17 of the Best Beaches in Riviera Maya Are Platinum Certificated

Photo: Tanja Cotoaga / Unsplash

Here’s some great news if you’re a fan of the Riviera Maya. The Mexican Institute of Standardization and Certification (IMNC) has awarded its coveted Platinum Beach certification to 17 of the best beaches in Riviera Maya: 13 in Solidaridad municipality and four in Tulum.

The Solidaridad beaches earning this distinction include Xcalacoco, Punta Esmeralda, Playa 88, Pelícanos, Pretel Norte (aka, Playa 40), Playa 38, Playa 72, Montecarlo, Cisne, Pirata, Caribe, Xpuhá, and the beachfront managed by Grand Velas Riviera Maya. Each location underwent rigorous evaluation to meet IMNC’s stringent environmental quality standards, which assess water quality, sand cleanliness, wildlife protection measures, and sustainable management practices.

Playa del Carmen’s Mayor, Estefanía Mercado, emphasized that these certifications represent more than environmental compliance: they demonstrate the municipality’s dedication to preserving natural resources while maintaining world-class tourism facilities.

Best Beaches in Riviera Maya go Platinum

Grand Velas Riviera Maya, the only resort-managed beach to receive the coveted platinum certification, has implemented comprehensive environmental programs including regular water quality monitoring, native dune vegetation protection, and sea turtle nesting site preservation. The all-inclusive resort, which spans 206 acres along half a mile of white sand beach between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, has long prioritized environmental stewardship as part of its luxury offerings.

In Tulum, the certified beaches of Santa Fe, Playa Maya, Pescadores, and Playa Aventuras each bring unique characteristics to the certification roster. Playa Pescadores, located at the entrance to Tulum’s beach zone, serves as the primary public access point and features the area’s fishing cooperative. Playa Maya sits adjacent to the Tulum archaeological site, offering a rare combination of ancient Mayan ruins overlooking a pristine Caribbean shoreline.

Mayor Diego Castañón Trejo noted that these certifications position Tulum as a global leader in responsible tourism, particularly important given the destination’s rapid growth in recent years. The municipality has implemented new waste management systems, restricted single-use plastics, and established protected zones for nesting sea turtles, all factors contributing to the platinum designations.

Rigorous Standards Define Platinum Status

Established in 2016, the Platinum Beach certification program evaluates beaches across 33 criteria, including water quality testing conducted every two weeks, biodiversity conservation measures, accessibility features, safety protocols, and environmental education programs. Beaches must undergo annual recertification to maintain their status, ensuring continued compliance with evolving environmental standards.

These certifications arrive at a crucial time for these best beaches in the Riviera Maya as the region balances explosive tourism growth with environmental preservation. According to the Quintana Roo Tourism Board, the state sees over 18 million travelers visit each year, with beach quality consistently ranking as the top attraction factor in visitor surveys.

Not only that, but hotels and resorts with certified beaches can command premium rates. Studies by the Mexican Tourism Board indicate properties with environmental certifications achieve 15 to 20 percent higher average daily rates than non-certified competitors, ensuring travelers are greeted by clean water, well-maintained facilities, and responsible environmental practices.

Community Partnerships Drive Success

Local environmental groups have also partnered with municipalities to support beach conservation efforts, conducting regular cleanups, monitoring coral reef health, and educating both residents and visitors about marine ecosystem protection.

Practical visitor concerns addressed the maintenance of adequate restroom facilities, providing clearly marked swimming zones, publicly displaying water quality results, and offering accessible pathways for those with mobility challenges. Emergency response protocols and lifeguard services also form part of the evaluation criteria.

For luxury travelers planning visits to these certified beaches, several stand out for specific amenities. Xpuhá, located 25 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, offers calm waters ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Punta Esmeralda, where a freshwater cenote meets the Caribbean Sea, provides a unique swimming experience with both salt and freshwater environments. Xcalacoco, the northernmost certified beach in Solidaridad, remains relatively undeveloped, appealing to those seeking a more natural beach experience.

FACTS and FAQs

To better help you check whether your favorite among the 17 best beaches in Riviera Maya has received the IMNC’s coveted Platinum status, or if you’re wondering which beach you should be visiting, here’s what you need to know:

Solidaridad Municipality – 13 Beaches:

Xcalacoco – Northern gateway beach with a natural, undeveloped shoreline
Punta Esmeralda – Where cenote waters meet the Caribbean Sea
Playa 88 – Central Playa del Carmen beach access point
Pelícanos – Popular family-friendly beach zone
Pretel Norte (Playa 40) – A wide, sandy stretch near Mamita’s Beach Club
Playa 38 – Quieter section north of central Playa del Carmen
Playa 72 – Southern Playa area with calm waters
Montecarlo – Beach zone near residential developments
Cisne – Tranquil beach area south of downtown
Pirata – Named for its adventure-themed beach clubs
Caribe – Central beach with water sports facilities
Xpuhá – Pristine beach 25 minutes south of Playa del Carmen
Grand Velas Beach – Resort-managed beachfront with comprehensive conservation programs