty of the coastline. The clear water often allows for underwater shots if you have the right equipment. Instagram

Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, while late afternoon provides beautiful sunset colors. Midday sun can be harsh but still offers vibrant blues. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a variety of seafood options, including shrimp tacos and ceviche, as well as other Mexican beach fare. Many beach clubs offer full menus. Instagram+1

Food and drinks at beach clubs can be a bit pricey, so factor this into your budget. Some places offer deals, like a free ceviche with the purchase of four main dishes. InstagramReddit

While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer salads and other dishes that can be adapted. It's best to inquire directly with the staff about vegetarian or vegan choices.

Tropical cocktails like piña coladas are a popular choice, along with fresh juices and local beers. Instagram

While the beach clubs are convenient, you might find more budget-friendly options in Playa del Carmen or Tulum if you're willing to travel a bit further. However, the convenience of beachside dining is a major draw. Reddit

🎫 🤿 Activities & Experiences

Xpu-Ha Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. You can see fish and stingrays in the clear waters. Some beach clubs offer live music. Reddit

Yes, the water is clear and you can often spot various fish and even stingrays, making it a good spot for snorkeling. Reddit

While not as common as in larger tourist hubs, some beach clubs might offer paddleboards or kayaks. It's best to inquire locally.

Absolutely. You can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas, enjoy the gentle waves, and find quieter spots away from the main beach club areas for a truly relaxing day. Reddit

Xpu-Ha Beach is conveniently located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, giving you easy access to cenotes, Mayan ruins, and other popular Riviera Maya destinations. Catalonia Royal Tulum is also nearby. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Xpu-Ha Beach can be a great option for families looking for a beautiful and relatively calm beach experience. The clear, shallow waters are generally safe for children to play in, and the entrance fee is more budget-friendly than many resort-based beaches. Reddit Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and ensure more space for kids to run around. While beach clubs offer food, packing some kid-friendly snacks and drinks can be a good idea. Remember to keep a close eye on children and their belongings, especially near the water. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Xpu-Ha Beach is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers. The entrance fee is modest, and opting for a colectivo from Playa del Carmen is a very affordable way to get there. Instagram While beach club rentals and food can add up, you can save money by bringing your own snacks and water. Reddit Walking further down the beach can also help you find less crowded, potentially more affordable spots if you're not looking to rent chairs from a specific club. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Relaxation Seekers

For those seeking a tranquil escape, Xpu-Ha Beach offers opportunities for relaxation. While 'La Playa Xpu-Ha Beach Club' can be lively, walking along the shore reveals quieter sections where you can spread out your towel and enjoy the sound of the waves. Reddit The clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and the overall vibe is more laid-back than some of the busier tourist hotspots. TikTokReddit Aim for weekday mornings for the most serene experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Xpu-Ha Beach Access

Xpu-Ha Beach offers a more laid-back experience compared to some of the more developed beaches in the Riviera Maya. While it's not entirely free, the entrance fee is generally reasonable, often around 100 MXN per person, which typically covers parking and basic facilities. Reddit This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a beautiful beach without the hefty resort day-pass prices. Several beach clubs operate along the shore, with 'La Playa Xpu-Ha Beach Club' being a popular choice known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and food offerings. Instagram+1 Renting chairs and umbrellas is usually an additional cost, so be prepared for that if you plan to spend the day lounging. Reddit

For those seeking a more secluded experience, a key tip is to walk a few hundred meters along the shore. Many visitors report finding quieter stretches where they can practically have the beach to themselves, offering a peaceful escape from the more populated areas. Reddit This ability to find both vibrant social spots and tranquil corners is a significant draw for Xpu-Ha Beach.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

While Xpu-Ha Beach is celebrated for its beauty, it's important for visitors to be aware of their surroundings. Some reviews mention instances of petty theft, particularly when beachgoers are in the water and their belongings are left unattended. Reddit It's advisable to stay in groups and keep valuables secure or with someone who isn't swimming. This is a common concern in many popular beach destinations, so vigilance is key.

Environmental factors can also play a role in your visit. Sargassum, a type of seaweed, can sometimes wash ashore, affecting the water quality and appearance of the beach. Reddit While some beach clubs actively clean their areas, it's a good idea to check recent reports or conditions before your visit if pristine water is a top priority. Despite these potential issues, the overall consensus is that Xpu-Ha Beach remains a stunning and worthwhile destination for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere.

You may also like

1 of 2