Where is Riviera Maya?
Let’s begin by saying that Cancun traditionally isn’t part of the Riviera Maya… but these days, it is often considered part of the area. The Cancun airport is typically the landing point for tourists eager to explore the Riviera Maya.
Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, the Riviera Maya is an almost 100-mile stretch of coastline that begins south of Cancun in the town of Puerto Morelos and winds all the way to the fishing village of Punta Allen.
Beach towns like Tulum and Playa del Carmen as well as islands such as Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are all part of Riviera Maya.
There are loads to explore in this beautiful area, so here are our picks for the best things to do in Riviera Maya.
Riviera Maya Things to Do Highlights
There are so many Riviera Maya excursions, given that the towns of Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun are popular destinations. Here are a couple of recommended local tours within multiple destinations.
- Cenotes Tour: Cenotes are one of Mexico’s most famous features, and Riviera Maya is a great place to discover a few of these natural wonders and snap some Instagram-worthy pics.
- Cook a meal with a local family: If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, check out this awesome foodie tour where you get to cook local delicacies with a family. Highly recommended!
- Discover the Sian Ka’an Biosphere and Muyil Ruins: If you’re looking for a unique experience, look no further. This unique tour will take you through ancient Mayan Ruins, jungles, and more.
- Ruins Day Trip: Of course, no trip to Mexico is complete without seeing the magnificent Mayan ruins, and this trip is a great way to do just that while you are exploring the Riviera Maya.
- Holbox Day Trip: If you’re tight on time and only have a day, consider booking this day tour to Holbox Island, home to one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.
- Turtles and Cenote Tour: This magical tour takes you through some of the best cenotes in the Riviera Maya as well as to a few snorkeling spots where you can spot some turtles.
Shopping Tips For Playa Del Carmen
#Tip 1 – Don’t Feel Pressured
*There are many sellers up and down Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue whose job it is to get people passing by to at least have a look at their goods.
*Like great martial artists, they practice their art every day. With time, their tactics become more advanced, their words more convincing. But that doesn’t mean you have to fall for it
*First of all, remember these are people just trying to survive. Some may be like sleazy used car salesmen, most are honest folks attempting to make a living in an extremely competitive environment.
*Second, breathe….Nothing is going to happen if you go into their store or not. Simply avoid direct eye contact, say thank you politely, and either move on or visit their store.If you do decide to shop around, you’re not obliged to purchase anything and shouldn’t ever feel as if you are.
# Tip 2 – Shop Wisely
*There are several large souvenir shops up and down 5th Avenue.
*Bright lights and full-blown A/C are just part of the tricks used by these mega stores to lure you in.
*They may have some good deals on certain products, but remember that these are all mass-produced, many even in China. These places are fine for things like key chains or magnets, but are not an ideal choice if you want something of better quality or original.
*You’re best off purchasing items such as tequila and t-shirts elsewhere.
*Plus, if you are conscious of your footprint and want to contribute to the local economy, there are many local stores with local owners who produce their own creations and are looking to compete against the Walmart-style competition of the larger chains.
#Tip 3 – Compare Prices
*Take time to shop around for whatever it is you’re looking for to make sure that the price you’re given is acceptable.
*Once you’ve seen the different prices (and quality), you can make an informed decision and not a bad or expensive one in haste.
Book Here
