9 Unforgettable Things to do in Riviera Maya

Visit the Ruins

If you have an interest in history, you won’t want to miss these pieces of the Mayan peoples distant past.  Interestingly, no one really knows how many ruins there are, but of the ones we do know about, two are the most visited by tourists to the region. The first is Chichen Itza, which are pyramid-shaped ruins built approximately 1200 years ago. The other is Tulum. A third, not as well known, but equally as fascinating, is called Coba.

Tulum

Tulum has developed quite the laid-back bohemian vibe, from its days as a quiet, sleepy fishing village. With its yoga studios, beautiful resorts, chic boutiques and mouth-watering restaurants, well-heeled hippies are flocking to this piece of Caribbean paradise. Though just two hours south of Cancun and only about an hour from Playa del Carmen, Tulum doesn’t share it’s neighbors frenetic energy. Come here to relax, eat some good food, take a few yoga classes and relax on the beach.

Take a Swim in the Cenotes

What the heck is a cenote?? According to Wikipedia, a cenote is “a natural pit, or sinkhole, resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath. Especially associated with the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico.” Cenotes are located all over the region and the experience is incredible. Many people bring snorkeling or scuba diving gear as they explore these gifts of nature.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere

A wonder of nature, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A protected jungle reserve of 1.3 million acres, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere is home to 115 species of mammals, including manatees, four species of marine turtle, monkeys, crocodiles, the rare Jabiru stork, jaguars, pumas, ocelots, pink flamingos, toucans and tapirs. You may also be fortunate enough to spot a few of the 379 species of birds or 1048 species of flora. Sian Ka’an Biosphere is also home to the second largest reef system in the world. A visit through the Biosphere can be a life-changing experience.

Playa del Carmen

Cancun’s calmer big sister, Playa del Carmen, is located about an hour from the spring break capital of Mexico. While there is plenty of shopping along the famed 5th Avenue, and many restaurants and bars for a drink with friends, Playa del Carmen is more family oriented than Cancun and prides itself on its beautiful beaches and friendly locals.

Isla Mujeres

Step away from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist destinations on Isla Mujeres. Just 13 km from the coast of Cancun, it is a world apart. Here, time passes slowly and the perfect day may just consist of sitting on the gorgeous white sand beach and watching the tranquil aquamarine waters. If you’d like to explore a bit, there is plenty to see for all interests. Isla Mujeres is home to delectable restaurants, a huge variety of handicrafts, clothing for all, and of course the mesmerizing turquoise Caribbean sea.

Whale Shark Tour

For the truly adventurous types, a trip to Isla Holbox and an up-close-and-personal encounter with a whale shark or sharks may be just what you need for your next adrenalin rush. Don’t worry, these gentle giants eat only krill. Your two hours with them will surely provide memories to last your lifetime! When you’re back on terra firma, enjoy the freshly caught seafood at one of the local restaurants.

Xcaret Park

In Playa del Carmen, you’ll find the most unusual of theme parks. Xcaret is an ecotourist destination, with attractions like an underground river, Mayan ruins and a coral reef aquarium. The kids in the group are sure to be mesmerized by Butterfly Pavilion, home to about 20 different species. In the Aviary, they’ll thrill to the sight of colorful toucans and pink flamingos. With the many restaurants and coffee shops available, you can plan to spend as long as you want to truly experience Xcaret.

Explore a Cave System

While hunting iguanas back in 2004, local landowner Don Cleofás discovered an incredible cave system and underground river dating back 2.5 million years. Today, you can visit Rio Secreto and hike, swim or float through this incredible archeological treasure. Don’t forget to look for “caritas”, which are drawings of little faces that date back to the ancient Mayans.

Check out our collection of amazing Riviera Maya villas for your next dream vacation.