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Located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, the Riviera Maya is a world-renowned tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning combination of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, ancient archaeological sites, and rich culture. From relaxing in luxury resorts to venturing into the rainforest, the Riviera Maya offers something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss when visiting this breathtaking region.
Bacalar, often referred to as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” is a mesmerizing natural wonder located in the southern part of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning hues that range from turquoise to deep blue, Bacalar offers visitors a tranquil oasis amidst lush greenery and mangroves. Whether you’re kayaking along the lagoon’s serene surface, exploring the nearby cenotes, or simply relaxing on its pristine shores, Bacalar captivates with its unparalleled beauty and sense of serenity. This hidden gem invites travelers to immerse themselves in its enchanting landscapes and experience the magic of one of Mexico’s most captivating destinations.
The Seven Shades of Diva Blues: Ladies, forget about trying to match your outfit to your mood because Bacalar Lagoon’s got more shades of blue than your mood ring on a very confusing day. From deep navy blue that resonates with your soul to a bright turquoise that’s practically flirting with you, this lagoon is serving a visual feast so serene it could calm the storm inside any wandering heart.
Cenote Azul: Sinkhole of Dreams: Next up, we have the magnificent Cenote Azul, the diva of sinkholes, making all the other cenotes green with envy – if they, you know, had feelings and weren’t just, well, holes filled with water. This beauty is 90 meters of deep, clear blue that’s just begging for you to dive in. And why wouldn’t you? It’s like the cenote put up a sign saying, “Best swimming and diving experience here. No, seriously, we’re not kidding.”
Water Activities: Because Sitting is Overrated: For those who think sitting on the shore with a book is the best water activity, Bacalar Lagoon is about to school you – gently, of course. Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and boat tours? Yes, please! It’s time to explore, conquer, and basically become the Lewis or Clark of lagoon exploration. Admire those vibrant blues up close and personally because, darling, you’re not meant to just observe life; you’re here to dive headfirst into it!
The Pirates’ Channel: Arrrr You Ready?: Channel your inner pirate – minus the pillaging and with a bit more fashion sense – in the Pirates’ Channel. This is where the infamous pirates used to say, “Arrr, let’s take a breather and enjoy the saltwater goodness.” Now, you can swim, snorkel, or float around pretending to search for lost treasure. It’s the perfect spot to mix history with pleasure, adding just a dash of rebellion because, well, that’s just how we roll.
Stromatolites: Snorkeling with History: Ever wanted to time travel? Snorkeling around Bacalar Lagoon’s stromatolites is pretty much the closest thing you’ll get to a dive back into ancient history, no DeLorean required. These rock-like structures are not just your average underwater decor; they’re living fossils, darlings, with more life experience than all of us combined.
So There You Have It: Bacalar Lagoon isn’t just another pretty face on the map; it’s an adventure, a history lesson, and a dive into the depths of natural beauty, all rolled into one. Solo lady travelers, this is your call to arms – or fins, or paddleboards. Pack your bags, embrace the bold, and let’s make some unforgettable blue-tinted memories. Because honestly, if you’re looking for a sign to go explore the world, this is it, in every shade of blue imaginable.
Perched on a cliff above the Caribbean Sea, the Tulum Ruins are one of Mexico’s most photographed archaeological sites. Built by the ancient Mayans, these ruins date back to the late post-classic period and offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and architecture. Visitors can explore ancient structures such as the Temple of the Descending God and the Castle while enjoying stunning views of the ocean. To get there, you grab a shuttle service from Cancun to Tulum Shuttle.
1. History, but Make it VIP: Once upon a time, before your online shopping addiction, there was Tulum—the hotspot for ancient Mayan commerce. Picture this: bustling trade from the 13th to 15th centuries, where the Caribbean Sea was the freeway of goods. Yeah, Tulum wasn’t just chilling by the beach, it was the epicentre of maritime hustle!
2. Beachside Ruins: Because Jungle is So Last Season: Why go deep jungle trekking and risk the wrath of mosquitos when you can have ruins with a sea view? Tulum stands out from the Mayan ruins crowd with its primo coastal location. It’s like the Mayans knew tourists would love a good seascape backdrop for their selfies. Strategic and chic—check you, Tulum.
3. The Art of the Wall: Defense, but Make it Fashion: Forget gated communities; Tulum had a wall before it was cool. Surrounded on three sides with towering barriers (the ocean was obviously their fancy open concept side), this place was Fort Knox for the ancients. At 3-5 meters high and up to 8 meters thick, these walls whisper, “Talk to the hand,” to invaders.
4. El Castillo: Not Just Another Beach House: El Castillo is basically the castle on the cliff you promised yourself you’d buy after winning the lottery. Serving panoramic sea views and believed to double as a lighthouse, this structure was the ancient GPS guiding Mayan traders home. Also, the engravings? Total ceremonial swagger.
5. Temple of the Frescoes: Ancient Mayan Art Gallery: Step aside, modern art museums, the Temple of the Frescoes was showcasing divine murals way before it was cool. Depicting Mayan deities and cosmic jargon, these walls are giving us a sneak peek into the spiritual gossip of the times. It’s the antique version of scrolling through celestial Instagram!
6. Temple of the Descending God: Because Subtlety is Overrated: And then there’s the Temple of the Descending God, named for its artsy portrayal of a deity doing a headfirst dive—because upright is so mainstream. This temple might be small, but its details pack a punch, proving that in Tumul, size really isn’t everything!
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a breathtaking natural sanctuary located along the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Spanning over 5,000 square kilometers, Sian Ka’an is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity and pristine ecosystems, encompassing tropical forests, mangroves, marshes, and a network of intricate waterways. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, including jaguars, manatees, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species, the reserve offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing and eco-adventures.
Visitors can explore Sian Ka’an through guided tours, boat trips, and hiking excursions, immersing themselves in the region’s natural wonders while learning about its ecological significance and conservation efforts. With its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity, Sian Ka’an is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers seeking to experience the raw beauty of the Mexican Caribbean.
1. Size and Location: Go Big or Go Home, Right?: Try 1.3 million acres of pure, unadulterated wild paradise! Sian Ka’an is like the queen bee of the Mexican Caribbean, flaunting everything from tropical forests and sassy marshes to a slice of the second-largest coral reef in the world. Just a stone’s throw from Tulum, because even nature understands the need for good neighbors.
2. Biodiversity: More Species Than Your Insta Followers: Yeah, your Instagram is cool, but have you ever met a jaguar face-to-face? Or watched a howler monkey throw shade from the treetops? Sian Ka’an is bursting with 300 species of birds alone—talk about the ultimate feathered frenzy!
3. Marine and Coastal Ecosystems: More Life Than Your Last Beach Party: Yes, dear, snorkeling here isn’t just swimming; it’s time-traveling through marine life royalty! You’ll be rubbing fins with colorful fishes and maybe bumping shells with some laid-back sea turtles. Flippers > high heels, always.
4. Lagoons and Waterways: Get Your Paddle On!: Why stick to boring gym workouts when you can kayak through history? The lagoons here aren’t just wet; they’re full-blown aquatic highways courtesy of the ancient Maya. From Laguna Muyil to Laguna Chunyaxché, it’s like paddling through a liquid maze loaded with exclusive wildlife. Who needs a motor when you’ve got arms and a sense of adventure?
5. Mayan Ruins: Because Old Rocks are the New Black: Forget about museums and dusty exhibits! At Sian Ka’an, the ruins come with a breeze and a view. Muyil ruins take you back—way back—to a time when the Maya were the it-crowd of commerce and cool. Wander through these ancient party pads and trade routes, and feel the vibes of the old-school movers and shakers.
Akumal, meaning “place of turtles” in Mayan, is a charming bay located in the Riviera Maya, between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Famous for being a sanctuary for sea turtles, Akumal attracts visitors from around the world who wish to swim and snorkel alongside these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. In addition to turtles, the crystal-clear waters of Akumal are home to a great diversity of marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
On land, tourists can explore Akumal’s tranquil white sandy beach, enjoy local cuisine at nearby restaurants, or visit the nearby Yal-Ku cenote to experience the magical world of the peninsula’s underground waters. With its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere, Akumal offers an unforgettable experience for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the authentic beauty of the Riviera Maya.
1. Turtle Watching: The Early Bird Catches the Sea Turtle: Forget morning alarms; at Akumal, the real wake-up call is the chance to ballet-dance in the water with sea turtles. These graceful gliders are out here living their best life in the shallow cribs of Akumal Bay, and they’re inviting you to the morning show. Early riser or not, strapping on a snorkel to meet these chill locals is worth ditching your beauty sleep for.
2. Snorkeling and Diving: Dive Into a Fishbowl of Wonders: Akumal Bay isn’t just showing off with its sea turtles; it’s also flaunting coral reefs so colorful, you’d think the fish went wild with interior design. Snorkelers and divers, get ready to crash the coolest underwater party around. And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, Yal-Ku Lagoon enters the chat—calm waters, teeming marine life, and not a care in the world.
3. Beautiful Beaches: Sandy Toes Over High Heels: Akumal’s beaches are like that effortlessly gorgeous friend who doesn’t need a filter. With sand so soft, you’ll want to write poetry about it, and water so clear, you’ll question reality. Akumal Beach and Half Moon Bay are the VIP lounges of the Riviera Maya, minus the cover charge. Sunbathing, swimming, or embarking on a solo treasure hunt, these beaches are where you prove relaxation is an extreme sport.
4. Cenotes: Nature’s Swimming Pools with a Twist: Ditch the chlorine and dive into the crystal-clear embrace of the cenotes around Akumal. Cenote Dos Ojos and Cenote Azul are showing off the earth’s hidden artwork—one swim at a time. Part of the exclusive Sac Actun cave system club, these natural sinkholes are perfect for anyone looking to cool off while exploring underwater galleries.
5. Ecological Centers and Conservation: Be the Hero in a Half Shell: The Centro Ecológico Akumal (CEA) is where sea turtles name-drop to get the proper VIP treatment. This non-profit is all about keeping Akumal’s ecosystems drama-free and educating visitors on how to travel sustainably. Because being eco-conscious is the new sexy, and learning about conservation is actually a great bar story.
6. Akumal Monkey Sanctuary: Monkey Business at Its Finest: Looking for some unconventional BFFs? The Akumal Monkey Sanctuary has got you covered. It’s like a backstage pass to hang out with the coolest monkeys, birds, and other critters that have stories to rival any travel blogger.
Cenotes, or natural freshwater wells, are a unique feature of the Yucatán Peninsula and a must-visit for adventurers. These natural wonders offer a unique swimming experience in crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Some of the most popular cenotes to visit in the Riviera Maya include the Gran Cenote, Cenote Dos Ojos, and Cenote Ik Kil.
Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient civilizations, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or venturing into nature, the Riviera Maya offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. With its unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty, this fascinating region continues to be one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations.
Alright, you adventurous sirens of solo travel, let’s dive into the world of cenotes, those mystical natural swimming holes that just scream “Instagram or it didn’t happen.” But remember, we’re not just here for the ‘gram – we’re here to immerse ourselves in the beauty, history, and, let’s be real, the cool refreshing waters that these unique spots offer. So buckle up, or should I say, strap on your snorkels, ’cause we’re about to embark on a deep dive into cenote wonderland, and it’s going to be fabulous.
1. Cenote Dos Ojos: Where BFF Goals Meet Underwater: Think of it as snorkeling through the eyes of the Earth, except Earth has way better eye makeup with those stunning underwater formations. Oh, and it’s a primo spot for divers who like their adventures with a side of “I’m basically a mermaid.” Dive deep into this expansive underwater cave system, and who knows, maybe find Nemo or his long-lost cousins.
2. Gran Cenote: The Chill Lounge of the Cenote World: Now, if Dos Ojos is the adventure queen, Gran Cenote is the laid-back beach club everyone wants to hang at. Picture this: clear, turquoise waters so inviting, even your anxiety will take a day off. It’s perfect for families or those of us who want all the beauty without the “I might encounter a sea creature” fear.
3. Cenote Ik Kil: The Drama Queen You Can’t Ignore: Cenote Ik Kil is basically the Kardashians of cenotes – visually stunning, dramatic, and absolutely can’t-miss. A plunge into this open-air cenote is like diving straight into a movie scene, with hanging vines and water so clear you’ll start questioning your life choices – why don’t I live here again? Conveniently located near Chichen Itza, so you can mix a little culture with your leisure, because we’re classy like that.
4. Cenote Azul: The Introverted Paradise: Cenote Azul, the quiet but drop-dead gorgeous one at the party. Surrounded by lush jungle, this spot is perfect for those of us who prefer serene beauty over wild adventures. Think of it as your personal jungle oasis, but without the hassle of actually being stranded. With areas perfect for both splashing around and deep-water exploring, it’s like the cenote version of a Swiss Army knife – it has a little bit of everything.
5. Cenote Sagrado: The History Buff’s Bathtub: Located at Chichen Itza, this is where the Mayans used to hold their wildest parties – you know, sacrifices, offerings to the gods, the usual Friday night. While you can’t dive in, the historical significance is palpable. Plus, it’s always fun to say, “I’ve been to a place where they used to appease the gods.” Talk about conversation starters!
6. Cenote Calavera: For the Indiana Jones in All of Us: Lastly, let’s get a bit edgy with Cenote Calavera, also known as the “Temple of Doom” – but fear not, Harrison Ford is not required to enjoy this adventure. With three openings that resemble a skull (hence the name), it’s as Instagrammable as it is thrilling. Jump in from the top for that adrenaline rush or take the ladder if you’re pretending to be less adventurous (but we know the truth). It’s perfect for those who want their travel stories to sound like a blockbuster movie plot.
Ladies, packing your bags yet? These are not just swimming holes; they’re gateways to aquatic adventures, historical journeys, and the perfect backdrop to your fearless solo travel narratives. Dive in, the cenotes are calling, and you must go!
In addition to its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the Riviera Maya is home to some of the most luxurious and enchanting hotels in the world. Whether you’re seeking a secluded retreat surrounded by tropical gardens or an upscale resort with all the amenities, there’s something for everyone in this idyllic destination. Here are some of the top hotels in the Riviera Maya that offer an unforgettable blend of luxury and paradise.
Nestled amid lush jungle foliage and pristine beaches, Rosewood Mayakoba epitomizes luxury and tranquility. This exclusive resort features elegant suites and private villas with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea or tranquil lagoons. Guests can indulge in world-class amenities, including a championship golf course, a lavish spa, and gourmet dining options showcasing the region’s finest cuisine.
Set within the prestigious Mayakoba resort complex, Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers a sanctuary of serenity and sophistication. Each of the resort’s luxurious villas boasts a private pool and outdoor terrace, providing the ultimate retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can immerse themselves in the resort’s holistic wellness offerings, enjoy exquisite dining experiences, and explore the nearby coral reefs and mangrove forests.
Renowned for its unparalleled service and opulent accommodations, Grand Velas Riviera Maya is a haven of luxury on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. The resort features spacious suites with private plunge pools, Jacuzzis, and breathtaking ocean views. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining at the resort’s acclaimed restaurants, unwind at the world-class spa, and enjoy a host of recreational activities, including water sports and eco-adventures.
Situated within a lush mangrove forest overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Fairmont Mayakoba offers a blend of luxury and eco-consciousness. The resort’s elegant rooms and suites feature contemporary Mexican decor and modern amenities, while its expansive grounds provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Guests can enjoy access to the Greg Norman-designed El Camaleón golf course, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, and savor culinary delights at the resort’s award-winning restaurants.
Set on one of the most pristine beaches in the Riviera Maya, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun is an adults-only paradise where luxury meets romance. The resort’s elegantly appointed suites feature private balconies or terraces with stunning ocean views, perfect for savoring breathtaking sunsets. Guests can enjoy unlimited access to gourmet dining options, indulge in pampering spa treatments, and partake in an array of water sports and activities.
From secluded hideaways to expansive beachfront resorts, the Riviera Maya offers an array of luxury accommodations that promise an unforgettable escape. Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a family-friendly getaway, or an adventure-filled vacation, these top hotels in the Riviera Maya ensure an experience of unparalleled luxury and relaxation amidst paradise.
Exploring the wonders of the Riviera Maya involves efficient transportation to fully immerse yourself in all this paradise has to offer. While there are various options available, considering different transportation methods can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Private transportation services like Taxi Riviera Maya and Cun Airport Shuttle offer convenience and comfort, providing door-to-door service and spacious vehicles. With personalized service and flexibility, private transportation allows you to explore at your own pace, ensuring a stress-free experience.
While taxis and car rentals are common choices, it’s essential to be aware of certain factors that may affect your experience. Taxi fares can vary, and communication challenges may arise, particularly if you’re not fluent in Spanish. Similarly, navigating through crowded streets and finding parking spaces can be challenging with rental cars, potentially leading to frustration and wasted time.
In conclusion, while taxis and car rentals offer transportation alternatives in the Riviera Maya, private transportation services provide convenience and comfort, allowing you to make the most of your time in this stunning destination. Consider your preferences and needs when choosing the best transportation option for your travels, and as always, Travel Till You Drop!
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. This is my very first stop when I’m looking for my next trip. It’s a fast, easy-to-use search engine that is perfect for finding an affordable flight, a perfect hotel, and the right rental car for you in locations around the globe.
If you are looking for a super budget friendly location and are open to a hostel stay, make sure you book your hostel with Hostelworld. It offers the broadest range of quality hostels around the world.
If you’d prefer a hotel or a guesthouse for stays less than 28 days, drop on over to Booking.com It’s perfect for providing excellent options, a ton of user reviews, and prices to fit every budget.
For stays over 28 days, AirBnB still remains my #1 choice. User reviews and monthly pricing allow for some incredible deals all around the world.
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Hi, Jill Here
Hi! I’m Jill, a Dallas, Texas girl traveling the world. After a career in the Air Force and touring over 50 countries later, my need to explore keeps going! It’s time to rock & roll and find all those places I never knew I was missing.
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