Ever heard of a place where ancient jungle ruins meet luxury spas, and wild cenotes hide just minutes from five-star resorts? That place is real, and it’s called the Riviera Maya in Mexico. But before we dive into the unforgettable things to do in Riviera Maya, let’s get you oriented.
Located just south of Cancun, this coastal district stretches along the stunning Caribbean Coast of Quintana Roo via Highway 307. Once known simply as the Cancun-Tulum Corridor, it is now called Riviera Maya, drawing inspiration from the French and Italian Rivieras. Originally, the name covered only the coast between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Now it includes Puerto Morelos and extends all the way to Felipe Carillo Puerto, 40 km (25 mi) south of Tulum.
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The Riviera Maya is so varied and unique that it feels like five trips wrapped into one destination. Whether you want to move slowly, live fast, or bounce between both, we will help you make the most of it.
THE-ALL-IN-ONE ESCAPE:
What sets the Riviera Maya apart and why are travellers obsessed with it? Because this tropical slice of Mexico blends natural beauty with man-made wonders. You’ve got luxurious resorts, and boutique resorts for ultimate relaxation. Then, there’s the other side: white sandy beaches, jungle trails, Mayan ruins, underground rivers, and coastal reefs teeming with life. You’ll find thrilling zip lines, wild cenotes, and historic sites. It’s the kind of place where you can swim with sea turtles in the morning, cycle between ancient ruins during lunch, and sip mezcal under the stars in the evening. This destination offers a unique experience you’ll talk about for years to come. In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in Riviera Maya, no matter what type of traveller you are.
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13 Things to do in Riviera Maya
1. Tulum Ruins
The Tulum Ruins are one of the most striking archaeological sites in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. What makes them unforgettable isn’t just their age but also their location.
Tulum wasn’t tucked deep in the jungle like most ruins. According to the BBC website, this pre-Columbian Mayan city is the only one built directly on the sea. It was also one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya before the Spanish conquest in 1526. That alone makes it different.
THE CITY THAT WATCHED THE SEA AND ITS ENEMIES:
The coastal city of Tulum achieved the greatest prominence between the 13th and 15th centuries. It served as a major port for the larger inland city of Coba, thriving on trade and connecting land and sea trade routes. While many Mayan cities fell earlier, Tulum held on and the Maya population lived here for nearly 70 years after the Spanish arrived, according to Wikipedia. Its giant limestone wall – 400 m (1,312 ft) long, 8 m (26 ft) thick, and up to 5 m (16ft) tall, protected it from inland threats. Watchtowers still sit on two corners, guarding the city’s precious entrance routes. The eastern side didn’t need defence; the steep 12 m (39 ft) cliff served as a natural barrier.
Inside, you’ll see El Castillo, which served both as a lighthouse and a temple. You’ll find the Temple of the Frescoes and the Descending God Temple where the Maya worshipped the Descending God. Also, pay attention to the fortified wall, which proves how much the Maya valued this place.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THE TULUM RUINS:
We love how the Tulum Ruins blends history, and military genius with ocean views into one breathtaking experience. You’re walking through one of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites which offers stunning views of the sea and beaches. Once you’re done exploring the temples, head down to the little beach below the cliffs for the same water ancient traders once sailed.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- The Tulum Ruins get busy by late morning, so come early. Avoid crowds by arriving before 11 AM.
- From the parking lot, it’s an 800-m (0.5mi) walk to the entrance. You can hop on a family-run shuttle (50 MXN, which is USD 3) per person to avoid the midday heat. The breeze from the sea makes it cooler than inland site, but wear a hat and hydrate. Shade is limited, and don’t forget to wear sunscreen.
- As of July 2025, the Tulum Ruins are usually open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Check their official website before visiting.
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2. Swim with Turtles in Akumal
There are two kinds of animal experiences in Riviera Maya: the staged ones and the ones that stay with you forever. Swimming with turtles at Playa Akumal falls into the second category. It’s one of the most rewarding and natural things to do in Riviera Maya.
In the Maya language, Akumal means ‘Place of the Turtle’, and this serene bay lives up to its name. Located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Akumal is easy to reach and excellent for a half-day adventure. Snorkelling here isn’t like a zoo. It’s real, wild, and intimate. With a snorkel and a little patience, you’ll float alongside gentle giants in clear waters. To guarantee turtle sightseeing in the best part of the bay hire a certified local guide. You can find them right on the beach, and prices vary. Try to haggle if it’s a quiet day.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Skip the dolphin shows in the Riviera Maya and don’t get fooled by tourist brochures offering swims. They come at the cost of captivity and are staged and stressful for animals. Unlike artificial animal attractions, this lets you see turtles on their terms. You’re not watching animals perform. Instead, you get to witness turtles behaving naturally, not doing tricks for food. The bay is calm and perfect for beginner snorkellers. Plus, the turtles here are used to humans.
GOOD TO KNOW:
If you go without a guide, head east of the protected zone to look for turtles. Book a small-group tour from Playa del Carmen with transport, entrance fee, and gear. Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen, and respect the turtle’s space (no touching).
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3. Chichen Itza
Did you know the Pyramid of Kukulkan is so precise that its shadow creates a serpent on the stairs during the equinox? The Maya didn’t just build monuments; they designed living calendars. This ancient structure literally tracks time using shadows, how fascinating is that? Moreover, each side of the pyramid has 91 steps, and together with the top platform, they total 365 (one for every day of the year).
If you’re hunting down iconic things to do in Riviera Maya, make sure Chichen Itza is high on your list. It’s one of Mexico’s most visited archaeological sites (and for good reasons). This former Mayan city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
The site itself is breathtaking. You’ll explore El Castillo, the world-famous Pyramid of Kukulkan and the Great Ball Court, where players once competed in sacred games. According to the HistoricalMx website, it is the largest and best-preserved ball court in Mesoamerica, and its size is mind-blowing. Besides that, your guided tour will show you the ancient Temple of Warriors, and the incredible El Caracol Observatory, where the Maya astronomers mapped the sky.
El Caracol Observatory
WHY WE LOVE CHICHEN ITZA:
We have visited Chichen Itza twice so far. The site is huge, mysterious, and tells thousands of stories carved into stone. During your tour with an expert tour guide, you’ll learn about a powerful civilization that shaped the region and their intelligence and artistry will blow your mind. No matter how many photos you’ve seen online nothing compares to standing before the El Castillo pyramid in person.
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GOOD TO KNOW:
- The Chichen Itza tour is perfect for anyone in Playa del Carmen, Playacar, Tulum, Cancun, and even Puerto Morelos. If you’re based on Cozumel Island or Isla Mujeres, it’s a much longer trip (you’ll need to take the ferry first).
- Bring sun protection, sunscreen, and water. Wear comfortable clothes and comfy shoes.
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4. MUSA underwater museum
Did you know that, according to Wikipedia, the Caribbean Sea is home to about 9% of the world’s coral reefs? Nearly 90 species of marine mammals, including bull sharks, dolphins, and sperm whales live in or around the reef system.
Looking for unforgettable things to do in Riviera Maya? Don’t miss MUSA – the Underwater Museum of Art. Located offshore from Isla Mujeres and Cancun’s Punta Nizuc, this one-of-a-kind museum is one of the most ambitious projects on Earth. Started in 2009, MUSA now holds more than 500 life-sized sculptures resting on the sea floor between 3 to 6 m (10 to 20 ft) deep. The goal? Take the pressure off the overstressed natural reefs, which see more than 750,000 visitors a year. The sculptures attract marine life and give corals a chance to grow back. It’s a living, breathing gallery beneath the sea, a marine wonderland and an eco-solution, rolled into one.
According to the official website, the museum has three separate underwater galleries and is only accessible by snorkelling, glass-bottom boat or scuba diving. The sculptures sit in shallow water, making it perfect for first-time divers. Guided beginner scuba tours are also available, or you can stay at the surface and snorkel above coral-covered artwork.
WHY WE LOVE MUSA:
MUSA is art with purpose. It’s not just an art installation but a living reef where nature and artwork come together. Each sculpture becomes part of a growing reef, blending creativity with conservation. It’s a museum you’ll never forget.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- MUSA Underwater Museum is one of the best attractions you should book if you’re staying in Cancun or Puerto Morelos. Avoid if based in Tulum, Akumal, Playacar, or Playa del Carmen as it is too far.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen.
- Touching sculptures harms the delicate marine growth.
- Choose between guided snorkelling, glass-bottom boat or scuba diving.
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5. Snorkel at El Cielo Cozumel
FUN FACTS: Starfish digest food outside their bodies, have no brain or blood, and can live up to 35 years. They’re masters of regeneration – some can regrow entire bodies from just one arm! You can see these fascinating creatures up close during the El Cielo Cozumel snorkelling tour.
THE STARFISH PARADISE YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT:
If you’re searching for unique things to do in Riviera Maya, this tour is for you. The El Cielo snorkelling tour is a guided half-day adventure across Cozumel’s top underwater spots. Located just off the coast of Cozumel Island, El Cielo (meaning ‘Heaven’) lives up to its name with shallow, crystal-clear water and white sand dotted with vibrant starfish. The tour usually starts with a boat or catamaran ride. Guides take you snorkelling at Palancar Reef and Colombia Reef, and finally to the starfish-covered El Cielo Sandbar.
Snorkelling here offers so much more than just starfish. You’ll float above coral reef gardens, enjoy schools of colourful tropical fish, and maybe even swim with stingrays. Certified guides keep things safe and informative, making this tour ideal for beginners. Most tours also include snacks, drinks, and even a beach picnic.
WHY WE LOVE CIELO SNORKELLING IN COZUMEL:
You don’t need to dive deep to experience real marine magic. It’s safe, easy, and deeply impressive. It’s also one of the few places where you can swim above fields of wild starfish in water so clear you can see every detail.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- El Cielo Cozumel snorkelling tours are perfect for anyone staying in Playa del Carmen, Playacar, or Cozumel Island. It’s not ideal if based in Puerto Morelos, Tulum or Akumal, as it’s a long trip involving a ferry from Playa del Carmen and a boat tour. Be sure to plan ahead.
- Only use eco-friendly sunscreen.
- Bring a waterproof camera – you’ll want to remember this experience.
- Take responsibility for how you engage with the natural world. Don’t touch or lift starfish; they’re fragile, easily stressed, and handling them can cause serious harm. According to a Facebook group focused on wildlife conservation and marine life awareness, starfish cannot survive without water. It will suffocate if removed from water for too long.
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6. Swim in a cenote
Beneath the lush jungles of Mexico lies one of the world’s most fascinating secrets: thousands of crystal-clear pools known as cenotes. Slip into one, and you’re not just going for a swim. You’re entering an ancient natural wonder.
WHAT ARE CENOTES?
Cenotes are natural sinkholes formed when limestone collapses over underground rivers. There are over 6,000 of them across Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, according to Wikipedia. They began forming 66 million years ago after the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs hit nearby, fracturing the earth and filling the cracks with rainwater. Because the Yucatan Peninsula has no rivers, this underground network provides the region’s only freshwater. For the ancient Maya, these pools were sacred. They used them for drinking water, rituals, and as portals for the underworld.
Each cenote is different: some are open-air and bright, others are caves lit by shafts of sunlight. Some are shallow and perfect for swimming, others deep enough for scuba diving. They are easily one of the most unique things to do in Riviera Maya – and 100% worth visiting.
WHY WE LOVE CENOTES:
We love cenotes because they offer the perfect mix of nature, adventure and peace. You can swim in open pools surrounded by trees or explore half-covered caves. No two cenotes are the same, which makes each visit feel like a brand-new experience. No matter which cenote you choose, the experience is unforgettable. You can swim, snorkel, or just float and listen to the sounds of the jungle.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The best cenotes are along the Cenote Route near Puerto Morelos (30 min from Cancun). You can drive yourself or join a tour – it’s easy and stress-free. Water in cenotes stays cool year-round, around 25°C or 77°F, so bring a rash vest or wetsuit.
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7. Xcaret
Xcaret Park goes far beyond rides and attractions. This is where nature, history, and real Mexican culture meet in one powerful experience.
Xcaret is a privately owned theme park near Playa del Carmen. This massive archaeological reserve is built around real Mayan ruins and covers 80 hectares (200 acres). Here you can swim in underground rivers, snorkel near coral reefs, walk through butterfly pavilions, and take peaceful boat rides. You’ll walk through a lush jungle, and see a jaguar island, manatees, flamingos, and parrots. This park with over 50 natural and cultural attractions includes a replica of a Mayan village, a church, a colourful Mexican cemetery, and a fascinating museum. But what truly sets Xcaret apart is its spectacular evening show.
XCARET MEXICO ESPECTACULAR
The 2-hour evening Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show is the emotional heart of the park. Over 300 performers take you through the entire history of Mexico, from ancient Maya legends to modern times. It starts with a powerful ritual – the Owl’s Dance, where the Maya underworld lords summon twin gods to play the sacred ball game. From there, you’ll travel through centuries of Mexican history, from pre-Hispanic times to colonization, independence, and the revolution. The show includes performances like the Papantla Flyers, the Dance of the Old Men and the Pineapple Dance. You’ll also enjoy listening to mariachi bands and traditional songs from every corner of Mexico. The show ends with a powerful rendition of ‘Mexico en la Piel song’ that gives you goosebumps.
WHY WE LOVE XCARET:
The Xcaret’s evening show is deeply moving. It’s not just visual, it tells Mexico’s story with heart and pride. Both times we visited, it brought tears to our eyes. It’s an unforgettable way to understand and feel the soul of the country. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Mexican heritage, plus memories of a truly magical experience.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Xcaret is easy to reach from Playacar, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Puerto Morelos. It’s about an hour from Cancun. Not ideal if staying on Cozumel or Isla Mujeres, since you’ll need a ferry and then get a ride. The park is huge, so wear comfy waterproof shoes and bring a swimsuit. And if you do nothing else, don’t miss the evening show – it’s worth the ticket alone. They even have Xcaret at night with a show (from 4 PM to 10 PM). You can purchase it if you don’t want to spend a whole day in a theme park.
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8. Sian Ka’an
Sian Ka’an is a protected biosphere on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, near Tulum. It’s the largest nature reserve in the region, covering 5,280 square kilometres. Recognized by UNESCO in 1987 for its exceptional biodiversity, it’s home to jaguars, dolphins, manatees, and four types of sea turtles. Over 300 species of birds live here, alongside 23 ancient Maya archaeological sites, including the ruins of Muyil. It even has the remains of a 20th-century railway.
The only way to truly explore Sian Ka’an is with a guided tour. You can kayak through hidden lagoons, float in crystal-clear canals, or explore the breathtaking Mayan ruins.
WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT SIAN KA’AN:
The scenery, the wildlife, and the silence at Sian Ka’an combine into something truly unforgettable. It’s wild and remote, and you won’t find crowds here, most tourists head to theme parks instead.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- Easy access from Tulum, Akumal, or Playacar, too far from Cancun, Cozumel, or Isla Mujeres.
- Book a tour with a local guide to fully experience the reserve.
- Prepare for limited services, and no signal, and bring essentials, including water, snacks, and a full tank of gas if driving.
- There are only two entry points to Sian Ka’an:
- Muyil (lagoon side) – ideal for ruins and jungle tours, easy access from Tulum.
- Punta Allen (coastal side) – very remote, it takes 3 + hours to get there (by boat or 4 x4).
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9. Xel-Ha
Have you ever wished for a water park that doesn’t feel like a concrete jungle? Xel-Ha is a natural water park that does exactly that. It’s a perfect mix of rivers, cenotes, and marine life, all surrounded by tropical forests and rich Mayan heritage.
The name, Xel-Ha, means ‘where the water is born’, and it fits. This protected lagoon once served as an important Mayan port city from the 7th to 12th centuries. Now it’s a giant living aquarium where underground rivers mix with the Caribbean Sea. With its mix of freshwater springs and salty ocean tides, Xel-Ha offers unbeatable snorkelling. You’ll have a chance to spot colourful fish, stingrays, and even manatees. There’s also a scenic lighthouse: climb up, take in breathtaking views, then zip down one of the twisting waterslides. Whether you’re crossing a floating bridge, ziplining into the water, relaxing in a hammock or exploring nature trails, Xel-Ha keeps every moment exciting.
WHY WE LOVE XEL-HA:
Xel-Ha offers a family-friendly adventure, where sustainability comes first. The park recycles most of its waste and works with conservation groups to protect coral reefs and sea turtles. With EarthCheck certification and plant reforestation program, every splash supports sustainability. Plus, food, drinks and snorkel gear are all included.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Easily reached from Tulum (20 min) or Playa del Carmen (45 min), but a long distance if you’re coming from Cancun or islands like Cozumel. Don’t bring regular sunscreen, swap it for biodegradable options at the gate. This park is part of the Xcaret Group and offers transportation-inclusive packages.
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10. Dos Ojos Cenote
Dos Ojos means ‘Two Eyes’, describing the twin cenotes that resemble a pair of blue eyes in the jungle. But there’s so much more than beauty here. Beneath these calm surfaces lies something astonishing: a vast flooded cave system. © padi.com
Dos Ojos is part of an 82 km (51 mi) flooded cave system north of Tulum. According to Wikipedia, in 2018, experts discovered that Dos Ojos is connected to the Sac Actun underground system. Together they make the longest underwater cave system in the world. Beneath the surface, you’ll find stalactites, caverns, and crystal-clear waters that remain refreshing all year round. For those brave enough to dive, Dos Ojos offers one of the most iconic diving experiences in the world, with an average depth of just 5-7 metres (16-23 ft). Even if you’re not a diver, the shallow areas are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. With almost 30 cenotes in the park, including El Pit, Jaguar, and Nicte Ha, Dos Ojos cenote is easily one of the most magical cenotes on the Riviera Maya.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
The refreshing 25°C water is perfect on a hot day, and the visibility is excellent. Ideal for a mid-day escape from the sun, and it’s easy to get to if you’re staying near Tulum or Akumal.
GOOD TO KNOW:
You can find Cenote Dos Ojos 19 km from Tulum and 10 km from Akumal, with direct bus routes. It’s quite far from Cancun, Cozumel, or Isla Mujeres. Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, as of July 2025. Entry is 400 MXN (including vest and parking), or 700 MXN for the full tour (gear, guide, and access to the bat cave). Viator offers popular all-in-one tours(transport included).
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11. Rio Secreto
What if the river you’ll remember forever flows underground, through a hidden world sculpted over millions of years? Rio Secreto, or ‘Secret River’ in English, is just that. Discovered almost by accident in 2006, this surreal underground limestone cave system has become one of Riviera Maya’s most fascinating attractions.
What makes this place unforgettable? Rio Secreto is a 25-mile maze of tunnels, pools, and cathedral-like caverns, with only a small section open to tourists. You’ll explore a portion of it on foot through ankle-to-neck deep water. Sometimes you float through crystal-clear waters beneath a ceiling of stalactites, surrounded by twisting limestone formations. You’ll see underground pools, and surreal rock shapes and hear nothing but the sound of dripping water and your own heartbeat. This place is more than just beautiful, it’s deeply sacred.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Long ago, the Maya performed rituals here, leaving behind altars, pottery, and cave art. Today, Rio Secreto is a protected nature reserve inside 250 acres of jungle, home to deers, jaguars, and sacred ceiba trees. Everyone can explore it, even non-swimmers. You’ll be guided safely the whole way. Each visit helps fund environmental efforts. Part of every dollar you spend goes toward preserving the ecosystem and supporting water protection efforts.
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GOOD TO KNOW:
- LOCATION: Near Playa del Carmen, easy reach from Tulum, Akumal, and Playacar
- Rio Secreto tours are safe and beginner-friendly (no swimming skills needed). Water depth varies, but the tour is walkable most of the way.
12. Isla Mujeres
Ever dreamed of a day without traffic, noise, and crowds? Isla Mujeres is that place. Known as the ‘land of the women’, once sacred to the goddess Ixchel, now it’s a paradise for beach lovers and snorkelers. It’s small (just 7 km long), easy to explore, and has gorgeous white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and Mayan ruins. It lies only a short 15-minute ferry ride from Cancun. Take a catamaran tour with snorkelling and an open bar. Once you arrive, explore the Ixchel Temple or relax on Playa Norte, one of the top beaches in the country.
WHY WE LOVE ISLA MUJERES:
We love Isla Mujeres because it’s compact, relaxing, and offers a mix of beauty, history and fun, with no stress. It has postcard-perfect beaches and it’s one of the only spots on the Riviera May with no seaweed problems.
READ MORE: Things to do on Isla Mujeres.
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13. Swim with Whale Sharks
They’re as long as a city bus and weigh more than an elephant.
Whale sharks may look scary at first, until you realize they’re basically massive, underwater vacuum cleaners. These calm, slow giants usually grow up to 12 m (39 ft) long but feed only on plankton and small fish. According to the WWF website, they can’t bite or chew, and filter over 6,000 litres of water every hour through their gills. They live for 80 to 130 years and are listed as endangered. Seeing one up close is an unforgettable moment. And swimming with one? Truly unforgettable and one of the most unique attractions on the Riviera Maya.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Each summer, they gather in the warm, plankton-rich waters near Isla Mujeres. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can safely and ethically swim alongside them. Floating next to the ocean’s biggest fish connects you with nature in the most unforgettable way. It’s one of those moments when you realise how big the world is and how small you are in it.
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Now you know which Riviera Maya activities are worth your time and Mexican Pesos!
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