Riviera Maya: Best Beaches in the Mexican Caribbean

The Riviera Maya is a 130 km stretch of coastline along the Mexican Caribbean in the state of Quintana Roo.

Many of the best beaches in Mexico are located along the Riviera Maya.

The Riviera Maya features white sand beaches and turquoise waters, facing the stunning Caribbean Coral Reef.

The region has experienced rapid tourism growth in recent years, making it one of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico.

Travel Information for Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya includes several popular destinations such as: Playa del Carmen, Cancún, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, Xcaret, Akumal, Xel-Há, and Tulum.

The main airport serving the Riviera Maya is Cancún International Airport, located 16 km north of Puerto Morelos.

Throughout the Riviera Maya, visitors will find a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury international chains and all-inclusive resorts. Numerous restaurants also offer a diverse culinary scene.

Tourism infrastructure includes travel agencies, diving centers, top brand stores, art galleries, craft markets, and theme parks.

The beaches and water activities are the main attractions in the Riviera Maya. Scuba diving is particularly popular thanks to internationally renowned dive sites. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef runs parallel to the coast, offering exceptional spots for diving and snorkeling.

Visitors can also experience diving in the region’s famous cenotes (underground rivers), which is a must-do for adventure lovers. Many tours and excursions specialize in diving and snorkeling experiences.

Archaeological Sites in the Riviera Maya

Another highlight of any Riviera Maya trip is visiting its archaeological sites. The entire region was vital to the ancient Mayan civilization, and visitors can explore ruins and ancient city remains, often hidden within the jungle. The most famous site is Tulum.

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