2 Popular Mexican Beaches Were Just Named The Best In The World For Doing Absolutely Nothing

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We live in an era of “travel burnout.” Modern vacations often feel like work trips in disguise: sunrise hikes, museum tours, dinner reservations, and the pressure to capture it all for Instagram.

But sometimes, the ultimate luxury is simply… stopping.

According to the latest Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, travelers are increasingly prioritizing destinations where the main activity is zero activity. In their ranking of the best beaches in the world for “Doing Absolutely Nothing,” two Mexican favorites took top honors.

While you might know them for their nightlife or bustling downtowns, readers say Playa del Carmen and Playa de Los Muertos (Puerto Vallarta) are officially world-class spots for the lost art of chilling out.

Here is why these two diverse beaches are the perfect places to hit pause this winter.

1. Playa del Carmen (Riviera Maya)

Playa del Carmen is often typecast as Cancun’s hip younger sister—famous for the chaotic energy of 5th Avenue and its pounding nightlife. However, veteran travelers know that the beach itself is a sanctuary of idleness.

Why It Wins For “Doing Nothing”: The magic of Playa del Carmen lies in its service culture. “Doing nothing” here doesn’t mean sitting on a towel on the ground; it means claiming a plush daybed at a beach club like Mamita’s or Martina and having everything brought to you.

• The Setup: You don’t need to pack a cooler or hike to a secluded spot. You simply rent a lounger, and the food, drinks, and towels appear like magic.
• The View: The beach is wide, white, and faces the island of Cozumel, providing a perfect focal point for daydreaming while the turquoise waves roll in.

• The Convenience: Because the town is walkable, you don’t even need to hail a taxi. You can roll out of bed, walk to the sand, and stay horizontal until sunset.

The Vibe: Unlike the “High Energy” zones of Cancun, Playa allows for a more European style of relaxation. It’s chic, it’s comfortable, and the only effort required is lifting your margarita glass.

2. Playa de Los Muertos (Puerto Vallarta)

On the Pacific side, Puerto Vallarta’s most famous stretch of sand, Playa de Los Muertos, also made the list. This might surprise some, as “Muertos” is the heartbeat of the Romantic Zone and is rarely quiet.

However, “doing nothing” doesn’t necessarily mean silence; it often means passive entertainment.

Why It Wins For “Doing Nothing”: Playa de Los Muertos is the world’s best beach for “people watching.” You can sit under a palapa at La Palapa or El Dorado, order some guacamole, and watch an entire movie unfold in front of you without moving an inch.

• The Show: You’ll see mariachi bands serenading tables, local vendors selling intricate rugs and silver, fishermen hauling in catches on the pier, and pelicans diving for sardines. The entertainment comes to you.
• The Sunset: The Pacific sunset is legendary. Every evening, the entire beach stops “doing” whatever they were doing to simply watch the sun melt into the ocean. It is a communal moment of pure zen.
• The Pier: The iconic sail-shaped pier adds a structural beauty to the view, giving your eyes something to rest on as you drift off.

The Vibe: It’s classic Mexico. It’s nostalgic, warm, and friendly. You don’t need to seek out fun; you just sit back and let the vibrant culture of Vallarta wash over you.

Why Mexico Is The King of “Checking Out”

It is no coincidence that Mexico grabbed two spots on a global list about relaxation.

In other destinations, “doing nothing” often requires effort—hiking to a secluded cove or packing your own gear. In Mexico, relaxation is an industry. The country has perfected the art of hospitality to the point where your biggest decision of the day is “frozen or on the rocks?”

Whether you prefer the turquoise calm of the Caribbean in Playa del Carmen or the golden, cultural hustle of the Pacific in Puerto Vallarta, the verdict from Condé Nast readers is clear: if you want to master the art of doing absolutely nothing, head south of the border.

Know Before You Go Before you pack your bags for your lazy getaway, make sure to run our essential 1 Minute Trip Check. In just 60 seconds, you can verify the latest entry requirements and safety advisories for your specific destination.