Playa Tortugas (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Playa Tortugas?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Children can safely wade in calm, lifeguard-watched water, build vast sandcastles, and eat quick tacos, but free shade is scarce and loud party boats may disturb.
Positives:
- Calm, lifeguard-patrolled water: The gentle slope and roped swim zone make it safer for young children.
- On-site food options: Nearby restaurants serve child-friendly menus and local snacks.
Challenges:
- Limited free shade: Public palapas fill up fast; bring a small pop-up tent or rent early.
- Crowds at peak times: Midday on weekends gets busy—visit on weekdays or early to avoid crowds.
What is Playa Tortugas?
- A public beachfront in Cancun’s Hotel Zone characterized by fine white sand and clear, calm turquoise waters.
- Features lifeguard stations, umbrella and chair rentals, and shower and restroom amenities.
- Serves as a coastal ferry terminal via a wooden pier providing direct access to Isla Mujeres.
What is so special about Playa Tortugas for with kids?
- Soft white sand and gradual entry make swimming safe for kids.
- Wooden pier offers fun sightseeing and photo spots.
- Umbrella and lounger rentals let parents rest in comfort.
- Nearby eateries provide easy meals and drinks.
- Ferry and snorkeling tours add adventure without long travel.
Recommended visit duration: 3–5 hours
Why 3–5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time for swimming, sand play, a pier walk and a short ferry ride without tiring the kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Playa Tortugas
Swim in shallow waters:
Kids can wade safely in the gradual slope patrolled by lifeguards.
Tip: Go in morning when the water is calm and lifeguards are on duty.
Build sandcastles:
Use the soft, fine white sand for creative castle building.
Tip: Buy or bring small beach toys to keep little ones entertained.
Walk the wooden pier:
Spot fishing boats and watch local fishermen at work.
Tip: Visit at low tide for easier access and fewer slippery spots.
Rent umbrella and loungers:
Relax in the shade while the kids play nearby.
Tip: Reserve your spot early to get a palapa before it fills up.
Try a snorkeling tour:
Explore nearby reef edges and see tropical fish.
Tip: Book a family-friendly provider that supplies child-size masks.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Playa Tortugas
- Arrive early: Beat the crowds, secure shade and set up toys before other families arrive.
- Pack beach toys: Bringing buckets and molds keeps kids busy without extra cost.
Reviews of Playa Tortugas
Nika Navi
The beach is not very clean, and most importantly, the shoreline and water are full of sargassum seaweed. In some areas, swimming is nearly impossible because your legs get tangled in the seaweed. Only small clear areas in the water are suitable for swimming. We came to swim at sunset, when there was no one on the loungers near the hotel — meaning we weren’t disturbing any hotel guests. The beach ...
Md.Nishanto Nahid Pishon
Beautiful turquoise green waters. The beach is public so there's usually a lot of people. Finding parking at the spot is difficult. You can park at the nearby pharmacy or starbucks and walk it. The Google maps location is incorrect! Drive about 5 mins forward from the pinned location.
Anne Liu
Nice and small public beach at the edge of the hotel zone. Went there around 11 am on a weekday and the place was pretty quiet. However the water quality were just alright..
Marta Zawilinska
Best public beach so far in Cancun. The beach is small and the locals come here with their families but was not too crowded. Nice restaurants and bars
Heather Smith
This is a beautiful beach area with some fun snorkeling. It’s a free beach, there are shopping and food options. Access to the Ferry to Isla Mujeres, ⛴ and Catamarans. Bus stop located there. We would go down and around the rock area where additional beach is and spreading out of people! Enjoy!
When is the best time to visit Playa Tortugas (Cancun, Mexico)?
December–April offers the driest weather and calm seas. May–October brings afternoon showers and stronger sun—plan early visits and bring sun protection.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Umbrella + lounger rental | MXN 250 |
| Round-trip ferry tickets (2 adults + 2 kids) | MXN 1,440 |
| Snorkeling tour for 2 adults | MXN 1,400 |
| Beachside meals for family | MXN 480 |
| Showers & changing areas | MXN 80 |
| Total Estimated | MXN 3,650 |
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 Playa Tortugas
Address: Playa Tortugas, Quintana Roo, Mexico
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