Chiapas is one of the safest cities in Mexico. It has Latin America’s most breathtaking and picturesque beaches for couples and islands in Mexico.
In this post, I’ve rounded up the 15 best beaches in Chiapas, Mexico.
13 Best Beaches in Chiapas, Mexico
In case you don’t know, “Playa” means “beach” in Spanish, the most spoken language in Mexico. So Playa Venture means Venture Beach.
Find the best places to stay in or near Chiapas:
1/ Playa Linda, Chiapas
Playa Linda, meaning “Beautiful Beach,” truly lives up to its name. It’s one of the best beach resorts in Chiapas, offering powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters.
You’ll never forget the serene and picturesque setting to unwind and soak up the sun.
Surrounded by lush vegetation and palm trees, Playa Linda provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The calm waters at Playa Linda make it an ideal destination for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. You can explore the vibrant marine life that inhabits the coral reefs just off the shore or float in the gentle waves.
Also, Playa Linda is known for its laid-back atmosphere and welcoming local community. Beachside restaurants and bars offer delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen.
The beach also hosts occasional live music events, allowing visitors to enjoy the sounds of traditional Mexican tunes while taking in the breathtaking views.
2/ Playa del Sol, Chiapas
Playa del Sol is one of the best beach resorts in Chiapas, offering an idyllic beach experience.
With its golden sands and turquoise waters, this beach is a picture-perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
One of the main attractions of Playa del Sol is its spectacular sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors.
A stroll along the shoreline during this magical hour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Playa del Sol.
Thanks to its calm and clear waters, you can enjoy watersports such as swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking at Playa del Sol.
The beach is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, as the surrounding mangroves and wetlands provide a habitat for various bird species.
A handful of beachside restaurants and bars allow visitors to sample local dishes and refreshing beverages.
3/ Boca de Cielo, Chiapas
Boca de Cielo, a hidden gem in Tonalá, Chiapas, Mexico, is a quaint fishing town and beach with an authentic coastal experience.
Along with Puerto Arista, located just 15 km away, these two Chiapas beaches are the most renowned on the coast.
With its unspoiled shoreline and crystal-clear waters, Boca de Cielo offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist destinations.
The pristine beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and palm trees, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
And because the community on Boca de Cielo is deeply connected to the ocean, you can immerse yourself in the traditional way of life.
The beach town in Chiapas is famous for its fresh seafood. Local fishermen bring their daily catch to supply the nearby restaurants and markets.
You can enjoy delicious local cuisine featuring the freshest fish, shrimp, and other seafood delicacies.
Boca de Cielo also offers water-based activities for you to enjoy. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
4/ Playa Costa Azul, Chiapas
Playa Costa Azul is located on the southern coast of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. It’s a popular destination for tourists seeking a relaxing beach getaway.
Picturesque cliffs surround the pristine sandy beach in Chiapas. It offers a serene atmosphere to unwind and soak up the sun.
One of the main attractions at Playa Costa Azul is its world-class surfing conditions.
The beach is home to several surf breaks, including Zippers, The Rock, and Old Man’s, which cater to surfers of varying skill levels. You can also learn or improve your surfing skills in nearby schools and rental shops.
And if you prefer calm waters, you can go snorkeling and swimming at Playa Costa Azul. The crystal-clear waters have diverse marine life, making it an ideal spot for marine enthusiasts to explore the underwater world.
Playa Costa Azul is a picturesque beach destination that caters to visitors’ needs with its beachside facilities. The beach boasts several palapa-covered restaurants and bars where you can enjoy the flavors of the local cuisine.
5/ Barra San Simon, Chiapas
Barra San Simon is also one of the best beach towns in Chiapas, Mexico. This beautiful place offers a paradise-like setting with soft, untouched white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
There are tons of things to do in Barra San Simon. You can take a refreshing dip in the inviting waters, feel the coolness envelop your skin on a hot day, and enjoy watersports.
Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore the vibrant underwater world. Adventurous souls can embark on thrilling kayak rides, navigating the gentle waves and taking in the breathtaking coastal views.
And if you love an adrenaline rush, surf and roll the waves on Barra San Simon. When it’s time to recharge, Chiapas Beach offers a range of nearby restaurants and bars to satisfy every craving.
Indulge in the fresh catch of the day or savor the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine while sipping on a refreshing beverage.
The tantalizing aromas and delectable dishes will surely delight your taste buds and complete your beachside experience.
6/ Playa Ventura, Chiapas
Playa Ventura, near Tapachula, is renowned for its abundant flora and fauna. It’s a paradise for sport fishing, and you can also enjoy boat tours, bike rides, and photo tours.
This small beach is perfect for families with young children, earning the nickname “Dead Sea” due to its calm waves.
Unlike other Chiapas beaches, Playa Ventura offers a tranquil atmosphere, making swimming and water activities safe. Stroll, bask in the sun, and appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
The absence of strong waves ensures a serene experience. Create cherished family memories, and indulge in fishing adventures.
Or unwind in Playa Ventura’s tranquil waters. It’s a unique beach destination in Chiapas that showcases nature’s beauty and offers a serene escape.
7/ Playa Parachico, Chiapas
Playa Parachico is a Chiapas beach destination that captivates visitors with its unspoiled beauty. The glistening golden sands invite you to stroll barefoot, relishing the sensation between your toes.
The tranquil aquamarine waters beckon you to immerse yourself, feeling the gentle caress on your skin.
Exploring the surrounding area, you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of wildlife, from vibrant birds soaring overhead to marine creatures.
Let the mesmerizing sunsets weave a canvas of stunning colors across the horizon, leaving you in awe of nature’s artistry.
Playa Parachico is a haven where you can disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with the simple joys of nature.
8/ Barra de Zacapulco, Chiapas
Barra de Zacapulco, a hidden coastal paradise in Mexico, offers a unique and unspoiled beach experience. Accessible only by boat, this virgin Chiapas beach sits on a sandbar between the ocean and an inland lagoon.
With pristine sands stretching for dozens of meters and crystal-clear waters, Barra de Zacapulco captivates with its untouched beauty.
The beach remains undeveloped, providing a tranquil and authentic ambiance. Accommodation options include cozy cabins built by locals, offering an intimate stay.
For a closer connection to nature, camping on the beach is also available, allowing visitors to fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
The La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve, home to diverse plant and animal species, including jaguars, ocelots, and giant Mexican anteaters, surrounds Barra de Zacapulco.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the reserve’s rich ecosystems, showcasing the region’s unique biodiversity.
Moreover, Barra de Zacapulco is committed to marine life conservation and hosts a turtle sanctuary. Visitors can learn about sea turtle species nesting on the shore and participate in efforts to protect these endangered creatures.
9/ El Ballenato Beach, Chiapas
El Ballenato Beach, situated on the Pacific Ocean, is a hidden gem approximately 20 miles northwest of Tonala.
This stunning beach in Chiapas offers a paradise of beauty with its pristine shoreline and sparkling turquoise waters.
It offers a tranquil environment, perfect for an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
And you can still do many things in El Ballenato, like basking in the warm sun, taking a refreshing swim, or riding the waves on a surfboard.
Also, visit the captivating tide pools at El Ballenato Beach. They are filled with various marine life, like vibrant starfish, scuttling crabs, and intriguing sea creatures.
10/ El Madresal, Chiapas
Madresal is a beach in Chiapas, Mexico, that is located in the town of Boca del Cielo. This serene beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a tranquil escape from city life.
The palm trees and white sands make it a picturesque location for tourists to unwind and relax.
The beach is perfect for those who seek minimalism in their travels. The peaceful atmosphere of El Madresal is ideal for travelers who want to get away from the hustle-bustle of city life and enjoy a serene vacation.
You can lounge on the shore, take a refreshing swim in the ocean, or take a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline.
The area is not overcrowded with tourists, making it perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere create an ideal environment for lovebirds to spend quality time together.
El Madresal will give you an experience of tranquility amidst nature’s beauty. If you’re looking to get away from the stresses of everyday life, this beach is the perfect destination for you.
11/ Puerto Arista, Chiapas
Puerto Arista is a must-visit beach in Chiapas, Mexico.
Located just a few miles from Tonalá, this beach is one of the most popular destinations among tourists and locals alike. Its soft, white sands and clear, blue waters make it a picturesque location to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Puerto Arista has something for everyone, whether you want to soak up the sun or dip in the refreshing waters.
But there’s more to Puerto Arista than just its natural beauty.
The beach is home to unique marine life, such as sea turtles, dolphins, and even whales. It’s a perfect place to learn and experience more about marine life in their natural habitat.
Puerto Arista has many restaurants and bars along the beach where you can enjoy a delicious meal or refreshing cocktail.
12/ Barra San José, Chiapas
San José is a stunning beach in Chiapas, Mexico. The crystal-clear waters, cliffs, and lush vegetation will leave you in awe.
The beach has an estuary home to various mangroves and local flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers. Water activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding are available for those who seek adventure.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun while enjoying the surroundings is just as enjoyable.
One of the unique features of Barra San José is that it’s a secluded beach, providing privacy and tranquility. It’s perfect for travelers looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
13/ La Lupe Beach, Acapetahua, Chiapas
Lupe Beach is a hidden beach on the Pacific coast in Chiapas, Mexico. It’s perfect for those who want to escape everyday life.
The beach stretches for miles; visitors can explore the rugged coastline or stroll along the soft white sands.
La Lupe Beach has a laidback atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking relaxation. You can swim in the pristine waters, lounge on the shoreline, or try water sports like kayaking and snorkeling.
14/ Paredon Bay Beach, Chiapas
Paredon Bay Beach is a popular tourist destination for beach lovers looking for a relaxing and secluded experience.
The beach is 12 kilometers south of the town of Tonala and can be reached by road from Tuxtla Gutierrez. The nearest airport to Tonala is Francisco Sarabia Teran Airport, 12 km from Tuxtla Gutierrez.
Paredon Bay Beach stretches for miles, so you can explore the rugged coastline or stroll along the soft white sands. The crystal-clear waters, cliffs, and lush vegetation make it an idyllic spot for those seeking natural beauty.
The estuary near the beach is home to various mangroves, local flora, and fauna, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts. You can also do snorkeling and paddleboarding or relax on the shore and soak up the sun.
15/ Chocohuital, Chiapas
Chocohuital is a hidden gem in Chiapas, Mexico, that offers a unique nature-filled experience to visitors. It’s 54 km from Tapachula and boasts of both natural attributes- beach and estuary full of mangroves.
The beach is a paradise for those who love the calm atmosphere with fine sand and not-too-strong waves. You can enjoy the sea breeze that relaxes your senses while soaking up the sun.
The La Encrucijada Reserve, also located near the area, is a site of outstanding beauty that allows you to visualize the wonders of nature.
You can engage in various water activities like swimming, recreational fishing, and kayaking, or take a boat trip to explore the estuary and experience the flora and fauna unique to the area.
To make the most of your visit, hiring a tour guide from the locals who know the area inside out is recommended.
The inhabitants of the beach town in Chiapas offer regional dishes made with fresh fish and other seafood worth trying.
Chocohuital is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and anyone seeking a unique and relaxing experience.
FAQs for the Best Beaches Near Chiapas, Mexico
Let me answer a few questions about Chiapas and its beaches now.
Is Chiapas a city or state?
Chiapas is a state in southern Mexico and not a city. It shares borders with Oaxaca, Veracruz, Tabasco, and Guatemala. The state is ranked the 10th largest Mexican state, covering an area of 73,311 km2 comprising 32 federal entities and 124 municipalities.
What is Chiapas, Mexico, known for?
Chiapas is known for its mountainous highlands, rainforests, Mayan archaeological sites, and Spanish colonial towns. The colonial city of San Cristóbal de las Casas is located in Chiapas and features a baroque church and museum.
And there are many things you can do in Chiapas:
Does Chiapas have a beach?
Yes, and not just one; Chiapas has a coastal area with many beautiful beaches in Latin America. You’d love to do many watersports there. But, it’s essential to exercise caution as the beaches face the open sea and can have high waves.
What are the beaches near Chiapas, Mexico?
These are some of the top beaches near Chiapas in Oaxaca, Mexico:
- Playa Zicatela (4 hrs, 40 min from Tapachula, Chiapas)
- Playa Carrizalillo (4 hrs, 30 min from Tapachula, Chiapas)
- Playa Puerto Ángel (4 hrs, 45 min from Tapachula)
- Playa Chahué (5 hours from Tapachula)
These beautiful beaches are near and not within Chiapas but in Oaxaca. You’d love to return to this post above for the best beaches in Chiapas, Mexico.
