Relax on the Caribbean beaches

Cancún's beaches are the main event, and the good news is that under Mexican law all beaches are public, so you don't need to stay at a resort to enjoy them. The Hotel Zone's long strip of white sand and turquoise water is genuinely stunning, with public access points dotted along it, and free beaches like Playa Delfines offering the classic Cancún view without a peso spent. Bring your own towel and snacks from a supermarket and you have a perfect, free beach day. We'll point you to the best public beaches, how to reach them by cheap bus, and the calmest spots for swimming.