Top 25 Safe Mexico Beach Destinations That Aren’t Cancun or Tulum

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If there’s one thing I’m asked about over and over as a Mexico expert, it’s about safety.

I have visited more than half of the states in Mexico as a solo female traveller so I’m more than qualified to share with you my top picks for safe beach destinations in Mexico.

I chose these places for their safety, overall enjoyment and access to beaches but I’ve included a wide variety of experiences from the lux to the rustic so let’s get into it!

Top 25 Safe Mexico Beach Destinations That Aren’t Cancun or Tulum

#25 Puerto vallarta, mexico

Puerto Vallarta has to make the list because it is just so popular. I’ve met people who visit PV every single year and they don’t do that because it’s not a good time!

When I visited Puerto Vallarta, I decided to stay a little further from the action in the local area of Emiliano Zapata, a short walk from the Zona Romantica and I definitely recommend this for people who like things a little more relaxed.

Shop the markets, have dinner with your feet in the sand, definitely try chocolates from Xocodiva, and stroll from palapa to palapa on a bar crawl.

One of my favourite experiences here was releasing baby sea turtles back into the ocean at sunset. It’s free to do with a charitable donation to the turtles and it truly is a memorable experience.

Puerto Vallarta has so many direct flights into their airport so visiting is easy.

#24 Progreso, yucatan

Progreso is the closest beach town to Merida in Yucatan, and if you’re visiting any time close to summer, you’ll be wanting a beach town to cool you down.

This port city is really popular with locals and less popular with tourists, which is almost always a good sign in Mexico.

Check out the world’s longest pier, visit the pink salt flats, walk the sea wall or explore nearby ruins.

This isn’t a place I recommend building a whole trip around but if you’re in the Merida area it is well worth a few nights and easy to reach by local bus.

#23 Bucerias, nayarit

Bucerias is located about 45mins north of Puerto Vallarta which makes it super easy to access from the international airport. But don’t expect it to be anything like Puerto Vallarta.

Where PV is the gregarious, extroverted cousin, Bucerias is much more chilled with cobblestone streets, fishing boats, and a food scene that is starting to get people talking.

While this isn’t the undiscovered fishing village it once was, culture is still at the heart is Bucerias.

They host an Art Walk on Thursdays from November to April, artisans here are known for crafting with glass, and the markets are full of handmade goods perfect for gifting.

If watersports are more your speed, Bucerias is known for outstanding kiteboarding, sailing and deep sea fishing are also popular and you can’t miss a day trip to Las Marietas for seculded swimming spots.

#22 Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, guerrero

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is a funny place. Ixtapa is where you’ll find the resorts, an area purpose built to draw in tourism. Zihuatenejo on the other hand is a fishing village with cobblestone streets and local markets.

While the wider state of Guerrero has some challenges, the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area is very safe and a great place to experience the best of both worlds.

Hop on a water taxi in Zihuatanejo and visit the gorgeous Playa Las Gatas or grab a boat to Isla Ixtapa to snorkel with the fish in the coral reef.

The artisan market is perfect for picking up high quality silver jewellery and authentic souvenirs that are actually made in Mexico.

There’s also plenty of wildlife to view and even archaeological sites nearby to dive deeper into the local culture.

#21 Ensenada, Baja California

Ensenada is not your typical beach town but it made my list for two very good reasons: food, and wine.

Located just an hour and a half from the border with San Diego, it also happens to be just an hour from one of Mexico’s best wine regions.

Local award-winning wines and farm-to-table culinary experiences make this a destination for the discerning traveller.

In between meals you can visit La Bufadora, a geyser that shoots sea water 100 feet in the air, get your heat pumping on a zipline at the nearby ecopark or post up at a beach club.

The main area of Ensenada is a port, not beachy so keep that in mind, but a short drive will have you wiling away the hours on public beaches.

#20 El Cuyo, yucatan

El Cuyo is a great spot for people who want a rustic beach experience. It doesn’t rank higher on my list because there are some creature comforts a lot of people who expect to find but won’t.

Reliable WiFi, functional ATMs and the sweet breeze of air conditioning are not what El Cuyo is about.

The El Cuyo experience is all about gorgeous, uncrowded beaches that also happen to be free of smelly sargassum seaweed.

Don’t expect a lot of nightlife here either. What you get here is a slowed down experience and a return to the beauty of nature.

The best way to get here is by bus from Cancun or Merida.

#19 Akumal, quintana roo

Akumal is perfect if you want to be close to the action without being in it. Located just 25mins by car from Tulum, Akumal is best known as a peaceful beach town with the best sea turtle experiences in the country that happens to be much safer than its neighbour.

Spending time in Akumal is mainly about swimming and relaxing. Take a dip in Yal-ku Lagoon with your snorkel or join a guided tour to see the turtles.

Have fresh ceviche on the beach at La Cueva del Pescador, hop on the bus to there Tulum ruins or enter the sacred Mayan underworld by visiting a cenote swimming hole.

Fly into Tulum’s new international airport or take the ADO bus from Cancun.

#18 Lo de Marcos, nayarit

Lo de Marcos is a totally different kettle of fish than some of the other places on this list. Sitting about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta, this place is more popular with Mexicans than any tourists.

The big brand resorts haven’t made their way here yet and there really isn’t any indication they’re thinking about it.

The current can be strong so it’s not always the most swimmable beach spot, especially for families but you’ll really get to experience the real Mexico here.

In terms of activities, Lo de Marcos is limited to the likes of fishing and horseback riding but a chance to stroll the beach shouldn’t be missed and neither should the fresh seafood.

#17 Yelapa, jalisco

Yelapa is often visited as a day trip from Puerto Vallarta but I think it’s worth a night or two.

This is somewhere you’ll want to snap photo after photo because this rustic fishing village feels like a place lost in time.

There are no roads here which means no cars and it’s only accessible by water taxi from Puerto Vallarta.

My favourite part about Yelapa was the lovely hike to the waterfall but I also recommend grabbing a slice of pie from the pie ladies who wander the beach.

The best thing to do in Yelapa is just enjoy being in Yelapa. If you’re looking for loads of activities and things to do this probably isn’t the spot for you.

#16 Campeche, campeche

I personally think it’s a crime how underrated Campeche is when it comes to visiting Mexico. Located just a little too far off the tourist trail, the new Tren Maya train has made it easier to visit this gorgeous city.

Campeche is the ideal place to experience colonial history and charm, something you usually have to go further inland to find, while also getting in some beach time.

Walk the colourful streets, visit the ancient walls of this once fortified city and stroll the gorgeous malecon seawall.

The city itself doesn’t have beaches even though it is waterfront, but it still made my list because beach is so close by. Playa Bonita is just 15 minutes away and is free of the stinky seaweed problem a lot of this part of the country wrestles with each year.

#15 Puerto morelos, quintana roo

Puerto Morelos is located halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen and really couldn’t be more different.

Unlike the commercialized feel of the hotel zones, this is a fishing village with all the best bits of the Riviera Maya without the soaring price tag.

This could be the place for you if you like a friendly local vibe, world-class snorkelling and a quieter experience. I came here to visit a good friend of mine and he ended up staying for two months!

The town centre is perfect for wandering, the water is blue as can be and the food is so, so fresh.

The only thing to keep in mind with this one is that it can see waves of the smelly seaweed that is common in this area so consider seasonality when visiting.

#14 playa del carmen, quintana roo

Playa del Carmen is touristy, there’s no way around that, and while I normally don’t like touristy places I do like PDC!

All the beaches in Mexico are public so while this town is known for beach clubs, you don’t have to walk long to find a spot to plop down.

There are countless activities to do from here like taco tours, swimming with turtles, visiting an adventure waterpark, visiting cenote swimming holes (a must if you’re in this area), and so much more.

If you steer clear of the bustling 5th Avenue, you’ll get a much more authentic experience and save some money.

Fly into Cancun, Cozumel, or Tulum for this destination.

#13 sayulita, nayarit

Sayulita has been a surfer’s paradise for years now. It’s no longer an authentic as places in Oaxaca but it’s still much more Mexican than nearby Puerto Vallarta.

Expect lively bars, barefoot surfers, and mouthwatering street food.

A few years ago Sayulita would have landed a higher spot on my list but these days prices are climbing as tourists start to pour in.

It’s still worth visiting for it’s safe, bohemian vibes and fun activities like ATVing and horseback riding.

#12 Todos Santos, baja california sur

Todos Santos is another place that is starting to grow in popularity and the rising price tags associated with that are why I haven’t ranked it higher.

This magic town was once popular with backpackers and is now known for its excellent art scene and charming ambience.

From Todos Santos you can try your hand at surfing, enjoy delicious fresh seafood, and even ride camels on the beach!

Grab an ice cream and pop in and out of galleries, sip delicious Mexican coffee and delight your taste buds at Jazamango.

#11 mazunte, oaxaca

Mazunte is a small in size but big in vibes. I only spent a few days here on my way down the Oaxaca Coast but I see why people stay longer.

This place feels truly disconnected. Sandy roads, quiet beaches, and a real sense that a lot of people came here without a plan and just stayed.

Visit the turtle sanctuary, take a safari to see the wildlife, or just reset your nervous system with some tranquil disconnection.

Mazunte is located between Huatulco and Puerto Escondido so grab a taxi or hop on the bus to visit this spot.

#10 Isla Mujeres, quintana roo

Isla Mujeres is an excellent alternative to Cancun if you want somewhere just as modern, but a lot less busy.

From Cancun, Isla Mujeres is just a 20mins ferry but it might as well be a whole world away.

What I love to do in Isla Mujeres is to grab a golf cart and get exploring.

Head to Playa Norte for perfect swimming conditions and a gorgeous beach. Join a tour and cross ‘swimming with whale sharks’ off your bucket list.

Or why not snorkel to a museum with an underwater sculpture garden.

This is a fantastic destination for people who enjoy island life but don’t want to spend hours and buses getting there.

#9 Mazatlán, sinaloa

Mazatlán is a real Mexican city, with real industry, that also happens to be popular with expats and those seeking the beach life.

The wider state of Sinaloa isn’t one I’d recommend driving through but the pocket of Mazatlán is perfectly safe for visitors.

The historic centre is teeming with charm. Cafes, shops, and bars line the streets and make it a great place to explore on foot.

It’s also one of the more affordable destinations on our list which means more bang for your buck.

As a fishing port, seafood is a way of life here and Mazatlán is known as the Shrimp Capital of the World for a reason.

Spend your days munch on churros and shrimp tacos, try your hand at fishing like a pro, or take a sunset amble down the beautiful boardwalk.

There are also plenty of adventure activities for the wild ones among us so this place has something for everyone.

#8 chacahua, oaxaca

Chacahua is truly unique and although it’s a challenge to get it, it is worth it for the right traveller.

Chacahua is located up the coast from Puerto Escondido and requires a colectivo minibus, a taxi and then a boat ride just to get there.

This area is home to the largest population of Afro-Mexicans and is really a forgotten hidden enclave. The people actually settled here because it was so remote and hard to find helping them live a life that felt safe.

Chacahua has very limited WiFi and no television. This is somewhere to snooze in a hammock, visit the lagoon to see the bioluminescence and totally unplug.

Take an easy hike up to the lighthouse or visit Lia del Mar for chili fish on the beach and an ice cold Mexican coke.

#7 La Paz, baja california sur

La Paz, in my opinion, is underrated as a beach destination.

Only 2 hours from Cabo, it’s amazing to me that more people don’t make the journey here.

The beaches in this area would rival that of the Maldives but without the price tag.

This is easily one of the safest destinations on this list which is why it draws in families who are looking for an alternative to the glitz of Cabo.

One of the best things to do here, other than visit the stunning Balandra Beach, is a trip to Isla Espiritu Santo. This UNESCO biosphere reserve is perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting and snorkelling.

Ecotourism is a big part of what they do here so if you decide to swim with whale sharks or take a dive you’ll know you’re doing it in the most responsible way possible.

#6 Loreto, baja california sur

Loreto, like La Paz, is the stuff postcards are made of.

Whisps of white sand beaches lining water so blue it almost doesn’t look real.

Loreto is a Pueblo Mágico or Magic Town, a special designation given to town in Mexico that embody Mexican culture.

Located right on the Sea of Cortez, you’ll be hard pressed to find better sealife experiences than what you get here. Loreto Bay National Park is a great place to snorkel and kayak to brush fins with the likes of sea lions, dolphins, fish and even blue whales.

It also offers stunning colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and a real sense that you’re walking with history.

The closest airport to Loreto is in Los Cabos but at 7 hours away, you’ll want to add it to a wider itinerary.

#5 bacalar, quintana roo

Bacalar is known as the Maldives of Mexico which honestly is a bit of a misnomer, but they’re right about one thing, it’s seriously beautiful.

This is somewhere you need to visit before everyone discovers it.

Located near the border with Belize, what Bacalar has that nowhere else has is the Lagoon of Seven Colours. The shades of teal have to be seen to be believed.

Float down the natural lazy river of the Bacalar known as Los Rapidos, swim in the technicolour waters, enjoy a floating breakfast, and paddleboard at sunset.

On land, check out the street art, shop local wares at the night market, or take in some local history at Fort San Felipe, a fortress built to protect the town from pirates.

The closest airport is Chetumal but you can also get here by bus from Tulum or Cancun.

#4 cozumel, quintana roo

I recently spent time in Cozumel and I was so surprised at how much I loved it. Often relegated to a day stop on a cruise ship or a day trip from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel deserves more love than it gets.

The main town on the island, San Miguel de Cozumel is so laid back, so safe I happily walked alone at night, and since it’s situated up the coast from the cruise ship terminal, it doesn’t have the massive waves of tourists and all the shops and gimmicks that go with them.

On Cozumel you can visit Mayan ruins, ATV through the jungle, sip local gin, but the main attraction is the world-class diving and snorkelling. It’s so good you can just buy a snorkel and walk right into the water.

Much of the island doesn’t have proper sandy beaches though, so if that’s important to you, choose a beachfront resort or rent a jeep and make the easy drive to the undeveloped beaches on the “wild side”.

Also, Cozumel has its own airport right on the island so fly straight in and skip the chaos of Cancun International Airport.

#3 Holbox, quintana roo

Holbox is another example of somewhere that is getting busier as the years go by. Fortunately, it takes a bit of effort to get there which deters a lot of the travellers and tourists from adding it to their itinerary.

This car-free island is accessible by ferry from Chiquilá, about a 2.5hr bus from Cancun.

Once on the island, expect a truly beach-life experience.

Swim with whale sharks, spot the other-worldly looking horseshoe crabs, check out flamingos in the wild, or swim in the bioluminescence.

I recommend spending more than a couple of nights here if you really want to get into the swing of things and fall in love with the town.

Wander the sandy roads, pop into Tuch Holbox for the best seafood tacos of your life, or rent a golf cart and explore the sandbars.

This is somewhere you shouldn’t rely on for WiFi and it’s definitely worth noting that mosquitos can be a problem, so if you’re a magnet like I am, you may want to give it some thought.

I ended up needing cream from the pharmacy to control my reaction to the many mosquitos bites that covered my legs.

#2 huatulco, oaxaca

Huatulco is perfect for anyone who wants to experience Mexico with all the comforts of home. I spent almost a month in Huatulco because it’s such an easy place to be!

This is somewhere you’ll easily find English speakers, strong air conditioning, and reliable WiFi. It also has shops and big box stores with everything you might need, a convenience you won’t find everywhere in Mexico.

Huatulco also happens to be known for its nine incredible bays and over 30 secluded beaches.

If you love beaches this is the place for you. Kayak, swim, snorkel, dive, spot the dolphins and watch the whales.

With an international airport and direct flights from the US and Canada, Huatulco is an excellent safe destination that still feels Mexican and isn’t as commercial as Cancun or Tulum.

#1 puerto escondido, oaxaca

Puerto Escondido is one of my favourite beach towns in Mexico. It is bohemian, relaxed and sort of like what Tulum was before it boomed into an Instagram party and wellness destination.

Puerto Escondido has some of the most devastatingly beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen, an active surf culture, bioluminescent lagoons nearby and fantastic fresh seafood.

The town sprawls along the Pacific Coast of Oaxaca and really has a neighbourhood for everyone. The young folks and avid surfers love the Zipolite area, while the chilled yoga-loving sun worshippers prefer La Punta.

The Bacocho area is great for families, couples and individuals looking for an easy going, safe place to spend some time.

With an airport and direct bus links to Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido should be on your list.

The Wrap Up

Ultimately, there are safe beach destinations in Mexico for every traveller, it’s just about matching your travel style to the right place.

Mexico can get a bad reputation but in my years of experience specializing in Mexico, if you’re just a regular visitor doing regular visitor things, it’s really unlikely that you’ll find yourself in danger.

So my last piece of advice is to go ahead, book the trip!