Playa Las Coloradas, or Las Coloradas, is a unique beach located in Yucatán, Mexico. The beach is renowned for its pink waters, which are most vibrant in March and August, particularly at noon. This distinctive color is due to the effects of the sun on the salt and halophytes in the water, as well as the presence of a type of brine shrimp called artemia salina. When these shrimp enter the water, they release bacteria that contribute to the pink hue.
The beach is situated in a small town, where the main economic activities are salt production and fishing. The local population of around 1,600 people is known to be friendly and helpful. Despite its location in a small town, Las Coloradas has become a popular tourist destination and can be easily visited on a day trip from various locations, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Valladolid.
To reach Playa Las Coloradas, visitors need to head towards Rios Lagartos and then turn right onto an access road that leads to the beach. It is recommended to rent a car for this trip to explore the area at your own pace. Once at the beach, a local guide is required to enter the pink lakes, as access is gated and blocked. The cost of hiring a local guide is around 50 pesos, and tipping for good service is encouraged.
The beach is located near the Rió Lagartos Biosphere and is part of the Sol salt plant. Despite its small size, the beach's vibrant hues make it a popular spot for photography. However, swimming in the pink lakes is strictly prohibited to preserve the water's composition. Visitors are allowed around 20-30 minutes to stroll around the lake, and commercial photography, including the use of tripods and drones, is not allowed.
While there are no specific amenities mentioned on the beach, visitors can find restaurants in the nearby community of Río Lagartos, serving fresh seafood and traditional Yucatecan cuisine. There is also a public beach nearby for those who wish to swim.
Despite the long drive to reach Playa Las Coloradas, many visitors find the journey worth it for the unique experience. However, some visitors have noted that the beach can be quickly explored, with most sights seen within a few minutes. Visitors are also required to pay a fee to enter the beach.
