What you may not realize is the Riviera Maya and Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula itself also contain dense jungles and some of the best cenotes you’ll find anywhere in the world.

What’s a cenote?

Since limestone bedrock can be found all across the Mayan Riviera, over the years many of these areas of porous rock have formed into underground rivers. These freshwater underground rivers usually form caverns of crystal clear water as the limestone filters and purifies the water naturally.

Eventually, many of these caverns have collapsed and have opened themselves up to the sky, ready to be explored. These limestone sinkholes are called cenotes and there are literally thousands of them found across this Mexico region, with new ones still being found today in the Riviera Maya.

What this means for you, is that no matter where you go in the Mayan Riviera, you’ll likely find one of these inviting cenotes to spend your day. Whether you’re there just to swim, jump off the surrounding cliffs or even there to go snorkelling and scuba diving in, cenotes offer a great way to explore the Riviera Maya’s hidden world away from the beach.

Coming from the Mayan word “dzonot” or “tsonot,” which essentially translates to “well” in English, cenotes (pronounced “say-no-tays”) also hold a historical value to the region. The ancient Mayans realized that these large wells could supply enough freshwater to sustain entire villages and even larger ancient cities like Chichen Itza relied on cenotes to survive.

Some of these pools were considered sacred and everything from gold to jade to gorgeous mother of pearl jewelry have been found over the years including the bones from ancient sacrifices the Mayans did to procure a bountiful season. While the sacred pools remain closed and have been preserved, the rest of the Riviera Maya’s cenotes are open for visitors.

Types of Cenotes in Riviera Maya

There are essentially four types of cenotes found in Riviera Maya. This includes open air cenotes, semi-open cenotes, cave or semi-closed cenotes and underground cenotes.

Open air cenotes tend to resemble small ponds or lakes with the vast majority of the water easily accessible. Though they can often have steep sides, they’re fairly common to find and offer ease of access vs the other cenote styles. These are best for families as everything is within site and access to the water is usually the easiest.

Semi-open cenotes are cenotes with rocky overhangs. Often a good portion of the cenote is considered open air with corners that are partially blocked from the sky. They tend to feature darker areas that are fun to explore with snorkeling gear. Generally they’re fine for families as well.

Cave cenotes are typically cenotes with a small hole leading to the sky. It is often darker while swimming here and you often need to take a ladder to get down to the water itself. Not recommended for smaller children, they probably feature some of the best high diving you’ll find if you’re an adventure seeker.

Underground cenotes are exactly as they sound. These flooded cenotes are closed off from above and can only be explored by scuba diving and usually only with a knowledgeable guide. Also only recommended for expert cavers.

Why visit a cenote in Riviera Maya?

While sun and sand make for a great vacation, sometimes it’s nice to check out something new. With cenotes found near most of the major areas in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, getting to one often only takes a short trip. Some are also adjacent to popular archive sites or make a great stop when visiting other areas of the peninsula.

So, if exploring crystal clear, freshwater pools in a naturally formed limestone setting sounds like a perfect day away from the salt and sand of the Mayan Riviera (it really is), read on as we take a look at the best cenotes in Riviera Maya.

Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Cristalino is one of the first cenotes our family ever explored in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. Interestingly, Cenote Cristalino is also one of the first cenote posts we ever wrote on this site back in 2010 so it still holds a special place in our hearts.

Just a stones throw away from Playa Del Carmen (10 km south of Playacar proper) and an easy taxi ride to get there, it’s not as popular as some of the bigger cenotes on this list however we’ve always enjoyed the times we’ve visited it. Almost across the road from Barcelo Maya Beach All Inclusive, it’s few open clear water pools complete with nibbling minnows make it an inviting cenote to visit.

It’s also less touristy than many of this list as the area is less developed. The last time we were there a few years ago, it also hadn’t been bought out by a bigger company so it still maintains a rustic charm. You can find a place to buy snacks and changing rooms exist on site. There’s a small daily fee to get in.

Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul is a nice open cenote that appeals to families and those looking for a relaxing day out. Its shallow areas are perfect for children, while deeper sections satisfy snorkelers and those wanting to swim a few laps. The surrounding rock formations offer spots to jump from for the more adventurous visitors.

Walking distance from Cenote Cristalino, it offers more services such as showers and restrooms. There is a small fee to use the services there however it’s only a 10 minute ride from Playa Del Carmen so makes for an easy getaway if you’re staying in the region.

Cenote Dos Ojos

One of the most famous cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, Cenote Dos Ojos, or “Two Eyes Cenote,” boasts two connected sinkholes resembling a pair of eyes. Its crystal-clear waters and extensive underwater cave system make it a paradise for snorkelers and especially divers as it features an fairly extensive labyrinth of flooded caves to explore. The light filtering through the openings also creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for underwater photography.

The day we went to Cenote Dos Ojos, we saw many more divers than swimmers. Since the water in this luminescent blue cenote can be quite deep, it’s definitely not geared towards younger families though ours were fine with the lifejackets we brought that day and the cave portion is quite cool to see.

Geared more towards divers that swimmers, there are changing rooms, bathrooms, lockers for rent and even a restaurant on site. Cenote Dos Ojos can be found approximately 22km (13 miles) north of Tulum on Carretera 307.

Gran Cenote

A short 10 min drive from Tulum proper up QROO 109, Gran Cenote is a semi-open cenote surrounded by lush vegetation. Its clear, turquoise waters are home to turtles and small fish, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Numerous wooden platforms and stairs provide easy access for swimming and soaking up the serene beauty of this natural pool.

While it’s much quieter than Doj Ojos, Gran Cenote is a bit more friendly towards families and is a quick trip from Tulum. There are open caves you can easily swim into and lots of the cenote bottoms have sand you can stand on. While you can’t stay right by the water, you can spread out above the cenote area. As the name implies, Gran Cenote itself is quite large.

One of the biggest draws to Gran Cenote in Maya Riviera are the turtles and the short distance to Tulum. There are showers, bathrooms, lockers and even hammocks you can use. Day fees at Gran Cenote are around the 200 peso range.

Cenote Zacil Ha

Just down the road from Gran Cenote, Cenote Zacil Ha is another cenote favorite for those staying Tulum. Cenote Zacil Ha features a very open air feeling and even includes a small zipline you can use to get into the long pool.

Cenote Zacil Ha makes a great (and cheap) refreshing stop when returning from the popular Coba archeological site. At under 100 pesos, it features bathrooms and changing rooms.

Cenote Aktun-Ha

Another cenote close to Tulum and just a few hundred meters from Cenote Zacil Ha, Cenote Aktun-Ha (“water cave”) is a very large open air cenote in Riviera Maya. It also nicknamed Cenote Carwash as the local taxi drivers used to use the water to wash their vehicles.

With plenty of turtles and fish in the cenote, it has a maximum depth of around 18m or 60ft so you’ll see the occasional diver down below as well. There are restrooms, changing rooms and platforms you can use to access the water. It also features a 10ft (3M) diving platform

Cenote Ik Kil

Located near the very cool and popular Chichén Itzá, Cenote Ik Kil is an open-air cenote with dramatic vine-covered cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The circular shape of this cenote and the hanging roots reaching down towards the water surface create a mystical vibe.

It’s a popular spot, so consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds or stay for a few days at one of the cabins on site. Cenote Ik Kil includes bathrooms, change rooms and even has a restaurant on site. Prices are in 100 Peso range for adults and 50 Peso for children.

Cenote Zací

While not in Riviera Maya itself, located in the heart of Valladolid, Cenote Zací is a semi-open cenote that offers a convenient break from city exploration. Its massive open cave features a small island with lush vegetation in the center, and its waters are home to rare eyeless black fish. The on-site restaurant provides a unique dining experience with views of the cenote.

Located between Cancun and Chichen Itza, Cenote Zaci is also a great stop if you’re exploring the ruins that day and want to cool off before driving the rest of the way back to Cancun. Though the waters in this cenote aren’t the clearest, swimming in the giant cavern of Cenote Zaci is an unforgettable experience. It has bathrooms, changing rooms and a restaurant on site. Prices are around 60 pesos for adults and 30 pesos for children.

 Cenote Escondido (Mayan Blue) and Cenote Cristal

Cenote Escondido, nicknamed Mayan Blue by the locals, and Cenote Cristal are both large, open-air cenotes close to Tulum. Both feature jungle settings as well as have cliff jumping (12ft or 4m) and a rope swing.

These 2 cenotes are both owned by the same company and are right next to each other. Both offer ample parking, toilets, showers and changing rooms. Each cenote costs 150 Pesos as an entry fee. If having to decide between one or the other, most people recommend Cenote Escondido over Cenote Cristal. With more area to explore, Cenote Escondido is bigger, and almost feels like you’re swimming in a river than a typical cenote.

Tips for Visiting Cenotes in Riviera Maya

• Bring Eco-Friendly Sunscreen: To protect the delicate ecosystem of the cenotes, use biodegradable sunscreen however note that many cenote owners strongly discourage any sunscreen at all to minimize the impact lotions have on the system.
• Wear Water Shoes: Many cenotes have rocky bottoms, so water shoes can help protect your feet.
• Bring Mask and Snorkel: While many sites offer snorkel rentals, the quality can be suspect and paying for each use can add up over time. Better to bring your own and, if space is tight in your bag, leave the flippers at home and just bring along your mask and snorkel.
• Respect the Environment: Keep the cenotes clean by not leaving any trash behind. Each cenote is a natural wonderland complete with a delicate ecosystem. Make sure to minimize your footprint when visiting.
• Check for Entrance Fees: Most cenotes charge an entrance fee, which is used for maintenance and preservation.
• Make sure you don’t get scammed: The most expensive cenotes charge up to 150 pesos for an adult but many charge only 50 or 60 per person.
• Leave valuables at home: Small theft around certain cenotes is a problem. Leave your valuables at the hotel or rent a locker on site if you have things you don’t want walking away.
• Extra costs for cameras and drones: A few companies have realized they can have an upcharge for people bringing in costly cameras and drones and have decided to charge extra for it. Depending on the cenote, the costs can equal the entrance fee. If you don’t need it, leave it behind.

Whether you’re an avid cave diver, a snorkeling enthusiast, a cliff jumper or simply looking for a picturesque spot to relax, the cenotes of the Riviera Maya offer something for everyone. Each cenote has its unique charm, inviting visitors to explore the hidden treasures of the Yucatan’s underground world.

With something unique to see at each cenote, from stalactites and stalagmites to colorful turtles and even more colorful fish, you’ll never get a chance to experience such a large array of cenotes anywhere else on the planet.

We’ve written dozens of articles about Mexico over the years and often consider the Riviera Maya and Playa Del Carmen to be our second home.

This stretch of Mexico is a playground for the sun-seeking and adventure-loving traveler. It’s where you can kick off your flip-flops and dive right into a sea of activities. From the chill vibes of Puerto Morelos to the ancient whispers of Tulum’s ruins, there’s a slice of paradise here for everyone.

Things to Do on the Riviera Maya in Mexico

Ready to explore coral reefs, dine on top-notch tacos, or zip-line through lush jungles? Let’s get started and unwrap the best things to do on the Mayan Riviera and explore everything this coastal wonderland has to offer.

What is considered the Riviera Maya?

The Riviera Maya extends along Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, covering a 75-mile coastline from Puerto Morelos to Punta Allen. This region includes popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, known for its beaches and shopping; Puerto Aventuras, with its marina; Akumal, famous for snorkeling with sea turtles; and Tulum, renowned for its Mayan ruins and white sand beaches. It’s where you can take your Mexican passport on a joyride of experiences, from culinary to culture to art or enjoying yourself in nature.

Puerto Morelos: Relaxed Coastal Charm

Kick off your Riviera Maya adventure in Puerto Morelos, a stone’s throw from Cancun and the gateway to this coastal paradise. It’s a chill spot with a big heart, boasting an inviting beach and a sea brimming with life. Don your snorkel gear and meet the local marine residents around the vibrant coral reefs. For a splash of adventure, the cenotes nearby are perfect for a cliff-jump thrill.

Playa del Carmen: Urban Beach Bliss

Next up, Playa del Carmen offers up its bustling streets and powdery sands. It’s your ticket to exquisite eats and a hub for excursions to ancient Mayan sites and crystal-clear cenotes.

There’s a lot to do in Playa del Carmen, but be sure to indulge in some retail therapy on the bustling 5th Avenue (Quinta Aveneda) in Playa del Carmen, a vibrant street lined with shops, restaurants, and bars all a stones throw from the beach.

If shopping isn’t your thing, master the waves with a SUP rental where the chill vibe of surfing meets the balance challenge of standing up. Playa del Carmen’s waters are perfect for beginners and pros alike to paddle out and enjoy the view from a different perspective.

There are enough fun things to do in Playa del Carmen to keep you busy for weeks, but if you’re looking for a little art and culture, check out the vibrant Frida Kahlo Museum in Playa del Carmen. It’s a wonderful break from the beach to celebrate the life and work of the iconic Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo.

Chichen Itza: Echoes of the Ancient Maya

If you want to explore the mysteries of the Mayan people, don’t miss Chichen Itza, a testament to the Maya’s architectural genius, enveloped by the jungle yet standing proud and colorful, still echoing with ancient tales. It’s a few hours inland from the Mayan Riviera proper but makes for a great day trip.

Akumal: Turtle Haven

In Akumal, tranquility reigns supreme on some of the Riviera Maya’s finest sands. It’s a snorkeler’s haven where majestic turtles glide through the waters with grace.

Fun read: The DIY Guide to Snorkeling with Endangered Sea Turtles in Akumal Mexico

While you’re there, kick back at La Buena Vida. This is a beachfront bar in Akumal where you can relax with a drink in hand and enjoy stunning sea views.

Tulum: Coastal Ruins and Culture

Then there’s Tulum, where history perches on cliffs overlooking the sea, offering a glimpse into the Maya’s coastal life.

While you’re there, rent a bike and explore Tulum’s bustling streets, beautiful beaches, and nearby cenotes at your own pace.

Exploring Cenotes: Nature’s Subterranean Wonders

Discover the Riviera Maya’s hidden gems: cenotes. These natural limestone pools are gateways to an underwater world of crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations.

Dive into Cenote Cristalino, a favorite for its sparkling, refreshing waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Not far away, Cenote Dos Ojos beckons the more adventurous souls with its vast network of caves, perfect for diving deep into the Yucatan’s subterranean mysteries. Whether you’re looking for a serene swim or an underwater adventure, the cenotes are a must-visit and they literally dot the Riviera Maya for miles and miles.

Cozumel: Island Adventures

Finally, we have Cozumel. An island gem wrapped in hues of blue. A paradise for underwater explorers and fishing enthusiasts alike, it offers some of the most stunning aquatic experiences around. Regarded as home to some of the best snorkeling in Mexico, Cozumel makes a great day trip from Playe Del Carmen or a fine place to bed down for a week or two. Being a cruise ship destination, it’s also a thriving area to explore.

The Wonders of Xcaret

Step into Xcaret and be swept up in a cultural fiesta. This park is a kaleidoscope of Mexico’s natural beauty and rich traditions, from the mystic underground rivers to the natural zoo to the vibrant dance performances that light up the night.

Serenity at Xpu-Ha Beach

Escape to Xpu-Ha Beach near Puerto Aventuras for some down time. Here, the beaches are quieter, the vibe is relaxed, and the coastline is just as stunning.

Adventure at Xplor Park

For the thrill-seekers, Xplor Park waits with open arms. Zip-line through the treetops, steer through jungles in amphibious vehicles, and swim in the cool embrace of ancient underground rivers.

Discover Sian Ka’an’s Natural Wonders

A journey to Sian Ka’an, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve site, is a journey into the wild heart of the Riviera Maya. Spot rare wildlife and explore landscapes that have remained unchanged for centuries.

While you’re there, be sure to visit the Muyil archaeological site. Also known by its alternative name, Chunyaxche, Muyil stands as one of the oldest continuously occupied Maya sites along the eastern Yucatan Peninsula.

Taste the Flavor of the Riviera Maya

Dive into the local flavor with Riviera Maya’s must-try dish: fish tacos. Fresh, zesty, and packed with flavor, they’re the essence of coastal cuisine on a plate. While you can find foods from all around the world in the Riviera Maya, eating local is the best way to experience it. From street vendors to hidden treasures you can find some of the best Mexican food here and while we won’t share our favorites, know that some of them will leave you wanting to eat there every night.

Swimming with Whale Sharks in Isla Holbox

For an encounter of a lifetime, swim with the whale sharks in Isla Holbox. These gentle giants offer a moment of awe and connection with the ocean’s wonders that you won’t easily forget. Tours for them can be booked from numerous locations around the Mayan Riviera.

Mayan History at Chetumal’s Museum

Immerse yourself in the deep roots of the region with a visit to the Museum of Mayan Culture in Chetumal. It’s a treasure trove of artifacts and stories, opening a window to the ancient world of the Maya.

Xel-Há Park: Snorkeling in a Natural Aquarium

Dive into the clear waters of Xel-Há Park, a natural wonder that’s often dubbed as one of the world’s greatest aquariums. This spot is a snorkeling paradise, where you can swim alongside a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and explore a lush underwater world that will leave you in awe.

Coba Ruins: Echoes from the Past

Reach for the sky as you climb the ancient pyramids at Coba Ruins. Step back in time as you traverse the same stone causeways that the Maya did in this venerable city. The view from the top is as breathtaking as the history is deep, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding jungle.

Rio Secreto: The Underground River’s Mystique

Journey into the earth at Rio Secreto, where an underground river flows through a network of caves lined with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. This hidden gem offers a surreal adventure, softly lit by the natural light filtering through, creating a serene atmosphere for exploration and reflection.

Fuente del Pescador: Chetumal’s Tribute

Take a stroll along Chetumal’s boardwalk to the Fuente del Pescador. This statue isn’t just a nod to the local fishing traditions; it’s a piece of art that tells the tale of the town’s connection to the sea.

Free Things to Do in Riviera Maya

Looking to save some money, and enjoy the free attractions in the Riviera Maya?

The Riviera Maya isn’t just a place for luxury resorts and exclusive tours; it’s filled with countless treasures that don’t cost a dime. Here’s a guide to soaking up the sun, culture, and beauty of this tropical paradise, all for free.

Beach-Hopping Along the Coast

Embrace the Riviera Maya’s best free offering: its beaches. From the vibrant shores of Playa del Carmen to the tranquil coves near Akumal, there’s a stretch of sand for every type of beach lover.

Pack a picnic, grab a towel, and soak up the sun-drenched beauty without spending a peso.

Strolling Through Tulum

The laid-back charm of Tulum is yours to enjoy at no cost. Wander the bohemian streets, soak in the atmosphere, and marvel at the mix of traditional and modern that makes Tulum unique. Don’t miss the iconic murals that add a splash of color to the town’s rustic façades.

5th Avenue Performances

Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue is an open-air stage where performers bring their A-game every night. From fire dancers to mariachi bands, the street comes alive most nights with free entertainment that rivals any paid show.

Joining the Fiesta at Cultural Festivals

Riviera Maya is rich in culture and often hosts festivals celebrating everything from local cuisine to traditional dance. These gatherings are free and offer a window into the soul of the region.

Parks and Playgrounds for the Family

Families can enjoy the public parks and playgrounds dotting the Riviera Maya. They’re perfect for an afternoon of fun with the kids, offering a chance to relax while the little ones play.

Artistic Explorations

Art is everywhere in the Riviera Maya, from the street art in Tulum to the galleries in Playa del Carmen, like the Gastón Charó Art Gallery. Take a self-guided tour and enjoy the creativity of local and international artists alike.

Window Shopping Extravaganza

The Riviera Maya’s shopping areas, like Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue, are a treat even if you’re just browsing. The vibrant window displays and lively atmosphere provide a festive experience that’s completely free.

Hiking Nature’s Pathways

The Yucatan’s natural beauty isn’t confined to the beaches. Hit the trails and explore diverse ecosystems, from coastal dunes to lush jungles, all for free.

Sunrise and Sunset Spectacles

Cap off your days with the stunning natural beauty of a Riviera Maya sunrise or sunset. Find a quiet spot on any beach and watch the sky perform its daily color dance, a magical moment that’s absolutely free.

And there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the Riviera Maya’s best spots and experiences. You’ve snorkeled with sea turtles, cycled past ruins, dove into lime pools and even tried your hand at stand-up paddle boarding.

Each day brought a new adventure, whether you were chilling on a pristine beach or exploring an eco-park. As you pack up your memories along with your souvenirs, remember that the Riviera Maya isn’t just a place you visited; it’s a collection of lively stories and experiences that’ll keep the spirit of Mexico alive long after you’ve returned home. Safe travels, and until next time, keep the adventure going!

Need a break from the crowds of Cancun and Tulum? Holbox Island is calling!

Holbox, Mexico is a secluded paradise located off the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s a less-crowded island surrounded by stunning beaches, incredible wildlife, and plenty of things to do.

While small, Holbox is packed full of fun activities. So whether you’re looking to explore the island’s natural beauty, relax in a hammock, or get active, there’s something for everyone.

Things to Do on Holbox Island, Mexico

Here are eight of the best things to do on Holbox Island, Mexico.

Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, consider exploring the depths of Isla Holbox with a snorkeling or scuba diving tour and discover the island’s crystal clear waters teeming with colorful fish and amazing coral reefs.

The best time to go snorkeling or scuba diving is during the summer months, when the water is warm and visibility is at its best. There are many great spots to explore, but some of the best snorkeling can be found in the area around Punta Cocos Beach Club. Here, you’ll have a chance to spot barracudas, turtles, and a variety of tropical fish.

Swim with Whale Sharks

One of the most popular activities at Isla Holbox is swimming with whale sharks. These majestic creatures migrate to the island between the months of May and September, making it an ideal time to come and witness them in their natural habitat. This experience offers a unique opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close and take a dip in the crystal clear waters.

When it comes to swimming with whale sharks, be respectful and safe. It’s important to note that Holbox is only safe for swimming with whale sharks when they are actively feeding. If you see the whale sharks resting or moving too quickly, it’s best to stay away and not enter the water. During this time, you can still observe the whale sharks from the boat, but be sure to keep your distance and respect their space. Make sure to not get too close or touch the whales, as this can startle them and disrupt their natural behavior.

Swimming with whale sharks at Holbox is an amazing experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Take a Holbox Boat Tour

Experience the beauty of Isla Holbox from the sea with a boat tour. Holbox boat tours offer a unique way to explore the island and its stunning coastline, mangrove forests and small islands. With a tour guide leading the way, you’ll learn about local history and culture while getting the chance to spot wildlife such as dolphins, stingrays, and sometimes even whale sharks.

The waters around Holbox are safe for swimming and snorkeling, so you can also jump in to experience the vibrant coral reef firsthand. There are a variety of boat tours available depending on your interests and budget, from sunset cruises to all-day trips that include visits to neighboring islands.

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore Isla Holbox from the water.

Visit the Isla de la Pasión

Isla de la Pasión is a small uninhabited island located a few kilometers from Holbox Island. It is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and abundant wildlife. As Holbox continues to gain popularity as a tourist destination, more and more visitors are discovering Isla de la Pasión.

Getting to Isla de la Pasión is easy, as there are several tour companies on Holbox that will take you there. You can also rent a boat at the harbor and make your own way to the island.

Once on Isla de la Pasión, visitors will find an idyllic beach paradise, with crystal clear waters and white sand beaches that seem to stretch forever. There are many places to swim, snorkel and simply relax and take in the beauty of the island. The waters around the island are particularly clear and full of sea life, making it an ideal spot for spotting dolphins and other marine creatures.

Shop Holbox’s Local Markets

When visiting Holbox, it’s worth taking the time to explore the local markets. From handmade jewelry and clothing to souvenirs, there are plenty of great finds on this beautiful island.

Holbox has all the essentials and you can find everything you need for your vacation in these markets. Be sure to check out the artisans selling their handmade items, and don’t forget to purchase some gifts for the family. If you’re looking for souvenirs, there are plenty of shops selling t-shirts, hats, and other memorabilia that will remind you of your time on Holbox Island.

Visit the Punta Cocos Beach Club

If you’re looking for a fun day out on Isla Holbox, Mexico, then you can’t skip a visit to the Punta Cocos Beach Club. Located on the north side of the island, Punta Cocos Beach Club is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The club boasts a stunning beach and is has a lively atmosphere. You can lounge in the sun and cool off in the crystal-clear waters, sip a cocktail at the beachside bar and enjoy food from one of the local restaurants. There are also plenty of water activities to choose from, such as paddle boarding and kayaking.

Eat Delicious Food

While a small island, Holbox is packed with delicious food options from budget-friendly to upscale restaurants. There is a large number of vegan restaurants in Holbox, so conscious eating is definitely available on the island.

You can also find affordable and tasty snacks from local beach vendors and at the central markets. And while the island is generally more expensive than mainland Mexico, it’s safe to say, you won’t go hungry in Holbox.

Watch The Sunset

Nothing beats ending the perfect sun-bleached day as watching the sunset over the Ocean – and Holbox definitely serves up some incredible sunsets.

One popular spot to watch the sunset on Holbox is centrally located on Natural Pier. So, grab some beers, snacks and friends and bask in the beautiful sunset as it colors the island in a mixture of colors – maybe go for dip too.

Did you enjoy this article? You might like:

• Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen Mexico
• Xcaret in Cancun Mexico: Our Review
• How-to-visit-Cenote-Dos-Oyos-Tulum-Mexico

Micki and I have spent ample time in both Cancun and Tulum and love each of them for different reasons. While both offer something unique, we’ve found that we enjoyed our time in each place more once we defined what exactly we were looking for and matched it to our moods and expectations before arriving in Mexico.

Cancun or Tulum? Which is the Best Vacation Destination for You?

Though it can be an easy answer for those who’ve had the good fortune of visiting each destination previously, the decision essentially boils down to what features you’re looking for in a getaway as well as your budget, expectations, ease of arrival and even your timelines.

So, whether you’re in for vibrant nightlife and luxury resorts or a more serene getaway close to nature and ancient ruins, this guide will hopefully help you decide which destination suits you best.

Cancun: Vibrant Nightlife with Modern Luxuries

Cancun, often synonymous with the Spring Break crowd, is a well known resort town on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. The famous Hotel Zone is a long, beachfront strip of high-end hotels, nightclubs, shops, and restaurants, all facing the breathtakingly blue Caribbean Sea. Cancun is ultimately designed for travelers seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience with the convenience of modern amenities.

Why Choose Cancun?

• Vibrant Nightlife: Cancun’s nightclubs and bars offer an electrifying atmosphere with world-class DJs and parties that last until dawn.
• All-Inclusive Resorts: The city is known for its vast array of all-inclusive resorts catering to every type of traveler, from families to party goers to couples seeking high class romance.
• Shopping and Dining: With an extensive selection of shopping malls, boutique stores, and dining options, Cancun is a hub for those who enjoy urban conveniences by the beach.
• Activities and Excursions: Beyond the beach, Cancun offers numerous activities such as golfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and visiting nearby Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza.

Tulum: Bohemian Charm Meets Ancient History

A couple of hours south of Cancun, Tulum presents a contrasting vibe that’s more laid-back and immersed in nature. Known for its eco-friendly boutique hotels, Tulum is the epitome of a bohemian paradise, with yoga retreats, organic cafes, and artisan shops. Its beach is dotted with palm trees and rustic cabanas, with the ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the sea, offering a unique backdrop.

Why Choose Tulum?

• Eco-Chic Lifestyle: Tulum’s accommodations tend to be designed more in harmony with nature, often offering a sustainable and intimate experience.
• Cultural Richness: The town is close to some of the most significant Mayan archaeological sites, including the Tulum Ruins and Coba.
• Natural Wonders: From the nearby stunning cenotes (natural sinkholes) to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Tulum is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers.
• Wellness and Relaxation: With a focus on wellness, Tulum tends to attract those looking to unwind through yoga, meditation, and spa treatments using natural, local ingredients.

Things to do in Cancun

There are a myriad of things to do in Cancun from adventure tours to spas. Here’s a few of our favorites:

Playa Delfines stands out for its expansive stretches of sand and vibrant turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and even surfing. For those interested in marine life, the Interactive Aquarium Cancun allows visitors to get up close with dolphins, sharks, and a variety of tropical fish in interactive experiences.

Beyond the beaches, Cancun serves as a hub for exploring historical and natural wonders. The Mayan ruins at El Rey offer a glimpse into the ancient civilization right in the heart of the Hotel Zone. For a day trip, the majestic Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is within reach, offering insights into the Mayan culture and architecture.

Nature lovers will be drawn to the natural beauty of the cenotes, such as Cenote Ik Kil, with its crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Adventure parks like Xcaret and Xel-Há combine the beauty of the natural environment with thrilling activities, from zip lines and river tubing to snorkeling and cultural shows.

We also love heading over to Isla Mujeres for the day and if you had a group, taking a catamaran cruise over to it would be a fun way to get to and from the island.

Things to do in Tulum

Tulum’s charm lies in its ability to blend culture, history, and natural beauty into a serene and enriching experience.

The Tulum Ruins are the town’s most iconic attraction, perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. These ruins offer breathtaking views and a chance to walk through the remnants of a once-thriving Mayan port city.

Beach lovers will find their slice of paradise at Playa Paraíso, known for its powdery white sand and clear, calm waters, providing a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Cancun. For a unique experience, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve offers a chance to explore untouched landscapes, including beaches, coral reefs, and jungles teeming with wildlife.

Tulum is also famous for its cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with fresh water. Cenote Dos Ojos, for example, is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, with its clear, turquoise waters and intricate cave systems. We enjoyed our first time at Cenote Dos Ojos a few years ago. These natural pools offer a cool respite from the heat and a small peek into the geological wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula. Locally, there’s also Cenote Sac Actun and Gran Cenote that are very close to Tulum proper.

The town itself is a haven for foodies and those seeking wellness experiences. Tulum’s culinary scene is diverse, focusing on fresh, local ingredients and innovative dishes. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy their meals in the open air. Wellness retreats and yoga studios are abundant, promoting relaxation and mindfulness amidst the natural beauty of Tulum.

Making the Decision: Cancun or Tulum?

The choice between Cancun and Tulum ultimately boils down to the type of vacation you want.

Cancun is ideal for those who:

• Crave the excitement of a bustling city’s nightlife and entertainment.
• Prefer the convenience and luxury of large, all-inclusive resorts.
• Enjoy having plenty of shopping and dining options at their doorstep.
• Are looking for a vacation where everything is within reach, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure.
• Are okay with being near to resort properties along the beach.
• Want to be at their resort within 20 minutes of getting off their plane.

Tulum suits travelers who:

• Want a quieter, more serene setting that’s close to nature.
• Appreciate the charm of small-scale, eco-friendly accommodations.
• Desire a cultural experience, exploring ancient ruins and engaging with local traditions.
• Value sustainability and wellness as integral parts of their travel experience.
• Enjoy long stretches of beach with minimal large resorts.
• Are okay with longer drives to get where they want to be.

More to think about…

Both Cancun and Tulum are gateways to Mexico’s stunning Caribbean coast, but cater to distinct tastes and experiences. Cancun’s allure lies in its vibrant nightlife, luxurious amenities, and city convenience, making it a perfect choice for those who seek an energetic and pampered vacation.

Tulum, on the other hand, appeals to the soul seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a touch of history, all wrapped in an eco-conscious and wellness-oriented package with a smaller city to explore and closer to ruins and cenotes.

Your decision may also depend on the kind of memories you wish to create. Are you looking to dance the night away and indulge in the epitome of resort living with dozens of restaurants within a few blocks of your resort, or do you envision yourself waking up in a beachfront cabana to the sound of waves, ready to explore the depths of a cenote or walk around a Mayan ruin?

All this isn’t to say that you can’t find relaxation and tranquility in Cancun or a few wild parties in Tulum. Each location has its share of both, but Cancun’s tourist roots stretch farther back so in general, the hotels, restaurants and attractions cater to a larger, more boisterous crowd. What Tulum might turn into in 20+ years is still up for debate however now the building and style trend is definitely towards the more ecological side.

Where to Stay in Tulum

We’ve stayed in small hotels, condos and even more traditional all-inclusive resorts in and around Tulum over the years. Here’s a few personal favorites we’ve stayed at or had friends and family rave about.

Kanan Tulum Hotel and Spa – Gorgeous bohemian chic beachside resort

La Zebra Boutique Hotel – Smaller upscale boutique hotel on the beach

Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa – One of the larger more traditional all-inclusive hotels in Tulum

Copal Tulum Hotel – Tons of greenery and nice rooms right in town

Hotel Posada 06 Tulum – I stayed here a few years ago with Micki and the kids and had a great time. Quaint and quiet in town hotel close to shops and restaurants

Where to Stay in Cancun

We’ve done plenty of all-inclusives when staying in Cancun though we have stayed in a few condos and even a normal hotel when we had an early flight the next day. HZ refers to the Hotel Zone strip which runs north to south outside of the main city in Cancun.

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun – A personal favorite from when we stayed here last! Great spa and calm oceanfront at the northern end of the Hotel Zone.

Paradisus Cancun – Center of HZ with great views, tons of restaurants/nightlife and nice beachfront

The Westin Resort & Spa Cancun – Quieter location on south side of HZ giving you a nice tropical feel

Sun Palace – Couples only boutique retreat on the south of HZ

Ambiance Suites Cancun – Clean in town hotel great for a cheap overnight stay when needed

Getting There

Getting to Cancun or Tulum is relatively straightforward.

Cancun

Cancun has been on the tourist radar for decades now and has a popular and busy international airport only 20 minutes away from the Hotel Zone. Flights to Cancun tend to be cheap and plentiful from most North America, South American and European countries. Local buses are easy to jump on and off and taxis are everywhere plus ride sharing sites like Uber also exist.

Tulum

Tulum opened their very own international airport recently (Tulum Airport (TQO) | Felipe Carrillo Puerto Airport). However there are only a fraction of flights currently landing compared to Cancun, so if choosing Tulum, realize that you might be forced to land in Cancun and have to drive or take a bus or shuttle service (approximately 2 hrs from Cancun airport).

There’s a train route under construction from Cancun to Tulum, called the Tren Maya, which is sometimes referred to as the Mayan Train or Maya Train. The current projection is that the Cancun to Tulum route will be open in June 2024, but there’s a solid possibility of delays, so make sure it’s running if you plan to use it to get down to Tulum for your stay.

Taxis are easy enough to find though collectivos (small van-like local buses) are more the norm there for farther jaunts. Of course, both cities have good long distance ADO buses that can get you anywhere in the peninsula and even down to Belize or central Mexico.

Cancun or Tulum, Both Are Awesome

Whether you choose Cancun or Tulum, both destinations promise an unforgettable escape to the Riviera Maya. We’ve had amazing experiences in both places both with our kids and without and tend to call the Riviera Maya our unofficial second home. We’re excited to see how the new international airport in Tulum and the new Yucatan train changes both the landscape and the possibilities in the region. but time will tell if the train helps or hinders the areas it’s opening up.

In either case, you can’t go wrong with either location as the beaches are beautiful, the food is delicious and the people are welcoming.

10 seconds ago, I was tired from a long flight, worn down by my endless to do list, and I just wanted to collapse in a pile.

This is exactly what I need.

The Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun is perched on what’s likely the best location in Cancun. Beachfront, with stunning views and easy access to the water, it’s also in the heart of the Hotel Zone, with easy walking access to great restaurants, attractions, and more.

See prices and availability here.

Despite the close location to some of the most happening places in Cancun (including Coco Bongo’s, Senor Frog’s, the Hard Rock Cafe and Carlos’n Charlies), the resort is remarkably quiet and contained.

Grand Fiesta Americana Cancun Review

There are 602 ocean view suites at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach, each with a private terrace, and all of them facing the turquoise water of the Caribbean.

Here’s a little peek of the view from our fifth floor room. Heaven!

The Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun has a few plans to choose from: all-inclusive, a hotel only plan, plus a Grand Club access plan.

For this trip we wanted to sample some of the nearby restaurants so we opted for the hotel only plan. 

The Beach at Grand Fiesta Americana Cancun

We think that the beach at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach is one of the best in Cancun. Due to the resort’s north facing position in the Hotel Zone, the beach is well protected. Especially compared to the majority of the east facing hotels that adorn the rest of the hotel zone.

As a result, the waves are generally much smaller and, even when the red flags were out for the rest of the hotels, we could still swim in front of our hotel without problems. We also saw plenty of small children playing in the sand, which is rare on Cancun’s beaches that see bigger waves.

There are tropical palapas along the sand, and we found there was plenty of chair lounge access on the beach. There’s also a large floating dock not too far off from shore and, for those without kids, there’s even an adults only beach section.

The Pools at Grand Fiesta Americana Cancun

We love hanging out poolside, and the ocean side pools at the resort were a huge part of the reason we decided to visit.

See prices and availability for the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach.

We weren’t disappointed! There are three expansive swimming pools onsite at the Grand Fiesta American Coral Beach Cancun, all with gorgeous ocean views.

We spent most of our time in the main pool, which has the benefit of the most sun exposure (we visited in December, so we wanted a lot of sun), and also houses the poolside snack bar. There’s also a few fountains and water massage jets in the main pool that the kids loved playing with as well as a giant waterfall leading down to the other two pools.

The main swimming pool is also a multi-level pool, with different water depths. There’s a lovely shallow section that runs around most of the edge that’s perfect for kids or just to relax on, a deeper section that’s a bit quieter, and a pretty bubbly Jacuzzi opposite the snack bar. Like almost all Jacuzzis in Mexico, it isn’t heated, but the shallow water and bubbles are a lot of fun anyway.

One thing I really loved about the pools here is that we had absolutely no trouble finding poolside loungers for the four of us at any time of the day.

There are two other swimming pools onsite, both of which were a little quieter and cooler, and got a little more shade during the day than the main pool. I think these would be fantastic in slightly warmer months, where you’d want a break from the sun and heat. The other big pool also features another swim up bar but was quieter while we were there.

The Gem Spa at Grand Fiesta Americana

With a 40,000 square foot spa on site, complete with a custom 10 step hydrotherapy ritual, how could we resist sampling the waters?

We left the kids happily playing video games in the room one evening while we headed downstairs to enjoy a couples massage. What a fantastic decision!

Our 45 minute relaxation massages were fantastic and, truth be told, some of the best we’ve had.

The entire spa at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach in Cancun is beautifully designed and spacious.

Since we both love water, we took an hour (or two) to enjoy the Gem Spa’s
10-step hydrotherapy ritual. The hydrotherapy treatment takes you through ten treatments, ranging from hot, bubbling hot tubs, to steam rooms, to ice cold plunges. (Note: We didn’t take photos in the main hydrotherapy area to preserve the privacy of other guests).

The unique hydrotherapy experience ends in the main pool, where there are waterfall plunges (you can see them in the center), and bubbling loungers.

As you’d expect, there are light snacks, tea, and fruit infused water throughout the Gem Spa for the customers to enjoy.

The Kids Club at Coral Beach Cancun

Like everything else here, the Coral KidZ Club is top notch. It’s open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with lots of activities to amuse the kids, including beachfront sand castle building, sea shell hunts, crafts and other fun games.

Our kids deemed they were “too big” for the kids club, but we took a tour (during their closed hours) to check it out. It’s bright, and looks like a lot of fun (so much so that the kids were a little sad they didn’t check it out for themselves).

Just check out all the gaming stations (great for keeping kids occupied on rainy days) as you walk into the Kids Club.

There’s also an outdoor play area (check out that awesome dinosaur theme), plus an indoor stage.

There’s also a fun play area inside for the little ones.

Our Room at the Grand Fiesta Americana Cancun

Our room was on the fifth floor, making for an amazing view over the ocean.

The two queen beds were fantastic for the four of us (mom, dad, and two kids), with a large sectional couch for relaxing and enjoying that view, and a little sitting area.

One of the nice perks was the mini bar, which was loaded with pop, juice, and beer, and a nice selection of snacks, as well as some mini bottles of hard alcohol. Since we had a room only plan, no snacks or meals were included. The mini bar prices were about in line with what you’d expect for a nice resort in Mexico, for example, pop was a couple of dollars a can.

Since the hotel’s in the middle of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, there are plenty of Oxxo convenience stores a five or ten minute walk away. Just grab some snacks and drinks from there to save on mini bar charges.

There were a lot of lovely touches in the room, including fresh cut flowers in the bathroom.

Housecleaning was fantastic. The room was spotless when we arrived, and they kept it that way. They respected our do not disturb signs, and came in and whisked away our mess when we were downstairs enjoying the pools and beach in the afternoon.

One small downside was that our air conditioning was a bit loud. When the a/c fan blew through the ducts, there was a bit of rattling above the bathroom ducts. We solved that pretty easily by closing the bathroom door though.

Exercise Room at Grand Fiesta Americana

The exercise room here is spacious and clean, with plenty of equipment ranging from free weights to good quality exercise machines to spots for yoga and stretching. (They also had some amazing views overlooking the beach and pools.)

There’s even a snack bar, which is enough motivation to get me to the gym.

Food and Drink at Coral Beach Cancun

Since our rate included our room only, we mostly ate out at restaurants in the Hotel Zone. There’s a huge selection of nearby restaurants that’s all easily walkable!

Since one of our very favorite things at a resort is room service, we decided to check it out on our first night there. Exhausted from our late flight into Cancun, and really not wanting to deal with a restaurant with two tired and hungry kids, it was a nice perk for a travel fatigued family.

I was pretty happy to see that the room service prices were almost identical to the restaurant prices downstairs, plus a small service fee. There was a large menu and we even ordered in English with no trouble. To top it off, the food was really good (we tried a vegetarian pizza, cheese quesadilla, and a sandwich with fries), and it all came with a free mini dessert, and plenty of condiments, cutlery and real silverware and cloth napkins. Lovely!

The hotel has several in house restaurants, including an upper end Five Diamond Le Basilic restaurant, the fresh seafood restaurant Isla Contoy, and the cafe style La Joya. There’s also a poolside snack bar, with some very tasty choices, and a lovely hotel lobby bar with snacks.

The main floor of the hotel is given over to the restaurants, as well as a wide walkway filled with beautiful flowers, and plenty of art.

More Amenities and Activities

There’s a lot to see and do at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach resort hotel in Cancun. Our kids enjoyed themselves on the ocean view swings on the outside playground and the small children’s wading pool in front of it would be a great place for families with small children to hang out.

There’s also a daily teens & adults activities program, with lots of fun things to do if you want to try out a few new things.

Amenities at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach include beach loungers, a large health club and fitness center, yoga classes, free internet in your room, local phone calls, in room coffee and bottled water, concierge service and more.

Like a lot of major hotels in Cancun, the hotel also caters to weddings and celebrations. We watched for hours from the comfort of our loungers as they set up a huge dancing and party area off to the side of the complex in preparations for a wedding later that afternoon. It looked awesome and the people seemed really happy!

On the east side of the resort, there’s a beach side palapa that offers free kayaks plus free stand up paddle boards to the guests at Coral Beach, as well as Sea-Doos for a fee. We found it’s usually best to go in the early mornings if you want to take the kayaks or paddle boards out since the water gets rougher in the afternoon.

Right next to the water activities desk is a PADI certified dive shack with free pool lessons and paid daily dives to the local reefs including around nearby Isla Mujeres as well as trips out to the underwater museum.

We didn’t grab a Sea-Doo ourselves, but they sure looked like a blast!

Prices at the Coral Beach Resort

When we stayed at the beginning of high season, the rate was around $310 USD for a room only rate with two queen beds and ocean view.

There are a few different plans available at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach. We had the room only option.

There’s also a Grand Club access, where you’ll get a room on one of the resort’s highest two floors, Grand Club access to all amenities, a dedicated lounge and personal concierge, a VIP Penthouse lounge, beach side sundeck, and more luxury amenities. 

Like most resorts in Cancun, there’s a resort fee here of $25 USD per accommodation, per night. There’s also a small sanitation tax of 1.8 US dollars per night.

See prices and availability for the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach.

What we didn’t like about the Grand Fiesta Americana Cancun

There’s really not much to dislike here. Since we were at the hotel mostly for the beach and pools, and the hotel has some of the best in the Cancun Hotel Zone, we were pretty happy. Like most of the hotels in the area we wish the pools were a little warmer but they were fine for December which is typically one of the coolest months in Cancun anyway.

We didn’t try out all the restaurants on site so can’t comment too much on their quality however we did enjoy their room service, and both the snacks around the pool and the desserts at the La Joya cafe.

This is a small thing, but I would have loved if the beach and poolside canopy beds were free to all guests. There was a fee of around $50 USD, if I remember correctly, for a private canopy lounge bed which I thought was a little high for what the services you get with it. Beach and poolside lounger chairs are free and plentiful, though, which was a great perk all in all.

Over the past 10 years we’ve spent months in and around Playa del Carmen and the surrounding Mayan Riviera. In fact, some of the first posts on this blog, way back in 2009, were about the first few months we spent hanging at the beach in Playa del Carmen and checking out the nearby towns.

With quick access to Cancun, Cozumel, Akumal and Tulum there’s just so much to see and do around Playa del Carmen that we’ve even looked into buying a condo down there more than once.

It also doesn’t hurt that we can get cheap flights from Canada and that the Cancun airport is truly an international airport with some amazing flight deals to be had. How good you say? We once flew direct from Cancun to Madrid, Spain for $112 USD per person!

Looking for a vacation rental in Playa del Carmen? Vrbo has a great selection of vacation rentals in Playa del Carmen here. Check it out.

Over the years, we’ve written plenty of  posts on Playa del Carmen, including things to do in Playa del Carmen with kids, free things to do in Playa del Carmen and the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen.

Of course, we’ve found even more great places to see, so we’ve made this mega list of things to do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Things to do in Playa del Carmen Mexico

Wondering what to do in this part of the Yucatan?

Since there are so many things to do in and around Playa del Carmen itself as well as the rest of the Rivera Maya, I’ve broken the post in two sections. One for things to do in Playa Del Carmen itself and the other for things to do in towns nearby.

Do you have any great Playa del Carmen activities or places to eat? As always, we’d love to hear your recommendations both in the comments below.

Best Beaches in Playa del Carmen

Well, this one is pretty obvious, but with so many things to do around town some people can get sidetracked. With miles and miles of gorgeous white sand and clear turquoise water, the beaches in Playa del Carmen are gorgeous no matter where you happen to be.

Tip: There’s been an increase in the amount of sargassum (seaweed) on the beaches in Playa in the last couple of years. That said, you should be able to miss most of that if you visit a resort with a groomed beach. If not, then check beach conditions via a Playa webcam (Akumal webcam) or this useful sargassum forecaster.

As well as frolicking in the sea, you can rent everything from two person catamarans to stand up paddleboards, kayaks and bodyboards. You can also rent a lounge chair at most beach clubs that also include access to their swimming pool and facilities.

Though all beaches are public in Mexico, some of the best beaches in Playa del Carmen are:

Parque Fundadores

This is the main beach in town with it’s own park and playground. It’s the widest beach in Playa del Carmen and has volleyball nets and often impromptu soccer games on the sand. It’s close to both the bus depot and the pier as well as the little white church along 5th Avenue. It also has no beach clubs or hotels nearby so has a much more authentic feel however it can get a little busy some days with both locals and tourists together.

Mamitas Beach

One of the most famous (and busy) stretches of beach in Playa del Carmen is Mamitas Beach. Between the two beach clubs that dominate the area, Kool and Mamitas, you’ll find bass loving techno music and tons of drinks always flowing. As the premiere see and be seen beach in Playa del Carmen, you’ll find throngs of energetic young people dancing in the sand and enjoying the half mile of lounge chairs that engulf the beach.

Calle 10 Beach

Compared to Mamitas, Calle 10 Beach offers a quieter beach in the middle of town and a lifeguard station. There’s a decent budget beach club, Lido and not many people on the beach itself so it makes a great place to cool off for a few hours after walking the ever popular 5th Avenue.

Coco Reef Beach

If you’re willing to go a little farther for something much, much quieter than Mamitas, Coco Reef might be your ticket. Tucked away at the end of Calle 48 it’s not the easiest to get to but it’s about as secluded as any beach in Playa. With no beach clubs, restaurants or nearby bars it’s the perfect secluded getaway. It also has some of the best snorkeling directly in Playa del Carmen.

Playacar beach

Playacar beach is at the far Southern end of Playa del Carmen proper. It starts at the south size of the ferry dock going to Cozumel. Playacar is a gated resort community that also houses an all inclusive resort.

Since it’s such a long beach, some stretches are wide, while other stretches of beach are narrow.

The beach in Playacar is is a little south of the protection from Cozumel island offshore, so they can get a bit rougher and higher waves than beaches to the North.

All Mexican beaches are public, but stretches marked with beach chairs are considered reserved for resort guests, and you’ll likely be asked to move.

Walk along Quinta Avenida in Playa del Carmen

Known locally (and lovingly) as Quinta Avenida, going to Playa del Carmen wouldn’t be complete without a long walk along 5th Avenue.

Pretty much running from one side of Playa del Carmen to the other, oftentimes within a block of the beach, this pedestrian only street is full of restaurants, bars, shopping malls, ice cream parlors and plenty of souvenir stalls. Chances are that if you want or need something in Playa, you can find it along this cobblestone road.

While Quinta Avenida runs for miles, the best section to wander is from the Cozumel ferry pier to Ave Constituentes. Things quiet down after that but there’s still some good finds for another few blocks north of here so it you’re enjoying the walk, keep going.

Things to do along Quinta Avenida

Check out Parque Fundadores with its children playground and often lively entertainment. There’s also some of the best street food running along the park.

For those that want a take a beautiful photo, there’s also the iconic white church at the corner of the Benito Juarez and 5th Ave, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen.

Eat some delicious authentic Mexican chocolate at Ah Cacao, on the corner of 5th Avenue and Constituyentes. This local store has done so well that there are now 2 other stores along 5th Ave and one in Cancun.

Haggle with the hawkers near the pier. If you’re nice and good natured about it, the locals hawking their wares and/or services just before the pier are some of the friendliest in town and love nothing more than haggling.

Do a little shopping. Not the most fun for the kids, but great if you need to get away from the sun or the heat for a while. Besides for the souvenir stalls, Fifth Avenue has 3 larger shopping areas worth perusing on a hot or rainy day. They include Paseo Del Carmen off Calle 3 Sur, Calle Corazon off 12th Street and Quinta Alegria just off Constituyentes Avenue.

Watch the nightly buskers perform near the Paseo del Carmen Shopping mall at the end of Fifth Avenue just south of the pier. From dance troupes to jugglers and fire eaters it seems there’s always something going on here. At the entrance to the Playacar area, this open air mall is always busy and also makes a great place to get out of the sun for a while.

Have some shaved ice or an ice cream. There’s everything from gelato stands to Ben & Jerry’s and Haagen-Dazs along 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen. Feeling cheap? We often grab the kids a quick ice cream cone at McDonalds across from the ADO bus terminal as we’re walking by. Not especially authentic Mexican, but they have a little booth that just sells ice cream for under a dollar.

Eat out in Playa del Carmen

With hundreds of restaurants in Playa del Carmen there’s something for every taste and budget. Some of the most expensive international eats can be had along 5th Avenue however if you’re willing to go a few streets further from the ocean, you can still find authentic Mexican dishes away from the crowds.

Tip! The farther you get away from the tourist hangouts in Playa del Carmen, the more you need to brush up on your Spanish. Luckily for you, Google Translate offers an offline app that can not only help you get by but can literally make any Spanish menu appear as English by using your camera. Trust me, it’s magic. (iPhone – Android)

Some of our favorite authentic Mexican restaurants include the classic El Fogon and the La Patrona del Playa. You can check out our post about our favorite restaurants favorite restaurants in Playa del Carmen here. It’s a few years old but everything still applies.

Go to a Adventure Park

Whether you’re heading to Xcaret, Xel-ha, Xplor or Xsenses, the results will be similar, a smile on your face and a good nights rest after a long day. All 4 local adventure parks belong to the same family and each is as unique as they are fun. One thing they all have in common is nature and adventure.

Xcaret

This park is the original all in one destination with everything from animals to beaches.

Tip! You can get up to 15% off Xcaret tickets online.

They have three underground rivers you can float down, a huge collection of local animals and birds, a large aquarium complete with sea turtles, stingrays, dolphins and manatees and a tons of authentic Mexican culture complete with Mayan folklore and a huge nightly Mexican extravaganza show that employs hundreds of performers. This is a great place for the kids. Just be sure to wear good shoes because the place is huge. You can check our Xcaret review.

Xel-Ha

This park features lots and lots of water. From natural limestone cenotes to water slides, Xel-Ha is a water lovers paradise.

See Xel-Ha ticket prices here.

With their own huge saltwater cove you can snorkel in calm clear water then get out and zipline across the park or take a bicycle and explore the many jungle pathways. One of the greatest features of Xel-Ha is that once you buy your ticket, everything in the park is included.

Xplor

While Xcaret focuses on nature and culture and Xel-Ha focuses on water, the Xplor park focuses on adventure. Amphibious vehicles, ziplines, underground rafting and cave spelunking are just some of the adventures you can do at Xplor. Want to take it up a notch? Check out Xplor Fuego to bump up the adrenaline even more.

See discount Xplor tickets here.

Xenses

As you can probably guess, Xenses caters to the senses. Across the road from Xcaret, this park will take you on a trip to explore your 5 senses.

Travel tip! You can save up to 15% off Xenses tickets by buying on the Xenses site in advance, over at the park gate. See ticket prices now.

With some amazing visual manipulations you won’t know if you’re walking uphill or down. Without sight your hearing and touch will be turned up to 11. Want to really feel the earth move by? Try out the zippy water slide, the bird style zip line or swim through the mud course. Whatever you do, this place will have you guessing as to what’s coming next. Check out our review of Xenses.

As well as the big parks, there are also smaller parks in the area that can be fun including CrocoCun, Rio Secreto, Dolphinaris, Jungle Maya Park and the 3D Museum of Wonders.

Go Swimming in a Cenote

Tired of the beach? Playa del Carmen and the whole Riviera Maya are covered with cenotes. As these limestone cavities form over the course of time they get filled up with amazingly clear water. There are numerous cenotes around Playa del Carmen where you can swim in the clear water year round and some that you can even snorkel and dive through underground caves. We enjoyed cenotes so much we even wrote a few posts about them. Check them out here and our look at Cenote dos Ojos here.

Go shopping in Playa del Carmen

Who wants to go shopping while on holiday you ask? It turns out lots of people and Playa del Carmen has tons of shopping choices. Besides for the 3 malls off Quinta Avenida above, you can also check out the Plaza Las Americas Mall as well as Centro Maya Mall. Both feature movie theaters and food courts.

For souvenir shopping, most can be had along 5th Avenue however the best deals are often had a street or 2 over since rent on Quinta Avenida can be expensive. Some great local souvenirs to take home from the area include a bottle of Xtabentun liquor (tastes like anise and the only part of the world you can find that liquor), Mayan tapestry (like table runners and pillow covers), Mexican blown glass (you can often find blue rimmed glasses here) and Mexican chocolate (Ah Cacao, as I mentioned before, being a good place to check out).

Of course, any local art or handicrafts can also be had in Playa del Carmen with the shops along Quinta Avenida housing the greatest variety.

Visit nearby towns

With Playa del Carmen almost right in the middle of the Riviera Maya in Mexico, heading to most places on the peninsula is an easy day trip. Cancun is only 45 minutes away via bus or cab and Cozumel makes a fun day trip with a cheap 25 minute ferry.

You can also head south to go swimming with sea turtles in Akumal or head down to see the ruins in Tulum. You could even jump on a local bus or take a collectivo (shared minivan taxi) and head up to Puerto Morelos for a tasty meal and a little view of the ocean.

Ready to go? Book ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel!

Over the years, we’ve spent many months in and around Cancun, and have done just about everything there is to do.

Cancun is best known for beautiful beaches and great nightlife, but there are plenty of fun cultural things, family fun, and there’s even great food.

Cancun, found in Mexico’s Mayan Riviera, is an area of beautiful beaches, stunning scenery and is teeming with a range of activities.

Some of our fondest memories of Cancun include lazy afternoons on the beach, mornings exploring cenotes and Mayan ruins with visiting friends, and sunny days snorkeling as a family in underwater wildlife sanctuaries and visiting eco-theme parks. Whether we find a place to stay through a friend, or a search on CozyCozy we always enjoy our time in Cancun.

We loved spending evenings watching amazing shows, hanging with the locals downtown on Sundays, spending warm days in parks and cooler days in malls, as well as going to far flung restaurants all along the coast and even over to Cozumel.

We’re even so enamored with Mexico’s beautiful gulf coast that we’ve seriously considered buying property in Mexico on numerous occasions. Once the kids are on their own, Mexico’s Mayan Riviera area will likely be our winter home. We’re also always one click away from hopping on a plane to Cancun any time we see a hint of snow here in Canada.

With all that said, we’ve discovered more than a few of the best things to do in Cancun, Mexico, along with the Mayan Riviera. Let us know which ones are your personal favorites!

Best things to do in Cancun Mexico

Hit the beaches

It might seem obvious, but if you’re visiting Cancun, you’re likely here for the miles and miles of beautiful white sand beach and warm azure waters. Before all the other once sleepy fishing beaches along the coast followed suit, Cancun was welcoming visitors from all around the world to enjoy its 14 miles of pristine paradise. It’s not hard to see why – you can be on a beach within the hour of landing in Cancun airport and taking a shuttle to your hotel.

The most popular beaches in Cancun include Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach), Playa Forum, Playa Caracol, Playa Chac Mool, Playa Tortuga and Playa Del Nino. Generally, the waves are calmer on the northern side of the Hotel Zone, and the powder soft sand in Cancun can’t be beat.

There’s been a dramatic increase in the amount of sargassum (seaweed) on the beaches in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum in the last couple of years, and it looks like it might be here to stay. At best, it’s a mild annoyance, but at worst it’s a stinky mat that can make beaches unusable. That said, you should be able to avoid a lot of the sargassum if you visit a resort with a groomed beach. If not, then check sargassum beach conditions via this sargassum tracker.

Playa Delfines is a beautiful spot nestled away from the bustle of the regions many hotels. Located at km 20 of the Hotel Zone, and home to the always busy Cancun sign you see in every other selfie coming out of Cancun, there are also many amenities, water sport rentals and a playground for kids here. You’ll find the iconic Cancun sign here, making it a perfect spot for a selfie.

Playa Tortuga and Playa Del Nino are two family favorites since they’re on the far northern reach of the hotel strip. Both are protected by Isla Mujeres meaning the water is some of the calmest in Cancun – great for the little ones.

Playa Forum, situated at the northeasterly tip of hotel row, is famous for its party scene. While nearby Playa Chac Mool (Chac Mool Beach) has a nice set of free palapas to hide from the afternoon sun. The water at both places can be pretty rough, so make sure to watch the flags and lifeguards are letting people in the water.

Playa Caracol, slightly north and around the corner of Playa Forum, is another popular beach in Cancun. There aren’t a lot of amenities, but it’s a great place to stretch out on the public beach.

Note: All beaches are public in Mexico so you can walk anywhere along them. However, getting from the street to the water or finding parking can sometimes be a hassle. Most of the beaches in Cancun have hotels with private loungers set up everywhere, however you’re always free to pay for a seat in one of the many beach clubs or just drop a towel anywhere you want to be. They can’t stop you.

Go deep sea fishing

Cancun is a great jumping off point for deep sea fishing, with tons of options from which to choose. There’s always something biting no matter the season in Cancun, with Atlantic Sailfish, Blue and White Marlins, Grouper, Wahoo, Tuna and Red Snapfish all calling the waters around Cancun home. If you’re interested in deep sea fishing in Cancun, check out this  handy chart to let you know which fish is in season.

Take a day trip to Isla Mujeres

The closest of Cancun’s neighboring islands, Isla Mujeres is only a 15 minute ferry ride away, but it feels like another world, with roads filled with golf carts, smaller beaches and quaint eateries strewn about the island.

Journey to Isla Mujeres in the morning, and then rent a golf cart and drive the entire length of the island checking out the turtle sanctuary, Mayan ruins, some of the nicest ocean side cliffs in Mexico, as well as some unique snorkeling. Or experience the islands on a exhilarating zip line or a watercraft that circles the island to gain a unique and fun view.

Here’s a great place to start your travels – Book ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres!

If you’re looking for an activity park, plenty of visitors to Isla Mujeres stop by Garrafon Park. There’s a zip line, swimming pool, snorkeling, restaurants and kayaks here. We haven’t made it to Garrafon ourselves, but we’ve stopped our golf cart by the side of the road to watch people on the zip lines at Garrafon. It looks like a lot of fun!

We usually take an hour and visit Punta Sur, on the tip of Isla Mujeres, wich has a lighthouse & large sculptures on a path overlooking the ocean.

You can check out this post on things to do in Isla Mujeres for more hints on what to do once you get there.

Swim with Whale Sharks

Thirty foot long whale sharks migrate past Cancun from early June to mid-September. The whale shark is the largest known fish in existence, and are filter feeders that feed almost exclusively on plankton and small fishes.

There are several tour operators who will take you, and most tours visit nearby Isla Holbox to see the sharks.

Visit Isla Contoy

Only 200 visitors a day are allowed to this protected National Park and Ecological reserve. Isla Contoy is uninhabited, and boasts stunning blue green waters and great snorkeling. You’ll need to take a tour to visit.

Go shopping

With Cancun’s gorgeous temperatures, why would you want to hit a mall? Well, besides for the occasional rainy day, and when that sunburn takes hold and you just can’t handle another hour in the sun, Cancun is accustomed to its global visitors boasting a ton of international shops to accommodate them.

As well as high end malls like Plaza Las Americas, La Isla Shopping Village and Luxury Avenue Cancun, there are outlet malls like Las Plazas Outlet Cancun, as well as handicraft stores like Ambarte, which feature gorgeous locally made hand crafted items. For the thrifty, or those looking for unusual finds, there are also plenty of flea markets and local handicraft markets all around Cancun.

As far as local markets go, Mercado 28 flea market is a fun visit. If you’re looking for local produce, cheese and meat, Mercado 23 is your place.

El Centro (Downtown Cancun)

El Centro (Downtown Cancun) is an entirely different world than the Hotel Zone.

Downtown is where you’ll find Mercado 28, the Malecon Americas Shopping Center, as well as Parque Las Palapas, which is Cancun’s main plaza complete with food carts, playgrounds and a stage. Avenida Tulum is the main street.

We’ve visited downtown Cancun as a family several times, and even stayed in a hotel in the Centro, and were totally comfortable there. That said, use the same precautions you would if you were visiting any new city, and check any current travel warnings. It has many familiar food locations like Subway, McDonald’s, Hooters and more.

Myan Museum of Cancun

The Museo Maya de Cancún y Zona Arqueológica de San Miguelito, or Myan Museum of Cancun, is a spot of culture in Cancun.

The museum houses a nice collection of Mayan archaeological artifacts and has ruins on site as well. It’s a sleek, modern, air conditioned building. Most descriptions are in Spanish, but some are in English.

You can visit from 9:00 to 6:00, but doors close at 5:30. Admission is 75 pesos.

Go snorkeling or scuba diving

Want to get away from the beaches, but love being in the water? Cancun offers snorkeling and scuba diving trips right from the town center. Most head out towards Isla Mujeres while some go south towards Playa del Carmen. With warm clear blue waters, it’s easy to spot fish and coral.

Looking for more tours and activities? There are many things to do in Playa del Carmen. Snorkel at secret lagoons of the Yucatán Peninsula and swim with turtles. Take a scuba diving lesson in Riviera Maya and explore the deep limestone sinkholes known as cenotes. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, swim alongside whale sharks or blue sharks on Playa del Carmen coast.

If you want something a little different, consider going scuba diving to the MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum in Isla Mujeres. This is the largest underwater museum in the world, and seeing fish and coral make their homes among the hundreds of works of art is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Take a catamaran cruise

Prefer the water topside? There are plenty of ways to get out on the ocean that don’t involve getting your feet wet. Taking a catamaran cruise is one idea. There are plenty of boats to choose from family friendly boats to party boats. There’s even a pirate cruise featuring a live action pirate adventure. Most Cancun boat cruises include meals and alcohol so it’s up to you to decide if the party booze cruise, the family cruise or if a always romantic sunset cruise is more your speed.

Photo by Shinya Suzuki

Party the night away at Coco Bongo and enjoy Cancun’s wild nightlife

Love to party? Cancun is generally regarded as the party capital of the Mayan Riviera and as such it has a thriving night scene. From wild shows and antics at Cancun’s Coco Bongo’s to early morning nachos and cervezas at Carlos and Charlie’s there’s surely something in Cancun for the night time party animal. Cancun really gets wild during college Spring Break so if madness and mayhem are your thing, then book accordingly.

While Coco Bongo is definitely the most iconic of Cancun’s nightlife, there are plenty of other hotspots like Forum By The Sea, The City, and Daddy o’s Nightclub. Cuncrawl gets pretty good ratings if you’re looking for a nightclub crawl.

You legally need to be 18 years old to drink alcohol in Cancun.

Visit Señor Frogs

Yes, we know it’s touristy and expensive. But there’s no denying that Señor Frogs is a Cancun institution. If you lean into it, Señor Frogs can be a really fun time!

Rent a jet boat in Cancun

Catamaran not fast enough for you? Then maybe you want to rent a jet boat in Cancun and go on a jungle expedition. There are several companies in Cancun that rent two seater speed boats and take you on a follow the guide, hold onto your hat and ride with mad dashes through mangrove lagoons and rivers. You’ll also get a chance to snorkel along a gorgeous coral reef. We haven’t done this one yet, but rest assured it is on our list.

Ventura Park Cancun

Fans of amusement parks and families with children will enjoy a day in Ventura Park.

The facility is made of seven different worlds and provides free meals and beverages for the visitors.

Visitors keen on adventure can go zip lining, fans of water activities can enjoy the water slide park, the Fun World offers entertainment for the kids, the Grand Prix surprises with a spectacular go-kart track, the Underworld gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy Virtual Reality.

Captain Hook Cancun

Captain Hook Cancun is a dinner cruise and pirate show featuring three 18th century Spanish galleon replicas. We haven’t visited this one ourselves, but it gets pretty good ratings.

There are lobster, steak, chicken and even vegetarian options, with prices ranging from $75 to $95 for adults, which includes dinner and the show.

Take the Columbus Lobster Dinner Cruise

The Columbus Lobster Dinner Cruise makes the most of Cancun’s magical atmosphere, adding a romantic vibe and fresh local food.

The ship sails the Nichupte Lagoon and sunset serves as a romantic backdrop for a romantic lobster dinner with the wine and soothing music.

Swim in the closest cenotes to Cancun

Generally, most of the nearby cenotes start in Puero Moralas, and run down the coast. We’ve listed a couple of the cenotes that are closest to Cancun here, along with a couple of our favorites and don’t miss cenotes near Cancun.

Cenote Park

There’s a small cenote at Cenote Park in Cancun itself. We won’t swim there because people often throw garbage in the cenote, and it’s small with little water. That said Cenote Park itself is fairly nice. There’s a small playground, lots of vegetation, and some nice paths. We suggest traveling outside of Cancun to visit a cenote.

Cenote La Noria

La Noria is a deep cenote that’s close to Puerto Morelos. It’s great for diving, and also has a run cave swing, and a floating platform.

Verde Lucero

Verde Lucero is an open cenote, meaning that it’s easy to access from a central pool like cenote. There are small caves off to the side, and a zipline and cliff for jumping.

Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul is one of the best known cenotes for Cancun visitors. It’s close to Playa del Carmen, with crystal clear water and even a cliff jump.

While you’re there, stop by the beautiful Cenote Cristalino and Cenote El Edén, which are both nearby.

Ik Kil Cenote

If you research cenotes on Instagram, Ik Kil is likely the image you’ll see most often. It’s a spectacular view from the top, with a view of a deep hole surrounded by vines.

The downside is that it’s often overwhelmingly busy, especially as it’s popular with tours.

Cenote Dos Oyos

Cenote dos Oyos is closer to Tulum than Cancun, making it a bit of a drive. That said, dos Oyos is one of our favorites. It’s a beautiful, crystal clear cenote with plenty of fish. We’ve only snorkeled and swam there, but dos Ojos is famous for underwater caves that draw SCUBA divers year round.

Take an ATV tour

If you’re outdoor adventure minded, then an ATV tour in the jungles outside Cancun may be perfect for you.

Most ATV tours from Cancun include (optional) zip lining, a cenote swim, and lunch.

El Rey Archaeological Zone

The El Rey Archaeological Zone is in the heart of the Hotel Zone in Cancun. There are 47 buildings here that date to about 250 A.D, with a pyramid shaped temple. El Ray is close to the beach and famous CANCUN sign you’ll see on social media.

There’s not a lot of signage, but you’ll see plenty of iguanas and the location in the hotel zone is incredibly convenient. It costs 55 pesos (kids under 11 are free), and most people can see the entire site in about an hour.

If you’re going in the middle of the day, bring water, sunscreen and a hat as it can get quite hot.

El Meco Archaeological Site

Most tourists miss El Meco Archaeological Site, which is a short half hour taxi ride from the Hotel Zone. Like the El Rey Archaeological Zone, there’s a central pyramid and plenty of iguanas. However, because El Meco is further from the Hotel Zone, it’s much quieter than El Ray.

You can see almost everything in about an hour, and it’s much less crowded than El Ray, or Chitzen Itza.

The Interactive Aquarium Cancun

The Interactive Aquarium Cancun is one of Cancun’s most popular family attractions. You’ll find almost 2,000 aquatic species here. The aquarium is inside La Isla Shopping Mall.

Click here to read a helpful article from the Dodo that gives some of the reasons we never recommend swimming with dolphins.

Xoximilco

Xoximilco is a park designed by Xcaret. When you visit, you’ll journey through canals on Mexican gondolas, enjoy traditional music, get a taste of traditional cuisine and tequila.

Kids are welcome, but many of the river boat games are geared to adults.

See Xoximilco prices and buy tickets here.

Take a Tequila tasting

Many tours from Cancun include a tequila tasting, or stop by La Destilleria restaurant, where you can sample 3 types of tequila.

Things to do outside of Cancun

We’ve done almost everything there is to do in this part of the Yucatan, from enjoying the beaches of Cancun with the kids, golf carting around Isla Mujeres, and walking along Quinta Avenida in Playa Del Carmen, to swimming with turtles in Akumal, wandering the ruins down in Tulum, and crossing over to the lovely city of Merida. The list goes on.

A favorite of ours was when we took a ferry to Cozumel, and a bus then a high-speed ferry to Belize. All of these paradises originating from the Cancun and Playa Del Carmen area.

With so much happening all along the Mayan Riviera, limiting yourself to just staying in Cancun will mean you’re missing some of the best things to do on this side of Mexico. Playa del Carmen is only a forty minute drive from Cancun and even Tulum can be easily reached for a day trip.

Of course, you have the pyramids of Chichen Itza, the island of Cozumel, swimming with turtles down in Akumal and dozens of cenotes within easy reach of Cancun as well.

If you like the comfort of knowing when you’re starting and when you’re returning on your excursions, there are hundreds of day tours available that will get you to where you want to be and save you the hassle of figuring it all out for yourself.

If you want to jump on one of the nice long distance buses or even one of the ridiculously cheap local buses, you can do that too. We’ve also rented cars to tour the peninsula and have taken both collectivos (local mini buses) as well as taxis on many occasions.

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is a complex of ruins that date back to the Mayan civilization, and one of the most popular day trips from Cancun.

Chichen Itza’s pre-Columbian ruins are remains of what was once one of the largest, most developed cities in the region. The ruins have been restored now occupy around five square kilometers.

The site attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, especially on the days of the equinoxes, when the site shows its most mysterious face.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve UNESCO World Heritage Site

Nature lovers will love a trip to the 120,000-hectare Sian Ka’an Biosphere reserve. It’s a UNESCO site that lets outdoor enthusiasts visit tropical forests, mangroves, even the barrier reef. Visitors report sightings of birds, jaguars, ocelots, pumas as well as marine wildlife like sea turtles and hundreds of fish species.

Valladolid

Valladolid is a smaller city that’s rich in local culture and history, combined with natural attractions. The city’s atmosphere is vibrant and cozy at the same time.

Take time to visit colonial era cathedrals and convents, piazzas with friendly restaurants and bars, or natural sites like Cenote Zaci.

Cenote Zaci is in the middle of town, and it’s walking distance from the main plaza. There are small cliffs you can jump off of, and crystal clear water for swimming.

In the city itself, a local mercado makes shopping a unique experience.

Visit Tulum

Tulum is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations for Cuncun day trippers. Tulum is arguably best know for its long stretches of white sand, Instagram-worthy scenery, and relaxed beach vibe.

One thing I’ve never loved about Tulum is that the main highway winds through the town, dividing the town from the beach. That said, it’s still a fun place to visit, with plenty of beach bars, restaurants and small shops to keep you busy.

The Myan ruins in Tulum, while much smaller than Chitzen Itza and others nearby, are definitely blessed with the most beautiful setting over the clear Caribben sea. See how our day visiting the ruins in Tulum went here.

Quick recap of some of the best things to do outside Cancun

Looking for things to do in Cancun with kids? Check out this post we wrote about things to do in Cancun with kids, or things to do in Cancun on a budget.

Some of our favorite things to do just outside Cancun include:

• Visiting the popular Xcaret eco theme park (see our Xcaret review here)
  • Save on Xcaret tickets here.
• Exploring the newly opened Xenses park (See our Xenses review here)
  • See Xenses ticket prices here.
• Swimming with turtles in Akumal (see our guide on how to swimn with endangered sea turtles in Akumal)
• Taking the ferry to Cozumel (see things to do in Cozumel here)
• Going for breakfast in Puerto Morelos (see how we fared on our day trip to Puerto Moralesere)
• Just hanging with the locals in Playa Del Carmen (read about our love for Playa Del Carmen here).

Have we missed anything? If you think there should be something added to our list of things to do in Cancun Mexico please let us know in the comments.

Last year, I was lucky enough to spend a few days at the Marival Residences Luxury Resort (officially now called the Marival Distinct Luxury Residences) in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit. So, this year, when Marival invited the whole family along to check out their Family Emotion Program we were happy to join in.

When you need a break, sometimes an all inclusive hotel is the perfect choice. Winter was creeping in on us in Canada, and the idea of a stress-free vacation somewhere with a long stretch of beach and some nice warm swimming pools sounded like exactly what we needed.

Why a special family program? If you’ve ever traveled with kids, you know that it’s a completely different experience than traveling alone or as a couple. Days of lounging on the beach and partying the night away are long gone, and replaced by playtime in the sand and mid-afternoon naps (it’s not all bad).

How much does it cost? Click here to find out.

The Family Emotion Program at Marival does a really good job of figuring out what parents and kids want. There are plenty of fun activities, a concierge to help organize your trip, and goodies for both the parents and the kids!

The Marival Family Emotion program

Marival’s all-inclusive Family Emotion program is just for families. It includes a ton of goodies, all which are customized for your family’s needs. I’m pretty sure they thought of absolutely everything!

Family concierge service

I think the very best part of the program is that each family gets a family concierge to help with their stay. Our Family Emotion concierge, Raquel, was absolutely wonderful. She was attentive to us (but never intrusive), and always helpful and welcoming. We had absolutely first class service from her – as good as any hotel we’ve ever stayed in.

Welcome basket

Inside our room, we found a welcome basket of healthy and sweet snacks. With hungry kiddos, this was the perfect welcome!

A stocked mini-bar with family goodies

Our full size fridge came stocked with soda, beer, juice, yogurt and chocolate milk! Even better, it was refilled every day and we could request just about anything from the resort.

Nanny Service!

Yes, you heard me right: up to eight hours of child care is included during your stay (conditions apply). That means that if you want to go out together for anything from a special meal to a few hours at the spa you can knowing your children are in good hands.

Kids Club

Every day from 9 am to 5 pm, you have the option of dropping your kids off at the kids club. They can play video games, do crafts, and have a lot of fun while you enjoy a few kid free hours.

Gifts for the kids!

There was an adorable bath basket in the kid’s bathroom, waiting for each child. This included some tub toys and some special child friendly bath products.

Pampering for Mom

Our room came with a gorgeous basket of high end L’Occitane pampering essentials for Mom, and a gift certificate for the on-site spa (more on that later!)

Beach essentials and toys

In our suite, we also found a bag filled with sunscreen and beach essentials, plus a family menu to help us select from a broad choice of beach and pool toys, as well as other vacation essentials. Once you’ve selected from the list, pass the form back to the Family Emotion concierge and they’ll deliver everything right to your room.

Family picnic

One of the great Family Emotion options at Marival Residences is that you can order a fully prepared picnic for wherever you like. You can have it delivered to the beach or by the pool. We had ours dropped off in our room to enjoy beside our semi private demi pool. The chocolate cake dessert where a huge hit with the kids and we enjoyed the mountain of guacamole they included in our specially made picnic basket.

In Room Family fun!

When we ventured out on our own, our kids adored the free Xbox console and game rental they provided. There are also DVD players, movies, electronics, water toys and more available via the Family Emotion program.

Outdoor family fun!

As well as the kid pool and the always entertaining splash pad, Marival Residences also has a playground area and they even rent out free bikes so you and the family can go for a family excursion. The best news, a few of them are 3 seaters so even the littlest riders don’t get left behind.

A family photo shoot

I couldn’t remember the last time that we had a family photo shoot!

The Family Emotion Program comes with a professional photo shoot, with a photo album and CD, plus a gift card to develop prints when you’re back home.

We were very happy with our family photo session. The sky was a little cloudy however the photos turned out beautifully and the photographer was fun to work with.

Included Tours and fun!

The Family Emotion package comes with a free off site activity for every person, as well as a free second family tour.

There are numerous options to choose from so went zip lining as a family, and also had a blast driving on a little RAZR off road vehicle over a giant swinging suspension bridge.

Want to learn more? Check out our article on what to do in the Riviera Nayarit, with 23 wonderful experiences, from visiting the bustling surfing town of Sayulita, to checking out the idyllic vibe of San Pancho, to snorkeling the aquamarine waters off Marietas Islands (where you can see birds like blue-footed boobies of Galapagos Islands fame).

Our room at Marival Residences

Our two bedroom Family Emotion suite with a semi private demi-pool was a whopping 1,711 square feet. That’s huge!

When we walked into the nicely air conditioned space, we saw a modern open-plan living space with a full kitchen, dining area and a living room with a large flatscreen TV.

The two bedrooms each had a private en-suite bathroom, plus each had a flatscreen TV. Our master bedroom had a lovely deep bath and King-size bed, while the kid’s room had two double beds.

We even had our own private washer and dryer, plus our ground floor suite had outdoor lounge chairs by the pool as well as a patio table and chairs.

The kiddos loved the fridge filled with drinks, and the fruit and snack basket. Anyone with kids knows they get hungry at the most inconvenient times so that was a huge plus when the kiddos were feeling peckish.

What about maid service? Yep, it’s included. Our daily cleaning service was always on time, and did a great job. They also provide turn down service complete with tasty little snacks like chocolate or cookies.

All of the Family Emotion accommodation is in two or three bedroom suites, with the option of an ocean view, a demi-pool, a penthouse suite, or even a three bedroom private villa.

The Hotel

There’s definitely something wonderful about an all-inclusive, no worries vacation. Once we donned our cool, braided bracelets from the Marival Residences Luxury Resort, we could eat and drink all we wanted. Not only could we enjoy all of the facilities at our resort, we also had access to the nearby Marival Resort’s facilities and restaurants.

This is a great deal, as you essentially get two resorts facilities for the price of one. The Marival Resort sister hotel is just five minutes away. There’s a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes from the main lobby and the Marival Resort also has a special area devoted just to the Marival Residences as well as the rest of the resort.

WiFi: There’s WiFi Internet access throughout Marival Residences Luxury Resort. I had great luck with my connection, which rarely dropped, and worked reliably in my room and all throughout the resort. That said, if you find your internet connection to be slow, ask for an upgrade, as they do have faster speeds available.

The Food at Marival Residences

In general, we found the food quality well above what we’ve had at a typical all inclusive in Mexico.

The all inclusive program includes all snacks, breakfast, lunch, drinks and a la carte dinner specialties, plus national and international brand drinks.

There are five restaurants on site, plus the VIP beach club, room service and poolside service, in addition to six restaurants at the sister resort, Marival Resort & Suites.

As vegetarians, the kids and I were very happy. There were always vegetarian options available, which is wonderful, because we often have a difficult time at resorts!

There’s really not much bad to say about the food here, but we’d love to see a few more family friendly menu items always available at the hotel, like pasta or pizza. Since the menu for the Lemmon Grass was a set menu, there wasn’t a lot for kids there. When we went inside to Omaggio, the theme night was Asian, and like many US and Canadian kids, ours don’t love Asian foods. When we went upstairs to Insu, we found a few items that the kids loved, but it would be nice if the main restaurant, Omaggio, always had a few kids’ items available, or a separate kids menu.

Room Service!

Room service is included with the all-inclusive package at Marival, though you do pay a 10% surcharge. Being able to get room service 24 hours a day, seven days a week was one of my favorite parts of staying at the Marival Residences. The kids loved it too!

We had great luck with room service, as it came quickly and everything was the correct temperature and quite tasty. Our room was close to the main lobby, so that may have made it especially fast. Their breakfasts were especially tasty.

Insu Sky Lounge

Insu was my favorite restaurant at Marival Residences Luxury Resort. It’s located in the penthouse of the main building, above the lobby, with an impressive view overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Menu items are all bite size to share, and we all found everything to be delicious. My kids adored the bite sized Caesar salad and especially the grilled cheese while Charles raved about their great sliders.

Omaggio

The largest restaurant at Marival Residences is Omaggio. The menu is huge, with a great selection, and it offers a themed evening menu for each day of the week.

Lemmon Grass

Located outdoors, Lemmon Grass is a casual and elegant poolside restaurant. It has a set menu at night however the menu varies by day.

Grill al Fresco

Grill al Fresco is outside by the pool, and has plenty of dishes for breakfast, including Mexican delights, an omelette station, and a selection of fruits, juice and pastries. At night the Grill al Fresco transforms into a barbecue.

Brunello Lobby Wine Bar

Brunello Lobby Wine Bar is a lovely, intimate spot to enjoy tapas and a glass of wine (some wines are not included in the all-inclusive plan).

Poolside snack service

If you’re in the mood for a snack by the pool, just wave over a server, and they’ll bring you snacks and drinks poolside. Our family can wholeheartedly recommend the chips and dip as well as the fries. The guacamole everywhere in the hotel is extraordinary!

Mozzamare Beach Club

The brand new, ocean side Mozzamare Beach Club serves up (my favorite!) tasty guacamole and chips, fresh seafood as well as gourmet dishes and beverages. They were still partly under construction when we were there however the area was already looking gorgeous and, judging by all the smiling people, a huge hit with the crowds.

There’s beach access, a Palapa Restaurant and another gorgeous pool here, and this beach section is only a few minutes walk from the main area, conveniently on site at the Marival Residences Luxury Resort. Charles and Cole both grabbed a free boogie board and enjoyed the waves while we all enjoyed watching dolphins jumping out of the water in front of us. The Mozzamare beach club is new this year, and it’s a fantastic addition from my trip last year.

We also enjoyed a special night time celebration at the Mozzamare Restaurant and think that it would be the perfect location for an outdoor wedding!

Food at the sister Marival Resort

Guests of the Marival Luxury Residences can also eat at the sister hotel, the Marival Resort. The Marival Resort has several restaurants, including La Pergola (the large buffet restaurant), Piazzetta del Forni (thin crust pizza), Las Palmas (Mexican cuisine), La Palapa and Miramar Bars, La Bamba Rodizio, and Amalfi (Italian).

The Melange World Spa

If you’re a spa lover, then the onsite Melange World Spa is for you. The spa treatments and decorations are based on therapies from around the world so if you love choices, then this is the spa for you!

At Melange, you can enjoy a specialized World Spa Experience from Mexico, Italy, Japan, Turkey, Russia, Bali, India, Thailand, or the USA. Each spa is unique, and based on the spa history and culture for which it’s named.

We had a wonderful time with the family spa package. Both of our kiddos (aged eight and twelve), enjoyed a facial and massage with us. I think that our daughter may have found one of her new favorite things to do on vacation.

If you’re interested in a few of the other World Spa experiences, these two definitely stand out as all around faves:

The Italy Vendimia Wine Experience starts with a wine therapy bath in an original wooden winebarrel, where you enjoy a wine tasting, followed by a full body relaxing massage.

The India Shirodhara Spa Experience includes a Shirodhara treatment with herbal oil that is poured in a steady stream onto your third eye, and a gentle scalp massage to help relax the nervous system. All of this is done on a traditional wooden table (with padding to make it comfortable) that was imported from India. Following the oil treatment, there’s an Abhyanga therapy whole body massage with warm herbal oils, followed by a steaming hot water bath in a luxurious copper tub.

All of the spa treatments are uniquely customized to the area of the world where they originated. For instance, the Mexico Agave treatment (which I enjoyed last time) featured a facial and body wrap with the native agave plant, cacao, honey, aloe vera, and Mayan mud, with a facial and body exfoliation and a light body massage. There’s also a specialized couples massage, or a men’s wellness & renewal treatment.

Melange also offers traditional spa treatments, including facials as well as hand and foot treatments.

Where is Riviera Nayarit?

The Riviera Nayarit, which includes Nuevo Vallarta, is the northern neighbor of well-known Puerto Vallarta, on Mexico’s ruggedly beautiful Pacific Coast, famous for its luxury vacation homes and exclusive resorts. The Puerto Vallarta airport serves both areas and is actually closer to Marival Residences (around 15 minutes) in Nayarit than some of the downtown hotels on the Jalisco state side in Puerto Vallarta.

The bottom line

Like many Canadians, we’ve been to plenty of all-inclusive resorts, and we’ve visited Mexico many times over the years.

The Family Emotion Program at the Marival Residences Luxury Resort was, hands down, one of the very best family programs we’ve ever enjoyed. It’s a perfect place to visit for a stress-free, relaxing holiday with the kids!

Want to book? Just head over to the Marival website to book directly with the hotel.

Looking for a family tour in the Riviera Nayarit?

There’s a lot to do and see in the Riviera Nayarit, and Viator has a pretty big selection of tours and activities in the Riviera Nayarit.

There’s a lot to choose from, including a Marietas Islands SCUBA adventure, whale watching, surf lessons in Punta Mita, an ATV tour, professional photography packages, and even private Spanish lessons.

See Viator tour packages and prices here now.

Get Your Guide offers a snorkeling tour or Coral Island Snorkeling paired with a visit to Sayulita, including a seafood meal.

See tour prices and more here.

You need to know:

Hotel: Marival Residences Luxury Resort

Where to book? We book most of our trips with Booking.com. Check prices and availability here on Booking.com.

Online Reviews: TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

Address: Av. Paseo Cocoteros Lt 53 Villa 8, 63732 Nuevo Vallarta, Nay., Mexico

Location: Half-hour drive from downtown Puerto Vallarta

Nearest Airport: 15 minute drive from Puerta Vallarta’s PVR airport, the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport

Phone: +52 322 226 9740

This trip was in partnership with Marival Residences Luxury Resort and the Riviera Nayarit tourism board.

Located only a short 20 minute ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres makes a great day trip and an even greater longer mini escape from your Cancun vacation.

Oh yeah, have I mentioned you can drive the entire island on a golf cart, in half a day? We did it the first time a few years ago and it’s still one of our favorite family travel highlights.

Likewise, if you find yourself down in Playa Del Carmen, Akumal, Tulum or even staying on Cozumel, then Isla Mujeres is pretty easy and inexpensive to get to. We’ve done the trip from Playa del Carmen more than a few times now and have enjoyed our trip to Isla Mujeres every single time.

Ready to go? Book ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres now.

Now, we’ve written about Mexico‘s Isla Mujeres a few times over the years and, to be honest, not much has changed. Of course it’s grown, but that only means more golf cart rentals and more options. We don’t find that it’s gotten any busier and it seems there’s just more to do there these days with a lot more places to rent from.

Things to do in Isla Mujeres Mexico

So, without any further ado, here are our things to do in Isla Mujeres.

Rent a golf cart on Isla Mujeres

Haha, if you read our previous Isla Mujeres post you don’t think I’d miss this one. There are now dozens of golf cart rental companies on Isla Mujeres, and though they do still occasionally run out during the holidays and busiest times of the year, most days you’re fine as long as you arrive before noon.

You can pretty much drive to every place on the island, and if you’re there for multiple days, you can spend lazy afternoons on different beaches every day. You can walk or take a taxi most places on the island, but if you want true freedom, rent a golf cart and enjoy yourself.

Relax on the beaches on Isla Mujeres

Since we just talked about beaches, there are around six semi-official major beaches on Isla Mujeres and a bunch of smaller ones. Some, like Playa Norte, feature bars and beach chairs and on many you can rent SUPs, kayaks, water toys and even snorkeling equipment.

Playa Norte (North Beach) is by far the most popular and is often rated one of the best in the Caribbean. Playa Norte is just minutes from downtown, and the palm trees and luxurious white sand make Playa Norte muy hermosa. Playa Norte has almost no current, and kids and adults can wade pretty far out and the water will only reach their waist.

Playa Posada, found along the west side isn’t as crowded, however the water isn’t as clear, and Playa Media Luna is a beautiful crescent shaped beach but the water can be rough.

Playa Indios, Playa Paraiso and Playa Lancheros are all more secluded beaches found on the west side facing Cancun. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas there, and open air restaurants, gift shops and public bathrooms are close by.

Stay in one of the many lovely hotels in Isla Mujeres

There are lots of hotels to choose from on Isla Mujeres, and they cater to every taste and budget. You can stay on the beach or off, with a family or as a couple. With swimming pools and all inclusive plans, staying at a hotel in Isla Mujeres can be a great way to start or end a long day seeing the sites.

La Tortuga Granja (The Turtle Farm)

Love sea turtles? So do we, and that’s why we always stop by the Turtle Farm in Isla Mujeres. Since large sea turtles have made Isla Mujeres their breeding ground for generations, the Turtle Farm gathers up the eggs it finds along the beaches and incubates them at the Turtle Farm thereby greatly increasing their chances of survival.

Depending on the time of year you’re there, you can see hundreds of turtles in the tanks growing up in the large tanks around the property. There is a great celebration the day they’re released back into the wild.

In the main building there is also a small aquarium with sea horses, lobsters, crabs, tropical fish and even an octopus. There are also a few land turtles and family of iguanas who hang out along one side of the building.

Punta Sur

Located at the far southern edge of Isla Mujeres, Punta Sur features not only the highest elevation in all the Yucatan, but it’s also the easternmost point in all of Mexico. That’s right, the sun hits Punta Sur before anywhere else in Mexico and we’ve heard that it’s a glorious sight.

Featuring an ancient Mayan temple honoring the Mayan Goddess Ixchel, it also boasts a lighthouse and dozens of modern sculptures around the property. Due to some of the most dramatic sea cliffs in all of Mexico, Punta Sur makes a great place to grab a bite to eat while looking out to sea.

MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum

Conceived by Jason deCaires Taylor, Isla Mujeres is home to the largest underwater museum on earth. The clear waters off Isla Mujeres make a great place to scuba dive or snorkel while seeing how thousands of underwater sculptures change in time in regards to coral growth and marine interaction. The scope of the project is mind blowing and the combination of art and marine conservation is great to see.

Garrafon Reef Park

The Garrafon Reef Park is a great place to spend an afternoon. Its all-inclusive packages include a buffet lunch and an open bar. Not only do they feature zip lines over the clear aquamarine waters, you can rent kayaks, snorkel equipment, life jackets and they have plenty of hammocks to lounge on as well as relax in their infinity pool. Admission includes bathrooms, lockers, showers and entrance to the Sculpture Garden and Punta Sur.

Garrafón de Castilla

The Zocalo (Town Square)

Located in the center of town, the Zocalo or Town Square comes alive most evenings as celebrations, dances and events kick up with local Mexican families and tourists alike sharing in the celebrations. You can eat tacos and pastries from the vendors lining the park, as well as pick up souvenirs from local artists. The kids will enjoy the small playground.

Fun on the water in Isla Mujeres

We’ve talked about the beaches, but there is also world class deep sea fishing in the water of Isla Mujeres. From deep sea fishing for marlin, sailfish and dorado to spear fishing tuna and barracuda, Isla Mujeres has some of the best sea fishing in the Mexico. Tours and guides can be hired for the day or the week.

Fun under the water on Isla Mujeres

Being surrounded by water means some of the fun things to do in Isla Mujeres occur under the water. You can snorkel and scuba dive all around the island and there are dozens of companies that will take you out on a scuba or snorkel tour to see many types of corral and colorful tropical fish including sailfish from December to June.

From June to September you can swim with giant Whale Sharks and anytime of the year is great to swim in the National Park that’s filled with the MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum’s sculptures. Most tours include lunch buffets as well as snorkel gear.

Have you been to Isla Mujeres? Do you have any tips? Let us know!

After checking it out for ourselves, we can definitely say it’s not just for kids, however there are a lot of things for children to discover here. I can also guarantee that by the end of the day you’ll be questioning your perceptions as the park challenges all of your senses.

Tip! We found the cheapest ticket prices for Xenses on the Xenses website, where you can find tickets for about 10% off gate admission.

See Xenses prices here.

You see, as part of the Xcaret family of eco-parks, the designers of the Xenses Xcaret park wanted something a little more out there than what their other parks, namely Xcaret (check out our Xcaret review), Xplor Fuego and Xel-Ha offer.

Sure, there’s a zip line and water slide at Xenses, but that’s about all Xenses and the other parks have in common. You see, Xenses isn’t just about filling your adrenaline needs, it’s about opening up your body and mind to everything around you.

They say that by the time you’re done at Xenses you’ll be a Xensei or a master of your senses. I’m not sure about that, but if you’re curious to know more, read on for our thoughts and a full Xenses review of Xenses park in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Where is Xenses

Tucked just across the driveway from Xcaret, the Xenses park is around 10 minutes south of Playa Del Carmen in Mexico’s Riviera Maya and about 50 minutes south of Cancun. Compared to the older, more mature parks of the Xcaret family, Xenses still hasn’t hit its stride yet, however that’s a good thing if you don’t like big crowds.

Looking for some fun things to do closer to Cancun? Check out our mega list of the best things to do in Cancun for all ages, our things to do in Cancun with kids, and our things to do in Cancun on a budget.

Our Playa Del Carmen taxi driver didn’t even know where it was exactly. Luckily, we’d spent the day at Xcaret the day before (read our latest review of Xcaret here), and saw a bunch of Xenses signs as we pulled into Xcaret, so we just told our driver to go towards Xcaret and follow the signs to Xenses. That said, the park is so new that it’s to be expected, and I’m sure it’ll be a popular place for those looking for alternatives to the more adventure aimed themed parks in the area.

A half day excursion

Another notable difference between Xenses and most of the other parks is the other parks are all day long events. In the case of Xcaret, it’s a very, very long day when you factor in the late show espectacular. Xenses, on the other hand, can easily be done in four or five hours, so it still gives you lots of time to hit the beaches in Playa Del Carmen or even check out a cenote or two. It’s also priced less than the other parks in the Xcaret family so it’s also a little easier on the wallet.

Exploring your senses at Xenses

As you can probably guess, the whole inspiration for Xenses is to explore all the senses, with a strong emphasis on touch, sight, sounds and smell. The taste aspect comes into play when you check out their lunch and snack area and stop for food, but I’ll get back to that in a bit.

As you walk into Xenses, you’ll see the main building is circular in design with exhibits, the exits to the other areas, and even the lockers in a confusing spiral of directions. They call this area the Pinwheel and you’ll understand the term as soon as you see it for yourself.

Each section blends into the next and it’s very easy to get turned around. If you get lost, don’t worry, they want and expect you to get turned around here. Luckily, there are plenty of helpful guides in every area of the park whose sole job is to help point you in the right direction.

Lockers are included

Another similarity to the other parks in the area is that chances are very high that you’re going to get wet while checking out Xenses. It’s possible you can enjoy some of what the park offers without donning a bathing suit, however if you really want to get your money’s worth, a bathing suit (and, ideally, water shoes) are a good idea.

Tip! Don’t forget your water proof camera or water proof cell phone bag if you want to capture some memories of your day here. If you don’t want to take a camera, opting for their photo package might be a good idea but I’ll talk about that towards the end of this post.

When you first get your ticket, you’ll be issued a few things for your time there. One is a locker key, another is a wristband, and the final is a little waterproof fob that goes on your wrist. The locker room in Xenses is accessible from the main hall in the Pinwheel.

Note: The locker areas are communal and the male and female change room/washrooms are to the left and right of the locker rooms. I only say this since we saw a little more skin in the shared locker area than we expected to that morning, so please don’t change in the shared locker rooms.

The Main Hall – The Pinwheel

As I already mentioned, when you first enter Xenses, you’ll find yourself in the main hall called the Pinwheel. While you’re still dry, now’s not a bad time to check out all the crazy exhibits here. There are a dozen or so rooms for you to wander around, through or over. You’ll find everything from standing in a dry swimming pool while water flows overhead to upside down rooms to rooms so filled with lights and color you’re not sure where the walls and floors end.

I don’t want to spoil all the surprises but rest assured your perceptions will be tested and you’ll be delighted by a few of the halls. You might find others a little underwhelming without pretty specific camera placement for you to get the full effect and this leads me to our next section.

Cameras at Xenses

You’re fully allowed and encouraged to bring your own waterproof camera to Xenses (we brought our GoPro for the water activities) and the gift shop even sells see-through waterproof cases for your cellphones so you can keep them with you throughout your stay, however a lot of the exhibits require pretty specific camera placement to the get the full effect of the room.

Fortunately, the designers at Xenses understood this and there are dozens (if not hundreds) of cameras found throughout Xenses. This is where the wristband fob I mentioned comes in. Just place your unique fob over the specially marked sign and look at the camera wherever it may be hiding. You have about three seconds before the camera flashes to get your pose on.

All your pictures from the day get saved to their network and the nice part about this is you can check out your pictures anytime at one of the hundreds of huge TV’s adorning the park. We used this system the whole day as well as took our own pictures as we went.

The nice thing is you don’t need to purchase the pictures if you don’t want to but the kids loved setting off the camera in each zone and I think our daughter Jordan had a few hundred herself by the end of the day. Each person gets their own wrist fob however all the pictures of the group are available as a bundle deal if you want to purchase them at the end. We never priced out all the packages however I think you can get a USB stick with all your combined memories of the day for under the $100 mark.

Important tip! You can save about half off the photopass if you buy your photopass online on the Xenses website. When we looked, you could add on the photopass for $58 USD when you buy your park tickets. Even better, one photopass includes all photos of a group up to 10 people who are registered at the same purchase.

The lockers and bathroom

After you check out all the rooms off the Pinwheel in the main hall, it’s time to head to the lockers to throw on your swimming suit. True to the spirit of Xenses, even the trip to the lockers was a shock to the system. To get to them you have to walk through a dizzying spinning crossway that even I, with a decent sense of balance, had a hard time getting through without almost falling over. Micki, who’s prone to car sickness, just looked at it, shouted “Hell No!”, closed her eyes and walked through it while holding the railing.

Once inside the communal locker room, we found an amusing collection of central sinks with curved mirrors and odd contraptions from a toilet bowl water fountain to mock toilets. The locker room itself is a playful area, with fake peek-a-boo slits in the stalls to giant half-bottomed statues that also work as seats.

The kids really loved this area, and there are also private shower stalls in each male and female wing as well as family change rooms. You can come back to this area at any point during your stay at Xenses.

Xensatorium

The first real attraction at Xenses is the Xensatorium. In the ads they’re very secretive about what exactly it is, however I’ll give you a hint. Imagine walking through a very, very long tunnel without a speck of light, while your other senses get turned up to about a thousand. If you ever wanted to experience the four corners of the world with just your sense of touch, hearing and smell then you’ll definitely love this area.

IMPORTANT: If you’re afraid of the dark, or claustrophobic, think hard and long before you head into here. Seeing that Jordan is only eight, I stayed with her and there were more than a few times when I had to convince her to keep going. Cole on the other hand, at 11, blazed through it and loved it so much he wanted to go again.

If you run into trouble, there are also infra red cameras placed throughout the Xensatorium and if you ever feel the need for help, you can just need to raise your hand and staff will be there in moments. Jordan and I had a moment of indecision and staff appeared before we even had the chance to raise our hand.

I will say that it was a unique experience and the walk through the beautiful lighted cenote cave system, the Eden, on the way out should make even those afraid of the dark willing to brave it just for that part. It’s a fairly long twisting route through a semi open cave with plenty of spots to take a picture, regroup with your fiends and check out the parrots.

To get the full effect of the Xensatorium, they recommend that you take off your water shoes/sandals to be able to really feel your way through it all. Cole, Jordan and I took ours off however, Micki chose to keep them on. We both say that our way was better, so feel free to do whichever you feel comfortable with. There is a bit of a walk to get through it all, however the floors were easy on the feet.

Tip! Remember to grab your shoes from the two way lockers that are next to the washrooms on your way out from the Xensatorium. (We forgot to grab ours and I had to run back through to grab them again.)

Once you’re through the Xensatorium, it’s a bit of a walk back to the Pinwheel so make sure you grab a few glasses of lemonade in the Xitric Gardens. It seems that at Xenses, lemonade comes directly from the tree and it’s tasty and free so enjoy!

Crooked Town

As the old rhyme goes, there once was a crooked man and he walked a crooked mile. Well, the beautifully recreated old Mexican town of Townville in Xenses must have been designed for him. After figuring out how to get to the town (I’ll give you a hint, look for the beating heart of Xenses back in the Pinwheel), and walking through a waterfall, you enter the crooked town of Xenses.

This amazing piece of architecture will skew your sense of up and down. Is the little stream actually flowing upward? Are the houses slanted or straight? Am I walking uphill or downhill? Why are the stairs so awkward to climb? You’ll ask these and a dozen more questions as you make your way through the picturesque town.

Along the way you’ll read amusing stories, and get a chance to walk into some of these peculiar buildings. Make sure you take some pictures, because if seeing is believing, you won’t believe what you’re seeing!

The kids especially enjoyed walking through the crooked town and took a picture (or three) at every opportunity.

Hammocks

After you get through the crooked mile and cross behind the old church, you’ll come across a huge sand-filled area with dozens of hammocks strewn about everywhere. If you’re like us, at this point you’ll be a little hot. The thought of laying down in the blazing sun won’t sound too appealing, but, as you’ll soon find out, they make a great stop after exploring the Xenses Riviera Maya underground adventure zone.

The Adventure Zone

I called it this simply because Xenses doesn’t really have a name for it. Essentially, it’s a group of activities you do in a certain order. The pathway starts in the hammock area just past the crooked town and also ends here. Most of the adventure zone takes place in a labyrinth of a cave/cenote system except for a few parts. The Adventure Zone is also the most lively area of the park and you’ll soon find out why.

The Slip Waterslide

Remember when I said a swimming suit was fairly crucial at Xenses? Well, as you climb to the top of a small hill you’ll realize there’s only one way down, via the Slip. The slip is a nice water slide that starts off little slowly and speeds up as you go along. Did I mention the latter stages are in the dark? Well, they are, and as you exit the slide into the light you’re not going to know whether you’re up or down. Of course my son Cole wanted to do it again and again.

Bird Flight

Think face forward zip line and you’ll understand what the Bird Flight is all about. In it, they strap you into a harness and you glide down a limestone cavern ending back in the original cave you started in.

It’s a great feeling as you soar like a bird over trees and around corners however watch out for the end since it can be a little abrupt and it gave me a good wedgie. A staff member will fit you into your harness and help get you out so it’s a fairly quick, easy and safe process as well.

Riverlaxing

Now this was one was truly enjoyable for all our family. In it you choose one of three channels and lay back in a foot and a half of warm, salty water as you float on your back through blue bliss. Along the way you’ll pass through a variety of cave systems, but the temperature is just perfect as the slow current weaves around the bends.

Tip! Make sure you leave a bit of space between you and the people before you, since not all people float at the same speed and you don’t want to have to put on the brakes while you’re floating so they can stay ahead of you.

Sludgerie

As relaxing as Riverlaxing was, the next activity, gliding through the Sludgerie was a stark contrast. Like Riverlaxing, you’re supposed to lay back in the cool mud and let your body soak in the natural moisturizer. The reality is that most people slip and slide their way through this one as fast as they can.

The temperature is a little bit of a shock after the lovely Riverlaxing activity and though I suppose this fits in with Xenses shock to the senses ideology, it would be nice if they heated the mud a little more. Luckily for me, Jordan wanted to skip it, so I got to skip it with her.

The Showers

As you exit the Sludgerie, there are many buckets hanging down from the cave roof. To rinse off all the mud, all you have to do is brave the water that comes out of them. My son Cole and I had a little fun pulling the buckets down on each other.

The Sauna

Feeling a little chilled after your cool shower?

Not a problem, because as you follow the pathway Xenses leads you through a well heated cave. Don’t worry, just as you start to feel a little overheated, you’ll start cooling off again. There is only a tiny alcove to show where the cave sauna ends, so if you’re still chilled, walk slowly through this part and you’ll be golden.

Fast Forward

A great thing about the Adventure Zone at Xenses is that you can easily skip any activity. This is perfect for those with small children or people who don’t feel all that comfortable with a particular activity. Jordan opted out of a few of the activities and it didn’t really slow the process down or force us to reroute everyone.

There is a waiting area off to the side of the major activities where you can wait for others to catch up. The vast majority of the way is paved and easy walking except for the slide and zipline. Even those have smooth floors, however they have a bit of an incline in places so walking to them requires a little extra work.

The Hammocks (Part 2)

As you exit Xenses Adventure Zone you’ll find yourself in the Hammocks area again. Now is a great time to unwind and warm up. Just be careful because that hot Mexican sun can roast you before you know it.

Marbles

As you exit the Hammocks and re-enter the Crooked Town you’ll pass through the marble area. In it there are dozens of giant marbles making there way around a cavernous room along pathways and machinery. It’s a loud room, however it was fascinating watching the round balls make their way around the whole room.

The Xnack

Located just off the Pinwheel, the Xnack housed a decent collection of snacks, from sandwiches to chips, and it also included a huge selection of healthy gluten free and vegetarian foods and even some bulk food options. The kids were impressed that you could fill your own beer glass from their fountain and that they had a warm nacho cheese dispenser as well.

Outside, there’s a small barbecue area where you can purchase hamburgers and hot dogs as well as drinks and candy. There are also several areas to eat outside, including on a giant typewriter or under a canopy of floating umbrellas. For those that want a little air conditioning, there’s a retro-fitted air conditioned bus complete with seats and tables.

The Giftery

When you first enter the Pinwheel, you’ll notice a large gift shop in the center. The Giftery is stocked with everything from tshirts to water bottles.

What makes the Giftery stand out from all the other souvenir shops is all the puzzles and oddities it stocks. Remember at the beginning when I mentioned Xenses could be mistaken for a discovery center? Nowhere is this more evident than in the Giftery. Our kids love science things and they spent more time in the Giftery checking out the cool things than in some of the activity areas. Luckily, we were still traveling for another few months otherwise I know our suitcases would have grown another few inches.

Final Thoughts and Review of Xenses

Through and through, we all enjoyed our half day spent at Xenses. It was so different from Xcaret and the other nearby parks that it really didn’t feel like them at all. It’s like the designers of the park had a slew of fun projects they just couldn’t make work at the other Xcaret family of parks, but wanted to see come to fruition. The result? Xenses. A place that definitely challenges all the senses.

Seeing that we had just spent the previous day at Xcaret, we didn’t feel like Xenses was a letdown in comparison. We’ve been to Xcaret a few times now and the kids always love it, however Xenses is so unique that when asked which park they’d like to return to next time we’re in Cancun or Playa del Carmen, they both say Xenses just because it’s so unique. Cole even says the Xensatorium was his favorite activity so that came as a surprise as well.

There’s no doubt that Xenses has a different take on an adventure park, however no one ever said they all have to be a certain way. Xenses is different, in a good way, and considering how much cheaper it is than its main competitors, it should definitely be on peoples radar, especially those looking for something different or those with only a limited time in the area.

Quick Information about Xenses

Location

10 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, or 50 minutes south of Cancun in Mexico.

How to get to Xenses

You can take anything from a taxi (easiest) to a collectivo (hardest) to get to Xenses. You can also buy a tour directly from Xenses that includes everything from transportation to your entrance fee. Xenses Cancun access is especially easy when you arrange transportation with the company directly.

See Xenses Cancun transportation prices Xenses here.

Taxi: The easiest way to get to Xenses is to take a taxi from Playa del Carmen. It costs around 150 pesos ($10 dollars) for a taxi anywhere in town right to the front gate of Xenses and 180 pesos to get back.

Collectivo: You can also take a collectivo ($2) from the collectivo stand on 2nd calle and you can be asked to be dropped off at the gate. Just note that there is a very long walk from the highway to the park itself. This post on seeing wild sea turtles in nearby Akumal has a good section about taking collectivos from Playa del Carmen.

Bus: Those coming in from Cancun or Tulum to Xenses can take an ADO bus to the station in Playa del Carmen and then grab a taxi from outside the terminal. Since Xenses is a smaller park than its siblings, getting a taxi from Xenses back to your hotel can take a few minutes. Just purchase your taxi fare at the admission office and they’ll arrange for one to come get you.

Car: If you have a car, there’s lots of free parking and the signs from Playa del Carmen make the place hard to miss. Just follow the first signs that point to Xcaret and follow the smaller signs to Xenses once you get off the highway.

Ferry: Xenses Cozumel access is by ferry, and then by one of the methods above. Since Cozumel is an island off the coast near Playa del Carmen, just take the ferry from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen, and bet a taxi, collectivo, bus or car.

Time to do Xenses

It takes around four hours to do Xenses Riviera Maya if you don’t go back and redo any activities. The whole park is set up with long walking paths and it helps to think of your day there as a series of activities you do in the order they’re presented in. It’s not easy to jump around doing different activities and we never even bothered trying.

Xenses Hours

Xenses Mexico is open from 8 to 7 Monday to Saturday, however they recommend entering the park between 8:30 to 10 or 1 to 2, since Xenses is considered a half day event and you’ll need that time to do all the activities.

Who’s it for

Xenses is great for everyone. Our family of 4 (kids 8 and 11) enjoyed themselves tremendously and even younger kids would enjoy what Xenses offers. Some areas like the Xensatorium might be frightening for those afraid of the dark, however parents can opt to go with the kids if it helps. The staff suggested I follow along behind my daughter, however she got too scared so I went before her and held her hand the entire way.

In the Adventure Zone, you can opt out of any activity and there are walkways to go from zone to zone if you choose to skip them for whatever reason. The stafff at Xenses suggest the place is for kids aged five and up and continually ask if you have a heart condition, epilepsy, claustrophobia and so forth since some of the activities can be a bit strenuous and lots of them take place in the underground cave system at Xenses.

Special Notes

There is a ton of walking at Xenses and though the vast majority of the park has smooth walkways, there are inclines at different points that some may find tiring. There are also numerous times where you’re required to go barefoot so those with sensitive feet might find it a bit of a challenge at times however if you wear water shoes you should be fine.

On-site amenities

There are numerous washrooms on site including free lockers, showers and change areas. They also have family change rooms. There is also a restaurant/snack bar called Xnack located in the main building as well as a souvenir market in the center where you can purchase everything from water shoes and shirts to waterproof cellphone cases.

Prices and where to buy Xenses tickets

Tip! When we checked, buying online on the Xsenses website saved about 10%.

We couldn’t find an online Xenses coupon code.

See Xenses online discounts here.

Right now, the regular at door price is $59 for adults while kids 0 to 5 are free. Children 5 to 11 are half price at $29.50.

Purchase your tickets online before you go directly from Xenses Xcaret via this link. Buying online on the Xenses website should save you around 10%.

If you’re interested in going to more than one park, the Xenses Mexico website also has some great deals when you combine other parks like Xcaret, Chichen Itza, Xenotes or Xoximilco  with your Xenses ticket. Check out the combo deals on their website here.

Is there anything you’d like us to add to our Xenses review? Did you find something cool at Xenses you’d like to share, or do you have Xenses reviews to tell us about? Let us know!