The Mayan Riviera and the Yucatán Peninsula offer but a glimpse into Mexico’s incredible cultural diversity. Each of the country’s 32 states flaunts its unique flavors, traditions, landscapes, and experiences that are truly one-of-a-kind.
After visiting Mexico, your life will be forever changed, especially once you’ve experienced the Riviera Maya. Here, you’ll not only immerse yourself in Caribbean waters but also dive into a culture so ancient, you can taste its history in even the simplest ingredients.
The Riviera Maya has something for everyone no matter your age, size, or taste, with experiences that will make you want to come back for more or maybe never leave. To get around the Riviera Maya, you can fly into international airports in Cancun, Tulum, Merida, or Cozumel, with rates varying by season and country of origin. Getting around is easy, whether you choose public or private transportation.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry! Eating With Carmen Food Tours is here to share 21 of the best things to do in the Riviera Maya, for tourists and locals alike who love living here and can never get enough of the beauty of our home.
1. Visit Vibrant Beach Towns and Cities
For a long time, Cancun was the only tourist hotspot in Quintana Roo, with Mérida to the north as the capital of Yucatán. But now, Federal Highway 307 lets you explore plenty of towns and cities like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Morelos, and Bacalar.
Photo by The Lazy Artist
Playa del Carmen, Cancun, and Tulum are famous for their lively beach scenes, chic boutiques, bars, and restaurants, offering a mix of cultural, touristy, and gastronomic experiences, each with its unique charm. On the flip side, Puerto Morelos, Mérida, and Valladolid bring traditional vibes, giving you a taste of ancient local life with a modern twist.
2. Enjoy the Gorgeous Beaches and Caribbean Islands
Surrounded by the Mayan Caribbean, Riviera Maya boasts numerous public beaches with crystal-clear waters. You can bring snacks, drinks, beach chairs, and umbrellas, or spend time at popular beach clubs that serve food, drinks, live music, and rentals for jet skis and parasailing. From the bustling Playa Delfines in Cancun to Playa 72 in Playa del Carmen (where you can even bring your puppy), and less-visited spots like Xpu-Há and Mahahual, every beach is a perfect photo spot.
Photo by Jose
Want to elevate your beach day? Head to stunning Caribbean islands, learn to surf in Cozumel, escape the modern world in Holbox, or book a private yacht to Isla Mujeres.
3. Dive into the Mystical Cenotes
Riviera Maya is home to some of the most amazing natural sinkholes, known as cenotes. Whether you’re into snorkeling, diving, or just a refreshing swim, these crystal-clear pools are a must-see. Once sacred to the Mayans, you can explore these cenotes via the Cenote Route starting from Puerto Morelos, where you can visit both open cenotes and those in caves, home to bats and stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Photo by Yuri Manei
Most cenotes charge an entrance fee and are easily accessible from the main road. You can opt for private tours or use local transportation. Remember to preserve these natural wonders by avoiding chemical products and sunscreens that can harm wildlife and water quality.
4. Swim with Sea Turtles in Akumal
Experience your own real-life Finding Nemo moment as you glide through the turquoise waters of Akumal Beach, getting up close with gentle sea turtles and other marine life. You can book a guided tour with local experts who will take you to the best spots to swim with these species while ensuring their habitat is protected.
Photo by Richard Segal
5. Explore the Ancient Ruins
Channel your inner Indiana Jones as you explore the majestic Mayan Archeological Ruins. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, the Tulum Ruins offer a stunning combination of history and breathtaking views. Climb the ancient pyramid of Nohoch Mul at Coba for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. Venture further to Chichen Itza, one of the World’s New Seven Wonders.
Photo by Mario La Pergola
6. Ecological Adventure and Water Parks
Dive into natural beauty, culture, and adventure at some of the most popular water and eco-parks. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling at underground rivers, huge waterslides, tropical bird sightings, diverse wildlife, and unlimited food and drinks. The popular Xcaret Group offers a variety of parks with unique fun and cultural experiences, likewise, Rio Secreto, Jungala, and the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary are perfect for a full day of family fun!
Photo by Raj Rana
7. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping in the Mayan Jungle
Zip-line through the jungle or go off-roading on an exhilarating ATV tour. Some tours include these thrilling activities along with views of cenotes or nearby ruins, and most offer a feast of traditional food prepared by local cooks. Eco-parks like Xplore, Xavage and Selvatica take you to enjoy exciting adventures across the Maya jungle! Don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray!
Photo by Melissa Villarán
8. Combine Luxury and Entertainment at All-Inclusive Resorts
Pamper yourself with a stay at one of Riviera Maya’s world-class resorts. Think pristine beaches, endless cocktails, snacks, and top-notch service. Make the most of activities offered at kids’ clubs, spas, and gyms with dance classes and personalized routines. Some resorts even have water parks with pools and slides to keep you cool in the tropical heat.
Photo by Israel Torres
9. Embrace the Laid-back Vibes
For a more relaxed experience while still enjoying nature, paddle through the serene mangroves in a kayak. Ride through the jungle on horseback or enjoy a guided sunrise paddleboard session with Aloha Paddle Club!
Photo by Amar Baco
10. Soak in Mexican Culture
Mexican culture is celebrated worldwide for its cuisine, Mariachi music, dance, and traditional garments. Indigenous cultures have left a legacy of discoveries and knowledge that continue to impress and influence our daily lives. Explore the many museums, cultural centers, and parks across Riviera Maya and Yucatán, where you can learn about local history, see planetariums showcasing Mayan, Mexica, Olmec, and Zapotec astronomical discoveries, and watch Mexican artisans crafting traditional clothing for dances.
Photo by Anya Juárez Tenorio
11. Connect with Nature
The landscapes of the Mexican Caribbean are enhanced by the colorful plumage of endemic birds like the Toh or Yucatán Jay, the unique patterns of jaguar skin, and the roar of spider monkey troops. The Caribbean Sea is home to the largest coral reef in America, supporting a rich variety of fish and marine vegetation. While some species are permanent residents, occasional visitors like the whale shark come in search of the best plankton from June to September.
Photo by Amar Preciado
You’ll often spot endemic species up close, like the grackles that make a racket at dawn and dusk. At night, you might see raccoons, opossums, or coatis searching for food in the streets. Isla Contoy offers a unique experience where you can observe thousands of birds in their natural habitat, just be sure to arrive early, as access is limited to 200 people per day.
12. Experience the Nightlife
If you’re up for a little partying, the nightlife in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum is legendary. Dance the night away at clubs like Coco Bongo, take a free salsa lesson at La Bodeguita del Medio, or enjoy top-notch live music at various bars. Playa del Carmen has become a hotspot for DJs, Jazz, and Rock musicians from around the globe, performing their best jams. Pair your night out with some of the best Mexican spirits, cocktails, and local beers. How about a passion fruit margarita or a Chela de Playa, one of the best local craft breweries in town? Cheers!
13. Swim in the Beautiful Bacalar Lagoon
Known as the Lake of Seven Colors, Bacalar Lagoon is a stunning spot for a swim and a few chill days. Its various shades of blue will take your breath away. To get there, ADO buses can easily take you on a 4-hour ride.
Photo by Liz Aguayo
14. Visit Underwater Treasures
Dive into an artistic underwater world at MUSA, where over 500 life-sized sculptures are submerged and growing into a unique reef ecosystem. Explore one of the best-kept secrets of the beautiful Island of Cozumel, The Atlantis submarine XII, powered by batteries and the only one of its kind in Mexico. An experienced crew will take you on a unique adventure through the spectacular natural scenery of the Chankanaab Reef, and to The Felipe Xicoténcatl C-53 sunken ship, a 56-meter ship that served the Mexican Navy and in 2000, was sunk to enrich the life of this Protected Natural Area and preserve it for future generations, today, it is home to fish, sponges and soft corals!
Source: rh-destinations.com/
15. Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore Sian Ka’an’s diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, and coral reefs, just a 30-minute drive from Tulum!
Photo by Gabriel Barranco
16. Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving at The Great Mayan Reef
Just off the coast of the Riviera Maya, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System is perfect for spotting colorful marine life while snorkeling or diving. Many training centers in the area can certify you as a diver in just a few days. The coral reefs are so close to shore that you can easily swim with small fish or find starfish, especially at El Cielo in Cozumel.
Photo by Oleksandr P
17. Take a Road Trip to Charming Maya Communities
Immerse yourself in an ancient experience by visiting an authentic Maya community and learning about their traditional lifestyle. As seen on Netflix’s “Chef’s Table BBQ,” Rosalía Chay Chuc from Yaxunah, Yucatán, opened her home to curious foodies eager to taste her traditional Cochinita Pibil. Many traditional cooks and communities are eager to share their ancient secrets, so you can visit on your own or book a guided tour!
Photo by María Regina Díaz
18. Enjoy a Traditional Mexican Meal
Treat your taste buds to authentic Mexican cuisine. From Tacos al Pastor and Tamales to Mole and Margaritas, the food in Riviera Maya is a culinary delight. Local Yucatecan cuisine includes dishes like Cochinita Pibil, where fish and pork are marinated in sour orange and topped with pickled red onions, habanero, achiote for Recado Rojo, and smoked chiles and spices for spicy Recado Negro. Always save room for Marquesitas, a local dessert similar to a crepe waffle but folded like a taco and filled with fresh fruits and all kinds of jams and dressings. Most of these flavors and dishes can be tasted at Eating with Carmen Food Tours. Authentic Local Food Tours in Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Mexico City, and Merida!
Photo by Eating With Carmen Food Tours
19. Catch of the Day
The fishing industry has long supported local communities, providing the freshest seafood from the Maya Reef. While most restaurants offer a variety of seafood dishes, the best quality is always found closer to the beach. Local fishermen offer their skills and boats for fishing Mahi-Mahi, snapper, and barracuda just like they’ve done for years. Enjoy a day sailing the Caribbean waters while fishing for your dinner!
Photo by Ion Ceban
20. Lose Yourself and Relax
Indulge in a massage with the soothing sound of waves in the background. Many resorts and beach clubs offer beachfront massages that are pure bliss. Riviera Maya is also home to spiritual guides and teachers offering traditional healing ceremonies like Temazcal and Mayan cleanses. Connect with your spiritual side and enjoy a beachfront yoga and meditation class with live sound healing sessions.
Photo by INOCENTE SANCHEZ GUADARRAMA
21. Enjoy Life in Paradise!
After living in Playa del Carmen for 10 years and being someone who was born and raised in Mexico City, I can tell you that just strolling around town is the most relaxing activity ever. Forget the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the Mayan Paradise. The Mexican Caribbean is the perfect spot to gather with family and friends, unplug from the world, and enjoy your vacation!
Photo by Yulianto Poitier
There are way more than 21 things to do around Riviera Maya, if you are hungry for more, make sure to take a look at more of our Blog posts.
Without a doubt, Riviera Maya and the Yucatán Peninsula will become your new favorite vacation destination! Whether you’re traveling with family or exploring solo, you’re sure to never get bored and always find something delicious or un to do!
See you soon!
-Abbey
