Xpu-Ha Beach
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
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility
Xpu-Ha Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

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.
"Our favourite beach in Playa by far. The sand is so soft, the water was clear and beautiful."
🚗 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).
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Waters
Xpu-Ha Beach
Dive into transparent turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and spotting marine life.

La Playa Xpu-Ha Beach Club
Xpu-Ha Beach
Enjoy vibrant beach vibes with live music, delicious food, and comfortable seating.

Secluded Stretches
Xpu-Ha Beach
Walk a bit further to find quieter spots for a more private and relaxing beach experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Access & Fees
Safety & Algae Watch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 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).
🐠 Snorkeling Adventures
Bring your gear! You can spot stingrays and various fish in the clear waters.
☀️ Beat the Crowds
Arrive early on weekdays for a more peaceful experience and to secure a good spot.
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.
💰 Entrance Fee & Rentals
Expect an entrance fee (around 100 MXN) and consider chair/umbrella rentals (around 400 MXN).
🐠 Snorkeling Adventures
Bring your gear! You can spot stingrays and various fish in the clear waters.
☀️ Beat the Crowds
Arrive early on weekdays for a more peaceful experience and to secure a good spot.
📱 Stay Aware of Surroundings
Be cautious of your belongings, especially when swimming, as theft can occur.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, you can drive to Xpu-Ha Beach. Many beach clubs, like 'La Playa Xpu-Ha Beach Club', offer parking for visitors.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically an entrance fee of around 100 MXN per person, which often includes access to parking and basic facilities.
Yes, renting chairs and umbrellas is usually an additional cost, often around 400 MXN for a set.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🤿 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.
Yes, the water is clear and you can often spot various fish and even stingrays, making it a good spot for snorkeling.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Xpu-Ha Beach Access
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. This ability to find both vibrant social spots and tranquil corners is a significant draw for Xpu-Ha Beach.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
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. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit