Restaurant
Not AvailableNo food services available
Swimming Pool
Not AvailableNo swimming pool available
Bar
AvailableBar services available on-site
Free Parking
AvailableParking facilities available
Free WiFi
AvailableFree WiFi available
Beachfront
AvailableDirect beachfront access available
Nudity Rules
Clothing is optional. However you must be covered in dining area during meal times.
Age Restriction
18+ Couples Focused, Solo Travelers are encouraged to bring a travel companion. Families may be accepted in July & August with prior approval.
Pet Policy
Pets are permitted with $100 refundable deposit
Their Description
Welcome to Playa Sonrisa, an adults-only oasis nestled on the secluded shores of Xcalak, where the turquoise waters of the Caribbean meet the untouched beauty of nature. Our exclusive resort invites you to experience the joy of simplicity in a private, clothing-optional setting, allowing you to truly unwind and be one with the environment.
At Playa Sonrisa, each of our accommodations offers stunning sea views and is designed with your comfort in mind. Enjoy the rustic charm of our rooms, each equipped with essential amenities to enhance your stay. Delight in the gentle sea breeze from your private porch or hammock, perfect for those peaceful moments of relaxation.
Our resort is more than just a getaway; it’s a retreat from the everyday hustle. With no phones, TVs, or the hustle of urban life, the sounds of the waves and the natural surroundings are all you'll hear. Enjoy a complimentary Deluxe Caribe Buffet breakfast with hot egg of the day each morning, and feel free to use our kayaks or snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life in the coral reef just steps away from your door. Additionally, our resort features a certified SSI dive center, perfect for diving enthusiasts looking to explore the spectacular underwater life of the Caribbean.
Discover nearby attractions like the Chetumal Bay and the famous Bacalar Lagoon, or take a day trip to explore the ancient Mayan ruins. Located just a few hours south of Tulum, Playa Sonrisa offers a rare blend of isolation and adventure.
Escape to Playa Sonrisa, where you can disconnect to reconnect. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, friendly staff, and the unforgettable experience of living in harmony with nature. Whether you seek tranquility or adventure, Playa Sonrisa is the perfect place to leave the world behind and cherish what truly matters.
Day Passes available with access to private beach, used of kayaks & SUP, public bathrooms with shower, towels plus upgrade to all-inclusive package.
Other Facilities
- Swimming pool
- Free High Speed Wifi
- Tiki Teal's Bar & Grill on site
- Free breakfast
- Private beach & dock
- SSI certified dive shop (naked snorkeling & scuba diving encouraged)
- Free sun loungers & hanging beach beds
- Shaded comfy hammocks
- Free snorkeling gear
- Free kayaks & stand-up paddle boards
- Bike rental
- Beach Massages (fee applies)
Contact Details
Photos
Our Visit
Francelli
Nude Beach Map. Visited 2025
When our good friend Francelli visited Playa Sonrisa, she couldn’t stop raving about this off-the-grid Caribbean gem. Located in Quintana Roo’s remote Xcalak National Marine Park, Playa Sonrisa offers an eco-conscious, clothing-optional retreat unlike anything else in Mexico.
Francelli
Nude Beach Map. Visited 2025
When our good friend Francelli visited Playa Sonrisa, she couldn’t stop raving about this off-the-grid Caribbean gem. Located in Quintana Roo’s remote Xcalak National Marine Park, Playa Sonrisa offers an eco-conscious, clothing-optional retreat unlike anything else in Mexico.
Francelli highlighted the breathtaking activities available, from snorkeling and kayaking to diving at the world’s second-largest coral reef. The resort’s dive school made it easy for her to explore the vibrant underwater world, where she swam alongside manatees, turtles, and stingrays. "Everything feels better when you’re naked," she shared, summing up the resort’s liberating vibe.
The accommodations were another standout feature. Francelli stayed in a beachfront bungalow, complete with stunning ocean views and the soothing sound of waves to fall asleep to. She loved how the resort runs entirely on solar power and rainwater, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability. Though Wi-Fi is available, she found it easy to unplug and embrace the resort’s peaceful rhythm.
Dining at Playa Sonrisa also left a lasting impression. Francelli praised the fresh, delicious meals and loved the communal dining setup, where guests could connect over shared tables. The signature Tiki Teal Punch, crafted by the owner Blaney, quickly became her favorite.
Despite its remote location—about five hours south of Cancun or three hours from Tulum—Playa Sonrisa’s serene atmosphere made the journey worthwhile. The resort’s tranquil, motor-free environment offered a stark contrast to busier destinations like Zipolite.
For those seeking an intimate, eco-friendly escape with the freedom to enjoy life without tan lines, Playa Sonrisa is a must-visit. Francelli described it as "a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation," and we couldn’t agree more.
Disclaimer: This review is based on our own experiences and opinions. While the accommodation at Playa Sonrisa was provided free of charge, our review remains entirely independent and unbiased.
Map
Getting There
Playa Sonrisa is part of the "Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Xcalak" (Reefs of Xcalak National Marine Park) and lies about 230 miles south of Cancun. It's a world apart from the bustling tourist spots, offering peace and solitude in the Costa Maya region, near the small fishing village of Xcalak. This secluded paradise is about 8 km north of the channel separating Mexico from Ambergris Caye, Belize.
By Car:
If you're flying in, the best points of arrival are Cancun or Tulum. From Cancun, it's approximately a 5-hour drive, and from Tulum, about 2.5 hours. Renting a car is recommended as it provides the flexibility to explore the region at your leisure. Drive south from Cancun or Tulum on Highway 307 towards Chetumal, passing through Playa del Carmen and the quieter stretches beyond Tulum.
After passing Felipe Carrillo Puerto, consider taking the "cuota" (toll road) bypass to avoid town traffic. Continue south, and shortly after Limones, take the well-marked turn east towards Mahahual and Xcalak. Follow this road until you see the turn for Xcalak to the right, 3 kilometers before the coast. From there, it's a straightforward drive south to Xcalak, then a left turn at the soccer field towards the ocean, and north along the beach road to Playa Sonrisa.
Tip: If you’re arriving late, consider an overnight stay in Playa del Carmen or Tulum for a more relaxed journey the next day.
Door-to-Door Airport Transfers
For ease and convenience, Playa Sonrisa recommends using one of three trusted transportation companies:
Chac Ek - a guest favorite, offering services from Cancun, Tulum, and Chetumal. +52 983 177 1849
Fernando Luna Maya: +52 984 127 8023
AGI TOURS also provide service.
By Public Transport:
Playa Sonrisa can also be accessed via public transport, though it involves several transfers and is best suited for the more adventurous traveler. From Cancun Airport, take a first-class airport bus to Playa del Carmen, then catch an ADO bus to Limones or Mahahual. From there, a pre-arranged taxi will need to bring you the rest of the way to Playa Sonrisa.
Note: Local taxis are not available in Xcalak, so ensure you arrange your return trip when you arrive.
Additional Tips
Vehicle Rental: Major rental agencies like Avis, National, and Budget operate in Cancun and Tulum. Avoid renting from Hertz due to restrictive clauses regarding off-pavement driving.
Military Checkpoints: You may encounter military checkpoints. Remain calm, identify yourself as a tourist, and comply with any inspection requests.
Driving Directions: Detailed driving directions will be emailed along with your reservation confirmation. Ensure you print these out as cell service can be unreliable.
Coming Soon: The Mayan Train will offer an alternative travel option with stops in Cancun, Tulum, and Limones, enhancing access to this remote paradise.