Active, Relaxing, and Romantic Things to Do in Riviera Maya 

Looking for an escape from the winter doldrums? Planning ahead for your summer vacation? 

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or romance, the 100-mile stretch of beach on the Yucatan Peninsula is sure to please. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Riviera Maya, Mexico. 

Adventure

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Riviera Maya, consider swimming in a cenote, exploring ancient ruins, or swimming with sharks.

Cenotes are basically sinkholes that have filled with groundwater, and one of the best things to do in Riviera Maya is to swim in their crystal clear waters. There are hundreds to choose from in the Yucatan Peninsula, offering open-air swimming adventure or deep mysterious cave-like experiences. Some are even deep enough for snorkeling. 

The Riviera Maya is filled with ancient historical sites, some dating back to the 13th century. The ancient Mayan ruins in Tulum offer well-preserved artwork and architectural structures. Forty-five minutes away, you’ll find an ancient pyramid in Coba. Boasting 137-feet tall, visitors are welcome to climb it. 

If you’re feeling super-adventurous, consider a swim with the sharks. Whale sharks congregate in the shallow waters off the coastline of Riviera Maya between June and September. Dive equipment is not required to view these spectacular endangered creatures. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you don’t want to miss! 

Relaxation

If you’re looking for a great place to spend a relaxing day, consider one of these small towns. Half Moon Bay, Puerto Morales, and Xpu Ha are lesser-known to the tourist crowds. They offer quieter, less congested beaches on which to relax, read a book, or sunbathe. 

Half Moon Bay offers amazing snorkeling in crystal blue waters. It’s not uncommon to spot sea turtles, barracuda, and other tropical fish. 

Puerto Morales is known as the starting point of Riviera Maya. The non-commercialized scenic town is a great place to relax, shop, and eat. 

Xpu Ha is also basically unknown to tourists and offers a relaxing small-town atmosphere with uncrowded beaches. Relaxing on the beach is one of the best things to do in Riviera Maya for free. 

Romance

For those looking for romantic things to do in Riviera Maya, you won’t be disappointed. 

Want a little romance without leaving the beach? In Playa del Carmen, you can get a couples massage on the beach. Enjoy an outdoor dinner as you watch the sun set, and then go for a stroll on the beach.  

What’s more romantic than swimming with your partner in a “secret river”? Rio Secreto is an underground cenote with crystal clear water surrounded by majestic cave formations.

Explore the Many Things to Do in Riviera Maya

There are so many amazing things to do in Riviera Maya! Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, have adventures, or enjoy a little romance, a piece of beachfront real estate promises opportunities for all three. 

If you’ve enjoyed this article, be sure to check out more travel articles here on this blog.