Travelers looking for sargassum-free beaches in Quintana Roo this summer can still find clear waters in Isla Mujeres and parts of Cancún, according to updated reports.
As the summer travel season ramps up, much of the Caribbean coast is once again dealing with sargassum, the brown seaweed that washes ashore in thick mats and affects beach tourism. But not all beaches in Quintana Roo are overrun. Several still offer the clear water and clean sand visitors expect—and they're ready for travelers looking to escape the algae.
According to a June 19 report and recent updates from the Sargassum Monitoring Network of Quintana Roo, there are five beaches currently listed as completely free of sargassum. Another 19 show only a very low presence, while many popular destinations—including parts of Playa del Carmen and Tulum—are facing heavy landings.
Isla Mujeres: Safe Bet for Clear Beaches
Isla Mujeres is one of the few destinations in the Mexican Caribbean where sargassum is almost entirely absent. Located a short ferry ride from Cancún, this island continues to offer some of the cleanest beach experiences in the region.
Playa Norte, the island’s main beach, remains free of seaweed. Its shallow turquoise waters, soft white sand, and calm currents make it a top choice for families and swimmers. Playa Centro and Playa Lancheros, both smaller and quieter, also remain sargassum-free, providing peaceful alternatives for visitors avoiding the crowds.
To reach the island, ferries depart frequently from Puerto Juárez in Cancún. The ride takes about 20 minutes and offers a quick escape to a much more pristine coastline.
Cancún Beaches Also in Good Shape
While many parts of the Caribbean coast are struggling with algae, Cancún still has pockets of relatively clean beaches. As of June 16, Playa del Niño and Puerto Juárez report no significant sargassum buildup. Playa Langosta and Punta Nizuc also rank low in seaweed presence.
These areas provide convenient access to the beach for travelers staying in the city or hotel zone. Public access, beach services, and restaurants make them popular with both locals and international tourists.
Current Forecast and Outlook
This summer is shaping up to be one of the worst sargassum seasons on record. The United Nations and Mexican authorities estimate seaweed landings could range from 60,000 to over 500,000 tons in 2025. That’s in line with or even greater than the record levels seen in 2018.
To manage the situation, federal, state, and local governments—along with the Mexican Navy—are deploying containment barriers to keep the seaweed from reaching the shore. Cleanup crews are also active in high-impact areas. Plans are underway to construct a facility that could convert sargassum into biogas, offering a longer-term solution to the annual problem.
Where to Go and What to Expect
Here’s a breakdown of beach destinations and their current sargassum levels:
- No Sargassum: Playa Norte (Isla Mujeres), Playa del Niño (Cancún), Playa Centro (Isla Mujeres), Playa Lancheros (Isla Mujeres), Puerto Juárez (Cancún)
- Very Low: Playa Langosta (Cancún), Punta Nizuc (Cancún), a handful of smaller inlets and hotel beaches
- Moderate to High: Most of Riviera Maya, including Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum
Beach conditions can change quickly. Travelers should check the Sargassum Monitoring Network's daily updates before choosing a destination.
Tips for Visitors
- Use the sargassum traffic light map provided by local authorities to see which beaches are clear before heading out.
- Book accommodations near sargassum-free zones, especially in Isla Mujeres or the north end of Cancún.
- Choose biodegradable sunscreen to avoid damaging coral reefs and marine life.
- Avoid stepping on sargassum piles—they can hide debris and attract insects.
For those seeking a beach vacation with minimal disruption, Quintana Roo still offers options. Isla Mujeres remains the most reliable pick for seaweed-free shores, and select areas of Cancún are holding steady. While other parts of the coast face heavier landings, planning ahead can help travelers enjoy a clean and relaxing beach getaway this summer.
