The starting point is Cancun, where you can also stay for the first days of your trip.

Along the 22 km of coastline, you will find beaches for all tastes, some of them large and lively, with waves for surfers, while others are more protected and quiet. Don’t miss the archaeological site of El Rey in the Hotel Zone.

The Hotel Zone of Cancun, shopping, and nightlife will not leave you indifferent. Coco Bongo is one of the most famous local nightclubs, although there are smaller venues where you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Isla Mujeres is a tiny island that can only be accessed by ferry from Cancun.

Relax in Playa Norte, watch sea turtles, and swim with whale sharks. Don’t miss a visit to Garrafon Park, an ideal place for snorkeling, as its waters are not too deep and are full of bizarre reefs and colorful aquatic species.

You can also go kayaking or bathe in a temazcal (a traditional sauna).

The cliffs of Punta Sur are a sight to behold, especially at dawn. Nearby are the archaeological remains of the Temple of the Mayan goddess Ixchel, which gave the island its name before the Spanish colonists discovered it.

Rent a golf cart to get around the island. It is worth stopping at the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA), where 500 sculptures are submerged underwater, although you can access it from both Isla Mujeres and Cancun.

Taste local cuisine, based on fish and seafood.

Return to Cancun.

Holbox is a small island, without asphalt, of only 40 km wide and 1,5 km long, located on the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. There are no cars in Holbox, and visitors can only get around on foot, by golf cart, or by bicycle.

One of the main and popular attractions of Holbox Island is its bioluminescent sea, and Punta Cocos Beach is the best place to enjoy this amazing phenomenon that makes the water glow with every movement.

Punta Mosquito is a partially accessible white sand bank with panoramic views.

Isla Holbox is home to pink flamingos, pelicans, and other exotic birds, and the more adventurous can rent a kayak and explore its mangroves. The Holbox Island is also home to whale sharks.

Just a 30-minute boat ride from Holbox is the Yalahau Cenote (Ojo de Agua), a place with fresh water that, according to ancient legend, has strange properties: diving into its waters will make you feel 10 years younger.

Don’t forget to try one of the most typical dishes, lobster pizza.

Return to Cancun.

Leaving Cancun behind head to the next destination – Playa del Carmen.

Halfway there, stop in Puerto Morelos, a small fishing village, known for the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park. The underwater site is part of the Mesoamerican Reef. Its leaning lighthouse and beach are worth a visit.

Another option is to visit Xel-Há, considered one of the largest natural aquariums in the world. Take an underwater walk. On the surface, you can visit some Mayan remains – such as the Bird Building.

Xcaret Park could be another alternative plan: a tropical forest, a Mayan village, a museum, an aquarium, a butterfly garden, a sea turtle pool or an aviary are some of the activities you can do there.

Continue to Playa del Carmen where you will find a lot of accommodation options.

Playa del Carmen is an area with frenetic activity. Located in the heart of the Riviera, this cozy resort town combines natural beauty, culture, and fun. Its Fifth Avenue is famous, full of shops and restaurants.

Visit Cozumel, the largest island in Mexico. Cozumel is located about 19 km off the coast of Playa del Carmen. To get there, you’ll need to take a ferry from Playa del Carmen to San Miguel de Cozumel, the island’s main town.

Discover the boardwalk and Plaza del Sol in San Miguel.

Visit the Punta Sur National Park and Ecological Reserve and enjoy a beautiful panoramic view from its lighthouse, soak up Mayan culture at the island museum and the jungle-surrounded archaeological sites of San Gervasio.

Cozumel is a paradise for diving lovers, as it has more than 40 diving spots.

Delight in the local cuisine, where lionfish, prepared in ceviche, grilled or breaded with coconut, is the star.

Return to Playa del Carmen.

Drive an hour south from Playa del Carmen to the famous ruins of Tulum. Between the 13th and 14th centuries, this was one of the main Mayan cities and an important port, so its archaeological remains are located next to the sea.

This region is full of cenotes, lagoons, underground rivers, and white-sand beaches.

This area has a variety of ecosystems (jungle, tropical, wetland, savannah, and sea) inhabited by more than 2,000 species of plants, 345 species of birds and 70 species of mammals, as well as turtles, crocodiles, and iguanas.

Return to Playa del Carmen.

Three and a half hours separate Playa del Carme from Mahahual, your next destination on this road trip. It’s another of the best areas for diving in the Mexican Caribbean, as it has the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve.

The largest of Mexico’s coral atoll is located here. The bottom of the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve contains the remains of Spanish and English ships from the 16th and 17th centuries that perished in its waters.

Mahahual is also famous for its paradisiacal beaches.

After a hard day of sightseeing, and adventures, the best thing to do is relax in one of the local restaurants on the Mahahual Malecon (boardwalk) to enjoy local specialties such as ceviche, grilled fish, or tacos al pastor.

An hour’s drive away is the hidden city of Chacchobén in the middle of the jungle.

The next destination is Chetumal, a two-hour road drive from Mahahual.

Chetumal is the perfect contrast between the sea and the jungle. Its bay is a protected area, as it is home to numerous manatees (a native species of mammal that lives in the sea), birds, and marine fauna.

Take advantage of your stay here to tour the center, where you can visit its market, the cultural center of the Fine Arts, where you can see exhibitions and concerts, as well as stroll along the boardwalk and the bay.

Don’t forget to order a Machado or try its sea and jungle dish, stuffed shrimp or lobster with white wine, garlic, and butter.

Near the city, there are several archaeological sites of the Mayan culture, the closest being Oxtankah, but there are also others a little further away such as the archaeological sites of Kohunlich, Dzibanché, and Kinichná.

Return to Chetumal.

Start the day early with a visit to Bacalar, a peaceful and picturesque town around a 1.5-hour drive from Chetuma. Explore the Bacalar Lagoon with a boat tour, and swim in the crystalline waters of the Pirate’s Channel.

Take time to wander through the charming streets of Bacalar, where you can enjoy a quiet lunch overlooking the lagoon, and visit the Fort of San Felipe, a colonial-era fort built to protect the area from pirates.

Continue your journey back to Riviera Maya, which is about a 3-hour drive from Bacalar. You can end the trip with a relaxing evening at one of the Riviera Maya’s many beautiful beaches or a quiet dinner at a seaside restaurant.

Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos boasts pristine sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs. This small but charming coastal town offers a serene escape with its laid-back quiet atmosphere, attracting travelers and vacationers seeking tranquility.

The beaches of Puerto Morelos are amazing and tranquil places for a relaxing day.

Explore Puerto Morelos’ famous leaning lighthouse and enjoy fresh seafood at seaside bars and small restaurants. Immerse yourself in rich marine life on snorkeling and diving adventures or guided fishing boat tours.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is the largest city on the Riviera Maya. The city is a heaven for beach enthusiasts and shoppers alike. The vibrant Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) features an array of shops, restaurants, and lively nightlife.

Playa del Carmen is a gateway to the natural wonders and ancient Mayan ruins.

Akumal

Dive into the clear waters of Akumal and discover a world where the beauty of nature and marine life come together in perfect harmony. Akumal is more than just a beach heaven, it’s also the ideal place for snorkeling.

Snorkeling in Akumal is a must-do experience for every underwater adventurer.

Akumal is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, its captivating underwater world provides unique opportunities to encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat, adding a magical touch to the snorkeling experience.

The laid-back atmosphere makes Akumal a haven for seeking a quieter retreat.

Tulum

With their bohemian-chic ambiance, Tulum eco-resorts combine ancient wonders with modern luxury, a harmonious blend of sustainable tourism and breathtaking landscapes, providing an idyllic retreat for eco-travelers.

The iconic Tulum Ruins overlook the Caribbean Sea, providing a breathtaking backdrop to explore Mayan history. The town itself features trendy beachfront resorts, eco-friendly boutique hotels, and a rich culinary scene.

Tulum is a magnet for eco-travelers looking to unwind amidst stunning landscapes.

Paraiso Beach

Paraiso Beach is a slice of paradise along the Mexican Caribbean coastline.

With powdery white sands and azure waters, this beach destination invites travelers to unwind in a tranquil setting. Enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, engage in water activities, or simply bask in the sun.

Paraiso Beach is a haven for those seeking a serene escape with a touch of tropical allure.

Punta Maroma

Punta Maroma is known for its beautiful beaches and lush green surroundings. Nestled north of Playa del Carmen, this destination caters to those seeking luxury and privacy on the bustling rowdy Caribbean coastline.

The beachfront here is a postcard-perfect blend of turquoise waters and soft, sandy shores. Punta Maroma is synonymous with upscale resorts, providing an ideal retreat for travelers looking for an intimate and refined beach experience.

The are some luxury resorts in Punta Maroma and the surrounding area.

PlayaCar

PlayaCar, a resort community in the south portion of Playa del Carmen, seamlessly blends luxury and nature. This upscale destination offers exclusive beach access, golf courses, and a stylish atmosphere.

Stroll along tree-lined streets, explore Mayan ruins, and indulge in upscale shopping and dining experiences. PlayaCar is a distinctive destination for those desiring a refined beach vacation with a touch of cultural exploration.

Paamul

Nestled between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Paamul is a charming and secluded beach spot. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and pristine coastline, Paamul is a retreat for those seeking a quiet escape.

The intimate cove-like beach provides a peaceful setting, making it perfect for relaxation and unwinding away from the bustling crowds.

Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras is a resort community situated along the Riviera Maya.

This charming coastal small town is known for its upscale marina, which features shops, restaurants, and even dolphins. The local community offers a mix of luxury resorts, vacation rentals, and a golf course.

Scuba diving in Puerto Aventuras unveils an underwater paradise, where divers can explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter diverse marine life, and immerse themselves in the captivating beauty of the Caribbean Sea.

With its picturesque setting and a variety of water-based activities, Puerto Aventuras is a popular destination for those seeking a more relaxed and exclusive coastal experience, away from the bustle of Cancun.

Xcacel

Xcacel, a hidden treasure along the Riviera Maya, offers a pristine and eco-friendly beach experience. Known for its turtle sanctuary, Xcacel provides a unique opportunity to witness nesting turtles and their hatchlings.

The beach itself is a natural paradise with soft sands and clear waters, making Xcacel an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a more untouched coastal environment away from noisy tourist crowds.

Xcaret Park

Xcaret is a sprawling eco-archaeological park located on the Riviera Maya.

Xcaret Park activities seamlessly combine nature, culture, and adventure. Visitors to Xcaret can explore underground rivers, witness cultural performances, interact with wildlife, and discover archaeological sites.

The park is known for its commitment to conservation and sustainability, offering a wide range of activities that showcase the beauty of the natural environment and the rich history of the region.

Xel-Ha Park

Xel-Ha is a natural aquatic theme park with the diverse marine life of the Riviera Maya.

The park is centered around a large natural inlet and lagoon where freshwater from underground rivers meets the saltwater of the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can snorkel, discovering colorful fish and other marine species.

Xel-Ha also offers a variety of activities such as zip-lining, nature walks, and cultural experiences. It’s a family-friendly destination that allows guests to connect with nature while enjoying a range of water-based adventures.

Ziplining at Xel-Ha Park is an exhilarating adventure, where thrill-seekers can soar above lush landscapes, enjoying panoramic views and an adrenaline-pumping experience in the heart of this natural aquatic theme park.

Explore the rich tapestry of the Riviera Maya with Coba ruins day trip, Chichen Itza guided tour, Sian Kaan, and Cozumel, each promising a journey into ancient history, pristine nature, and the vibrant culture of Mexico.

• Visit the ruins of Coba
• Visit the iconic Chichen Itza
• Visit the nearby Cozumel Island
• Visit Cancun and Isla Mujeres
• Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve exploration

Embark on underwater caves and grottoes journey through cenote tours. Immerse yourself in the sinkholes, where crystal-clear waters beckon for a refreshing swim, and the play of light creates a magical ambiance.

Cenote tours in the Riviera Maya offer enchanting adventures beneath the surface. Whether you are an experienced diver or just a novice, cenote tours are an exciting and unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Accommodations for every taste

Riviera Maya caters to various preferences. From small charming hotels exuding local flair to mega all-inclusive resorts ensuring a luxurious stay, the accommodation options are as diverse as the towns themselves.

Relax at luxury resorts in Punta Maroma, discover the charm of boutique hotels in Tulum, or enjoy a family-friendly retreat in the welcoming atmosphere of PlayaCar. There are accommodations to suit every budget.

Getting to Riviera Maya

Reaching this tropical paradise is convenient, thanks to the Cancun Airport. As the sole airport in the area, it is served by major international airlines, providing direct or non-stop flights from around the world.

Cancun Airport transfers, private shuttles, and local low-cost budget “colectivos” offer safe and convenient transfers to anywhere in the Riviera Maya. From Cancun’s downtown to Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Chetumal.

Buses from Cancun also provide regular service to Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen, offering a budget-friendly and scenic alternative. There is a bus service from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, the route takes 1 hour.

Driving in Riviera Maya is a viable option that offers flexibility in getting around.

Cozumel is a year-round scuba diving destination on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, known for its easy drift dives with stellar visibility, vibrantly colored sponges, and marine life like turtles, nurse sharks, and rays.

The Cozumel diving scene is also known for its assortment of well-run dive resorts, from budget to luxury. Boasting great nightlife and an endless list of things to do, Cozumel is a popular travel destination for scuba divers and non-divers alike.

That said, Cozumel might not be the best diving spot for divers who prefer quiet off-the-beaten-path locations. Cozumel could get really crowded during the high season which typically runs from November to April.

Scuba diving in Akumal provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the waters of Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Akumal is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts, drawing them in with its clear azure waters and rich marine biodiversity.

The main attraction of Akumal is its coral reefs with a diverse range of marine species.

From graceful sea turtles gracefully navigating through the waters to schools of tropical fish darting around the coral formations, each dive offers a chance to witness the intricate interactions of aquatic life.

Akumal’s appeal lies in its suitability for divers of various skill levels.

The warm waters and excellent visibility make it an ideal destination for divers. Whether you’re seeking to obtain your diving certification or are a seasoned pro, Akumal’s underwater realm guarantees an educational and captivating experience.

Scuba diving in Akumal offers an educational gateway to the underwater treasures of the Caribbean. Its diverse marine life, thriving coral reefs, and distinctive cenotes combine to create an informative and unforgettable diving adventure.

Diving in cenotes is an extraordinary and unique underwater adventure in Yucatán. Cenote Dos Ojos derives its name from the two connected sinkholes that reveal an intricate network of submerged passages and chambers.

This cenote system offers divers an unparalleled chance to explore the mesmerizing world of underwater caves.

The crystal-clear freshwater of Dos Ojos provides exceptional visibility, allowing divers to witness the stunning geological formations and ethereal light effects created by the interplay of water and sunlight.

Diving into Cenote Dos Ojos requires specialized training due to the cave environment. Certified cave divers can venture into the deeper sections of the system, navigating through tight passages and expansive chambers adorned with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites.

For those without cave diving experience, Cenote Dos Ojos also offers cavern diving opportunities.

Cavern dives allow qualified divers to explore the illuminated portions of the caves, where sunlight filters in from above, revealing an otherworldly landscape of submerged formations and intriguing shadows.

As you venture through the subterranean passages, you’ll encounter the quietude of an environment untouched by time.

The cenote’s mystique, coupled with the challenge of cave diving, creates a one-of-a-kind experience that beckons to adventurous souls seeking to unravel the secrets of the underground.

Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA) is located in the waters surrounding Cancún and Isla Mujeres. MUSA is an innovative underwater museum that features a captivating collection of submerged sculptures created by various artists.

MUSA provides a unique platform for artistic expression and promotes the growth of coral reefs. The sculptures act as artificial reefs, attracting marine life and encouraging the formation of coral habitats, thereby contributing to the ecological health of the area.

Divers exploring MUSA are treated to an immersive experience where they can interact with the sculptures while witnessing the gradual transformation of these installations into living ecosystems.

The crystal-clear Caribbean waters offer excellent visibility, allowing divers to appreciate the intricate details of each sculpture and observe the marine inhabitants that have made them their home.

Diving in the Sea of Cortez unveils a marine wonderland off Mexico’s Baja California coast. Renowned as “The Aquarium of the World,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts unparalleled biodiversity.

Vibrant coral reefs, playful sea lions, and whale sharks are just a glimpse of the marine life found here. With excellent visibility and varied dive sites suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers, the Sea of Cortez offers an immersive adventure.

Exploring its turquoise waters means encountering a captivating array of species and experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the planet’s most diverse and extraordinary underwater ecosystems.

Diving in Huatulco, situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast, unveils a hidden aquatic paradise. With warm waters and diverse marine life, this destination caters to both beginners and experienced divers.

Huatulco’s underwater realm features vibrant coral formations, intriguing rock formations, and an array of marine species, including tropical fish and sea turtles.

The calm currents and clear visibility enhance the diving experience, allowing for unhurried exploration of the underwater landscapes. From shallow reefs to deeper sites, each dive offers a chance to encounter the rich biodiversity of the Pacific.

Whether you’re seeking to earn a certification or simply enjoy a unique underwater adventure, Huatulco’s captivating waters promise a memorable and educational diving experience.

Diving in Puerto Morelos, nestled along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, offers a captivating underwater encounter. This marine haven boasts the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system globally, making it a diver’s paradise.

The National Marine Park of Puerto Morelos showcases vibrant coral formations teeming with marine life. Divers can swim among graceful rays, curious nurse sharks, and colorful schools of fish.

The protected reef ensures pristine conditions and diverse dive sites suitable for all levels. Exploring Puerto Morelos unveils an enchanting world beneath the waves, where nature’s beauty and marine biodiversity converge.

Puerto Morelos is divided by a highway and a mangrove swamp into three sections. The section west of the highway is known as “Colonia Joaquin Zetina Gazca”. The section east of the highway is called “Colonia Pescadores”. The section on the coast east of the mangrove swamp is “Puerto” or “Antiguo (old) Puerto Morelos”. This original coastal fishing village is now a quiet, mixed-use neighborhood of private homes, hotels, condominiums, restaurants, and tourist shops.

The second part is about 2 km. inland and adjacent to Highway 307, on the western side. The inland portion is mainly single level dwellings for local workers. New residential developments have sprung up in recent years adding to the housing mix. There are now multi-story apartment buildings, and private residential developments between the highway and the mangrove where one can buy lots and build a house of one’s own design.

Classified as tropical wet and dry climate, because its driest month has less than 60 millimetres (2.4 in) of precipitation and also less than 100 − (total annual precipitation [mm]/25), also because each month has a mean average above 18 °C (64 °F).

It has historically been the main port between the mainland of Yucatán and the Island of Cozumel, and an automobile ferry used to run from Puerto Morelos to Cozumel. The town is named after Independence leader José María Morelos.

Resorts are abundant in the Puerto Morelos region along the Riviera Maya and attractions, such as the Crococun Crocodile Zoo, the Botanical Garden, and a host of cenotes are also increasing in number. Recently new smaller inns have been built like Layla Guesthouse which offers an evening program of Talks on local history, marine biology, and healthy living practices.

One hundred meters off shore lies the Puerto Morelos portion of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, designated as a National Marine Park in 1998 due to local environmental activists.

Puerto Morelos has grown rapidly with the development of tourism and as of the 2010 census is the home to 9,188 people.

You can dial 078 from any phone, where you can find free information about tourist attractions, airports, travel agencies, car rental companies, embassies and consulates, fairs and exhibitions, hotels, hospitals, financial services, migratory and other issues.

Or dial the toll-free (in Mexico) number 01-800-006-8839.

You can also request information to the email correspondencia@sectur.gob.mx

MORE EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

General Information: 040 (not free)

SNational Emergency Service: 911

Radio Patrols: 066
Police (Emergency): 060
Civil Protection: +52(55)5683-2222
Anonymous Complaint: 089

Setravi (Transport Mobility): +52(55)5209-9913
Road Emergency: 074

Cruz Roja: 065 o +52(55)5557-5757
Firefighters: 068 o +52(55)5768-3700