Tulum Official Pushes for New Free Beach Access at Caleta Tankah

Crystal clear turquoise water at Caleta Tankah, a natural pool in Tulum, Quintana Roo

Tulum, Quintana Roo — A local councilor in Tulum announced he is working with authorities to open a new free public beach access at Caleta Tankah, a natural swimming pool known for being free of sargasso seaweed, as part of efforts to revive the destination’s struggling tourism sector.

Councilor Jorge Portilla Mánica said in a social media video that the recovery of Tulum requires joint action from business owners, officials, and citizens. He called on all sectors to work together to restore the city’s appeal.

“If each of us contributes from where we can, we will bring back Tulum’s shine,” Portilla said.

The proposal aims to expand public beach options and provide a new space to boost the local economy, according to the councilor. Caleta Tankah, a private beach club and development, currently does not offer free entry. The area features a natural inlet that forms a calm, crystal-clear pool with no waves or sargasso, making it highly popular among locals and tourists alike, especially as heavy seaweed landings continue to plague Tulum’s coastline.

The announcement comes days after President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo visited Tulum and unveiled several measures to reactivate tourism, including free access to the Jaguar Park and its beaches.

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By Laura Castillo

Laura Castillo covers tourism, business, and economic development across Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the wider Riviera Maya for Riviera Maya News & Events. She tracks the region's most important business stories — from hotel investments and airline route expansions to real estate market trends and local economic policy — helping English-speaking readers stay informed about the economic pulse of Mexico's Caribbean coast.Laura has been reporting on Quintana Roo's tourism sector since 2020, closely monitoring developments in Cancun's hotel zone, Tulum's rapidly growing commercial corridor, and the evolving business landscape in Playa del Carmen. Her coverage includes corporate investments, employment trends, infrastructure projects, and the economic impact of events like sargassum seasons and hurricane preparation.Before joining Riviera Maya News & Events, Laura worked in business development and market analysis in the Riviera Maya region, giving her first-hand insight into how tourism, real estate, and local commerce intersect. She is fluent in English and Spanish.For story tips: laura@rivieramayanews.mx