Riviera Maya Travel Guide

About the Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya is the name given to the Caribbean coastal strip stretching approximately 130 kilometers from Puerto Morelos (south of Cancun) to Tulum. This stretch of coastline has become one of the most popular tourist corridors in Latin America, offering a mix of all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels, archaeological sites, eco-parks, cenotes, and vibrant beach towns.

Unlike Cancun's concentrated Hotel Zone, the Riviera Maya is more spread out, with distinct destinations along the coast connected by Highway 307.

Key Destinations Along the Coast

• Puerto Morelos -- A quiet fishing village turned low-key resort town with a national marine park for snorkeling
• Playa del Carmen -- The Riviera Maya's main town, with Fifth Avenue shopping, dining, and nightlife
• Akumal -- Known for snorkeling with sea turtles in its protected bay
• Tulum -- The southern anchor, famous for clifftop ruins and eco-chic beach hotels

Eco-Parks

The Riviera Maya is home to several large eco-archaeological parks operated by Grupo Xcaret:

Xcaret

The largest and most popular park, combining nature, culture, and adventure. Highlights include underground rivers for swimming, snorkeling in a natural inlet, a butterfly pavilion, an aviary, a coral reef aquarium, and an evening show featuring traditional Mexican music and dance. Full-day visit recommended. Tickets cost approximately 2,500-4,000 MXN for adults.

Xel-Ha

A natural inlet and eco-park focused on snorkeling in a massive natural aquarium. All-inclusive pricing covers unlimited snorkeling, food, drinks, and activities like zip-lining and cliff jumping. Particularly good for families. Tickets approximately 2,000-3,500 MXN.

Xplor

An adventure park with zip lines, amphibious vehicles, underground river rafting, and cave exploration. Aimed at thrill-seekers. Tickets approximately 2,500-4,000 MXN.

Activities

• Cenote swimming -- Dozens of cenotes are accessible from the highway corridor
• Scuba diving -- The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef runs along the coast
• Zip-lining -- Jungle canopy tours at multiple operators
• Snorkeling with turtles -- Akumal Bay is the most popular spot
• Underground rivers -- Rio Secreto and other cave systems offer guided tours

Getting There

Cancun International Airport (CUN) serves the entire Riviera Maya. Transportation options include:

• ADO buses -- Run the corridor frequently, stopping at major towns
• Colectivos -- Shared vans between Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum for about 40-100 MXN
• Private transfers -- Pre-booked shuttles from the airport
• Rental car -- Highway 307 is the main artery, well-maintained and easy to drive

Best Time to Visit

December through April is dry season. The Riviera Maya is busy during Christmas, Semana Santa (Easter week), and summer holidays. The sweet spot for weather and crowds is November, early December, and May.

Plan Your Visit

See the Riviera Maya Family 5-Day itinerary for a detailed family-friendly plan, or incorporate the coast into the broader Yucatan Adventure 5-Day itinerary.