Last Updated on June 22, 2020 by Amanda Stancati
Vacationing in Mexico’s celebrated Riviera Maya? With 135 km of coastline, all-inclusive resorts and tropical weather, visitors love to simply spend quality time on the beach. But there is plenty to experience off the resort as well. The Riviera Maya has it all: water sports, nightlife, spas, adventure, fine dining, golf. That’s why we curated a list of Mayan Rivera excursions, so you can make the most of your Mexico vacation.
1. Snorkeling in Cozumel
Scuba diving and snorkeling off the coast of Mexico’s largest island is paradise for the water sports enthusiast. Divers from all over the world come to Cozumel to explore the Mesoamerican Reef, containing the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. It provides a home to over 250 species of tropical fish, turtles, and stingray. Families can also enjoy swimming with the dolphins or manatees in Cozumel.
2. Xcaret Park
Xcaret eco-archaeological park is sure to be a vacation highlight for nature-lovers. Swim or take a raft and tour the underground Paraiso River through bat caves and tunnels. Walk the Tropical Jungle trail tour and learn about regional plants like latex, cinnamon, and vanilla as you pass by. There is also a butterfly pavilion, wild bird aviary, coral reef aquarium, orchid greenhouse, marine turtles, jaguar island, manatee lagoon, natural pools, and regional wildlife like deer and monkeys to discover. With so much to do, this is one spot not to miss!
3. Isla Mujeres Day Trip
This small island is 8 km long and less than 1 km wide. A historic fishing town, Isla Mujeres maintains its laid-back vibe and authenticity. Tourists can see families in their traditional Caribbean-style homes, mending fishing nets and socializing. Fill your day with snorkeling, fishing, and sun tanning on the beach. Visit the turtle farm, Isla Mujeres Tortugranja, a government sponsored safe-haven where endangered sea turtles can hatch.
4. Playa Del Carmen
What was once a small fishing village is now a hip Mexican city with white sand beaches and an artistic atmosphere. Visit Playa del Carmen’s most famous street, Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) for souvenir and craft shops, restaurants, bars, and palm trees. On this pedestrian walkway, you’ll find great dining, from simple tacos to lobster dinners. At night, the streets come alive with reggae, rock, and salsa music, making even those with two left feet want to dance along.
5. Visit Tulum Ruins
Add a bit of history to your all-inclusive beach vacation with a trip to Tulum. A mix of Mayan ruins and stunning beaches, Tulum’s archeological sites are set along the Caribbean on 39-feet tall cliffs. You can visit the biosphere reserve of Sian Ka’an (a World Heritage Site) for its tropical forests, marshes, barrier reef, and rich flora and fauna (spot dolphins, crocodiles, sea turtles, birds, monkeys, and more). Forty-five minutes from Tulum is Coba, home to the 138-foot tall pyramid where you can climb to the top. There’s adventure here as well: snorkeling, ziplining, and repelling make for an adrenaline-filled experience.
Anything spark your interest? Contact your travel agent to arrange fun-filled Mayan Riviera excursions when they book your vacation or browse online!
