#57 Gravel vs Mexican Beach Pebble
Side-by-side comparison of #57 Gravel and Mexican Beach Pebble to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Crushed stone approximately 3/4 to 1 inch in size. One of the most versatile and commonly used gravel sizes in both residential and commercial construction. #57 stone is the go-to aggregate for drainage, driveways, and concrete production.
Mexican beach pebbles are smooth, naturally tumbled stones commonly used in modern and decorative landscaping. They are prized for their uniform shape, rich color, and polished appearance.
Common Uses
#57 Gravel
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Drainage
- ✓ Concrete mix
- ✓ Pipe bedding
- ✓ Backfill
- ✓ Parking areas
Mexican Beach Pebble
- ✓ Decorative landscaping
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Planters
- ✓ Water features
Pros & Cons
#57 Gravel
- + Extremely versatile — works for many applications
- + Excellent drainage characteristics
- + Good compaction when combined with fines
- + Widely available nationwide
- + Cost-effective
- − Too coarse for comfortable walking
- − Angular edges
- − Shifts under foot traffic without stabilization
- − Requires a finer top layer for driveways
- − Not decorative
Mexican Beach Pebble
- + Very attractive appearance
- + Smooth texture
- + Long-lasting
- + Low dust
- − Expensive
- − Poor traction
- − Can shift easily
Cost Comparison
| Measure | #57 Gravel | Mexican Beach Pebble |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $20 – $35 | $120 – $200 |
| Per cubic yard | $25 – $45 | $150 – $240 |
Sizes & Colors
#57 Gravel
#57 gravel consists of angular crushed stone pieces ranging from 3/4" to 1" in diameter. Color depends on the quarry source — typically gray, blue-gray, or brown. The stones are angular and irregular, which helps them interlock.
Mexican Beach Pebble
Available in sizes from 1" to 3". Commonly black, charcoal, or dark gray.
Published February 11, 2026
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