Playa Mamitas Stays Public, Says Playa del Carmen Gov

Playa del Carmen, Mexico — The municipal government of Playa del Carmen has issued a formal statement clarifying that Playa Mamitas, one of the area’s most popular beaches, will not be privatized. The announcement comes amid public concerns over potential development projects in the coastal zone.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Public Access

In an official communiqué, the Secretariat of Urban Development and Territorial Planning emphasized that no construction permits or authorizations have been granted for any proposed developments at Playa Mamitas. The statement underscores the administration’s commitment to upholding laws that guarantee free and open beach access for both residents and tourists.

“Neither at Playa Mamitas nor on any stretch of our coastline will we allow the privatization of beaches,” the document states. “Beaches belong first and foremost to the Mexican people, as well as to the tourists who honor us with their visits.”

The declaration responds to growing public unease over rumors of a new project in the area. Authorities clarified that any potential development would require environmental and urban planning evaluations from relevant agencies, and no local approvals have been issued to date.

A History of Controversy

Playa Mamitas has long been a focal point of disputes regarding public space usage. Complaints have repeatedly arisen over the placement of lounge chairs and private furniture on the federal beach zone, restricting access for those not patronizing nearby establishments.

In previous administrations, these practices have sparked protests, particularly after reports of security personnel involving police to remove individuals using the beach with personal towels or umbrellas.

The municipal government reiterated its pledge to ensure unrestricted public access to beaches and to protect coastal ecosystems, including remaining urban mangroves. “We are guarantors of compliance with the law,” the statement asserts. “Under our administration, these principles are non-negotiable.”

Broader Concerns Over Tourism Development

The announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny from civil organizations and residents over the environmental and social impacts of tourism-driven development. Critics have raised alarms about the loss of public access and ecological degradation in some areas.

The Playa del Carmen administration emphasized that any future coastal projects must meet all legal and environmental requirements before consideration. Officials also reaffirmed their commitment to engaging with community concerns.

The statement concludes with a pledge to maintain transparency and prioritize public interests in all decisions affecting the municipality’s shoreline.