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Sea turtles love X'cacel beach because there's lots of deep sand, a minimal outer reef and virtually no one around. X'cacel in years past had been the site of a turtle protection program, one of the first in the area, but the property was bought by a hotel chain and now sits in legal limbo, caught between the environmentalists and the developers.

There is a short rough access road off highway 307 between CD Chemuyil and Xel-Ha (highway sign- X'cacel). Be careful taking the turn! There's a steep drop off the highway and it would be easy to get hit if you don't pay attention to traffic. Once you're inside there may be an attendant who will charge 10 to 20 pesos for beach entry. If he's not there you may want to come a different day. Security can be a problem so park in designated areas close to the guard shack. As always, just take what you need for the day and don't leave anything interesting in the car within view (electronics, cameras, etc... BTW- Car trunks are quite easy to break into!). If you go in the Spring - Summer be sure not to trample any raised mounds of sand (turtle nests) and don't disturb any turtles you may see laying their eggs. Please take your trash (and perhaps a bit more) with you when you leave. The turtles thank you!

X'cacel beach

Sandy powder beach with isolated rocks
Do not trample turtle nests (spring - summer)
Natural beach with lots of fine sand, few rocks
Foot protection not a concern in most areas (judgement)
Swimming is best when seas are calm
Good snorkeling off the north end of beach
Beware of currents, say close to shore
Trail on south side of beach leads to a cenote
Just take what you need for the day. Leave your valuables home.
Aerial view
X'cacel snorkeling photos