Dreaming of a beach break in a sunny clime? It’s hard to beat Mexico for a seaside getaway – no matter how much time or money you have to spend. Have a look at our list of top beach destinations in Mexico, running the gamut from budget friendly to ultra lux.

Cancun

Whether you’re seeking a quiet beach all to yourself and a humble taqueria for your din-din or to glam things up with a stay in one of Cancun’s famous high-end resorts with dinner at one of its most lavish restaurants, this popular Caribbean destination is for you. A must see in Cancun is its aquatic museum with more than 500 life-size sculptures in the waters of Isla Mujeres about 10 miles from the coast — an artificial reef created to protect the natural reef from divers. Due to its shallow depths, it’s also ideal for snorkelers and first-time divers. The best time to visit Cancun is from December to April. This is, however, peak season, which means the crowds will be heavier than other times but the weather will be perfect.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is one of the Yucatan Peninsula’s trendiest destinations. The beaches are rich with reefs perfect for diving and snorkeling. It’s not uncommon to see rays and turtles among the coral. One of the most popular activities along the beach is kite surfing. The best time to visit is April and May when the daytime sun is milder and evenings are cooler.

Sayulita

If surfing and seafood is your idea of a great beach vacation then Sayulita should serve you well. The town’s hippy vibe and Huichol culture is as popular as its sandy beaches. The waves here are particularly good for beginner-level surfing and paddle boarding, making it a haven for families with adventurous youngsters. November is the best time to travel here if you want to avoid the crowds, as it will also be cooler and drier during this time.

Todos Santos

Todos Santos along Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula has charmed discerning travellers for decades. Some consider the surf here to be one of the best in the country. There are secluded old fishing villages and alcoves along the beach to charm the most demanding beach bums.  Alternatively, the cobblestone streets, tiny artisan boutiques, and haciendas in the old part of town tell its other story as a mission founded in 1723. Winter is the best time to visit when it’s possible to watch migrating grey whales. Hotels start from as little as $30 per night and many three-star hotels start from $90 per night.

Tulum

Only about 90 minutes south of Cancun, Tulum is adorned by travelers across the world for its white sand beaches. Top choice for the purest white sand and dazzling turquois waters is Secret Beach in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Located around an hour away by bike from central Tulum, it’s only for those in the know. The best time to get here is at the end of the hurricane season from October to December when temperatures are mild. You’ll be spoilt for choice with places to stay.

Mazatlán

Welcome to Mazatlán, the Pearl of the Pacific! This resort town in the state of Sinaloa boasts an incredible 21km boardwalk. With 19th-century architecture that includes the performance hall Teatro Ángela Peralta and the towering Immaculate Conception Basilica, it’s also rich in history. The nightlife in the district is renowned and centers around Zona Dorada (Golden Zone). With a year-round semi-tropical temperature it’s a great place to visit all year.

What’s your dream beach destination in Mexico? Tell us where you go for sand, sun, and sea in the comments.