Lorry Perkins
Writer, Travel Blogger
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Everything You Need to Know About Riviera Maya, Mexico
Riviera Maya, Mexico, home to 112 miles of beautiful beaches and crystal clear blue water, is visited by millions of tourists annually. Surrounded by ancient Mayan cities, including Coba, Tulum, and one of the seven wonders of the world, Chichen Itza, the history of this region is preserved, and the culture is integrated into the resorts, entertainment, and sightseeing tours. Located south of Cancun, the resorts and boutique hotels cater to all interests, from golf to gourmet cuisine.
Cancun International Airport
Visitors fly into the Cancun International Airport and must have a valid and current passport to pass through immigration and customs. Once you arrive at the Cancun International Airport, visitors will head south along the Yucatan Peninsula. Riviera Maya begins at Punta Brava, south of Puerto Morelos, and includes the cities of Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal, and Tulum. Travelers stay in stylish boutique hotels, artistic one-of-a-kind digs in Tulum with equally unique restaurants, or the numerous luxurious all-inclusive resorts that cater to your every need. Also, there are budget-friendly resorts for those looking for a low-cost vacation. The Mexican Caribbean is home to the second-largest coral reef in the world. The great Maya reef, upscale accommodations, hotel zone, ancient Mayan ruins, white sand beaches, and pleasant weather attract millions of visitors yearly.
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Where to Stay in Mexico’s Riviera Maya
- Stylish boutique hotels
- Artistic, one-of-a-kind hotels in Tulum
- Luxurious all-inclusive resorts
If you are traveling to Riviera Maya for the first time, you may want to read about our first experience at an all-inclusive in Mexico and an overview of how to find a great deal and what to expect when you arrive in Cancun and at your resort.
TIP — If you stay at an all-inclusive resort where the water is filtered and treated, you do not have to worry, but when in doubt, drink bottled water.
Plan Your Best Vacation: Riviera Maya All-Inclusives Resorts
The resort’s all-inclusive packages usually include roundtrip airfare, roundtrip transfer from the airport to your resort, hotel accommodations, dining and beverages, activities, entertainment, and non-motorized water sports, such as kayaks and catamarans. In addition to buffets, many resorts have several ala carte restaurants to choose from, including Japanese, Italian, Gourmet, International, Seafood, Brazillian, and Mexican. Alcoholic beverages are included too. Check your resort for specifics, but many require reservations for ala carte dining and long pants with closed shoes for men. Some resorts include free room service, but others have a charge for it. You will find fitness facilities and spas offering massages, facials, and a variety of beauty treatments with highly trained and certified professionals dedicated to your wellness and relaxation.
Grand Bahia Principe, One of My Favorite All-Inclusive Resorts…Here’s Why
Size Matters as Well as Location When Planning Your Trip to Riviera Maya
There are hundreds of resorts and hotels to choose from in Rivera Maya. So how do you choose which resort is best for you? Things to consider include how many people you are traveling with and their ages, assessability to beaches, pools, and restaurants if you have small children or if you have anyone with limited ability to walk, and whether or not you want activities and entertainment available on the resort or if you prefer to go on excursions in the surrounding area. Are you looking for an adults-only resort or perhaps a romantic vacation? Do you prefer the beach or the pool…or both? Do you want to stay at a large or small resort?
When choosing the resort’s location, consider any sightseeing trips you would like to take. You don’t want to stay at the northern end of Riviera Maya and take a tour that goes all the way to Tulum. For instance, when we stay at the Iberostar, we like to take a long hike from the Iberostar beach to Maroma Beach and visit Isla Mujeres, located at the northernmost tip of Cancun.
Iberostar Playa Paraiso, a Large Resort Closer to Airport
If you want to be close to the airport and have the flexibility of a large resort with options for families and adults only, try the Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf and Spa Resort in Puerto Morelos. It is only 29 miles from the airport and has five resorts in one, but it is an easier resort to navigate. Read more about it here on my blog, and click this link to make your reservations now.
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen, a well-known area for shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and resorts, is located midpoint in Riviera Maya. It’s home to Mexico’s most popular nightclub, Coco Bongo. Xplor and Xcaret, two popular attractions, are nearby, too.
Take a Ferry to Cozumel and Explore
Stay near Playa if you want to take a ferry ride to Cozumel for the day. Cozumel is an island off of Mexico known for snorkeling, scuba, and beautiful views. The island is approximately 34 miles long and 11 miles wide and mostly undeveloped, but there is a lively shopping district and plenty to see and do. If you have the opportunity, a fantastic Jeep tour of the island is a must-do. Chichen Itza is so far inland that you can book that excursion from practically any resort, but know that it will take some time to travel there and back. It is definitely worth it, though.
When staying at the Grand Palladium or Gran Bahia, further south, we will take an excursion to the town of Tulum or the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. If you want to visit the ruins, Coba and Tulum are nearby.
For a Good Time…Take a Jeep Ride in Cozumel
TIP — Book during the offseason to get your best deal – September, October, after Easter, and spring break to May (ask your travel agent)
Best Beaches in Riviera Maya, Mexico
For the most part, the beaches are beautiful with cool sand due to the composition so that you can walk on the beach barefoot. Some beaches are a little rockier than others, so water shoes are important to pack for those locations. The best beach, in my opinion, at an all-inclusive resort where we have stayed as far as cleanliness, soft sand, and crystal clear water is at the Barcelo. No food or drinks are served on this beach, which is the main reason it is so clean.
For those who like to have their drinks delivered to them while relaxing on their lounger, there are many other resorts to choose from. Nice beaches can be found at the Iberostar, The Grand Bahia, and the Grand Palladium.
Top 25 “Bests” in Riviera Maya Mexico for 2023
What are Mangroves?
Mangroves are part of nature in this area, so you will find some beaches that have murky water and a tangle of nature’s growth in the water. The Blue Bay Esmeralda has mangroves, and guests often complain, but if you walk catty-corner to their beach, you are in pristine water.
What is Sargassum?
Sargassum or seaweed has been an issue at a few resorts in the past few years, which has been a turnoff to travelers when the smell is unpleasant. Because there are so many Facebook groups for resorts in Riviera Maya with current travel reports, there are ways to know the condition of the beach beforehand and plan accordingly. The 5-star resorts will work at keeping the sargassum cleaned up for its guests.
Excursions in and Around Riviera Maya, Mexico
From Mayan history, water sports, and shopping to adrenaline-seeking adventure, you have a choice of excursions available to you. The easiest way to book an excursion is in your resort with the dedicated, knowledgeable staff at your service. Their goal is to match your interests and abilities to the available tours. Snorkel in the calm Caribbean waters full of colorful marine life. Swim in the crystal clear waters of underground rivers with an up-close view of stalagmites and stalactites. Spend an amazing day at the Sian Ka’an biosphere. Jump 15 feet into a cenote, zipline above the jungle or across the sea, or ride ATVs. Indulge your senses at Xenses, an indescribable one-of-a-kind attraction located in Xcaret Park that will amaze you. Immerse yourself in the Mayan history and culture when you visit the ruins, ride a camel on Maroma Beach, or enjoy a romantic sunset gourmet dinner cruise. The choices are endless, and the memories you make will last a lifetime.
TIP — The coastline is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world for those who enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving.
Visit and Explore the Mayan Ruins
Learn about Mayan history and culture by visiting the ruins. Chichen Itza, one of the new seven wonders of the world, features the world-famous Pyramid of Kukulkan, known for its appearance of a serpent cast by the shadows created during the spring and fall equinox. Chichen Itza is fairly far inland, so keep in mind that it will take some time to travel there and back. It is definitely worth it, though. Tulum is the largest ancient city set high above the Caribbean Sea, with a set of stairs leading to a beach below and beautiful aquamarine water for a way to cool off after your tour. Coba is home to the tallest structure, Nohoch Mul, with 102 steps that are open to visitors to climb. Your reward when you reach the top is a 360-degree view of the jungle and all of the surrounding beautiful lush landscape.
Experience Adventure at Xcaret
Visit Xcaret, an archaeological park with 50 natural and cultural attractions located 15 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. There is something for everyone. Scattered throughout the park are exotic animals in their natural habitat, a bird aviary, a butterfly pavilion, a coral reef aquarium, the rainforest trail, a living orchid and bromeliad museum, and a scenic revolving tower.
Because it was built near an ancient archaeological site, ancient ruins are found throughout the park. Natural saltwater pools, a beach, and an area for snorkeling will satisfy the water lovers in your group. Underground rivers run through the park, where you can experience caves, mangroves, and beautiful flora and fauna. There is a riverboat ride for those who prefer to stay dry while experiencing the surrounding beauty.
Shows and performances are throughout the day, but the 2-hour night show is one you will not want to miss starting at 7 pm. This spectacular show captures the history and beauty of the Mayan culture, highlighting their traditions, culture, and folklore. Because of its popularity, It is advised to arrive 15 to 30 minutes early for the show.
Additional activities can be included for an extra cost, including the dolphin experience, Adrenalina speed boat, Sea Trek, Snuba Reef, Paraxute, Xpa, and a spectacular 7-course meal with the night show.
TIP — Use the map provided to plan your activities and schedule showtimes to maximize your time at Xcaret.
Take a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres
Cruise or sail your way through the amazing turquoise waters to the Isla Mujeres, “The Island of Women.” Isla Mujeres is located approximately 4 miles northeast of Cancun and can be reached by ferry, or if you want to treat yourself, schedule a luxury catamaran.
This island is only 5 miles long and a half-mile wide, but it is absolutely stunning. Activities include zip-lining over the Caribbean, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, a bicycle tour, and swimming. If you have a need for speed, drive your own speed boat or venture to the calmer protected area where you can swim with the dolphins.
Take a leisurely walk through the sculpture garden, peppered with statues and artwork created by world-renowned artists, on your way to Templo Ixchel, an ancient temple at the island’s southern tip. This temple is dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel, who was thought to influence fertility.
Although it is more strenuous, hike along the seaside path for awe-inspiring views from the cliffside 60 feet above sea level. Watch the turbulent sea crash against the glistening black rocks while basking in the sunlight. This is where the first light of day reaches Mexico.
If you are not up for walking, tour the island in a golf cart you can easily rent in town. Covering more of the island in a shorter period of time, you will have time to see the unique, beautiful homes on the island too. The downtown area, situated toward the island’s northern end, provides plenty of shopping and various restaurants for your dining pleasure. You won’t want to miss the fresh fish and seafood along with regional and international offerings.
Follow me to Riviera Maya, Mexico
There is so much to see and do in Riviera Maya, Mexico. Follow me as I discover the best all-inclusive resorts, excursions, activities, travel tips, and money-saving tips to meet your specific needs when you travel to this beautiful and exciting piece of paradise.
Want to see more? Check out this video of the TRS Yucatan Hotel located in the Grand Palladium Resort.
Booking Your Travel
When traveling to Riviera Maya, we always book with our travel agent, Jim Lucente. Rest assured that you will know the latest COVID protocols and will have the added layer of a professional whom you can contact directly with any questions or concerns. I highly recommend contacting Jim Lucente, owner of Lucente Travel, at 412-299-7699 or email him at jim@lucentetravel.com to book your all-inclusive vacation.
If you prefer to book online, you can book here or compare reviews at Tripadvisor.
It has been awhile since we visited the Riviera Maya so this was a good refresher. Certainly it was a tempting destination this year when it got cold at home. We might debate staying on the mainland or heading to Cozumel. Although that might make it harder to visit places like the Mayan Ruins. But we would definitely want to try to visit Isla Mujeres!
The Riviera Maya is a wonderful place for an extended vacation. We used to stay in a quiet village between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. From there, we visited basically all the wonderful places you are introducing here. My favorite, however, was Tulum – I’ll never forget how we were swimming below those impressive ruins – a dream!
Love the photos and destination tips! Beautiful! I would love to book a trip. Love your excursion tips, especially the Mayan Ruins!
I recently visited Riviera Maya and you absolutely nailed this post! Very informative.
Wow it really is so lovely, and seems
to have something for everyone. Great pictures and useful information here. I need to get planning!!!
What a beautiful place, I could imagine coming back here again and again. The sand looks so soft and that water is so blue!! It looks unreal
Very complete discussion! We have stayed in Cozumel for 3 weeks as part of our timeshare options. When travel resumes we will stay in Ventus in Puerto Morelos for 2 months!
I’m glad I came upon your post as I am currently planning a trip to Cancun. Visiting the Mayan Ruins is a must on the trip and I would also want to visit Cozumel. A swim at one of those beaches would be perfect right now!
Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.
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