In search of sparkling blue waters and crisp white shores this summer? One hidden gem in Mexico has been named the destination with the world’s whitest sand.
According to colour analysis theory, Tulum Beach, around two hours’ drive from Cancún, has the closest resemblance to the purest shade of white – and is just 1.4 points off the whitest shade in the world.
Taking unedited Google Map screenshots of 200 beaches across the globe, the new research used a colour dropper tool to find the RGB code of the sand in each location, which was then cross-referenced with the purest shade of white.
Second on the list, from CV Villas, was Anse Source D’Argent in the Seychelles, which scored a 4.3 difference – the only beach on the African continent to feature in the top 30.
Don’t want to travel too far? There was also significant representation from destinations across Europe, with Greece’s Marmari Beach coming in with a score of 6.5, Italy’s Tropea Beach and Spain’s Platja de Muro 6.9, and France’s Plage de Valras 7.9.
In fact, Spanish destinations featured in the top 30 more than any other country, sweeping up six of the top spots – with destinations across Ibiza, Majorca and Menorca as well as mainland Spain.
Still got your sights on Mexico? Visitors have widely hailed Tulum Beach for its ‘absolutely insane’ coastline – as one impressed tourist posted on Reddit.
‘For all those wondering, the beach is absolutely perfect,’ @Downtown-Spell3786 penned. ‘No sargassum, pure white sand. Highly recommend!’
Things to do near Tulum Beach, Mexico
Looking to travel out to Tulum Beach for a slice of the action? From ancient ruins to beach bars, there’s something for every travel palette.
If history is your thing, the Tulum Archaeological Site is a must-see. Perched on top of the cliffs, these Mayan ruins look out onto the Caribbean Sea and tell the story of the local trading history.
There’s also plenty of opportunity to try snorkelling or even diving at the likes of Cenotes Dos Ojos or Gran Cenote, both of which offer crystal blue waters and impressive rock formations.
And if you’re simply looking to kick back and relax, as well as Tulum Beach, there’s also the choice of Akumal Beach, Playa Paraiso, and Ziggy Beach. Just don’t forget your sun cream.
How to get to Tulum Beach, Mexico
Naturally, flights out to Mexico aren’t as cheap as Europe, but if you book far enough in advance, you’ll be able to secure yourself a better deal.
As per Google Flights, booking return travel to Cancún Airport can come in at around £584 from London. There are options available through British Airways, American and TUI Airways, all of which take around 10.5 hours direct.
If you’re looking to travel out from Manchester, flights take a little longer (closer to 15 hours direct through British Airways). But hey, the graft is worth it for some gorgeous white sand, right?
When to go to Tulum Beach, Mexico
Want to maximise your time in the sunshine? May is the hottest month of the year in Tulum, when the average temperature is 28C.
Your Daily Horoscope
If you’re looking for something a little cooler, January offers up highs of 24C, while September is best avoided if you want to dodge the rain (as the average rainfall comes in at 20mm across the month).
The world’s top 10 whitest sands, according to CV Villas
- Tulum Beach, Mexico: 1.4 (coefficient between sand RGB and purest white)
- Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles: 4.3
- Marmari Beach, Greece: 6.5
- Tropea Beach, Italy/Platja de Muro, Spain: 6.9
- Cala Pluma, Spain: 7.7
- Plage de Valras, France: 7.9
- Cala Brandinchi, Italy: 8
- Stocking Island Beach, Bahamas/Taylor Bay Beach, Turks and Caicos: 8.5
- Varadero Beach, Cuba: 8.9
- Punta Prosciutto, Italy: 9.
Do you have a story to share?
Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
MORE : How to get first class train tickets without actually paying for them
MORE : This little-known seaside town has one of the UK’s loveliest high streets
MORE : Security expert reveals the safety measure that could save your life in an Airbnb
Share this with