Crushed Limestone vs Mexican Beach Pebble
Side-by-side comparison of Crushed Limestone and Mexican Beach Pebble to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Crushed sedimentary rock with a pale gray to white color. Compacts well and provides good drainage. Limestone is a popular choice in the Midwest and South where it's quarried locally, keeping costs low.
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
Crushed Limestone
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Pathways
- ✓ Base material
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Parking pads
- ✓ Erosion control
Mexican Beach Pebble
- ✓ Decorative landscaping
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Planters
- ✓ Water features
Pros & Cons
Crushed Limestone
- + Compacts into a firm, stable surface
- + Light color brightens landscapes
- + Good drainage properties
- + Affordable in limestone-rich regions
- + Natural weed suppression when compacted
- − Can become muddy when wet (stone dust)
- − Limited color options
- − May raise soil pH over time
- − Dusty in dry conditions
- − Not available everywhere
Mexican Beach Pebble
- + Very attractive appearance
- + Smooth texture
- + Long-lasting
- + Low dust
- − Expensive
- − Poor traction
- − Can shift easily
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Crushed Limestone | Mexican Beach Pebble |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $20 – $45 | $120 – $200 |
| Per cubic yard | $25 – $50 | $150 – $240 |
Sizes & Colors
Crushed Limestone
Available from fine limestone screenings up to 3-inch chunks. Most common sizes are 3/4" and 1.5". Color ranges from pale gray to off-white, sometimes with a slight yellow tint. Compacted limestone screenings create a smooth, almost concrete-like surface.
Mexican Beach Pebble
Available in sizes from 1" to 3". Commonly black, charcoal, or dark gray.
Published February 11, 2026
Compare prices from local suppliers
Get quotes from gravel suppliers near you to find the best deal.