Things to do in Riviera Maya
Discover the best attractions and experiences Riviera Maya has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient Maya cities and coastal fortifications that shape the Riviera Maya’s history.
Tulum Ruins
Cliffside Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean, one of the Riviera Maya’s most iconic sights.
Cobá Ruins
Ancient Maya city hidden in the jungle with towering pyramids you can climb for panoramic views.
Muyil Ruins
Historic site near mangroves and lagoons, offering a quieter glimpse into the region’s past.
Museums
Delve into Maya heritage and underwater art at Cancún’s museums.
Museo Maya de Cancún
Exhibits on Maya history and daily life, located in Cancún.
Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA)
Underwater art museum with sculptural reef installations near Cancún and Playa del Carmen.
Religious Monuments
Visit historic churches and sacred sites that punctuate the Riviera Maya towns.
Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen (Playa del Carmen)
Central parish church in Playa del Carmen, a landmark in the town center.
Catedral de Cancún
Main church serving Cancún’s Catholic community, located near the city center.
National & Theme Parks
Experience the region’s biodiversity and cultural showcases in acclaimed parks.
Xcaret Park
Eco-archaeological park with underground rivers, wildlife, and cultural performances.
Xel-Há Park
Water attraction park built around a natural inlet with snorkel-friendly lagoons.
Xplor Park
Adventure park offering zip-lining, amphibious trains, and subterranean rivers.
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
UNESCO-protected reserve known for mangroves, wildlife, and boat excursions.
Neighborhoods
Discover the diverse districts and towns that make up the Riviera Maya.
Zona Hotelera (Cancún)
Long beachfront hotel zone with beaches, viewpoints, and nightlife.
Playa del Carmen Centro
Vibrant downtown area centered on 5th Avenue with shops and eateries.
Tulum Pueblo
Laid-back town center with local restaurants and easy access to cenotes and ruins.
Puerto Aventuras
Marina-side resort community with beaches and family-friendly attractions.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy a variety of cost-free ways to soak up the atmosphere.
Stroll along Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue), Playa del Carmen
Walk the pedestrian street lined with shops, street performers, and cafes.
Relax on Playa Delfines (Cancún)
Public beach with long sandy stretch and great sea views.
Parque Fundadores (Playa del Carmen)
Public park by the sea known for its iconic arch and marina vibes.
Boardwalk stroll in Puerto Morelos
Casual waterfront promenade perfect for a sunset walk.
Gastronomy
Taste local flavors, from Mayan-inspired dishes to fresh seafood.
Mayan Cooking Class (Playa del Carmen)
Hands-on session to learn traditional Maya flavors and techniques.
Ceviche Tasting Tour (Cancún)
Snack-sized tastings featuring fresh local seafood and regional twists.
Tasting Menu of Riviera Maya seafood (Tulum)
Restaurant-based tasting experience highlighting Caribbean seafood.
Nightlife
Experience vibrant nightspots and late-night shows along the coast.
Coco Bongo Cancun
Energetic nightclub with acrobatics, live performances, and crowd energy.
The City Nightclub Cancun
Large-capacity club drawing big-name DJs and vibrant shows.
La Santanera (Playa del Carmen)
Trendy venue offering dance floors, DJs, and themed nights.
Mandala Beach Club (Cancún)
Beachfront nightlife venue with music, drinks, and rooftop vibe.
Entertainment
Catch spectacular performances and immersive experiences.
Xcaret Mexico Espectacular
Multisensory evening show weaving Maya history, dance, and music.
Xplor Fuego
Night version of the Xplor park featuring illuminated adventures.
Sports
For water and outdoor enthusiasts, Riviera Maya offers exciting activities.
Scuba diving at Cozumel reefs
Explore vibrant walls and abundant marine life aboard a dive trip.
Snorkeling at Puerto Morelos Reef
Family-friendly snorkeling along coral gardens and clear waters.
Kayaking in cenotes Kantun Chi
Paddle through clear water passages surrounded by jungle.
Off the Track
Go beyond the obvious with lesser-known experiences.
Dos Ojos Cenote
World-famous Cenote Dos Ojos offers transparent waters and cave systems.
Gran Cenote
Popular cenote near Tulum known for snorkeling and cave formations.
Cenote Azul
Relaxing blue cenote ideal for swimming and photography.