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, Playa del Carmen Main Beach and Quinta Avenida 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
An upscale resort area with secluded beaches and villas by the sea, Playacar boasts a golf course designed by Robert von Hagge and is just a short drive from downtown Playa del Carmen.
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.
Playa del Carmen Centro
Travelers to Playa del Carmen Centro praise its stunning beaches. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Playa del Carmen Main Beach and Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal.
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.
Reviewed on Jun. 5, 2024
Reviewed on Jun. 4, 2024
Reviewed on Jun. 5, 2024
Reviewed on Jun. 5, 2024
Reviewed on May 30, 2024
Reviewed on May 28, 2024
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.
Tulum Mayan Ruins
Visit one of Yucatan’s most impressive Mayan ruins, perched high on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Xel-Há Park
Have a fun-filled day at Xel-Há Park and see why everyone loves this theme park in Tulum. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its seafood restaurants.
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.
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.
Things to do
Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid All Inclusive Tour
- Xcaret Eco Theme Park
- Tulum Mayan Ruins
- Xel-Há Park
- Maroma Beach
- Playa del Carmen Main Beach
- Tulum Beach
- Xplor Theme Park
- Ferry to Cozumel
- Playa Paraiso
- Quinta Avenida
- Akumal Beach
- Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal
- Mamitas Beach
- Puerto Morelos Town Square
- Tulum National Park
- Gran Cenote
- El Camaleón Mayakoba Golf Course
- Tres Rios Ecopark
- Playacar Golf Club
- Soliman Bay
- Half Moon Bay
- Dos Ojos Cenote
- Gran Coyote Golf
- Las Palmas Public Beach
- Ojo de Agua Beach
- Riviera Maya Golf Club
- Playa Ruinas
- Puerto Aventuras Marina
- Cenote Azul
- Ecopark Kantun Chi
- Yal-ku Lagoon