Beachfront is the one kind of land that can’t be produced. That explains its price—and why it pays to understand the rules before you fall for the view.
The beach belongs to everyone
In Mexico, beaches and the first 20 meters of dry land above the high-tide line are the federal maritime-terrestrial zone (ZOFEMAT): national property, open to all. Your lot begins where that strip ends. A development may have its own beach access, but the sand is not for sale.
If you are a foreign buyer: fideicomiso
The whole coastline lies within the “restricted zone.” Non-Mexican buyers purchase through a bank trust for up to 50 years, renewable. Mexican citizens—dual citizens included—buy directly.
What to check on a beach lot
- Exactly where the lot line sits relative to the federal zone.
- What the beach access is like and who maintains it.
- The type of ground and shoreline: sand, rocky shelf, bluff.
- Building guidelines: height, restrictions and setbacks.
Pacific or Sea of Cortez
The Pacific, in Rosarito, offers mild weather, surf and proximity to San Diego. The Sea of Cortez, in Sonora, is warm and calm, with lower prices. Grupo Terravista has an option on each: Laguna Bay and Saguaro Bay.
This page explains general rules and is not legal or tax advice. Before you sign, consult a Mexican notary public or attorney.
