Why does Playa del Carmen smell?

Why does Playa del Carmen smell? Thick rafts of a seaweed-like algae species known as sargassum have caused resorts to close in the Caribbean before, and now they're piling up on Mexico's Riviera Maya in foul-smelling heaps.

Is there a sargassum problem in 2023?

2023 is shaping up to be a banner year for sargassum, a type of brown macroalgae now starting to wash up on beaches across the Caribbean. The thick dead tangled heaps of seaweed stink like rotten eggs and could cost many millions in holiday revenues this summer.

Where to go to avoid sargassum 2023?

How long does sargassum last in Playa del Carmen?

Sargassum accumulation typically peaks during the summer months from April to August. However, it can appear at any time throughout the year, making it challenging to predict its seasonal patterns. One positive aspect is that seaweed levels can change suddenly and drastically overnight.

Are there any beaches in Playa del Carmen without seaweed?

Top Tip: Punta Esmeralda is a curved bay sheltered from the open sea, and thus receives less sargassum seaweed than other beaches in Playa del Carmen. If you're visiting during the sargassum season, which runs roughly from April to August, this might be the best place to swim in seaweed-free water.

Why is the water brown in Playa del Carmen?

Called “Sargasso” in Spanish, these algae are actually something natural and occur temporarily in many places in the Caribbean. They are washed up by currents from the Sargasso Sea, a sea between Europe and America, in which many brown algae grow.

Do resorts clean up sargassum?

Popular resort hubs, including Playa del Carmen and Tulum, have ramped up efforts to deter sargassum from affecting travelers. What is this? Both destinations have set up temporary barriers and hired more cleaners in an effort to attract more travelers.

Is it safe to swim in the sea in Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen, the north beach in Tulum, and Akumal all have lifeguards for the beaches but they are limited. Swim close to shore and it you are not a big swimmer, wear a life vest. Waves will not get to big, this is a not a surfers paradise so swimming can be done every day!

What are the worst months for seaweed in Playa del Carmen?

Sargassum season in the Mexican Caribbean typically runs from May through October, with July and August generally being the worst months for its arrival.

Is the water turquoise in Playa del Carmen?

Playa Del Carmen is a stunning destination located on the Riviera Maya in Mexico. Just south of Cancun, it is known for its wide white sand playa del carmen beach and the turquoise Caribbean Sea.

Which beaches in Playa del Carmen have less seaweed?

Top Tip: Punta Esmeralda is a curved bay sheltered from the open sea, and thus receives less sargassum seaweed than other beaches in Playa del Carmen. If you're visiting during the sargassum season, which runs roughly from April to August, this might be the best place to swim in seaweed-free water.

Which beach has no sargassum?

Playa Porto Mari on Curacao, Dutch Caribbean One of the most beautiful beaches in Curacao also happens to be one of the best Caribbean beaches without sargassum. Located on the west coast of the island of Curacao, Playa Porto Mari is a private beach which means there is an entrance fee.

What is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen?

The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is between April and May, when there are fewer people along the shore. Day temperatures hover between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, dropping slightly in the evenings. From October to March, the climate is generally dry and slightly warm.

What should I be careful of in Playa del Carmen?

Be extra careful at night in Playa del Carmen As with many places in the world, most crimes in Playa del Carmen occur at night. Besides being extra careful at the bars in Playa del Carmen, you'll also want to be extra careful when walking alone at night.

Which beaches in Mexico have no sargassum?

The farther north you go, there might be less, but sargassum can affect any beach. The least affected beaches are the beaches that face west on Isla Mujeres and Cozumel.

Which beaches in Mexico have no sargassum 2023?

Due to distance, speed of travel and currents, Cancun and Playa del Carmen beaches are expected to remain relatively free of the seaweed. The upcoming 2023 summer vacation holiday season for Cancun and Riviera Maya are forecast to be sargassum-free according to Esteban Jesús Amaro Mauricio.

What is the secret beach at Playa del Carmen?

Punta Esmeralda Beach is known as the hidden local beach in Playa del Carmen. This undeveloped beach is perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds, relax and unwind. At Punta Esmeralda Beach, visitors will find a natural cenote that flows into the Caribbean.

What month is best to avoid sargassum?

From October to May to avoid seaweed If you want to dip into sargassum-free beaches, the best season is from October to May. Fun Fact: Some resorts like Seadust Cancun have made efforts to keep the seaweed from arriving at the shore by implementing a marine-life-friendly barrier.