The route before the photograph
Each guide answers the same useful question: is the destination worth your time once the access, timing, effort, and fallback options are included?
Timing-sensitive protected beach · From La Paz
Yes when you can work with the current entry system; skip the land-access gamble when your schedule cannot absorb a full beach or a changed window.
Long road day with a seasonal reward · From Mérida
Worth it when the biosphere and birdlife are the main event; too much road for travelers expecting only a superior beach day.
Easy local beach with condition-dependent payoff · From San Carlos
Yes as part of a San Carlos stay; no need to inflate it into a major expedition or force it when wind and water conditions are poor.
Boat-dependent with a hiking option · From Puerto Vallarta
Worth it for travelers who enjoy the journey and plan the return first; not worth forcing for a simple beach day.
Easy escape with an entrance catch · From Playa del Carmen
Yes for a flexible beach day from Playa del Carmen; less compelling if you want a completely free, frictionless public-beach stop.