Dolphins Beach (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Dolphins Beach?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Lifeguards, shallow entry, a small playground, restrooms, and free parking fit kids, but afternoon waves can strengthen and there is no staffed kids club, so parents must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Free facilities: Public restrooms, showers and palapas are just above the sand.
- Lifeguards on duty: Certified guards watch the main swimming area from dawn to dusk.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Free palapas fill up by mid-morning; pack a beach umbrella if you need extra shade.
- Midday sun: UV rays are strongest between 11 AM and 3 PM; apply sunscreen every 2 hours.
What is Dolphins Beach?
- A public beach on the Caribbean coast at the eastern tip of Cancún’s Hotel Zone
- A broad crescent of powdery white sand lapped by shallow, turquoise waters
- A shoreline lined with thatched palapas and casual restaurants, known for occasional offshore dolphin sightings
What is so special about Dolphins Beach for with kids?
- Shallow, waist-deep water perfect for young kids
- Sand playground next to the beach keeps children entertained
- Iconic “Cancun” sign and Mirador lookout for family photos
- Free palapas, showers and lifeguards make logistics easy
- Short walk to El Rey Mayan Ruins for a fun educational stop
Recommended visit duration: 3–5 hours
Why 3–5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to swim, play in the sand, visit the nearby ruins and rest without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Dolphins Beach
Splash in shallow shore:
Kids can safely wade in the calm, waist-deep water near the beach.
Tip: Bring water shoes to protect little feet from shells and rocks.
Play at the beach playground:
Let the children climb and slide on the sand playground next to the palapas.
Tip: Arrive early to find space and keep an eye on belongings.
Photo at the “Cancun” sign:
Capture a family shot at the colorful beach sign on the sand.
Tip: Plan for few other groups by visiting before 10 AM.
Climb the Mirador lookout:
Walk up to the wooden viewpoint for a panoramic ocean view.
Tip: Hold young kids by hand; steps can be slippery with sand.
Explore El Rey Mayan Ruins:
Spot iguanas and low-height structures just across Kukulcán Boulevard.
Tip: Combine this small visit with a siesta under a palapa afterward.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Dolphins Beach
- Arrive early: Get a palapa and empty parking spot before 10 AM.
- Pack a picnic: Eating at the beach saves time and avoids long lines at carts.
- Combine nearby sites: Pair your beach visit with El Rey Ruins for a cultural break.
Reviews of Dolphins Beach
N. Davis
Beautiful, quiet beach. The sand is soft and the water is perfect Great for a quick stop on your way to the airport or a full on beach day.
Prab Kaur
The water was pleasantly warm, the views were beautiful, and the beach was exceptionally clean. The restroom facilities were well maintained, and parking was convenient with assistance available from attendants who help guide you for tips. Overall, it was a very enjoyable and well-organized experience.
Nicole Pearson
Beautiful beach and amazing blue water! The water was a little wild the day we went but terrific for wave jumping. Free palapas, life guards and tourist police around.
Miroslav (P)
Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach) is one of the nicest and most beautiful beaches in Cancún. It’s wide, clean, and has soft white sand with stunning turquoise water. There’s plenty of space on the beach, so it never feels too crowded. It’s a great spot for relaxing, walking, and taking photos — especially near the famous Cancún sign. One thing to keep in mind is parking — it can be very difficult. I...
rkwphoon
It looked like a very nice beach with white sand. The day that I went there it was very windy and cloudy and the water was quite wavy. I didn't go in the water but it looked like a nice spot to chill on the beach. Change rooms are available. I didn't see any vendors selling food there.
When is the best time to visit Dolphins Beach (Cancun, Mexico)?
Visit in winter (Nov–Apr) for calmer waters. In summer (May–Oct), go early to avoid the midday heat and stronger waves.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Umbrella & chair rental | MXN 150 |
| Snacks & drinks for 4 | MXN 400 |
| El Rey Ruins entry (4×50 MXN) | MXN 200 |
| Glass-bottom boat tour (3×600 MXN) | MXN 1,800 |
| Total Estimated | MXN 2,550 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Dolphins Beach
Address: Punta Nizuc, Blvd. Kukulcan 17, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
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About Dolphins Beach
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+52 998 413 672010 BEST nearby Activities
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