Rose's Picks
Rose's favorite beaches and beach clubs near Playa del Carmen
Picked by Rose Medina, House Manager, Mayan Mansion
The short answer
Rose Medina's favorite beaches near Playa del Carmen are Punta Esmeralda for families, Xcalacoco for a quiet stretch north of town, Xpu-Ha for a long white-sand day down the coast, and Akumal for snorkeling. For music, food and loungers, she sends groups to the beach clubs in town, such as Mamitas.
Mayan Mansion is off the beach by choice, because of sargassum seaweed and for security, so the pool is the same every day. When the sea is clear, these are the beaches I send groups to. I always check the sargassum that morning first.
1. Punta Esmeralda
A beach at the north end of Playa del Carmen with shallow water and a small cenote where fresh water meets the sea.
Why Rose picks it: My pick for families with little ones.
2. Xcalacoco
A quieter beach north of town, with fewer crowds.
Why Rose picks it: For a group that wants a calm morning by the water.
3. Xpu-Ha
A long white-sand beach down the coast toward Tulum.
Why Rose picks it: A full beach day. I'll check that the sand is clear before you go.
4. Akumal
A bay with calm water, known for snorkeling with sea turtles.
Why Rose picks it: Go with a certified local guide.
5. Beach clubs in Playa del Carmen
Clubs on the sand in town, like Mamitas, with loungers, food, drinks and music.
Why Rose picks it: For a group that wants a party on the beach before dinner on Quinta Avenida.
Places change. Before your trip, Rose confirms what's open and what she'd recommend for your group that week.
More of Rose's picks
- Rose's favorite cenotes near Playa del Carmen
- Where Rose sends groups for dinner in Playa del Carmen
- Rose's rainy-day plan in Playa del Carmen
- Rose's guide to golf near Playacar and Playa del Carmen
- Rose's favorite day trips from Playa del Carmen
- Rose's picks for families in the Riviera Maya, from toddlers to teens
- Rose's picks for couples, inside a group trip
- Rose's night out in Playa del Carmen, starting at home
- Rose's four perfect days at Mayan Mansion
Have another question? Ask Rose.
Rose Medina answers every question personally, usually the same day. If it's a question other guests will have too, her answer may end up on this page.