Are you dreaming of sparkling blue waters and pristine white shores this summer? Look no further than Tulum Beach in Mexico, which has been crowned the beach with the world’s whitest sand according to a new study.
Researchers, using color analysis theory, compared Google Maps screenshots of 200 beaches worldwide. They used a color dropper tool to determine the RGB code of the sand in each location, comparing it to the purest shade of white. Tulum Beach, located around a two-hour drive from Cancun, emerged as the closest match, scoring just 1.4 points off the whitest shade in the world.
Coming in second on the list was Anse Source D’Argent in the Seychelles, with a score of 4.3. This is the only beach on the African continent to make it into the top 30. Europe also made a strong showing, with Marmari Beach in Greece (score of 6.5), Tropea Beach in Italy and Platja de Muro in Spain (both with a score of 6.9), and Plage de Valras in France (score of 7.9) all ranking highly. In fact, Spain dominated the top 30 list, with six beaches from Ibiza, Majorca, Menorca, and mainland Spain making the cut.
Tourists rave about Tulum Beach’s stunning coastline. One impressed visitor posted on Reddit: ‘For all those wondering, the beach is absolutely perfect. No sargassum, pure white sand. Highly recommend!’
Things to do near Tulum Beach
Beyond the beach, Tulum offers a variety of activities for all interests. History buffs will want to visit the Tulum Archaeological Site, perched atop cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. These Mayan ruins offer a glimpse into the region’s trading history. Adventure seekers can enjoy snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Cenotes Dos Ojos or Gran Cenote, both of which feature impressive rock formations. And for those simply wanting to relax, Akumal Beach, Playa Paraiso, and Ziggy Beach provide additional options for soaking up the sun.
Getting to Tulum Beach
While flights to Mexico aren’t as cheap as flights within Europe, booking in advance can help you secure a better deal. According to Google Flights, roundtrip travel to Cancun Airport from London can cost around £584. Airlines such as British Airways, American, and TUI Airways offer direct flights that take approximately 10.5 hours. Flights from Manchester take a bit longer, around 15 hours direct with British Airways. But the journey is worth it for the chance to experience the beautiful white sand of Tulum Beach.
When to visit
For optimal sunshine, plan your trip during May, the hottest month in Tulum with an average temperature of 28°C. If you prefer cooler weather, January offers highs of 24°C. Avoid visiting in September, as the average rainfall for the month is 20mm. No matter when you go, make sure to pack your sunscreen!
