Sargassum Inundates Key Cancun Beaches, Turning Turquoise Waters Brown

Cancun, Quintana Roo — The turquoise waters that define Cancun’s beaches are turning brown in several stretches of the Hotel Zone as a massive sargassum arrival hits some of the most popular spots for domestic and international tourists.

According to the latest Sargassum Traffic Light Map, released May 26, 2026, at least four beaches are under red alert for “excessive” algae accumulation: Playa Gaviota Azul, Playa Coral, Punta Cancun, and Playa Chacmol.

The most visible impact is at Playa Gaviota Azul, near the bar and nightclub district, where sargassum covers large areas of sand and darkens the water. At Playa Coral, Punta Cancun, and Chacmol, cleanup crews continue removing tons of algae to minimize disruption to tourism and recreational activities.

Beaches including Marlin and Ballenas remain under orange alert due to abundant algae. Experts attribute the increase to strong southeast winds and recent wave action, which have pushed large quantities of sargassum toward the Mexican Caribbean coast.

Despite the challenging conditions, some beaches still offer good conditions for visitors. Playa Caracol, Tortugas, Langosta, Las Perlas, and Playa del Niño remain under green alert, thanks to the natural protection provided by the Bahia de Mujeres.

Authorities urged residents and tourists to check daily updates of the traffic light map before heading to the beach, as cleanup efforts continue at various points in the Hotel Zone.