Top reasons to visit Riviera Maya
- Stunning Beaches: Riviera Maya boasts breathtaking beaches with crystal-clear waters and soft sands, perfect for relaxation.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in exciting activities like reef diving, golf, and exploring natural rock pools.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience vibrant local culture and traditions while exploring the enchanting Mayan Riviera.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The destination offers a variety of accommodations and activities suitable for families.
- Memorable Excursions: Enjoy day trips to nearby attractions, ensuring a perfect blend of leisure and adventure.
Find great hotels near Riviera Maya
Experience the enchanting Riviera Maya, where a diverse selection of accommodations awaits to suit every traveller’s needs. Whether you seek family-friendly resorts in Playa del Carmen or luxurious villas near Tulum, this stunning destination offers unforgettable beach and adventure experiences. With renowned options like the Royalton Riviera Cancun and charming cabanas, you’re sure to find the perfect retreat for your holiday in this tropical paradise.
- Occidental at Xcaret Destination - All Inclusive: Nestled within a lush tropical landscape, Occidental at Xcaret Destination offers a vibrant family-friendly experience that seamlessly blends relaxation with adventure. This 4-star resort, located 6km from Riviera Maya, features direct beach access and a wealth of all-inclusive amenities. Guests can indulge in numerous activities such as volleyball, tennis, and mini-golf, while children enjoy facilities like a water park and dedicated clubs. With multiple dining options, including gourmet à la carte and buffet selections, this hotel caters to all tastes, ensuring a delightful culinary journey. The property's lively atmosphere is complemented by entertainment options including performances and a nightclub, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a fun-filled vacation.
- Barceló Maya Palace - All Inclusive: This 4.5-star resort, situated 10km from Riviera Maya, exudes elegance and adventure, making it perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. Barceló Maya Palace boasts direct beach access and offers an extensive range of all-inclusive services, including non-motorised water sports and themed parties. Guests can engage in activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and mini-golf, while children can enjoy a dedicated club and pools tailored for their enjoyment. The culinary experience is enhanced by both buffet and à la carte dining options, ensuring a variety of flavours to satisfy every palate. The hotel’s atmosphere combines luxury with excitement, making it a superb destination for those looking to create lasting memories.
- Hotel Riu Palace Riviera Maya - All Inclusive: Located 11km from Riviera Maya, Hotel Riu Palace offers a refined yet lively environment for families and golf enthusiasts. This 4-star resort features direct access to the beach and a myriad of all-inclusive amenities, including a variety of dining options and 24-hour room service. Guests can engage in aquatic activities such as kayaking and snorkelling, whilst children can enjoy dedicated play areas and clubs. The hotel’s vibrant entertainment options and a nightclub contribute to an energetic atmosphere, ensuring guests are entertained throughout their stay. With its emphasis on comfort and recreation, this property is a commendable choice for those looking to balance relaxation with adventure.
Where to stay near Riviera Maya
Riviera Maya offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventures and serene beach escapes, perfect for family vacations or romantic getaways. Explore the enchanting Mayan Riviera along the Mexican Caribbean coastline, where sandy beaches and vibrant local culture await. Enjoy a range of experiences from relaxing days under the sun to exciting excursions, all set in a family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you seek recreation or tranquillity, Riviera Maya promises an unforgettable travel experience.
- Playa del Carmen: Nestled approximately 13km from the heart of Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is a vibrant city that thrives year-round, with peak visitor numbers in January and the spring months of March to April. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor activities, and stunning beaches, this bustling destination offers an array of resorts and recreational areas. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful beach, explore the lively tourist precinct, or partake in family-friendly beach activities, all while soaking up the local charm and culture.
- Xcaret: Located a mere 3km from Riviera Maya, Xcaret is a picturesque village that attracts visitors throughout the year, with the highest influx occurring in March, July, and December. Renowned for its blend of family entertainment and outdoor experiences, Xcaret is home to a celebrated theme park that combines natural beauty with cultural exhibitions. Visitors can explore the beach, enjoy various recreational activities, or simply unwind in this enchanting setting that promises a memorable experience for all ages.
- Puerto Aventuras: Situated about 8km from Riviera Maya, Puerto Aventuras is a charming city that welcomes tourists at all times of the year, peaking in March to April and during the summer months. This destination is perfect for families and beach lovers, offering a plethora of outdoor activities and access to beautiful beaches. The local marina is a highlight, providing opportunities for water sports and exploration, while various resorts and recreational areas ensure a delightful stay in this coastal haven.
Things to do near Riviera Maya
Shopping
Located in Playa del Carmen, Quinta Avenida offers a vibrant mix of local crafts and international brands, while the nearby Paseo del Carmen features a more modern shopping experience with boutique shops and dining options. For authentic souvenirs, visit the bustling markets in Tulum for unique handmade items.
Recreation
Experience the serene atmosphere at the Alaya Spa, where you can indulge in holistic treatments and rejuvenating therapies. For physical activity, join a yoga session on the beach, allowing the sound of waves to enhance your relaxation and mindfulness amidst the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of ziplining at Puerto Morelos Adventure, located 37km from Riviera Maya. Soar above the lush jungle, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you navigate the ropes course in an exhilarating outdoor setting. Alternatively, visit Gorilax Jungle Park, 39km away, for another exciting zipline adventure.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Riviera Maya is vibrant and diverse. For a lively atmosphere, visit Coco Bongo, renowned for its spectacular shows. Alternatively, the chilled vibe at La Vaquita offers a fun party scene with great music and cocktails, perfect for a memorable night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Riviera Maya
To save money on your trip to Riviera Maya, consider visiting between September and November when prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance usually yields the best rates, while Wednesday is the least expensive day to stay. Look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and sort results by price to find the best offers. Exploring the area on foot or using public transport can also help keep costs down.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Riviera Maya are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Riviera Maya about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Riviera Maya is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Riviera Maya is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Riviera Maya with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Riviera Maya
Riviera Maya is an ideal destination for outdoor and family holidays, featuring stunning beaches, marinas, and natural waterholes. Visitors can enjoy the captivating turquoise waters and immerse themselves in the local culture. Key attractions include various tourist resorts and the vibrant Riviera Cancun, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for those seeking memorable experiences in this beautiful region of Mexico.
- Playacar Beach: Relax on the stunning sands of Playacar Beach, located 10km from Riviera Maya. This picturesque beach offers a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters, providing a quintessential Caribbean escape.
- Ecopark Kantun Chi: Adventure awaits at Ecopark Kantun Chi, situated 11km from Riviera Maya. Explore captivating caves and immerse yourself in nature as you partake in outdoor activities such as snorkelling and zip-lining amidst lush surroundings.
- Mayan Ruins of Playacar: Discover the rich cultural heritage at the Mayan Ruins of Playacar, also 11km away. Wander through ancient structures that reflect the fascinating history of the Mayan civilisation, set against a backdrop of tropical beauty.
Best time to go to Riviera Maya
The best time to visit Riviera Maya can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Riviera Maya falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Riviera Maya falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Riviera Maya
Visiting Riviera Maya is easy with access to three major airports. CanCUN International Airport (CUN), located 63km away, offers luxurious hotels such as Hotel Riu Palace Kukulkan and Moon Palace The Grand Cancun, both within 13km. Tulum International Airport (TQO) is 68km from Riviera Maya, with options like Hotel Tiki Tiki Tulum nearby. Cozumel International Airport (CZM) is just 26km from the region, featuring resorts like Devossion By Live Aqua Playa del Carmen. Each airport provides various transportation services, including airport shuttles and transfers, ensuring a seamless journey from your chosen hotel to the airport.