Playa Tortugas Cancún
A popular public beach in Cancun known for its calm, shallow turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and families. Also a key ferry terminal.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, prime spots
Playa Tortugas Cancún
Best Time
Fewer crowds, prime spots
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A popular public beach in Cancun known for its calm, shallow turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and families. Also a key ferry terminal.
"Calm waters and family-friendly vibes make this a go-to beach and ferry hub."
🎒 Secure Your Valuables
Don't leave belongings unattended while swimming; consider a waterproof pouch or leaving valuables at your hotel. :moneybag:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong Caribbean sun. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Calm, Turquoise Waters
Main swimming area
Perfect for swimming and wading, the shallow, clear waters are a major draw for families and relaxation seekers.
Umbrella & Chair Rentals
Beachfront vendors
Easily rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable day soaking up the sun.
Snorkeling Opportunities
Near the rocky areas
Explore the small reef and spot some fish in the clear waters, especially near the rocky sections.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Prime Beach Time
Beach Safety & Belongings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Secure Your Valuables
Don't leave belongings unattended while swimming; consider a waterproof pouch or leaving valuables at your hotel. :moneybag:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong Caribbean sun. :sunwithface:
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Take the public 'R1' bus to easily reach Playa Tortugas from the hotel zone or downtown. :bus:
🚶♀️ Public Beach Access
All beaches in Mexico are public; you can access any beach even if it's in front of a hotel. :wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Secure Your Valuables
Don't leave belongings unattended while swimming; consider a waterproof pouch or leaving valuables at your hotel. :moneybag:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Always wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong Caribbean sun. :sunwithface:
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Take the public 'R1' bus to easily reach Playa Tortugas from the hotel zone or downtown. :bus:
🚶♀️ Public Beach Access
All beaches in Mexico are public; you can access any beach even if it's in front of a hotel. :wave:
🐠 Snorkel Gear
Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the small reef and see fish near the rocks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa Tortugas is praised for its calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families and swimmers. Visitors appreciate the convenience of chair and umbrella rentals and its role as a ferry terminal. However, some find it can get crowded, and caution is advised regarding personal belongings.
"Beautiful turquoise green waters. The beach is public so there's usually a lot of people. Finding parking at the spot is difficult. You can park at the nearby pharmacy or starbucks and walk it.
The Google maps location is incorrect! Drive about 5 mins forward from the pinned location."
Md.Nishanto Nahid Pishon
"The beach is not very clean, and most importantly, the shoreline and water are full of sargassum seaweed. In some areas, swimming is nearly impossible because your legs get tangled in the seaweed. Only small clear areas in the water are suitable for swimming. We came to swim at sunset, when there was no one on the loungers near the hotel — meaning we weren’t disturbing any hotel guests. The beach wasn’t fenced off, so technically anyone could swim there. But a hotel staff member made us remove our beach bag and towels from the lounger and place them on the sand, saying the loungers were only for hotel guests. It was awful — it was already getting dark, no one else was around, but the staff member flat-out refused to let us use the lounger even just to set down our towel. There was also no place to change clothes."
Nika Navi
"Best public beach so far in Cancun.
The beach is small and the locals come here with their families but was not too crowded. Nice restaurants and bars"
Marta Zawilinska
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Playa Tortugas is by taking the public 'R1' bus, which runs frequently through the hotel zone and downtown Cancun. It's a very affordable option. Taxis are also available, but be mindful of potential overcharging.
Yes, you can drive to Playa Tortugas. There is parking available, though it can get busy. Some visitors have found parking near Hooters or under Coco Bongo.
Uber service in Cancun's hotel zone can be unreliable due to conflicts with local taxi services. While it might work, taking the public bus is often a more consistent and affordable option.
Absolutely! Playa Tortugas is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for families with young children. The gentle waves and clear visibility are a big plus.
The 'R1' bus is your best bet. It's inexpensive (around 12 pesos) and stops conveniently near Playa Tortugas. Just tell the driver your destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, all beaches in Mexico are public property. You have the right to access Playa Tortugas, even if it's located in front of a hotel. You just can't use hotel-specific amenities like chairs or towels unless you're a guest.
No, Playa Tortugas is a public beach and there is no entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and water freely.
Playa Tortugas is generally accessible during daylight hours. While there aren't strict official closing times, it's best to visit when there's natural light for safety and enjoyment.
Yes, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas from vendors along the shore. Prices can vary, so it's good to inquire beforehand.
The beach itself is free to access. Any costs would be for optional rentals like chairs and umbrellas, or for food and drinks from nearby vendors.
📸 📸 Photography
The calm, turquoise waters themselves are a stunning backdrop. Look for shots with the gentle waves, the sandy shore, and perhaps some of the rocky outcrops. The early morning or late afternoon light offers beautiful golden hour opportunities.
While Playa Tortugas faces north, you can still capture beautiful light during sunset. The colors reflecting on the water can be quite picturesque. For direct sunset views, consider beaches on the western side of Cancun.
Playa Tortugas doesn't have a single iconic landmark like Playa Delfines' sign. However, the natural beauty of the calm bay and the vibrant blue water provides plenty of photogenic moments.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, ideal for serene shots. Late afternoons provide warm, golden light. Midday can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and water. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance the blue hues. For underwater shots, consider a waterproof camera or housing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing water shoes as there are some rocky areas, which are also great for spotting small fish. While the beach is public, be mindful of your belongings and perhaps use a waterproof pouch for essentials. The 'R1' bus makes getting here straightforward and affordable from anywhere in the hotel zone.
💰 Budget Travelers
While chair and umbrella rentals are available, you can also opt to bring your own towel and find a spot on the sand. Pack your own snacks and drinks to save money, or explore the local vendors for more budget-friendly food options compared to resort restaurants.
🏝️ Day-Trippers to Isla Mujeres
Be sure to check the last ferry schedule for your return trip to Isla Mujeres to avoid any surprises. While the ferry itself has a cost, the convenience of departing from Playa Tortugas can save you time and potentially taxi fare compared to other ferry terminals further away.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Cancun's Beaches: Public Access & Etiquette
Finding public access points is key. While some may seem less obvious, there are over a dozen designated public access points throughout Cancun's hotel zone. These can range from small pathways to larger areas with parking. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask locals or consult online maps for specific access points. The 'R1' bus is a great way to explore different beaches, as it stops frequently along the hotel zone, allowing you to hop off and find an access point that suits you.
When visiting, remember beach etiquette. While you can enjoy the public space, be respectful of the environment and any nearby resorts. Avoid leaving trash behind and be mindful of noise levels. The goal is to enjoy the beautiful Mexican coastline while coexisting harmoniously with all users of the beach.
Playa Tortugas: A Ferry Hub and Family Favorite
The beach itself is renowned for its calm, shallow waters, making it a top choice for families. Unlike some other Cancun beaches that can experience stronger waves, Playa Tortugas offers a more serene swimming experience. This gentle environment is perfect for children to play safely and for adults to relax without worrying about rough surf.
Beyond its ferry access and family-friendly atmosphere, Playa Tortugas offers typical beach amenities like chair and umbrella rentals. It's a bustling public beach that attracts both tourists and locals, creating a lively yet accessible environment for a day of sun and sea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit