Playa Del Carmen 2023 Seaweed Season Report [UPDATED 25.08.23]

What are the current seaweed conditions of the beaches in Playa del Carmen?

This is Viva Wyndham Azteca PlayaCar webcam on 22.08.2023

Latest updates from the media we follow:

Secretaría de Medio Ambiente Sustentable y Cambio Climático y Zofemat reported on 24.08.23:

The beaches in Playa del Carmen experience a seasonal seaweed influx that can change throughout the year. While efforts are being made to address the situation, visitors should know that the seaweed may impact their beach experience. Some beaches may have more seaweed than others, and the amount can vary from day to day. It is recommended that visitors check with their accommodations or local authorities for updates on the seaweed situation and plan accordingly. Please mind that not every beach gets seaweed every day.

Green – sargassum-free
Yellow – moderate sargassum
Orange – sargassum level high
Red – excessive sargassum
Click on the beach umbrella icon, and check the latest beach photos taken especially by our team in Playa del Carmen.

Check Playa del Carmen Beach Live Webcams

We recommend you do your own research, by easily checking the live beach webcameras in Playa del Carmen. Thus, you can see the weather in real-time and also have a glimpse at the current seaweed situation. Make sure to check the state of the beach before you go.

Active Live Web Cameras in Playa del Carmen – 25.08.2023

Playa del Carmen Beachfront Live Cam – Playa Palms Beach Hotel
The Royal Haciendas 2 Live Cam
Vista Panorámica de Playa del Carmen – PlayaCar Palace – not available
Royal Uno Resort & Spa live webcam
Condo Hotels Playa del Carmen webcam – offline
Viva Wyndham Azteca PlayaCar webcam

and check some of the nearby beaches:
Akumal Beach latest photos
Puerto Morelos – Windy.com
Cleo Beach Club – Playa POCNA, Tulum

We’d recommend also following or checking the latest information and seaweed updates & posts on Facebook:

Sargasso Seaweed Updates Riviera Maya – Facebook Group
La Playa Xpu-ha Beach Club

What is causing the seaweed problem in Playa del Carmen?

This was Calle 16 beach, Playa del Carmen on 12.04.2023

The seaweed problem in Playa del Carmen is caused by various factors, including climate change, ocean currents, and pollution. The sargassum seaweed, which is the type that is currently affecting the area, originates in the Sargasso Sea in the Atlantic Ocean and is carried by ocean currents to the Caribbean. Warmer ocean temperatures and increased nutrient levels from pollution can cause the seaweed to grow rapidly, leading to the excessive amounts seen on the beaches of the Rivira Maya.

When is the seaweed season in Playa del Carmen?

This was Mamitas beach, Playa del Carmen on 15.05.2023 during seaweed clearing

Sargassum accumulation typically peaks during the summer months from April to August. However, it can appear at any time throughout the year, making it challenging to predict its seasonal patterns. One positive aspect is that seaweed levels can change suddenly and drastically overnight. The beach water may be brown and murky one day but completely clear the next. While this is not guaranteed, it’s important to note that weather and ocean conditions can lead to improvements over time.

Are there any alternative activities to do in Playa del Carmen if the beaches are affected by seaweed?

Cenote Aktun Chacmool

Yes, there are plenty of alternative activities to do in Playa del Carmen if the beaches are affected by seaweed. Visitors can explore the town’s vibrant culture by visiting local markets, museums, and art galleries. Tulum ruins are nearby, also there are lots of places you can visit Coba & Punta Laguna, and Sian Ka’an reserve, too.

Coba Ruins

Visitors can also take part in activities in the famous cenotes: such as snorkeling, scuba diving, too and zip-lining. Additionally, there are many restaurants, bars, and shops to explore in the town center.

Cenote Carwash

Don’t let the seaweed situation deter you from enjoying all that Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya have to offer.

How are the local government and businesses addressing the issue?

The local government and businesses in Playa del Carmen are taking steps to address the seaweed situation. Some hotels and resorts have hired crews to manually remove the seaweed from the beaches, while others use machinery to clear the shorelines. The government has also implemented a program to collect and dispose of the seaweed and is working with researchers to find long-term solutions to the problem. However, it is important to note that seaweed is a natural occurrence and cannot be completely eliminated. Visitors should check with their accommodations for updates on the seaweed situation and plan accordingly.

Solutions to Sargassum Seaweed
Several solutions can be implemented to mitigate the impact of sargassum seaweed in Playa Del Carmen. These solutions include:

Mechanical Removal – the use of boats and machinery to remove the seaweed from the shorelines and the sea. While it is a viable solution, it is expensive and unsustainable.

Biological Control – introducing natural predators of sargassum seaweed, such as sea urchins, to control its growth. However, this solution requires careful monitoring and may have unintended consequences on the marine ecosystem.

Beach Management – implementing strategies such as beach nourishment, sediment retention, and dune restoration to prevent the accumulation of seaweed on the beaches. This solution is cost-effective and sustainable, but it requires long-term planning and management.