Mahahual, Quintana Roo — Southern Quintana Roo beaches are facing a heavy influx of sargassum seaweed that has already covered multiple coastal areas, a situation that could impact visitor numbers during the upcoming Easter holiday season.
Recent reports indicate significant accumulations of the macroalgae from Punta Herrero, through the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve, to tourist destinations like Mahahual and Xcalak, where the sargassum has already altered the natural color of several Mexican Caribbean beaches.
Experts note the phenomenon arrived early this year, as sargassum influx typically intensifies during spring. However, in 2026 it began earlier than usual due to changes in ocean currents and rising sea temperatures.
In tourist areas where hotels and service providers have cleaning brigades, beaches can be maintained in better condition for visitors. However, in more remote or pristine areas within the region known as the Costa Maya, the accumulation is more evident.
This situation could primarily affect those seeking less crowded beaches in municipalities like Bacalar, José María Morelos, and Othón P. Blanco, from where many families typically travel to the coast to enjoy the sea.
Although authorities maintain constant monitoring and conduct collection efforts in some areas, the continuous arrival of sargassum from the sea keeps coastal communities and tourism service providers on alert.
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