The Top 7 Things To Do in the Riviera Maya

Picture this: you're floating in crystal-clear freshwater inside a natural limestone sinkhole, with jungle vines hanging overhead and sunlight streaming through a hole in the rock. That's a cenote, and swimming in one is hands down one of the most unique things to do in the Riviera Maya. The Yucatán Peninsula has thousands of them, and no two look alike. Some are open-air swimming holes surrounded by greenery, while others are tucked into dark, underground caves full of stalactites. Booking a cenote tour in the Riviera Maya is an easy way to visit several in one day, and many include snorkeling gear, guides, and lunch. Make sure you bring a swimsuit, biodegradable sunscreen, and a towel.

Ready to feel like a historical explorer for a day? Head inland to the Maya ruins of Coba, where a whole ancient Maya city is hiding in the jungle. It's one of the coolest tourist attractions in the Riviera Maya, and it’s quieter than some of Mexico’s more famous archeological sites. The star of the show is Nohoch Mul, one of the tallest pyramids on the Yucatán Peninsula. Climbing the pyramid has been restricted in recent years to ensure its preservation, so check the current rules before you go. 

Another great spot to hit in Coba is Xaibé. It stands out for its oval shape, which you don't see much in Maya architecture. Historians think it may have been built to honor the seasons and the Maya calendar, though its exact purpose is still a bit of a mystery. What we do know is that it sits at the meeting point of several of Coba's ancient stone roads, called sacbés, which lines up nicely with its name: Xaibé means "crossroads."

Here are some pro tips: Coba’s entire archeological site is huge, and the paths are long. Consider booking an excursion that includes bike rental, or hiring a taxi driver to explore the entire archeological site. Trust us, your legs will thank you. Also, make sure you get there early to beat the heat and the crowds.

Here's a fun fact: tequila isn't actually made in the Riviera Maya (that's Jalisco's thing). But going on a fun tequila tour in the Riviera Maya is still one of the most enjoyable ways to spend an afternoon if you’re a fan of this tasty spirit.

You'll learn how agave gets turned into delicious tequila, and you'll finally understand the difference between blanco, reposado, and añejo. And yes, there are tastings, usually with snacks, and sometimes mezcal and other local liqueurs too. It's a great pick among Riviera Maya activities if you need a break from the sun, or if you're traveling with a group of friends looking to have a great time.

Riviera Maya water parks stand out because they're built right into the landscape, and Xel-Ha is the best example. Known as the world's largest natural water park, it's centered around a stunning cove where freshwater rivers meet the sea. You can snorkel among colorful fish in the lagoon, float down a lazy river on an inner tube, swim through underwater caves, and zip line above the jungle canopy. If you're up for a thrill, the Cliff of Courage lets you jump from a bridge into the clear water below. Xel-Ha is a winner for family trips, since there's something for every comfort level, from gentle river floats to cliff jumping. Towels, snorkel gear, and food are typically included with admission, so you can spend the whole day there without much extra planning.

Xcaret is another Riviera Maya favorite, though it leans more into culture than pure water thrills. It combines swimming through a half-mile underground river with wildlife encounters, a butterfly pavilion, and nightly cultural shows celebrating Maya heritage, so you can easily spend the whole day swimming and learning. If you're staying at the all-inclusive Barceló Xcaret hotel, you'll be right next door to all the fun, which makes things extra easy. It's also a winner for family trips, since there's something for every age.

Not a lie-on-the-beach type of person? Then a Riviera Maya jungle tour is right up your alley. Picture yourself on an ATV or buggy roaring through the jungle, zipping down a zip line, rappelling down a canyon, and cooling off with a dip in a cenote or with a ride down a giant water slide.

One of the best ways to visit the Riviera Maya jungle is by spending a day at an adventure park that bundles a bunch of these outdoor activities together. These experiences range from "a little bouncy" to "hold on tight," so there's something for every comfort level. Xplor is a great option for this, with zip lines, vehicle riding through the jungle, and underground rivers to swim or raft through. Take some time to research your options, and run with it!

When the sun goes down, Playa del Carmen comes alive. Looking for things to do in Riviera Maya at night? Head straight to Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida). This pedestrian street is packed with restaurants, bars, live music, and beach clubs, and the party keeps going late. Whether you want a quiet cocktail or a night on the dance floor, you'll find your scene.

Come back during the day, and it's a whole different vibe. Quinta Avenida is a great spot for shopping near Riviera Mayaresorts, with handmade crafts, silver jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. With over 22 blocks of shops, bars, and restaurants, you just can’t go wrong in Playa del Carmen.

And when you need a break from browsing, the beach is never far away. Playa del Carmen's main beach runs right alongside Quinta Avenida, with soft white sand and calm, warm water that's easy to wade into. Grab a lounge chair at one of the beach clubs, or just find a spot on the sand and watch the boats go by.

Ready for some island hopping? Taking a day trip from the Riviera Maya to Cozumel is easy and so worth it, especially if you’re staying in or near Playa del Carmen. Ferries run regularly from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, and the ride takes about 45 minutes. The nice thing is that the ferry drops you right in the port where you can easily hire excursions and boat tours. Because Cozumel is famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reef, and “El Cielo” starfish sandbar, it’s a popular destination for divers and snorkelers alike. If you plan to take a boat tour and jump in the water, make sure you bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard to protect you from the sun.