The Riviera Maya
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1. Aktun-Chen
CaveThe name is Mayan for "the cave with cenotes inside," and these amazing underground caverns—estimated to be about 5-million years old—are the...
The name is Mayan for "the cave with cenotes inside," and these amazing underground caverns—estimated to be about 5-million years old—are the area's largest. You walk through the underground passages, past stalactites and stalagmites, until you reach the cenote with its various shades of deep green. There's also an on-site canopy tour and one cenote where you can take a swim. This top family attraction isn't as crowded or touristy as Xplor, Xel-Há, and Xcaret.
Carretera 307, Km 107, opposite Bahia Principe resort, between Akumal and Xel-Ha, Akumal, Quintana Roo, 77750, Mexico998-806–4962-parkSight Details
Rate Includes: Cave tour M$447, cenote tour M$447, canopy tour M$596, Mon.–Sat. 9–5, Closed Sun. -
2. Cobá Ruins
RuinsMayan for "water stirred by the wind," Cobá flourished from AD 800 to 1100, with a population of as many as 55,000. Now it stands in solitude...
Mayan for "water stirred by the wind," Cobá flourished from AD 800 to 1100, with a population of as many as 55,000. Now it stands in solitude, and the jungle has overgrown many of its buildings—the silence is broken only by the occasional shriek of a spider monkey or the call of a bird. Most of the trails here are pleasantly shaded; processions of huge army ants cross the footpaths as the sun slips through openings between the tall hardwood trees, ferns, and giant palms. Cobá's ruins are spread out and best explored on a bike, which you can rent for M$40 a day. Taxi-bike tours are available for M$70. If you plan on walking instead, expect to cover 5 to 6 km (3 to 4 miles).The main groupings of ruins are separated by several miles of dense vegetation, but you can scale one of the pyramids to get a sense of the city's immensity. Don't be tempted by the narrow paths that lead into the jungle unless you have a qualified guide with you. It's easy to get lost here, so stay on the main road, wear comfortable shoes, and bring insect repellent and drinking water. Inside the site, there are no restrooms and only one small hut selling water (cash only).The first major cluster of structures, to your right as you enter the ruins, is the Cobá Group, whose pyramids are around a sunken patio. At the near end of the group, facing a large plaza, is the 79-foot-high temple, which was dedicated to the rain god, Chaac. Some Maya still place offerings and light candles here in hopes of improving their harvests. Around the rear, to the left, is a restored ball court, where a sacred game was once played to petition the gods for rain, fertility, and other blessings.Farther along the main path to your left is the Chumuc Mul Group, little of which has been excavated. The principal pyramid here is covered with the remains of vibrantly painted stucco motifs (chumuc mul means "stucco pyramid"). A kilometer (½ mi) past this site is the Nohoch Mul Group (Large Hill Group), the highlight of which is the pyramid of the same name, the tallest at Cobá. It has 120 steps—equivalent to 12 stories—and shares a plaza with Temple 10. The Descending God (also seen at Tulum) is depicted on a facade of the temple atop Nohoch Mul, from which the view is excellent.Beyond the Nohoch Mul Group is the Castillo, with nine chambers that are reached by a stairway. To the south are the remains of a ball court, including the stone ring through which the ball was hurled. From the main route, follow the sign to Las Pinturas Group, named for the still-discernible polychrome friezes on the inner and outer walls of its large, patioed pyramid. An enormous stela here depicts a man standing with his feet on two prone captives. Take the minor path for 1 km (½ mi) to the Macanxoc Group, not far from the lake of the same name. The main pyramid at Macanxoc is accessible by a stairway.
42 km (26 mi) northwest of Tulum, Cobá, Quintana Roo, 77740, MexicoSight Details
Rate Includes: M$59, Daily 8–5 -
3. Nacional Beach Club
BeachMany travelers stumble on this colorful beach club and end up staying past sunset. For just M$135, you get a beach chair, umbrella, and access...
Many travelers stumble on this colorful beach club and end up staying past sunset. For just M$135, you get a beach chair, umbrella, and access to the pool, showers, and changing facilities. Margaritas can be delivered to you beachside, or you can escape the heat by grabbing a bite in the enclosed patio. The M$40 Coronas and free Wi-Fi make this a popular spot to while away the day. There's decent snorkeling right out front, and equipment is available next door at Gypsea Divers. Even if you don't get in the water, the four shades of turquoise are breathtaking. Movies are shown under the stars on Wednesdays at 6. There are also six bungalows ($M950) for rent if you feel like staying the night. Cash only. Amenities: food and drink; showers; toilets. Best for: partiers; snorkeling; swimming.
Av. Mahahual, Mahahual, Quintana Roo, 77900, Mexico983-834–5719Sight Details
Rate Includes: M$135, Daily 8–5 -
4. Sense Spa
Spa–SightRosewood's 17,000-square-foot spa is on its very own jungle-covered island. Wooden walkways lead to a swimming pool and limestone cenote, which...
Rosewood's 17,000-square-foot spa is on its very own jungle-covered island. Wooden walkways lead to a swimming pool and limestone cenote, which is fed by subterranean springs. Many treatments, such as the temazcal ritual and the Mayakoba ancient massage, incorporate the Mayan tradition of aligning the energies of the body in rhythmic harmony. The chaya–mojito body scrub and anti-aging facial are both heavenly. Non-guest visitors can book a treatment, then enjoy the spa facilities, including the gym, sauna, Jacuzzi, plunge pool, and the eucalyptus steam room for free. Without a treatment, a day pass costs M$500.
Rosewood Mayakoba, Carretera 307, Km 298, Mayakoba, Quintana Roo, 77710, Mexico984-875–8000 -
5. Sian Ka'an
RuinsOne of the last undeveloped stretches of coastline in North America, Sian Ka'an was declared a wildlife preserve in 1986, and a UNESCO World...
One of the last undeveloped stretches of coastline in North America, Sian Ka'an was declared a wildlife preserve in 1986, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The 1.3- million acre reserve accounts for 10% of the land in the state of Quintana Roo and covers 100 km (62 miles) of coastline. It's amazingly diverse, encompassing freshwater and coastal lagoons, mangrove swamps, cayes, savannas, tropical forests, and a barrier reef. Hundreds of species of local and migratory birds, fish, animals, and plants share the land with fewer than 1,000 Maya residents. The area was first settled by the Maya in the 5th century AD—the name Sian Ka'an translates to "where the sky is born." There are approximately 32 ruins (none excavated) linked by a unique canal system—one of the few of its kind in Mayan Mexico. There's a M$29 entrance charge for the park, but to see much of anything, you should take a guided tour.Many species of the once-flourishing wildlife have fallen into the endangered category, but the waters here still teem with roosterfish, bonefish, mojarra, snapper, shad, permit, sea bass, and crocodiles. Fishing the flats for wily bonefish is popular, and the peninsula's few lodges also run deep-sea fishing trips.Most fishing lodges along the way close for the rainy season in August and September, and accommodations are hard to come by. The road ends at Punta Allen, a fishing village whose main catch is spiny lobster, which was becoming scarce until ecologists taught the local fishing cooperative how to build and lay special traps to conserve the species. There are several small, expensive guesthouses. If you haven't booked ahead, start out early in the morning so you can get back to civilization before dark.
Coastal Road Tulum-Boca Paila-Punta Allen, Km 15.8, just beyond the Arco Maya (arch entrance), Sian Ka'an, Quintana Roo, Mexico998-887–1969 -
Recommended Fodor’s Video
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6. Tulum Ruins
RuinsTulum is one of the few Mayan cities known to have been inhabited when the conquistadors arrived in 1518. In the 16th century it was a trade...
Tulum is one of the few Mayan cities known to have been inhabited when the conquistadors arrived in 1518. In the 16th century it was a trade center, a safe harbor for goods from rival Mayan factions who considered the city neutral territory. Tulum reached its height when its merchants, made wealthy through trading, for the first time outranked Maya priests in authority and power. But when the Spaniards arrived, they forbade the Maya traders to sail the seas, and commerce among the Maya died.Tulum has long held special significance for the Maya as a symbol of resistance and independence. A key city in the League of Mayapán (AD 987–1194), it was never conquered by the Spaniards, although it was abandoned by the Maya about 75 years after the conquest of the rest of Mexico. For 300 years thereafter it symbolized the defiance of an otherwise subjugated people, and it was one of the last outposts of the Maya during their insurrection against Mexican rule in the Caste Wars, which began in 1847. Uprisings continued intermittently until 1935, when the Maya ceded Tulum to the Mexican government. At the entrance to the ruins you can hire a guide for M$474, but keep in mind that some of their information is more entertainment than historical accuracy. (Disregard that stuff about virgin sacrifices.) Although you can see the ruins thoroughly in 2 hours, you might want to allow extra time for a swim or a stroll on the beach.The first significant structure is the two-story Templo de los Frescos, to the left of the entryway. The temple's vault roof and corbel arch are examples of classic Mayan architecture. Faint traces of blue-green frescoes outlined in black on the inner and outer walls depict the three worlds of the Maya and their major deities, and are decorated with stellar and serpentine patterns, rosettes, and ears of maize and other offerings to the gods. One scene portrays the rain god seated on a four-legged animal—probably a reference to the Spaniards on their horses. Unfortunately, the frescos are difficult to see from the path to which visitors are restricted.The largest and most-photographed structure, the Castillo (Castle), looms at the edge of a 40-foot limestone cliff just past the Temple of the Frescoes. Atop it, at the end of a broad stairway, is a temple with stucco ornamentation on the outside and traces of fine frescoes inside the two chambers. (The stairway has been roped off, so the top temple is inaccessible.) The front wall of the Castillo has faint carvings of the Descending God and columns depicting the plumed serpent god, Kukulcán, who was introduced to the Maya by the Toltecs. To the left of the Castillo, facing the sea, is the Templo del Díos Descendente —so called for the carving over the doorway of a winged god plummeting to earth.A few small altars sit atop a hill at the north side of the cove, with a good view of the Castillo and the sea. To avoid the longest lines, be sure to arrive before 11 am. Outside the entrance are dozens of vendors selling Mexican crafts, so bring some extra cash for souvenirs.
Carretera 307, Km 133, Tulum, Quintana Roo, 77750, Mexico983-837–2411Sight Details
Rate Includes: M$59 entrance, M$54 parking, M$67 video fee, M$27 shuttle from parking to ruins, Daily 8–4:30 -
7. Akumal Bay
BeachKnown for the sea turtles that swim in its waters, Akumal Bay is sheltered by an offshore reef—sadly only about 30% of it is alive. It's best...
Known for the sea turtles that swim in its waters, Akumal Bay is sheltered by an offshore reef—sadly only about 30% of it is alive. It's best to explore the waters with a certified guide available through dive shops in town. A M$122 conservation fee is tacked on to all tours. Do not wear sunscreen in the water as it can harm the reef, and, above all, do not touch the wildlife or coral. Be careful to stay clear of the red "fire reef" since excessive contact can be fatal. When you drag yourself away from the snorkeling, there are plenty of palm trees for shade, as well as a variety of waterfront shops, restaurants, and cafés. If you continue on the main road, you'll reach Half Moon Bay and Laguna Yalkú, also good snorkeling spots. Amenities : food and drink; lifeguards; water sports. Best for : snorkeling.
enter at Hotel Akumal Caribe, Akumal, Quintana Roo, 77760, Mexico-No phone -
8. Banyan Tree Spa
Spa–SightBuilt over freshwater lagoons, the Banyan Tree Spa draws on centuries-old Asian traditions. The therapists (most of whom are from Thailand)...
Built over freshwater lagoons, the Banyan Tree Spa draws on centuries-old Asian traditions. The therapists (most of whom are from Thailand) begin with a heavenly footbath, followed by your choice of Asian-flavored healing treatments, including scrubs with turmeric, lemongrass, or green tea. Treatments take place in private pavilions, each with its own steam room, shower, and outdoor Jacuzzi enclosed by bamboo walls. Unique to Banyan Tree are its signature Rainmist Steam Bath and the romantic couples' Rainforest Experience, that combines hydrotherapy with infrared light to release tension and revitalize the body.
Banyan Tree Resort, Carretera 307, Km 298, Mayakoba, Quintana Roo, 77710, Mexico984-877–3688 -
9. Budha Gardens Spa
Spa–SightThis small day spa in Akumal offers Swedish massage, reflexology, facials, body scrubs, wraps, manicures, and pedicures. After a day in the...
This small day spa in Akumal offers Swedish massage, reflexology, facials, body scrubs, wraps, manicures, and pedicures. After a day in the sun, try the popular Mayan clay mask, said to firm the skin and draw out impurities. Body scrub options range from mango-ginger to bamboo-walnut, while the cooling body wraps incorporate local ingredients like cucumber and lavender to rehydrate the skin. Each wrap and scrub is accompanied by a mini-facial and head massage.
past Akumal Arch on main road, next to Hotel Akumal Caribe, Akumal, Quintana Roo, 77760, Mexico984-745–4942 -
10. Canibal Royal
BeachPlaya's most urbane beach club is set apart from the crowd in more ways than one. It's north of town at Calle 48, and its retro-1960s architecture...
Playa's most urbane beach club is set apart from the crowd in more ways than one. It's north of town at Calle 48, and its retro-1960s architecture and eclectic music selection make it a destination in itself. The beach area is equipped with plenty of lounge chairs, and there's a rooftop bar with a plunge pool and sundeck. Expect to pay around M$200 for a chair and umbrella; fees are generally waved for those who spend a minimum of M$200 on food or drinks. For a stylish lunch, try braised octopus or a tarte flambé. There's also a juice bar and full cocktail menu featuring the signature rosemary caipiroska (vodka with lime and sugar). Amenities: food and drink; toilets. Best for: partiers.
Calle 48, in front of Elements Condominiums and next to Grand Coco Bay, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, 77710, Mexico984-859–1441Sight Details
Rate Includes: M$200 food/drink minimum, Daily 10–7 -
11. Cenotes Kantún Chi
Body Of Water/WaterfallThis Maya-owned and operated eco-park has cenotes and a few beautiful underground caverns that are great for snorkeling and diving, as well...
This Maya-owned and operated eco-park has cenotes and a few beautiful underground caverns that are great for snorkeling and diving, as well as some small Mayan ruins. The place is low-key—a nice break from the crowds. Bring natural mosquito repellent.
Carretera 307, Km 266, in front of Barceló Hotel, Puerto Aventuras, Quintana Roo, 77750, Mexico984-803–0143Sight Details
Rate Includes: M$799, Daily 9–5 -
12. Chacchoben
RuinsExcavated in 2005, Chacchoben (pronounced cha -cho-ben) is an ancient city that was a contemporary of Kohunlich and the most important trading...
Excavated in 2005, Chacchoben (pronounced cha-cho-ben) is an ancient city that was a contemporary of Kohunlich and the most important trading partner with Guatemala north of the Bacalar Lagoon area. Several newly unearthed buildings are still in good condition. The lofty Templo Uno, the site's main temple, was dedicated to the Mayan sun god Itzamná, and once held a royal tomb. (When archaeologists found it, though, it had already been looted.) Most of the site was built around AD 200, in the Petén style of the early classic period, although the city could have been inhabited as early as 200 BC. It's thought that inhabitants made their living growing cotton and extracting chewing gum and copal resin from the trees.
Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, 77200, Mexico-No phoneSight Details
Rate Includes: M$48, Daily 8–5 -
13. Chan Yu Yum
BeachNorth of Tulum is a smaller bay, known as Chan Yu Yum, edging the Catalonia Royal Tulum. While it's marginally less protected than Omni Beach...
North of Tulum is a smaller bay, known as Chan Yu Yum, edging the Catalonia Royal Tulum. While it's marginally less protected than Omni Beach, it's also delightfully calm, with flat white sands melting into shallow waters great for snorkeling. Divers are likely to spot turtles, stingrays, toadfish, and perhaps even a nurse shark; however, underwater currents can make diving a challenge. Amenities: none. Best for: snorkeling; swimming.
Bahia Xcacel, near Catalonia Royal Tulum, off Carretera 307 at Km 264.5, X-Puhá, Quintana Roo, 77790, Mexico-No phone -
14. Chetumal Bay
BeachSeveral grassy beach parks, including Punta Estrella and Dos Mulas, surround the bay. The latter is presently not recommended due to maintenance...
Several grassy beach parks, including Punta Estrella and Dos Mulas, surround the bay. The latter is presently not recommended due to maintenance and cleanliness issues. But Punta Estrella has parking, toilets, volleyball courts, and a small boat marina. The water here is calm, if cloudy, and there's plenty of shade from trees and little palapa-topped picnic tables. Popular with fishermen, the bay itself is shallow and the flats go on for miles. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); toilets. Best for: walking.
Chetumal, Quintana Roo, 77000, Mexico-no phone -
15. Croco-Cun Zoo
Zoo/AquariumThe biologists running the Croco-Cun Zoo, an animal farm just north of Puerto Morelos, have collected specimens of many of the reptiles and...
The biologists running the Croco-Cun Zoo, an animal farm just north of Puerto Morelos, have collected specimens of many of the reptiles and some of the mammals indigenous to the area. They offer immensely informative tours—you may even get to handle a baby crocodile or feed a monkey. Be sure to wave hello to the 500-pound crocodile secure in his deep pit.
Carretera 307, Km 31, Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, 77580, Mexico998-850–3719Sight Details
Rate Includes: M$366, Daily 9–5 -
16. Dzibanché
RuinsThe alliance between sister cities Dzibanché and Kinichná was thought to have made them the most powerful cities in southern Quintana Roo during...
The alliance between sister cities Dzibanché and Kinichná was thought to have made them the most powerful cities in southern Quintana Roo during the Mayan classic period (AD 100–1000). The fertile farmlands surrounding the ruins are still used today as they were hundreds of years ago, and the winding drive deep into the fields makes you feel as if you're coming upon something undiscovered. Archaeologists have been making progress in excavating more and more ruins, albeit slowly.At Dzibanché ("place where they write on wood," pronounced zee-ban-che), several carved wooden lintels have been found; the most perfectly preserved sample is in a supporting arch at the Plaza de Xibalba. Also at the plaza is the Templo del Búho (Temple of the Owl), atop which a recessed tomb was discovered—only the second of its kind in Mexico (the first was at Palenque in Chiapas). In the tomb were magnificent clay vessels painted with white owls—messengers of the underworld gods. More buildings and three plazas have been restored as excavation continues. Several other plazas are surrounded by temples, palaces, and pyramids, all in the Petén style. The carved stone steps at Edificio 13 and Edificio 2 (Buildings 13 and 2) still bear traces of stone masks. A copy of the famed lintel of Templo IV (Temple IV), with eight glyphs dating from AD 618, is housed in the Museo de la Cultura Maya in Chetumal. (The original was replaced in 2003 because of deterioration.) Four more tombs were discovered at Templo I (Temple I).
Carretera 186 Chetumal–Escárcega, 80 km (50 miles) west of Chetumal, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico-no phoneSight Details
Rate Includes: M$48 (includes Kinichná), Daily 8–5 -
17. Fatima Bay
BeachAlthough the marina is the main focus here, Puerto Aventuras' beaches are naturally stunning and seldom crowded. The main one, Fatima Bay, commonly...
Although the marina is the main focus here, Puerto Aventuras' beaches are naturally stunning and seldom crowded. The main one, Fatima Bay, commonly referred to as Omni Beach, stretches nearly 3 km (2 miles) south between Chac Hal Al condominiums and the Grand Peninsula residence. Its shallow, calm waters are kid-friendly, especially inside the breakwater. Further out the temperature drops, making for a refreshing swim. To the north is a smaller bay, known as Chan Yu Yum, used by guests of the Catalonia Resort; better beaches lie just south of Puerto Aventuras in the community of Xpu-Há. Amenities : food and drink. Best for : snorkeling; swimming.
behind the Omni Hotel, Puerto Aventuras, Quintana Roo, 77580, Mexico-No phone -
18. Fuerte de San Felipe Bacalar
Military SightThis 17th-century stone fort was built by the Spaniards using stones from the nearby Mayan pyramids. It was originally constructed as a haven...
This 17th-century stone fort was built by the Spaniards using stones from the nearby Mayan pyramids. It was originally constructed as a haven against pirates and marauding bandits, then was transformed into a Maya stronghold during the War of the Castes. Today the monolithic structure, which overlooks the enormous Laguna de Bacalar, houses government offices and a museum with exhibits on local history (ask for someone to bring a key if museum doors are locked).
Bacalar, Quintana Roo, 77981, Mexico983-832–6838-museumSight Details
Rate Includes: M$67, Tues.–Sun. 9–7, Closed Mon. -
19. Half Moon Bay
BeachThe crescent bay on the north end of Akumal has shallow waters and almost no current, making it a safe swimming spot for children; the snorkeling...
The crescent bay on the north end of Akumal has shallow waters and almost no current, making it a safe swimming spot for children; the snorkeling is also good here (you might even see the occasional sea turtle). Beach chairs and hammocks line the shore at La Buena Vida restaurant, which has a pool, restrooms, and limited street parking for patrons. The area near Casa Maya is protected by an outer reef; however, the entry point is rocky, so bring water shoes. Bring an umbrella, too—Half Moon Bay is known for its white sand and clear waters, but the lack of trees means you'll have trouble finding shade. Amenities : food and drink; toilets. Best for : snorkeling; swimming.
Beach Rd., Lote 35, North Akumal, Akumal, Quintana Roo, 77760, Mexico -
20. Indigo Beach
BeachCure your morning hangover with the breakfast buffet (M$150) at this beach club beside El Taj Condo Hotel. The restaurant serves fresh fusion...
Cure your morning hangover with the breakfast buffet (M$150) at this beach club beside El Taj Condo Hotel. The restaurant serves fresh fusion cuisine that blends Italian, Asian, and Mexican dishes. Lounge chairs and beach beds are abundant, and there are changing rooms, outdoor showers, and oversized towels for your convenience. A section of beach is used as a launching point by small fishing boats, but the view is still lovely and there is plenty of space to relax. As you enter the water, you'll feel about 20-feet of coral stone before the bottom transitions to smooth sand. The morning yoga and tai chi classes are a great way to start the day. Amenities: food and drink; showers; toilets. Best for: walking.
Calle 14, beside El Taj Condo Hotel, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, 77710, Mexico984-803–2222Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free with food or drink purchase, Daily 8–5:30
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