When people think of Mexico, many see golden sand, blue water, and green palms. Hundreds of beaches fit this bill: some near-empty with a few palm-thatched eateries and cabañas; others are busy urban retreats. Here are some of the best on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts:

Playa del Carmen

The hippest town on the Yucatán Peninsula. Playa’s sands aren’t quite as powder-perfect as at some other Mexican Caribbean spots, and the waters aren’t quite so azure, but the beaches are jammed with the bronzed, blond and beautiful (and often – unusually for Mexico – topless.) If crowds aren’t your thing, go north of Calle 38, where a few scrawny palms serve as shade. If it’s underwater thrills you’re seeking, there are some spectacular dive sites around Playa too.

Puerto Escondido

The Mexican Pipeline’s surf, a string of gentler beaches, coastal wildlife, and Puerto’s traditional embodiment as a fishing port and market town add up to a place that suits just about everyone. Playa Zicatella is a magnet for experienced surfers keen for a challenge, while the tranquil beaches of Bahía Principal and Bahía Puerto Angelito are tailor-made for sun worshippers and families. The accommodations and food are getting even better, too.

Los Cerritos

This beach at Todos Santos has some of Baja California’s nicest surfing swells – powerful but great for beginners too. Or you can just hang out at sunset and watch the sun dip into the Pacific Ocean. Sea turtles lay their eggs here as well, and eagle rays glide through the water beneath the surfers; it’s an exquisitely mellow vibe. Go soon before development changes things too much.

Playa de los Muertos

One of several Mexican beaches with the same name (Beach of the Dead, but don’t let that deter you,) Puerto Vallarta's Playa de los Muertos is a quintessential people-watching beach. Mariachis stroll about looking for business, kids catch a free ride on the river as it enters the sea, and drummer circles coalesce in the sweaty heat of the afternoon - this is one buzzing stretch of sand. Settle down with a coca fría and scan the horizon for whales.

Zipolite

A strip of pale sand crashing Pacific breakers more than a mile long, Zipo is a legendary travelers’ hideout with a cosmic vibe, very little organized activity, and a great selection of places to stay and eat. Caution: the riptides and undertow are deadly. Head to nearby - and equally laidback - San Agustinillo for body-boarding and safer swimming conditions.

Isla Mujeres

Get away from it all on Isla Mujeres, where the beaches range from the blissful Playa Norte to the lively Playa Lancheros. Offshore snorkeling and diving opportunities abound. Dive sites with evocative names like Barracuda, La Bandera, Manchones, and El Jigueo will thrill you with their coral and marine critters.