Things to Do in Riviera Maya

One of the oldest settlements on the Yucatan Peninsula, Coba features five lakes and the largest collection of Mayan roads in the area.

Uxmal is one of the most well known of the Maya cities, and rated by many archaeologists as the finest. The name Uxmal means ‘thrice-built’ in Mayan, referring to the construction of its highest structure, the Pyramid of the Magician. The Maya would often build a new temple over an existing one, and in this case five stages of construction have actually been found. Allow yourself at least half a day for a first visit. For more information, visit http://www.differentworld.com/mexico/areas/yucatan-and-campeche/uxmal/guide.htm.

Explore the natural and cultural history of Mexico at Xcaret Eco Park in Playa del Carmen. Xcaret offers a variety of exciting attractions and activities including archeological sites, underground river exploration, Mayan village, Caribbean aquarium, and a Swim with Dolphins programs. For more information, visit www.xcaret.com.

Hidden 30 miles south of Playa del Carmen, is a sanctuary of amazing biological wealth within Riviera Maya - Xel-Ha. Known for its rich underwater life and luscious jungle, Xel-Ha has an endless array of life, landmarks, and monuments to offer each with a fascinating story to tell. So whether on a bicycle through the jungle, jumping off cliffs into the limpid blue, making friends with dolphins, or walking through stingrays on the bottom of the sea – Xel-Ha offers an experience you will never forget.  For more information, visit www.xelha.com.

A variety of recreation outfitters offers exciting adventure tours that have guests zipping high above the Yucatan Mayan jungle canopy. Guests experience the thrill of being harnessed to a series of zip lines that traverse for more than two miles over a series of 24 platforms. The Mayan jungle canopy zip lines structure is the longest in Mexico. For more information, visit www.cancunvista.com.

With miles of coastline and white sand beaches, Riviera Maya presents limitless activities. From secluded, pristine beaches to rocky cliffs that end at the sea or tropical forests with palm trees that reach the shoreline, the beaches of Riviera Maya offer a diversity of activity and scenery. Ride a jet ski over the waves, paddle a sea kayak or try wind surfing and parasailing. The hotel can arrange activities, including waterskiing, wind surfing, deep sea and fly fishing, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, regattas, and catamaran and yacht excursions.

Riviera Maya offers world-class scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities. The crystal clear Caribbean Sea thrives with vibrant marine life. Some of the best diving and snorkeling is located off the shores of Cozumel. Riviera Maya also offers the unique experience of diving in cenotes, or fresh-water underground caverns, which are very unique to Mexico. For more information, visit http://www.cancun-discounts.com/cancun-scuba-diving.htm.

Explore the beaches and jungles of Riviera Maya on an exciting horseback riding tour. Guided tours are offered through a variety of qualified adventure companies that include hotel transfers, horse rental, and refreshments. Experienced equestrians are often permitted to gallop their horses on the beach. For more information, visit http://www.cancun-discounts.com/tours/cancun/horseback-riding-loma-bonita.htm.  

The Playa del Carmen area is dotted with world-class championship golf courses designed by renowned golf course architects. Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club, Golf Club Playacar, Grupo Mayan Golf Riviera Maya, and El Camaleon Mayakoba are among the best courses in Mexico and each is located minutes from Grand Velas.  Many of these courses boast limestone canals winding through mangrown forests, vast stretches of Caribbean beach, and other stunning natural hazards, making the course as beautiful as it is challenging. For more information, visit

Experience Mexico’s abundant artistic history at La Casa del Arte Popular Mexicano in Cancun, an engaging museum featuring vibrant folk art.