The Riviera Maya is one of the most enchanting places on Earth. It stretches along the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and offers some of the best beaches with sand so fine it feels like flour between your toes. Caribbean sunrises are picturesque and provide breathtaking experiences for all.
Due to the diverse range of activities, all the interesting places to visit and millions of things to see, every vacation is a unique experience. From the Tulum ruins to scuba diving in the Great Mayan Reef, there really is something for everyone to enjoy; Adventurers and Golfers Alike!
Here’s a list of the top 5 places to see and things to do in the Riviera Maya (in no particular order, they are ALL amazing):
1. Ruins of Tulum
The city of Tulum is the only known archaeological site located by the sea. Tulum acted as an important port for Cobá, a great Mayan city. There are over 60 well-preserved structures that can be found here, including the Temple of the Frescoes, a small shrine that marks a break in the barrier reef, and the Castle. This is truly an extraordinary site steeped in history. You can not lose this!
2. Golf
Riviera Maya is home to many championship golf courses. Puerto Aventuras is definitely a step above the rest with its 36 hole golf course. This unique course was designed by Thomas Lehman. Surrounded by lush tropical foliage and encounters with iguanas, deer, and a variety of tropical birds, this is truly a field of gold in the jungle. Enjoy!
3. The expedition to the Mayan jungle
Get ready for a real adventure! Alltournative’s Jungle Maya Expedition begins with an ATV ride that takes you to the Nohoch Nah Chich cenote system. Here you can dive deep caverns exploring stalagmite and stalactite formations. After some snorkeling, head back to the Unimog (4X4) and drive through the jungle where you will see a variety of flora, fauna, and animal prints. The trip takes you to Yax-muul, the most amazing natural pool in the Mexican Caribbean for some more diving. A traditional Mayan lunch awaits you upon your return to Rancho San Felipe.
4. Swim with the dolphins
Delphinus Riviera Maya is the best area to swim with dolphins. Located just 10 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, it makes this a very convenient location for most travelers. The Dolphinarium is protected by an extraordinary natural formation that Ana Claudia Con Delfín covers an area of 108,000 feet. Delphinus Riviera has multiple programs including Primax Swim – Swim with dolphins and spend time with them in the water, Dolphin Ride – Dolphin Ride and interaction activities, The One – Spend one-on-one with the dolphin and the trainer for one hour and Dolphin Trainer during the day – 8 hours of time with a trainer learning about care, training, scientific research, veterinary program and dolphin breeding program.
5. Yaxché
Experience Mayan cuisine in Yaxché. The dishes are mainly based on vegetables and seafood. Shrimp tacos are one of the most recommended appetizers and for a reason, they are delicious! Some other culinary delights include Xtoloc, a crepe filled with paprika sprinkled cheese and Kinitch chicken, savory chicken, marinated and grilled. Delicious!
This is by no means a complete list of things to do and see in the Riviera Maya. They are just some of the most interesting things we have found during our vacations and recommendations from friends, family and clients. Start planning your Riviera Maya adventure by calling 866-365-8747.
