A calm beach near Cancun

Playa Mujeres and Costa Mujeres

The quieter all-inclusive coast north of Cancun, facing Isla Mujeres, with calmer water and large resorts but little public transport.

Where
North of the city, facing Isla Mujeres
Hotels
Mostly large all-inclusive resorts
Getting there
Taxi or transfer; little public transport
Sargassum
Usually less exposed than the open Hotel Zone coast, but not immune

Last checked: 25 October 2026 by Lia. Sources: Quintana Roo sargassum reports (October 2026); hotel listings. Hero photo: Luka Peternel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

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Overview

Playa Mujeres and the wider Costa Mujeres are Cancun’s newer resort coast, north of the city. Most of it is large all-inclusive resorts, a golf course, and not much you can walk to. The water is calmer because the coast faces the bay. Bring a transfer plan, not a bus timetable.

Why stay here

  • Calmer water than the open east side of the Hotel Zone, as the coast faces the bay and Isla Mujeres.
  • Usually less exposed to sargassum, though not immune.
  • Quiet; good for couples and resort stays.

Downsides

  • Few restaurants or shops outside the resorts.
  • Little public transport: you’ll rely on taxis, transfers or tours.
  • Further from the airport than the Hotel Zone.

Things to do nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Playa Mujeres part of the Hotel Zone?

No. It is north of the city, facing Isla Mujeres. The Hotel Zone is the Boulevard Kukulcán strip.

How do I get to Playa Mujeres?

Taxi or a pre-booked transfer. There is little public transport.

Is there less sargassum here?

Usually less than the open east coast of the Hotel Zone, because this shore faces the bay. It is not immune. Check the state’s monitoring before you travel.

Where to stay in Playa Mujeres and Costa Mujeres

Other neighbourhoods