The Riviera Maya is the perfect tropical destination for any traveler. This region has world-class beaches, restaurants, diving, cenotes, accommodations, aquatic wildlife, and Mayan ruins. So this guide has everything you need to know when traveling to the Riviera Maya!

Everything You Need To Know for a Trip To Mexico

Most people who visit the Riviera Maya stay in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, or Tulum. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, so I recommend splitting your trip between at least two of these places.

Cancun and Cozumel aren’t “technically” part of the Riviera Maya, but they’re geographically and culturally so similar and close that they’re also worth visiting.

Here’s the ultimate guide for traveling to the Riviera Maya!

When To Go

May – August is the Riviera Maya’s peak season. Prices and tourist numbers will be at their highest, so book in advance to save some money. These months are hot and humid, but the summer is perfect for sunshine, clear skies, and water activities.

September – November is hurricane season, so this is the off-season. Crowds and prices will be at their lowest, but the chance of rain, choppy water, cloudy skies, and bad weather is higher. If you’re willing to risk the weather, you can score some great accommodation rates during these months.

December – February is cooler than the rest of the year but still pleasant. If you dive during these months, you’ll want a thicker wetsuit to stay warm underwater. Rain is common during these months, but it’s usually brief afternoon showers that help keep you cool. To save money during these months, avoid the holidays and long weekends.

March – April has fabulous weather – dry, sunny, and not too hot. But these months are more crowded and expensive because of Spring Break trips, so book in advance to ensure availability.

If you’re a diver, May – August is whale shark season, and November – March is bull shark season.

Cancun

Cancun’s Hotel Zone is the place to be for those looking to party. With an array of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, this area is perfect if you love to dance the night away.

If you want to relax, Cancun’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. With crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, it’s easy to spend an entire day lounging in the sun.

Playa del Carmen

Located just south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen is a lively and colorful town that offers something for everyone. The main beach is Playa del Carmen Beach. For a quieter experience, head to the nearby Playacar Beach or Xpu-Ha Beach, both known for their pristine beauty and calm waters.

One of the highlights of Playa del Carmen is its famous 5th Avenue, a pedestrian street known for shopping, bars, and restaurants that comes alive at night with live music and street performers!

Cozumel

This island off the coast of Playa del Carmen is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

The stunning reefs and crystal-clear waters surrounding the island offer a glimpse into a world of marine life that will leave you awestruck. Cozumel is also home to some of the best beaches in the region, making it an ideal spot to simply relax and soak up the sun!

Tulum

Known for its cenotes and ancient seaside ruins, the bohemian town of Tulum is split into two areas – the trendy, high-end Tulum Beach and the laid-back bohemian Tulum Town (also called Tulum Pueblo).

Tulum Town is a more authentic local experience with traditional food stalls, more affordable hotels, and easy access to nightlife. But you’ll be about a 15-minute drive or 30-minute bike ride from the beach. Tulum Beach is a more traditional tourist area with multiple hotel zones offering direct beach access at a premium price.

What To Do

The Riviera Maya is the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure!

If you want to enjoy the water, consider beach-hopping, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins and turtles, and exploring underground cenotes. Check out the top cenotes to visit in the Riviera Maya for adventure and relaxation!

Best Diving in The Riviera Maya

For some adventure during your visit to the Riviera Maya, ride through the jungle on an ATV, go zip lining, and explore Mayan ruins. Check out my full list of the best things to do in the Riviera Maya!

Getting Around

The Riviera Maya is a large area spanning from Cancun down to Tulum and beyond. While you may be tempted to rent a car and explore on your own, keep in mind that driving in Mexico can be tricky for first-timers.

Instead, consider hiring local guides and drivers who know the area and can help you navigate the roads between towns. You can also opt to use public transportation, such as buses or colectivos, which are affordable but require more time.

When you fly into the Cancun airport, pre-book a shuttle to your hotel to avoid the long taxi lines. Bikes, especially e-bikes, are a great way to explore the towns, and many hotels offer complimentary bike rentals to guests.

To get to Cozumel, you’ll take a ferry to and from the island.

Where To Stay

What To Pack

In addition to your usual travel essentials, you’ll want these items:

-Multiple Swimsuits: With so many opportunities for water activities, you’ll want to make sure you have several swimsuits packed so you always have a dry one.

–Reef-Safe Sunscreen: The sun can be intense in Mexico, so pack plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin.

-Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be a problem in certain areas, so bringing insect repellent is a good idea.

-Water Shoes: If you plan on exploring the cenotes or boating, water shoes will come in handy.

-Comfortable Walking Shoes: With all the walking and exploring you’ll be doing, it’s important to bring comfortable walking shoes in addition to sandals.

-Lightweight Clothing: Mexico can be hot and humid, so pack lightweight, breathable, quick-drying clothing.

-Electrical outlets in Mexico are Types A and B. So if you’re from the U.S., you won’t need an outlet adaptor. But British, European, and other travelers will need an adaptor.

Takeaways

The Riviera Maya is a large region with many towns, ruins, and activities to choose from. I HIGHLY recommend splitting your trip to spend a couple of days in Tulum, Cozumel, and Playa del Carmen or Cancun.

This will allow you to truly explore and experience all the Riviera Maya has to offer!

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This guide for traveling to the Riviera Maya is not a sponsored post, and the thoughts and opinions expressed in this guide for traveling to the Riviera Maya are entirely my own. Some of the links in this guide for traveling to the Riviera Maya are affiliate links, and, at no cost to you, I may earn a small commission from these travel guides about traveling to the Riviera Maya.