Sargassum Thinning: Good News for Tulum’s Beaches and Businesses

The sargassum problem in Tulum is showing signs of improvement, with the macroalgae thinning on Jaguar Park’s beaches after weeks of buildup. For local businesses, this is welcome news, as they are currently operating at 10 to 20 percent capacity, with hopes of reaching 50 percent by November.

According to Neyver García, head waiter at a restaurant in the area, the water clarity is gradually returning, making the beaches more attractive to visitors. However, the recovery is not just about the sargassum; it's also about the timing. With the winter season approaching, businesses are counting on November to reach half capacity, and full capacity during year-end holidays.

The Secretaría de Marina has collected 123,000 tons of sargassum in Quintana Roo so far in 2026, which is a significant increase from 92,000 tons in all of 2025. The cleanup efforts are divided into five priority zones, with daily forecasts guiding the deployment of crews and barriers.

For expats and digital nomads, this means a clearer beach experience in the coming months. If you're planning a visit or considering a move, expect a gradual improvement in beach conditions. However, the full recovery might take time, so be prepared for some ongoing cleanup efforts.