Coastal erosion threatens beaches in Playa del Carmen and Tapachula

Coastal erosion is significantly reducing beach widths in several Mexican locations, impacting tourism and local infrastructure. In Playa del Carmen, an 800-meter stretch of coastline between 10th and 14th streets has seen sand loss of over 30 meters in some areas. Residents and service providers report that waves are now reaching nearby structures, limiting pedestrian access and altering the tourist experience. Additionally, the presence of sargassum has been noted to affect water quality.

In Tapachula, Chiapas, residents of Playa San Benito in Puerto Madero report that the sea advances several meters each year, destroying palapas and restaurants. Local inhabitants allege that rock placement works (enrocamiento) being conducted toward the jetties may be exacerbating the problem in their sector. Long-term residents have called on the federal government to provide resources and machinery to reinforce coastal protection in the area to prevent further loss of property and economic decline.