Tulum’s 25 Beach Access Points: How Many Are Really Public?

Tulum, Mexico — The municipality of Tulum has 25 registered access points to the Caribbean Sea, yet the majority lack maintenance, signage, or adequate conditions for unrestricted public use, limiting their effectiveness as true public beach entrances.

Limited Accessibility Despite Numerous Entrances

According to confirmed local sources, 12 of these access points are located along Tulum’s coastal zone, 11 in Akumal, and 2 in the Xcacel-Xcacelito area, which falls within protected natural reserves. However, several of these entrances are situated within the Jaguar National Park, where free access is restricted to those presenting official identification proving residency in Tulum. For non-residents, entry comes at a high cost, creating a barrier for many local families.

Although these access points are officially recognized by authorities, not all are clearly marked or consistently open to the public. Some feature rocky paths, natural obstructions, or are in a state of neglect. Others require passage through privately controlled areas or tourist establishments that enforce checkpoints, chains, or security personnel, further complicating free movement.

Confusion Among Residents

This situation has led to confusion among residents, many of whom remain unaware of which beach entrances are genuinely available for public use. The Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone (ZOFEMAT) has yet to release a public inventory with maps, routes, or marked access points to facilitate coastal entry for citizens.

In recent interviews, locals noted that only a handful of access points are widely known and utilized, such as one near the Eufemia restaurant in the hotel zone and another further north toward Punta Piedra. The rest see minimal traffic, remain obscure, or are outright closed.

“Honestly, I don’t know—I’m only familiar with the one in Punta Piedra and another near Azulik. Beyond that, I have no idea if there are any other public access points in Tulum,” said Davi, a Tulum resident.

Challenges in Akumal and Xcacel-Xcacelito

In Akumal, despite the 11 registered entrances, some are adjacent to private developments or tourist complexes, where unrestricted passage is not always permitted. Meanwhile, in Xcacel-Xcacelito, access depends on the schedules and discretion of state-administered reserve staff.

Calls for Transparency and Maintenance

Civic organizations and residents have urged authorities to provide clearer information about these access points, along with improved maintenance, cleaning, and security measures. The goal is to ensure that the legal right to beach access is not merely theoretical but practically enforceable.

While Tulum boasts a vast Caribbean coastline, the promise of unrestricted and equitable access for its residents remains unfulfilled.