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Best Mexico Beaches

Winter-weary American travelers find great relief stretching along the sands of the Yucatán and Baja del Sur, Mexico's two beach-rich coastlines. But how do you choose which sandy strip to visit? U.S. News Travel is here to help with a list of Mexico's best beaches.

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Why Go: One of the best swimming experiences in all of Mexico can be found at the beach just beneath the Tulum ruins. Come in the early morning or later in evening to enjoy the sands beneath El Castillo—the old Mayan temple—without interruption. Read More»

Read On: Top Things to Do in Tulum

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Why Go: Despite its popularity as a tourist hotspot, Puerto Vallarta has managed to retain some of its small-town charm. PV attracts a more sophisticated crowd than some of Mexico's other popular oceanside retreats. Here, visitors will find a beautiful boardwalk and upscale hotels. Read More»

Read On: Top Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

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Why Go: Playa del Carmen once had the ambience of a sleepy European coastal town. But now Playa's beaches are among the most popular along the Yucatán. They still remain hip and are no less crowded than those in Cancún, though beach combers come here to see-and-be-seen. Read More»

Read On: Top Things to Do in Playa del Carmen

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Why Go: When you think of Cancún, the first word that pops into your head is probably "beach." And if it's cold where you are, the first thought is likely "I wish I was there now." You're not alone: The beaches are immaculate, with seemingly unending stretches of white sand. Read More»

Read On: Top Things to Do in Cancun

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Why Go: Back in the 1950s, Acapulco was the go-to vacation spot for many big whigs: The Pacific-facing beaches welcomed such A-listers as Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, and Elvis Presley. After a long struggle with crime rates, this western Mexico city is making a comeback—the beaches are vast, the hotels are renovated, and the prices are low. Read More»

Read On: Top Things to Do in Acapulco

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Why Go: Cozumel's beautiful shoreline comes with one downside: thick crowds. Swarms of tourists descend on the island every year. That said, Cozumel is home to a number of excellent beaches and stands as one of the premiere diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. Read More»

Read On: Top Things to Do in Cozumel

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Why Go: Sure, the sands may not be as powdery and pristine as those in Cabo or Puerto Vallarta, but Mazatlan's golden shoreline will surely satisfy the average sun-seeker, especially if they're on a budget. Playa Olas Altas is the beach of choice for most visitors, but you can bypass the crowds by heading to remote Isla de la Piedra. Read More»

Read On: Top Things to Do in Mazatlan

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Why Go: Cabo—and its sister city San Jose del Cabo—boast an abundance of excellent beaches, so you won't have trouble finding a scenic spot. Recent visitors particularly recommend the classic Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach) at the picturesque Land's End rock formation. Read More»

Read On: Top Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas

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