Things to do in Riviera Maya

Introduction

If you are keen to have a Caribbean experience but don’t wish to travel much beyond North America then look no further than Mexico, along the Yucatan Peninsula.  Tucked between USA and Central America is the glorious Riviera Maya that’s become synonymous with beautiful beaches, fabulous restaurants, archaeological sites that are both dramatic and well-preserved all enjoyed from the comfort of one of the luxury Mexican villa rentals lying resplendent along this unspoiled coastline. It is also one of the places you can travel without a passport, so its time to start organizing your next trip.

For the top Things to do in Riviera Maya, read on and discover all the fun adventures you can experience

If you’re wondering what amazing activities you can enjoy in this vibrant corner of the Caribbean, I’m setting out below just some of the fascinating things that await.  It might not be the top 10 things to do in Riviera Maya, Mexico probably more like the top five but it will, at least, give a really good cross-section of diverse activities and experiences to enjoy.  Hopefully, you will find within my top things to do in Riviera Maya something that speaks to your heart!


Background

First off, where exactly is Riviera Maya?  Well, it’s a beautiful stretch of coastline that runs from Puerto Morelos to Punta Allen along the Caribbean coastline of Mexico.  It spreads inland by about 25 miles and captures both inland and marine attractions that exceed anything you might hope to find closer to home.

The Best things to do in riviera Maya includes exploring the incredible locations

In case you’re wondering what a ‘Riviera’ is. Well, the loose definition is it’s a coastal region with a subtropical climate and vegetation.  On a more esoteric level, it is considered a region famous for its beauty, mild climate and fashionable resorts.  When you touch down in Cancun International Airport and follow the route along the Riviera Maya, it becomes abundantly clear that all these definitions are truly merited – with perhaps a few more superlatives thrown in for good measure!


If you’re interested in travelling to Mexico but haven’t yet made up your mind about where to go check out our articles on things to do in Playa Del Carmen and the best places to visit in Mexico.


So here we go, off on our journey …..

1. Beaches – One of the Best Things to do in Riviera Maya

Once you arrive on the Riviera Maya it will become abundantly clear that the beaches, stretching in long, white, gleaming strips between the land and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean are a dominant feature of any visit to this paradise.

The barrier reef that sits offshore is the second-longest in the world running from Cancun all the way along the Riviera Maya towards Guatemala.  The reef creates a natural playground for water babies of all ages who want to swim, scuba dive, snorkel or simply float in a lazy/hazy way in a boat on the gentle swell. Water sports are one of the best things to do in Cancun.

The top things to do in riviera Maya includes the beaches, with powdery sands and opulent waters, where else would you rather be?

Getting out on the water is a key feature of life along the Riviera and a lovely day trip to enjoy is to sail out to Isla Mujeres.  This pretty island sitting a short distance from the mainland is a gorgeous place to relax along the world-famous Playa Norte.  Let Exceptional Villas co-ordinate this amazing adventure for you and your family or group.  You can explore the island and visit the picturesque lighthouse on the southern tip, experience the remains of a Maya temple or view a wonderful sanctuary for sea turtles.

Whatever your plans, getting in or on the waters of the Caribbean is always one of the top things to do in Riviera Maya.


2. History

The very word history can put people to sleep.  The idea of long boring lectures about events in the past can seem as dry as the dust that covers museum pieces.  But cast all of those thought right out of your mind because the incredible archaeological history that awaits on the Riviera Maya is not just unique but spectacular.

The most famous site is probably Chichen Itza.  This is an ancient Maya city that flourished between the 6th and 12th centuries.  It welcomes over 2.6 million tourists each year and when you first see it, you will be mesmerized.  Visiting Chichen Itza is one of the most memorable, and best things to do in Riviera Maya.  This ancient city is spread over an area of almost 2 square miles.  To me, it looks like a really interesting Lego city built by kids who harness their brilliant imaginations and creativity to construct a city made up of fantastic buildings.

Visiting Chichen Itza is one of the top things to do in riviera maya cancun

The extraordinary buildings are completely different from one another.  Unlike somewhere like, say, Pompeii where there is a standard style of construction or architecture, Chichen Itza offers one utterly unique structure after another.

For instance, the Temple of the Warriors is a dramatic building fronted by a border of stone pillars.  You can climb the sweeping steps to enjoy an excellent view of the site.

Probably the most famous of the structures that feature on so many postcards, photographs and images of the Riviera Maya is El Castillo or the Kukulcan Temple.  This pyramid structure is a temple constructed in honour of the feathered serpent deity, Kukulcan.  Stone carvings of serpents’ heads are at the foot of the pyramid.  This structure sits at the centre of the ‘city’ and dominates the site.

If you are lucky enough to visit Chichen Itza around the Spring or Autumn equinoxes, you can observe how the light hits the corners of the pyramid to highlight a serpent-like form.

Like a lot of pre-Christian temples, there can be remarkably advanced understandings of how the equinoxes worked, the movement of the sun etc.  Think of Stonehenge in the UK, Newgrange in Ireland, the Egyptian pyramids.  Interestingly, if you add up all of the steps that run up each side of the Kukulcan Temple and add the single step at the top, you get the number 365.  All very interesting!

This incredible site features other wonderful buildings like The Osario Pyramid, the Grand Ballcourt and El Caracol observatory.  These and numerous other structures have been preserved and restored by the Instituto Nacional de Archeological – the national Mexican agency that protects historical sites.

El Caracol Observatory is definitely one of the top 10 things to do in riviera maya

Within the area of Chichen Itza is the famous sinkhole Cenote Sagrado.  These water holes are known as Cenotes and are found throughout Mexico due to the geology of the terrain that has worn away the limestone over many centuries.  Cenote Sagrade was believed to have been a sacred place for the ancient Maya people and many sacrifices were made to the rain god Chaac.

The famous archaeologist Edward Herbert Thompson undertook a dredging exercise of the sinkhole from 1904 to 1910.  In the course of this excavation, many artefacts were recovered as gold, jade, pottery and human remains with skeletal wounds consistent with human sacrifice.  The items recovered during this scientific excavation are at The Peabody Museum at Harvard University.

If you decide not to go inland to Chichen Itza but want to enjoy a bit of history by the sea then the archaeological site of Tulum – a couple of miles north of the modern city of Tulum – is fabulous.  Tulum means ‘wall’ and it best describes this ancient fortification that includes a castle and impressive ruins that sit atop a cliff overlooking the spectacular Caribbean Sea.  Tulum was traditionally a seaport that traded in jade, turquoise and other precious natural resources found in the region.  The views from the site out over the coastline are sensational.

The Tulum Ruins are perched overlooking the turquoise waters along Mexico's prestigious coastline

Be sure to visit the Temple of the Frescoes within this site where wonderfully preserved drawings depict the three distinct elements that seem to dominate Mexican life:  Life, Death and Rain.  The first two concepts are easily understood and when you appreciate the rather dry and arid conditions of agricultural life in Mexico it becomes abundantly clear why there is so much emphasis placed on revering the God of Rain!

Once you’ve enjoyed exploring the site, you should conclude your explorations with a walk or swim on one of the loveliest beaches along this coastline.  That is truly a recipe for a day of sheer perfection.


3. Food

And talking of recipes of perfection… food in Mexico is fabulous.  To me, it’s the Caribbean equivalent of Italian food in that it uses lots of very simple ingredients to woo ones taste buds.  As well, it elevates my favourite meal of the day, breakfast, to something really worth getting up for.

Try Huevos Motulenos which is eggs, black beans and cheese served on tortillas with spicy salsa.  Or perhaps, Chilaquiles, small tortillas cooked in a red or green sauce, smothered in cheese, onion, cilantro (coriander) and sour cream.  How substantially does that sound?  You can keep your Bircher Muesili – this is the punchy food that wakes up the senses!

Lunchtimes can be anything from the ubiquitous Fish Tacos to a delicious Ceviche of local fish cured in lime juice.

Dining out is one of the most delicious

Dinners can include the impressive Tikin Xic which is a whole fish marinated in spices and tangy oranges wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.  The aroma as you unwrap this delicious dish is the essence of Mexico dining.

I recall the first time I heard that someone ate a mole in Mexico.  I thought it was like the grizzly cuisine from Peru where one eats Guinea Pigs!  Eeek.  Luckily, no small furry animals are injured in the making of a classic Mexican Mole Poblano!  It is, in fact, a rich brown sauce that’s generally served over enchiladas or meat and can comprise a fruit, chilli pepper, nuts, cinnamon, cumin and, (oooh la la) chocolate combination that electrifies any dish.

It looks like a delicious rich gravy but is a much spicier and flavourful treat for your taste buds and is definitely one of the best things to do in Riviera Maya.


4. Nature

UNESCO established a biosphere reserve within the Riviera Maya.  This is essentially an area that covers over 2000 square miles and is focused on scientific-based programmes that create a better relationship between man and his environment.  As a consequence of this, the Sian Ka’an is an extraordinary area to visit, holiday in or play in.

This Reserve covers a landmass that includes numerous municipalities along the Riviera Maya as well as the offshore reef areas that are a key feature of life along these beautiful shores.  Farmers, fishermen, local residents, hotels and businesses have joined forces under a government directive to preserve the species of birds, butterflies, fish and mammals that proliferate in this region.  It’s taking care of ‘now’ so that the future of Mexico as a desirable place to visit, live or earn a living remains positive.

Sian Ka’an, a serene Nature reserve, is one of the Best things to do in riviera maya

As you hike, swim or drive through some parts of this region, you will enjoy seeing the gum trees, the ceiba and chacha trees – all believed to be sacred to the Maya people.  Walkthrough the eco Xcaret Park to enjoy fun activities like floating along rivers, getting up close with some incredible birdlife, turtles and colourful butterflies.

Visit the Natural Museum of Orchid – a must-see for horticultural enthusiasts.  This park is a terrific destination when you’ve young kids who want to be active and lively in a safe but natural environment.  Certainly worth a visit.

One of the best family night-time things to do in Riviera Maya, Mexico is to watch the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show that takes place within the Park.  With 300 performers on the huge Gran Tlachco theatre stage, you will be told the history of Mexico in a colourful and exciting way.


5. Family-Friendly Things to do in the River Maya

Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá has a history that will both baffle and amaze you and it is worthwhile to hear about it all from a local tour guide that will answer your many questions…believe us, there will be many! The photos really don’t do it justice and it is truly breath-taking in the flesh.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been ranked as one of the New Seven Wonders of The World.

Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park needs to be on your to-do list if you are planning a family vacation in the Mayan Riviera. This wonderful theme park could be called a Mayan Disneyland. The park features everything to do with the nature of the Mayan and Mexican culture in general.

Zip-line between trees, float through underwater caves, cross rope bridges, marvel at rock formations, and above all have a great day out with the family – all age groups will enjoy themselves.

Other activities in the park include jungle trails where you can view the actual Mayan ruins of Xcaret. There are also waterpark-style slides, a beach and river tours. You will also see a variety of interesting animals such as jaguars, sea cows and a butterfly pavilion.

And the show keeps going when the sun goes down… the park features an incredible night show with 300 performers telling the story of moments that have shaped Mexicos past. It is called  Xcaret Mexico Espectacular and should not be missed. This fun-filled park will ensure both children and adults equally enjoy themselves and will also learn a wealth of facts about Mexican history. Expect an adventure to remember at this theme park!

3D Museum of Wonders

Get your selfie sticks ready because the 3D Museum of Wonders will be providing you with a new optical illusion section in your family vacation album!

You will view more than 60 painted three-dimensional illusions which makes it the largest 3D museum in the world. The impressive and creative three-dimensional artwork will draw you into them in an interactive way. You will be heading to the London Underground, jumping through the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel or getting groomed by a monkey. Whatever paintings you decide to jump into for a photo, you will be amazed and entertained when flicking through the photos. It is an experience not to be missed. This is a museum that is fun for all ages and a great place to be if you think the kids have had too much sun or it’s a rainy day (very rare in the Riviera Maya!).

XEL HA

If you are a family of water lovers, Xel Ha will be a paradise for you! This is the only natural aquarium of the Riviera Maya where you can snorkel to your heart’s content and see a variety of fish. This is a great spot for beginner swimmers and snorkellers as the water is so calm and clear. If swimming/snorkelling isn’t your thing there are plenty of other options. Venture down the lazy river on double inner tubes so the whole family can float together! If your kids are too young for this there is also the option of enjoying a glass-bottom boat trip.

Xel Ha also offers many activities on land. There is a wonderful kids park with a treehouse, play area and splash pad. There is a beautiful bike path through the jungle, a ziplining lagoon and a water slide that winds around a 100-foot lighthouse. Your family is guaranteed to never get bored in this natural outdoor park. Kids under 5 are absolutely free!

Cenotes

You simply have to explore a Cenote when you visit Mexico’s, Riviera Maya. They are natural caves that are filled with freshwater that dot the landscape throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. There are thousands of Cenotes in this part of Mexico so there will always be one nearby to your villa or resort.

Cenotes were formed millions of years ago when limestone caves collapsed to reveal underground refreshing pools… a welcome treat in the Mayan heat!

The best way to explore Cenotes would be on an all-day tour, where you will visit the most popular ones. The 7 most popular Cenotes would be:

  • Gran Cenote
  • Ik Il Cenote
  • Dos Ojos Cenote
  • Ponderosa El Eden
  • Xcanché Cenote
  • Rio Secreto

Swimming and snorkelling in a Cenote is an enjoyable and unique way to see explore underwater life for a whole family adventure.

6. The Amazing Exceptional Villas

How best to engage with life on the Riviera Maya?  Well, I love the idea of creating the perfect home-from-home experience.  Ideally, book one of the gorgeous Exceptional Villa properties in the Playacar or Tulum areas.  There you have access to the amenities of lovely resorts, restaurants and golf courses but retain that element of exclusivity that you can only achieve with your own Villa.

At Exceptional Villas we build your dream vacation at any of our amazing and unique properties focusing on the key areas of personal service, high-end accommodations, beach-side location all presented in a secure and luxurious package. Each of our Villas in Riviera Maya come with breath-taking views and wonderful service. As a honeymooning couple, a young family, more mature travellers or a group of party people, you will have, on your doorstep, everything you need to create the platform from which to launch yourself body and soul into the natural wonder and vibrancy of the Yucatan Peninsula.

With decades of experience, at Exceptional Villas, we know how to match you to your ideal villa and to help you create memories of a lifetime. We are simply waiting for your call.

Booking your own private villa is one of the top things to do in riviera maya
Villa Nautica on Fatima Beach in Puerto Aventuras on the Riviera Maya

7. Water Activities

Aquatic Activities

With its beautiful beaches and turquoise Caribbean blue waters, Riviera Maya offers a wealth of aquatic activities that cater to a diverse array of visitors. Feeling adventurous? Then submerge in the deep blue sea and explore the second largest reef in the world. Want the experience of a lifetime? Swim with the Whale Sharks, the largest fish in the world! Just looking to unwind? Then take a sunset cruise along the calm Caribbean waters with margaritas and snacks. Looking for some family fun? Explore Riviera Mayas grand water and cultural parks, or discover the amazing wonders of the underground river system.

VIP Luxury Yacht

Embark in style on a VIP nautical adventure with a big group of friends, or perhaps just with your partner for a romantic cruise.

Sailboats & Catamarans

The ultimate in luxury and freedom on the Mayan Riviera, enjoy a yacht charter aboard a choice of luxury catamarans – from the stunning 50ft catamaran to a catamaran that can accommodate up to 50 friends!

Kite Boarding

Looking for a fun workout that will keep you on the water all day long? Ride the waves and glide with your new best friend.

Wind Surfing

Riviera Maya boasts some great spots for windsurfing, where enthusiasts can glide across the water.

Fishing

Imagine the gateway to world class saltwater fishing just at your fingertips as Riviera Maya boasts many great fishing sites.

Great Maya Reef

Imagine the gateway to world class saltwater fishing just at your fingertips as Riviera Maya boasts many great fishing sites.

Swimming with Dolphins

Image an exchange of looks: a gaze full of liberty and love. That is the beginning of an unforgettable experience as you swim with dolphins.


8. Local Tours

From Ancient Riviera Mayan ruins to ATV’ing on the beach, from trekking through the jungle and meeting an esteemed Shaman for body and aura cleaning to Ziplining over the lush jungle…from one extreme to the next, Riviera Maya offers a plethora of activities and sites that allow you to explore and most importantly experience a stash of Riviera Maya’s culture, history and ultimately amazing natural wonders!

Coba Ruins

Explore and climb one of the highest pyramids in the Riviera Maya area. Coba archeological site used to be a thriving city. Coba is estimated to have had a population of over 50,000 at its peak. There are many tall stone carved monuments at the complex, called stelae. Some stelae here depict women, suggesting the city had many female rulers!

Unearth Tulum Ruins & Cenote Xunaan Ha’s Beauty

Visit the most picturesque archaeological site in Mexico, after cooling off in a cenote of your choice.

Uncover the Ancient City of Ek’Balam

At Ek Balam, you can actually climb the pyramid and look out over the immensity of the Yucatan jungle.

Explore Chichen Itza’ & Casa Xkeken

Explore one of the most pictured sites in Mexico. Chichen Itza’, one of the new 7 wonders of the world, it is an amazing sight.

Discover Coba Ruins & Punta Laguna

Climb Nohoch Mul pyramid and gaze over the Yucatan jungle. Zipline, rappel and canoe your way across Punta Laguna.

Cruise the Sian Ka’an & Discover Uh May Village

Cruise across the most mesmerising waters in the Riviera Maya. Let the locals of Uh May treat you to an age-old recipe.


9. Spa & Fitness

Visiting Riviera Maya and submerging yourself into ultimate paradise makes for the perfect opportunity rejuvenate your mind, body and soul by indulging and pampering yourself with a collection of spa services and private fitness classes. Receive a massage on the beach as the sun sets on the horizon, or for the yogis, salute the sun on the beach as you face the beautiful sunrise. This vacation time is also your time to turn inwards and bring focus to your health and well being.

Banyan Tree Spa

Step into the Sanctuary for the Senses at Banyan Tree Spa Mayakoba, a place for physical, mental and spiritual renewal.

Yoga

Riviera Maya offers the perfect setting combined with the Mayan mystic aura and spiritual vibe.

Pilates

Take private lessons in the new Pilates studio with brand new equipment or simply on the beach with your mat.

Beach Boot Camp

Can a week in Riviera Maya’s paradise turn out to be the most physically intense week of your life?


Conclusion

Whatever your interests – be they nature, history, food or fun – Mexico always over-delivers in each of these categories.  It’s no surprise that our clients return year on year to sample yet another spicy slice of the magic of past and present that’s rolled up into the most captivating package.  Be prepared to be utterly seduced by the loveliness of the Riviera Maya.  It is an earthly paradise waiting to be explored!

About Mairead Moriarty

Born and raised in Co Kerry, lived in London, New York, San Francisco, Dublin. Owner of one very battered suitcase, a well-worn passport and a million memories.

It seems very fitting for a travel writer that my surname translates as ‘Skilled Navigator’. Apart from an occasion when, aged 3, I got lost in a Supermarket in Tralee, I have managed to live up to my name!

Curiosity is probably the driver that has sent me on magical mystery tours around the world. I want to ‘feel’ a place. I want all my senses to be engaged: from the history and geography that has influenced a country or city, the arts and achievements of its natives, anything and everything really.

Regardless of whether I am on a local train travelling through Morocco, or poking around in Marconi’s study in Bologna or on a canal boat weaving through the heart of the English countryside, the same rules apply - ask questions, talk to locals, eat what they eat, sit quietly with nature and simply be.

Assimilate as much as is possible so as to understand the soul of a place. That is my passion. That is the compass by which I navigate.

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