The awe-inspiring Riviera Maya is widely considered Mexico’s crown jewel, and it’s easy to understand why. The region boasts turquoise shores, vibrant cities, ancient Mayan settlements, and lush jungles, embodying the essence of the Mexican Caribbean.
Its pristine beaches, all-inclusive resorts, natural attractions, and incredible array of entertainment make it impossible not to fall in love with the region. Trust me, you’ll understand it as soon as you set foot in it!
I have traveled extensively throughout the Riviera Maya and can confidently say that you can never get enough. It’s one of those places I’ll keep going back to again and again, and still have new things to discover.
Despite its popularity, however, the area is often mistaken for a single location, or confused with the equally famous Cancun. In this article, besides discovering the ultimate things to do in Riviera Maya, you’ll find out exactly what and where this iconic destination is.
So without further ado, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
WHERE IS THE RIVIERA MAYA?
The Riviera Maya is a stretch of coastline on the northeastern side of Mexico, in the Yucatan Peninsula. It extends from the town of Puerto Morelos in the north, located just south of Cancun, all the way down to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
The most renowned towns in the Riviera Maya include Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Akumal, and Puerto Aventuras.
RIVIERA MAYA VS CANCUN: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Cancun is a major city on the Yucatan Peninsula, located just north of the Riviera Maya and acting as its gateway. It’s home to the most important airport in the area, and arguably the most famous Caribbean city in Mexico.
The Riviera Maya, on the other hand, is not a singular location but a region. It’s a long stretch of land that begins just south of the city of Cancun in Puerto Morelos, and encompasses other popular cities like Tulum and Playa del Carmen.
Cancun is not part of the Riviera Maya, nor are they the same place, although sometimes their names are used interchangeably.
THINGS TO DO IN THE RIVIERA MAYA
Check Out the Beaches in Riviera Maya
The beaches in the Riviera Maya are among the most famous in the country… or should I say the world? The white-sand shores, impossibly blue waters, rich marine life, and variety of watersports are responsible for attracting beach lovers from all over the globe.
Besides, it’s incredibly easy to access spectacular beaches from anywhere in the Riviera Maya, so there’s really no excuse to skip a day at the beach.
The Tulum beaches are among the most beautiful, boasting Playa Pescadores, Playa Paraiso, and Las Palmas Beach. If you’re staying in – or visiting – the Tulum Area, you can’t go wrong with any of these.
Close to Playa del Carmen you have Mamitas Beach, and Playa Punta Esmeralda. Playa Akumal, Playa Puerto Morelos, and Tankah Bay are other worthy options to spend a day relaxing by the sea.
Have Fun at Xplor
Adventure Parks are one of the staples of Riviera Maya. Home to lush jungles, natural pools, and rugged terrain, it’s the perfect setting for adventure!
Xplor is one of the top adventure parks in the region, offering a myriad of activities for adrenaline seekers. It boasts stalactite-filled underground caves and rivers, zipline courses, and jungle hiking trails.
You could also drive an amphibious vehicle through jungle roads and mud paths, or take part in the water activities.
There is a rest area, and a tasty buffet to refuel included in the price. If you’d rather take the thrill to the next level, book Xplor Fuego to enjoy all the activities…at night!
▶️ The Xplor Park Day Trip with Lunch and Transportation grants you full admission, as well as convenient transfers. You’ll have unlimited access to the activities, an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch, and use of the showers, changing rooms, and lockers. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Get your Adrenaline Fix at Xcaret
Xcaret is a very worthy alternative, located south of Playa del Carmen. It’s home to a thrilling theme park as well as an aquatic park and an archaeological site. The perfect combination for a fun-filled day!
At this eco-park you’ll have the chance to swim in cenotes, dive into underground rivers, zipline among the treetops, and drive an ATV along jungle paths.
Snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea, river rafting, and roaming around Mayan Ruins are a few of the other activities available.
One of its major attractions, however, is the evening show Mexico Espectacular that’s been running non-stop for a couple of decades. It’s impressive, and well worth the visit!
▶️ Book this Xcaret Park Day Trip, transportation and Cultural Night Show to enjoy a full day of adventures. You’ll have full access to the park’s +40 attractions, a scrumptious buffet lunch to refuel, and all the facilities. Plus, it includes tickets to the celebrated Mexico Espectacular show, and roundtrip transfers. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Explore the Ruins at Chichen Itza + Valladolid
The Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza are one of the most impressive sites on the planet, and Mexico’s indisputable number one attraction. Around 2 million people visit it every year!
Dating back to sometime in the 6th century AD, Chichen Itza has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s also one of the 7 Wonders of the World.
The archaeological site is home to the Kukulcan Pyramid, where every solstice a serpent-shaped shadow slithers down the stairs, a phenomenon that has mesmerized millions of visitors.
It also boasts the largest ball court in Mesoamerica, a sacred cenote, and imposing structures where the Mayans’ daily activities took place. I strongly suggest you visit the site with a guide to fully understand the attraction.
Most excursions will also take you to Valladolid, a gorgeous colonial city with incredible architecture, rich history, and traditional restaurants serving Yucatan cuisine. The city has a quita a few museums showcasing ancient artifacts where you can learn more about the region’s history, and beautiful alleys to get lost in!
▶️ The Riviera Maya: Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour is one of the best-rated tours to the ruins. It departs from most locations in the Riviera Maya, and includes a guided tour around Chichen Itza, along with entry tickets. You’ll then go for a swim at Cenote Ik Kil, savor a local lunch, and visit the charming city of Valladolid. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Skip the Line Chichen Itza Private Tour, Sacred Cenote & Lunch is a great option if you’re traveling with a group. You’ll get a personalized tour around the Mayan ruins, followed by a dip in a sacred cenote, and a tour around Valladolid. Cap off the trip with lunch at a local restaurant. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Spend One Day in Tulum
The bohemian beach town of Tulum has gained its reputation for its laid-back vibes, artsy shops, and healthy eateries. A hidden gem turned popular destination, Tulum still delivers when it comes to vibes, natural attractions, and cuisine.
It’s one of the most adventurous locations, home to everything from Mayan ruins to cenotes, beautiful beaches, and jungle adventures.
If you’re not based in Tulum, I highly recommend spending a day in town, starting with a visit to the Tulum Ruins (more on that in the next point!)
Other things to do in Tulum include going for a swim, relishing a beachside lunch, visiting the gorgeous cenotes near Tulum, and cycling to its very Instagrammable spots.
▶️ The Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves takes you to the major spots. You’ll tour the Mayan site with a guide, and then hop on a motorboat to go snorkeling in the reef. Refuel with a heart Mexican lunch, and spend the afternoon swimming in cenotes and checking out caves. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Visit the Tulum Ruins
The Tulum Ruins are without a doubt the most awe-inspiring attraction in Tulum. Standing atop a cliff, overlooking the shimmering Caribbean Sea, the centuries-old structures offer dramatic views with a side of history.
The once-thriving city played a major role as a crossroads for trade due to its privileged position. Its prosperity and power are evidenced in the great pyramids, temples, and observatory that dot the archaeological site.
The settlement, known as Zama, was inhabited for approximately three centuries and abandoned – as most Mayan cities – when the Spaniards arrived.
Wandering around the still-standing structures and taking in the views is worth the visit on its own. However, I highly recommend touring the ruins with a guide to understand the life and customs of the Mayans, and discover more about this beautiful part of Mexico.
For example, did you know that Tulum means wall, and it’s named after the fortified walls that surround the ruins?
▶️ This Tulum Ruins and Cenote Guided Tour plus Snacks offers a comprehensive visit to the site. You’ll discover the purpose and history of each building, followed by a visit to a nearby cenote for a swim. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Take the Ferry to Cozumel
Cozumel is an enchanting island located just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s particularly famous as a snorkeling and scuba diving destination for its incredibly rich marine life.
Its gorgeous beaches and cute main town are another draw, along with the ruins of a Mayan fertility temple. The picture-perfect island makes for a fantastic day trip if you’re looking for seaside activities, pristine shores, and culture.
The island of Cozumel is a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, approximately 45 minutes. Once there, you can either explore the island on your own, or book a tour.
▶️ This Private Jeep Excursion in Cozumel with Lunch and Snorkeling takes you to all the hotspots. You’ll drive through the jungle, stop at the beach to go snorkeling, and visit the San Gervasio Ruins. The itinerary is customizable, and it includes lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Eat Allll the Mexican Treats on a Food Tour
Savoring the authentic flavors of Mexico was never easier, with the vast array of local eateries, high-end restaurants, and street food shops that dot the region.
Going on a food tour in Playa del Carmen or Tulum allows you to find the culinary gems, taste allll the traditional food, and learn about each dish all at the same time. It’s one of the top things to do if you’re going to Mexico, because local cuisine simply hits different if you’re on a tasting spree!
A foodie guide will lead the way to the most local spots in the city to sample a variety of delicacies such as tacos, cochinita pibil, elote, and mole.
▶️ This Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour will immerse you in the city’s food scene, as you learn about Mexico’s specialties (beyond the famous ones!) Visit off-the-beaten-path eateries and enjoy several food and drink tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Swim in Cenotes
Oh, the cenotes! Formed thousands of years ago, these natural sinkholes can mostly only be found in the Yucatan Peninsula.
They are essentially pools, filled with fresh water from the rain and the underground rivers, where you can jump in to swim, snorkel, and even dive. They’re also incredibly photogenic – they were all over social media not long ago!
I’m mildly obsessed with cenotes, and I think everyone should visit them at least once in their life. These sinkholes also held great significance to the Mayans. Thought to be the gateway to the underworld, they represented the duality of life and death and were sacred locations.
Some of my favorite cenotes in Riviera Maya include Cenote Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, and Cenote Calavera. Check out the top cenotes in Playa del Carmen for more inspiration.
▶️ The Tour 4 Cenotes + Zipline (Optional) Includes Pick Up Service takes you to four cenotes in the Riviera Maya. You’ll visit cenote Jaguar, Tres Campanas, Zapotes, and Wisho. Go swimming and snorkeling in all of them, and refuel with a Mexican lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Private Tour The Best Cenotes in Tulum Riviera Maya is one for the books if you’re with a group. You’ll explore three cenotes in the area, with snorkel gear included to splash and swim in their clear waters. Visit a local restaurant for lunch, and enjoy hotel roundtrip transfers. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Join a Cooking Class
How about learning to cook traditional Mexican dishes? Not only will you be treated to the most delectable feast, but be equipped with the skills and knowledge to continue eating Mexican food…for the rest of your life!
It’s one of the best ways to try the local cuisine, and a fun activity that will have you meeting other travelers while whipping up a delicious menu from scratch.
From making tacos and quesadillas to moles, enchiladas, and cochinita pibil, you’ll become an expert in the art of Mexican cuisine. There are plenty of cooking classes in Playa del Carmen and in Tulum that you can join.
▶️ This Tasty Mexican Cooking Class with Feast in Riviera Maya is a hands-on experience. You’ll prepare a 6-course gourmet meal, learning new cooking tricks as you’re introduced to Mexico’s main ingredients. Enjoy an authentic fiesta to relish your creations paired with drinks and music. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Go on a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a popular Caribbean island located right off the coast of Cancun. It’s a paradise beach destination, boasting beautiful white sand beaches lined by palm trees and crystal-clear waters. The island is also surrounded by coral reefs, and home to lush vegetation.
One of the must-visit locations on the island is the Garrafon Natural Reef Park, where you can enjoy reef snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. Rent a golf cart to get around Isla Mujeres, visit the ancient Mayan ruins at Punta Sur, and sunbathe in Playa Norte.
You can reach Isla Mujeres via Cancun by ferry, which takes 20 minutes, or join a catamaran tour.
▶️ This Isla Mujeres: Catamaran with Open Bar, Snorkeling and Lunch offers pick-up from most Riviera Maya hotels. You’ll sail toward the island, enjoying swimming stops and drinks from the open bar along the way. Snorkel at the reef, and have lunch by the beach. Finally, explore Isla Mujeres on your free time. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Stroll Down 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen
The ever-lively Playa del Carmen has its heart in Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue). While it’s not as dazzling or high-end as its New York counterpart, it’s a bustling street lined by shops, eateries, and street performers.
It’s especially charming in the evenings, when live music, lights, and joyful vendors infuse it with life. It’s also when the crowds show up to do some shopping or snack on street food.
The colorful street is the perfect location to hunt for souvenirs or good bargains, and to try authentic Mexican food. If you’d rather avoid the crowds and the buzz, you can visit late in the morning, shortly before lunch, for a pleasant stroll.
Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
In my opinion, Sian Ka’an is one of the most underrated places in the Yucatan Peninsula. This Biosphere Reserve, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to 1.3 million acres of land and sea and the most magnificent landscapes.
From lagoons to tropical forests, mangroves, a barrier reef, Mayan-built canals, and an enchanting fishing village, Sian Ka’an is a natural oasis.
The exceptional diversity of fauna and flora is one of the main reasons to visit, getting to see – with some luck – everything from manatees to dolphins, birds, and jaguars.
Getting to Sian Ka’an on your own is a bit tricky, mainly because the roads are in really bad condition and you can’t access the reserve without a 4WD. I highly recommend booking a tour with transfers instead.
▶️ On this full-day Sian Ka’an Adventure Full Day Trip to Punta Allen you’ll enjoy a marine safari through the reserve. Explore its dense jungle with a guide, cruise the lagoons by boat, and snorkel in the barrier reef. Finally, visit the town of Punta Allen to swim in its natural pool and have lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Cruise Across the Bacalar Lagoon
Situated close to the border of Belize in southeastern Mexico is the town of Bacalar, famous for the staggering Bacalar Lagoon.
Also known as the Lagoon of the Seven Colors for the many shades of blue that it boasts, Bacalar makes for a memorable day trip destination.
The color of the water is unreal (just look at those photos!) and there are numerous attractions around it that you can get to by boat.
Besides taking a boat trip around the lagoon, things to do in Bacalar include exploring its charming town, and snorkeling in the area’s cenotes.
▶️ This Bacalar Lagoon of 7 Colors from Playa del Carmen and Tulum is a full-day trip that also departs from Playacar. You’ll enjoy boat tour across the Bacalar Lagoon, getting to kayak, swim in cenotes, and visit the major landmarks. Cap it off with an a la carte lunch and beer. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Dive into History at the Coba Ruins
No trip to the Riviera Maya is complete without a visit to the Coba Archaeological Site which is, in my opinion, one of the most underrated Mayan ruins in Mexico.
It’s one of the largest, home to incredible pyramids and temples, and doesn’t have as many visitors as Chichen Itza or the Tulum Ruins.
Coba is approximately 2,000 years old, with its first settlement believed to have been established in the first century. It’s especially known for its network of sacbes, or stone causeways, and for being one of the only Mayan sites that allow climbing its pyramids.
The vastness of the archaeological park makes it difficult to walk around, so to get around the structures you can cycle, or hire a tricycle.
The history of Coba is fascinating, so I highly recommend hiring a guide on-site, or visiting with a tour to fully travel back in time as you take in the ancient city.
▶️ The Coba Ruins, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, Cenote and Mayan Family is led by an expert guide. You’ll delve into Coba’s history as you ride a bike around the ruins. Then, embark on a trip to Punta Laguna, where you’ll kayak on the lake, hike, and zipline. Swim in a cenote, and visit a Mayan village before having lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Swim with Whale Sharks (Responsibly!)
Every year during the summer, hundreds of whale sharks make their way to the Mexican Caribbean in search of warm water and plankton.
During this time, which goes from May to September, you’ll have the chance to jump in the water and swim with the world’s largest fish – one of the most unique experiences in the world.
But do it responsibly, please! Whale Sharks are an endangered species, and it’s vital that you choose a responsible tour operator for the experience. Make sure that the company respects the marine environment and cares about the animals, ensuring a safe encounter for both parties.
I’ve written a whole post about the best whale shark tours from Riviera Maya that you can check.
Psst. The official whale shark season goes from May to September. However, the best time to visit the Riviera Maya to swim with them is between June and August.
▶️ This Whale Sharks Small-Group Tour in Cancun and Riviera Maya offers an eco-friendly experience. You’ll enjoy an informative briefing from a marine biologist before jumping into the water for a safe encounter. Snorkel gear, as well as lunch and soft drinks are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Be Mesmerized by the Joya Show by Cirque du Soleil
How about treating yourself to a cultural evening out? The Riviera Maya is home to a spellbinding Cirque du Soleil experience, the Joya Show.
The spectacle follows the adventures of a teenage girl in a mystery jungle, meeting creatures and locations inspired by Mayan iconography. It’s a 90-minute show packed with magnificent acrobatics, dances, music, and costumes.
▶️ Get the Cirque du Soleil JOYA Admission Tickets in advance to ensure your spot. You can choose from various ticket options, including appetizers and drinks, a 3-course dinner, and a VIP experience. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Party at Coco Bongo
Dance the night away at the hottest club in town, Coco Bongo. This renowned venue, which has locations in Playa del Carmen as well as Cancun and Punta Cana, has been said to put Vegas nightlife to shame. And I have to say, they’re not wrong!
The nightclub offers burlesque-style shows with impressive performances, as well as dance floors, several bars, and seating areas.
It offers a night to remember, though you’ll have to book your tickets early if you plan on going. The venue is very popular, and they sell out fast!
▶️ The Skip the line: Regular Ticket Playa del Carmen grants you priority access to the venue. Bottled water and five drinks are also included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Skip the line: Gold Member Ticket Playa del Carmen allows you to bypass the queues, and it also includes a premium open bar and entry to a reserved area. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Discover the Rio Secreto Underground River
Rio Secreto is one of the most impressive natural attractions in the area. This underground river and cave system, also known as the crystal museum, is renowned for the sheer amount of stalactites and stalagmites it features.
The river, whose name translates into Secret River, was a ritual place for the Mayan people, who considered it sacred. During your visit you’ll get to swim in its fresh waters, and explore the semi-flooded caverns with all the equipment provided.
▶️ The Cancun/Playa del Carmen: Tickets to Rio Secreto and Lunch includes transfers, and a comprehensive visit. Explore the underground labyrinths and ancient caves with a guide, learning about the formation of the site, and its importance for the Mayans. You’ll then be treated to a local lunch, and some time in the jungle. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Navigate the Jungle Roads on an ATV
Adrenaline junkie? You’re in the right place for some thrilling adventures! The Yucatan jungle is incredibly lush, rich, and full of rugged terrains, mud paths, river beds, and rocky paths that make it ideal for ATVing.
The adventure parks are a great place to go ATVing, as they have the perfect routes outlined already, and will provide all the equipment and vehicle rental.
An alternative is booking an independent ATV tour, which will have you driving your vehicle deep in the jungle or along the Caribbean coastline.
▶️ Check out this Riviera Maya Jungle Half-Day Tour: ATV, Ziplines, Cenote Swim, Rappel. You’ll have your heart pumping all day as you rev up on an ATV through off-roads, soar over the canopy on a zipline course, and rappel into a cenote for a swim. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Get a Thrill at Xavage
Xavage is arguably the most adrenaline-inducing theme park in the peninsula. It’s the only one featuring canals and rapids where you can get a thrill whitewater rafting.
Kayaking along the waterways, ziplining on the area’s longest horizontal zipline, and speeding on a jet boat are a few of the spine-tingling activities available.
There’s also a rope circuit, a children’s zone, obstacle circuits, and a Monster Truck. All packages include a scrumptious buffet lunch, because you’ll need to refuel after all those adventures.
▶️ Get the XAVAGE Park tickets with Transportation *Official Product*. Enjoy convenient transfers from your hotel, a tasty lunch, access to the park, and all the activities included in your chosen package. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Snorkel in the Caribbean Sea
If you’ve made it this far on the list, you already know the turquoise Caribbean Sea and the cenotes are among the major attractions in the area. And what better way to immerse yourself in the crystal clear waters than by snorkeling in the Riviera Maya?
The Mexican Caribbean is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, where a myriad of colorful fish, coral, and other marine creatures live.
And while the marine life in the cenotes is not as rich, the astounding formations are worth diving with a set of goggles for!
▶️ The Mayan Adventure Snorkeling Tour from Riviera Maya lasts a full day. You’ll get to snorkel in three ecosystems – an ocean inlet, an underground river, and a cenote. Visiting the most striking natural locations of the area, you’ll get to meet the marine life and see underground formations up close. Finally, refuel with a buffet lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Relax on a Catamaran Cruise
The shimmering Caribbean Sea is the setting for many activities in the Riviera Maya, and one of them is setting sail on a catamaran cruise. Relaxing on deck as you enjoy the sunshine and sea breeze, you’ll be treated to astounding views of the coastline and the turquoise waters.
It’s not only a great way to relax, but also to adventure and have a fun day out, as most cruises include snorkel gear to swim in the reefs, paddleboards, an open bar, and even parties onboard!
▶️This Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling is a full-day cruise. You’ll visit two gorgeous islands with white-sand beaches and lush vegetation, snorkel in the rich coral reefs, and enjoy free time to explore. Breakfast and lunch are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
WHERE TO STAY IN RIVIERA MAYA
UNIQUE ESTANCIA: Wakax Hacienda is a 5-star accommodation set in a lush, beautiful setting and featuring incredible facilities. The property is built around a lake and boasts a cenote, outdoor pools, and thrilling activities. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, and there’s a restaurant on site. I stayed in Wakax for a few nights and loved it!
ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT: Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive is a 5-star accommodation with a private beach area, and countless activities to enjoy. It features a fitness center, swimming pools, a sauna and hot tub, and serves daily breakfast. There are various room types to choose from, including family suites.
LUXURY HOTEL: Hotel Bardo – Adults Only features simply decorated, air-conditioned rooms equipped with all the amenities, including a coffee maker. Some rooms even boast a private plunge pool. The property has a beautiful outdoor pool, a lush garden, a spa, and a restaurant with a bar.
BOUTIQUE HOTEL: The Yellow Nest Tulum is a luxurious hotel offering rooms with garden views, a private bathroom, and room service. There’s an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a wellness center with a sauna and yoga facilities. Some units have a private pool or patio.
ON A BUDGET: Che Playa Hostel & Bar Adults Only features both dorms and private rooms. It has a rooftop pool and a bar for guests to hang out, a kitchen, and a shared lounge. It’s very close to the beach, and it organizes fun activities, parties, and tours. It also offers breakfast and an all-you-can-eat buffet.
