Playa Chac Mool, Cancun - all you need to know

Playa Chac Mool is situated in the central part of the hotel zone, just a few minutes’ walk from Punta Cancún.

Compared to Caracol or Langosta beaches, it is more open to the sea, so it offers bigger waves and better surfing conditions.

How did I find it here?

We’d choose Playa Chac Mool mainly for the waves, the surfing and the less commercial atmosphere.

If you’re mainly looking for a peaceful swim, the more sheltered part of Playa Gaviota Azul at its northern end would be more suitable.

For families with young children, we’d recommend Playa Langosta or Playa Caracol instead.

Chac Mool’s greatest advantage is the combination of a public beach, basic facilities and its location within walking distance of the restaurants and nightlife of Punta Cancún.

Swimming and beach conditions

Fine, light-coloured sand and unobstructed views of the Caribbean
Larger and more variable waves than on the northern side of the hotel zone
Suitable for active swimmers, bodyboarding and surfing
Less confident swimmers should stay close to the shore
There is little shade, so a parasol or sun protection is advisable
A good spot for watching the sunrise, but not the sunset

During periods of increased sargassum growth, Chac Mool may be affected more than the north-facing beaches of Caracol and Langosta. Conditions can change significantly within a single day.

Surfing

Right by the public entrance is the 360 Surf School, which offers lessons suitable even for complete beginners. Lessons last approximately 90 minutes and all necessary equipment is included.

At the time of our visit, a group lesson cost 1 500 mxn per person and a private lesson 2 000 mxn. You can find the current prices on the surf school’s website.

How to get to the beach

The public access point is located on Boulevard Kukulcán at approximately kilometre 9.5, next to 360 Surf School and the Surfin’ Burrito restaurant.

The map of the public access point highlights the surf school as an easily recognisable landmark. From there, follow the public walkway straight towards the sea. You do not need to go through any hotels.

Entry to the beach is free. Lifeguards, toilets and showers are usually available during the day, but these facilities are not open 24 hours a day. There are very few parking spaces.

Accommodation near Playa Chac Mool

Royalton CHIC Cancun is a livelier adults-only resort right on the beach. It’s ideal for guests looking for an all-inclusive experience and nightlife within walking distance.
Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun offers a more luxurious and tranquil adults-only setting south of the public entrance.
Mayan Monkey Cancun is a more affordable, sociable hostel suitable for solo travellers and younger visitors.

How to get there

By bus: Routes R1 and R2 run through the hotel zone. Tell the driver ‘Playa Chac Mool’ or ‘Surfin’ Burrito’.
On foot: From the Punta Cancún area, allow approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Uber:Ideally, enter the address ‘360 Surf School’ or the location shown on the map above; the fare from the city centre ranges from 170 mxn to 200 mxn.
By car: We do not recommend this due to very limited parking. There is really almost nowhere to park in the immediate vicinity.