1.5 Mile Anti-Sargassum Barrier Installed in Playa del Carmen to Protect Tourism and Ecosystem

Playa del Carmen, Mexico – The Secretariat of the Navy has announced the deployment of a 2.5-kilometer (1.55-mile) anti-sargassum barrier off the coast of Playa del Carmen. This measure aims to prevent the recurrent influx of sargassum algae from disrupting tourism activities and harming the local ecosystem during the annual season.​

The barrier stretches from Playa Fundadores to the Constituyentes pier, forming a crescent shape with a central opening to allow the passage of vessels while effectively blocking the mass arrival of sargassum. Two smaller boats are tasked with the installation and maintenance of the barrier, ensuring that the algae do not reach the shore. Decomposing sargassum emits unpleasant odors and poses significant threats to both the natural environment and the tourism industry.​

Current Sargassum Season in the Mexican Caribbean

The Mexican Caribbean is currently experiencing a significant increase in sargassum seaweed on its beaches.

According to the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat), the collection of sargassum in Tulum has more than doubled during the first two months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. In January and February, Tulum collected 79 metric tons and 59 metric tons of seaweed respectively, up from 36 metric tons in January and 50 metric tons in February 2024. Zofemat anticipates even higher seaweed levels during the peak sargassum season from May to November, particularly affecting the Tulum coast.

The increased prevalence of sargassum not only deters tourism but also negatively impacts marine ecosystems, as the decomposing algae degrade water quality and can lead to the death of seagrass beds. Efforts are underway to manage the influx, including daily collection by dedicated teams and coordination between state and federal authorities.