BEACHES

 

Along the island?s coastline you?ll find white-sand beaches and the beautiful turquoise-blue sea. In the warm waters off the coast of the northern and southern hotel zone, you?ll find numerous places to do various aquatic activities.

 

Playa San Francisco ? Located on the southern coast, 14 km (8.7 mi) from the town of San Miguel. Here you can enjoy a classic Caribbean beach with fine white sand and gentle waves. This beach is a stopover point for glass-bottom boats that tour the coast. These boats give you an excellent view of the coral banks below.

 

Playa de San Juan ? Located in the northern hotel zone, 5 km (3 mi) from the island?s city center. With its white-sand beach and calm waters, this spot is ideal for horseback riding, playing tennis and excursions.

 

Playa Encantada ? Located on the southern tip of the island near Punta Celarain. From its lighthouse, you can take in a breathtaking view of Playa Encantada. About 4 km (2.5 mi) from here lies El Caracol archaeological zone, which probably was once an observatory that the ancient Mayans used to predict the arrival of hurricanes and storms.

 

Playa Santa Maria ? Located in the southern region of the Chankanaab Lagoon, about 25 km (15 mi) from the town of San Miguel. The beach is dotted with palm trees, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing, shady day in the sand and escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

 

Playa Bonita ? Located at Rancho Ixpalbarco near the Colombia Lagoon on the island?s east coast. This exclusive private beach has limited access and an isolated cove that invites you to spend a pleasant and peaceful day, far removed from civilization.

 

Playa Hernan ? Located near the ruins of Parador Turistico de San Gervasio. This beach has two small islands off the coast and El Castillo Real, the island?s largest pre-Hispanic construction.

 

Isla de la Pasion ? Located north of San Miguel. This is a small and peaceful island with beautiful beaches and an abundance of birds. Its estuaries are a turtle and crocodile habitat. The coast is accessible if you have a small boat.