Playa Tortuga, meaning Turtle Beach, is in the northern end of Cancun. It is about 7km from the Hotel Zone. The farther you go the more likely you’ll be to see a turtle. Without arguments this beach is the most popular with the locals. It is here where one can mix and mingle with not only the multi-lingual locals, most of which are of pure Mayan descent, and continue to speak the indigenous Mayan language.

For the ladies, this is an excellent place to shop. There are a lot of small shops lined up just off the beach front. I do have to mention that the people were very nice and polite. I’d recommend this particular beach for the family. The women can enjoy a day of shopping while the men and children immerse themselves in the adventures of the water sports. While there, I noticed a group of people just floating in their rafts. What can be more soothing and relaxing? This beach is the perfect spot if you’re looking to take a brake from the entire tourist-specific locations and interact with the locals.