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The Daily Insight

Does Mexico still have a seaweed problem?

Author

William Smith

Updated on April 04, 2026

The continued presence of sargassum seaweed (a.k.a sargasso, sargazo) on the beaches of Mexico continues to be a concern to many travelers.

What are the worst months for seaweed in Cancun?

In the Caribbean, seaweed season is generally May to October. The worst time for seaweed in Cancun, the Dominican Republic and much of the Caribbean is during the summer months.

Is there sargassum in Tulum?

According to Riviera Maya News, those regions are Isla Mujeres, Puerto Morelos, Solidaridad (which includes Playa del Carmen) and Tulum. Their beaches are nearly sargassum free. All of Isla Mujeres’ seven beaches are completely clear of sargassum.

Which beach in Mexico has no seaweed?

Isla Mujeres
Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres and Other Beaches Without Seaweed in Mexico. If you have your heart set on visiting Mexico’s Caribbean coast, it’s still possible to find beaches with no sargassum seaweed along this vast coastline.

Why does Tulum have so much seaweed?

The increase in temperatures, due to climate change, is what generates a substantial increase in the arrival of the sargassum. So the hottest months are the ones that potentially can present more seaweed than others.

Does Cancun still have a seaweed problem 2021?

The ships including 4 ocean sweepers are currently operating in the ocean waters surrounding Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel and Tulum. As of May 31, 2021 over 10 thousand tons of seaweed have been removed from the ocean and beaches in 7 municipalities around Quintana Roo.

Why is the seaweed so bad in Cancun?

The most impacted areas are often the Atlantic-facing shores across those areas, though due to winds and currents, sometimes other shores in the area can end up with piles of this seaweed that releases pungent hydrogen sulfide as it decomposes.

Why is there seaweed in Tulum?

How long does Sargassum seaweed last?

The Ministry of Ecology and Environment of Quintana Roo conducted studies on the blocks created with sargassum and defined that their resistance is between 75 and 120 kilos, while the durability can be up to 120 years regardless of the region or type of climate where they are used.

Is there a lot of seaweed in Tulum?

The continued presence of sargassum seaweed on the beaches of Tulum, Mexico is a main concern to many travelers. The increase in temperatures, due to climate change, is what generates a substantial increase in the arrival of the sargassum.

Where can I go in Mexico without seaweed?

Here, we’ve collected the best seaweed-free beaches in Mexico so you can make the most of your summer vacation.

  • 01 of 10. Isla Mujeres. © Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images.
  • 02 of 10. Cozumel.
  • 03 of 10. Isla Contoy.
  • 04 of 10. Holbox.
  • 05 of 10. Cancun.
  • 06 of 10. Isla Blanca.
  • 07 of 10. Cenotes.
  • 08 of 10. Kaan Luum.