The Riviera Maya on the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is a relaxing mix of picture-perfect tropical beaches, stylish resorts, breathtaking aquatic wonders and some of the most popular archeological sites in Mexico.
The resort town of Playa del Carmen is a great place to begin your Riviera Maya adventure and offers superb beaches, dining and nightlife. From Playa, hop on a ferry to Cozumel, an island endowed with a rich history, world-renowned dive sites and lush jungles.
Cozumel’s main town, San Miguel, is home to the Museum of the Island of Cozumel (Museo de la Isla de Cozumel), an excellent place to learn about the island’s Mayan past as well as the evolution of the surrounding marine park.
Head to Cozumel’s south where, in the Chankanaab National Park, you can explore extensive botanical gardens, swim with dolphins at Dolphin Discovery and unwind in one of the many health spas.
Further south from Chankanaab is the relaxing Palancar Beach, where the water is clear and calm enough to spot fish from the shore.
Head to Punta Sur Ecological Park on the island’s southern tip, to see this stunning ecological reserve featuring more than 200 bird species, crocodiles, giant turtles and an ancient Mayan observatory.
For more impressive archaeological sites, head back to the mainland to Chichen Itza and the Tulum Mayan Ruins. At over 1,000 years old, the wondrous ruins of Chichen Itza showcase the architectural feats of the Mayan and Toltec cultures. The Tulum Mayan Ruins are perched high on a dramatic stretch of Caribbean coastline.
At the Kantun-Chi ecological park, swim, snorkel and dive spectacular cenotes (sinkholes), and explore tropical gardens and abundant wildlife.
The Riviera Maya’s climate is tropical, with an average temperature of 93 F (34 C). Local transport options range from buses to colectivos (white minivans), private limos to bicycles.
Riviera Maya
Riviera Maya Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Riviera Maya
Downtown Playa del Carmen
If you're spending some time in Downtown Playa del Carmen, Quinta Avenida and Playa del Carmen Main Beach are top sights worth seeing.
Zona Hotelera
Zona Hotelera is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Tulum Beach and Tulum Mayan Ruins, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Tulum.
Playacar
The stunning beaches and popular shops are just a few highlights of Playacar. Make a stop by Playa del Carmen Main Beach or Playacar Golf Club while you're exploring the area.
Playacar Zona Hotelera
Pristine beaches and ample dining options are well-reviewed features of Playacar Zona Hotelera. Make a stop by top sights like Piste Cyclable sur Paseo Xaman-Ha while you're exploring the area.
Gonzalo Guerrero
If you're spending some time in Gonzalo Guerrero, Playa del Carmen Main Beach and Quinta Avenida are top sights worth seeing.
Tulum City Center
Historic sites and bars are notable features of Tulum City Center. You might consider a stop by Dos Aguas Park while you're exploring the neighborhood.
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Popular places to visit
Xcaret Eco Theme Park
Commune with nature, explore ancient ruins and learn about Mayan culture at this popular theme park, home to a natural underground river.
La Isla Shopping Mall
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit La Isla Shopping Mall, a favorite shopping spot in Avenida Kukulkan. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Maroma Beach
Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Maroma Beach, a popular beach in Playa del Carmen. Discover the top-notch restaurants and entertainment choices in this romantic area.
Akumal Beach
Drift away on the gentle currents with turtles and rays at one of the Riviera Maya’s most relaxing beaches.
Playa del Carmen Main Beach
Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Playa del Carmen Main Beach, a popular beach in Playa del Carmen. Stroll along the seaside or experience the area's festivals.
Tulum Beach
Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Tulum Beach, a popular beach in Tulum. Stroll along the seaside in this romantic area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.