Things to do in Quintana Roo Coast
Discover the best attractions and experiences Quintana Roo Coast has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover ancient Maya sites along the Riviera Maya and the coast, from cliff-top ruins to jungle temples.
Tulum Ruins
Seaside Mayan ruins perched on a cliff with views over the Caribbean Sea.
El Rey Ruins
Small Mayan site near Cancun’s hotel zone, ideal for a quick cultural stop.
Muyil Ruins
Ancient Maya ruins set in jungle with nearby lagoons and waterways.
Museums
Delve into Maya history and underwater art with top regional museums and institutions.
Museo Maya de Cancún
Archaeological museum presenting Maya artifacts and regional history.
Gran Museo del Mundo Maya
Museum in Playa del Carmen exploring Maya culture through interactive exhibits.
Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA)
Underwater sculpture museum accessible by snorkeling or diving.
Religious Monuments
Explore coastal churches and sacred Mayan temples that mark the region’s spiritual landscape.
El Castillo (Tulum Ruins)
Main pyramid at Tulum ruins, a focal point of the site with sea views.
Temple of the Frescoes
Mayan temple within Tulum ruins featuring ancient murals.
Temple of the Descending God
Religious temple within the Tulum complex, notable for its iconography.
National & Theme Parks
Experience nature, archaeology, and water-based adventures in Mexico's top parks.
Xcaret
Eco-archaeological park with cultural performances and natural attractions.
Xel-Há Park
Natural aquarium park offering snorkeling and water activities.
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
UNESCO-protected coastal and jungle reserve with wildlife and mangroves.
Neighborhoods
Get a feel for the coast’s vibe through its key districts and island towns.
Zona Hotelera (Cancún)
Long beachfront strip with hotels, restaurants, and marinas.
Quinta Avenida (Playa del Carmen)
Pedestrian street lined with shops, eateries, and nightlife.
Tulum Pueblo
Chill town center offering cenotes, local craft, and gateway to beaches.
Isla Mujeres Centro
Compact island neighborhood with ferries, beaches, and a relaxed vibe.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the coast without spending a peso with outdoor and public experiences.
Public beaches (Cancún, Riviera Maya)
Relax on open-access beaches like Playa Delfines and other public coastlines.
Stroll along Quintas Avenida and coastal promenades
Free, scenic walks through Playa del Carmen’s waterfront and hotel areas.
Explore plazas and markets
Wander plazas and local markets for atmosphere, music, and people-watching.
Gastronomy
Taste Caribbean flavors and Maya influences from seaside eateries to street stalls.
Ceviche de pescado
Fresh fish cured in lime with onions, chilies, and herbs.
Tikin Xic
Mayan-style fish marinated and grilled in banana leaves.
Cochinita pibil
Slow-roasted pork with achiote served with tortillas.
Camarones al coco
Coconut-crusted shrimp with tropical flavors.
Nightlife
Dance and drink at the Riviera Maya’s famous clubs and venues.
Coco Bongo (Cancún)
Spectacular shows with music, acrobatics, and libations.
The City Nightclub (Cancún)
Large club with international DJs and high-energy crowds.
Mandala Nightclub (Playa del Carmen)
Open-air club with themed nights and crowd-pleasing rhythms.
La Vaquita (Cancún/Playa del Carmen)
Casual, high-spirited venue with a tropical vibe.
Entertainment
Shows, parks, and immersive experiences for a full Riviera Maya experience.
Xcaret
Cultural shows and natural attractions in an entertaining setting.
Xel-Há
Water-based park with entertainment and snorkeling opportunities.
Rio Secreto
Guided underground river tour through dramatic cave systems.
Sports
Hit the water and reefs with quintessential Riviera Maya adventures.
Snorkeling the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Explore vibrant reefs teeming with tropical life.
Scuba diving in Cozumel
World-class reef dives along Cozumel’s famed wall reefs.
Whale shark snorkeling near Holbox (seasonal)
Swim with gentle giants when the season arrives.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the tourist trails to hidden corners and unspoiled ecosystems.
Isla Contoy National Park
Remote island reserve known for birds, reefs, and pristine beaches.
Holbox Island
Car-free island with laid-back charm and gentle coastal life.
Dos Ojos Cenote
World-famous cenote near Tulum for spectacular underground views.