Mexico remains one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. If you are planning to visit Mexico for holidays you can choose from various regions Mexico has to offer. One of the regions that receives plenty of tourism is Riviera Maya. This region comprises of area on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula including places like Cancun, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Akumal and Tulum. With its rich culture, archaeological sites, diverse food, pristine beaches and ample accommodations, Riviera Maya is a great place to enjoy holidays in Mexico.
However, if you are visiting Riviera Maya region for the first time you can follow the guide to make the most of your trip.
Cancun
The best way to start your trip to Riviera Maya is from Cancun. Hence, you can opt for direct flights that connect you to Cancun International Airport. Once you have settled down you can head to Isla Mujeres where you can enjoy the beach and do more water sports activities like scuba diving and snorkeling. The ferry for Isla Mujeres is easily available every 30 minutes. If you prefer to stay in Isla Mujeres for a day or two you can do that as well.
Otherwise, you can head to Playa Delfines where you can find ample beach-related activities. If you prefer to enjoy some Mexican meals at local cafes and restaurants you can head to Playa Tortugas in the vicinity.
Tulum
Once you are done exploring the Isla Mujeres and enjoying beaches at Playa Delfines and Playa Tortugas you can head to Tulum. From Cancun, it takes around two hours more or less to reach Tulum. Getting from Cancun to Tulum is much easier if you book a bus, a private van or a car in advance. This allows you to save time and money and enjoy your holidays. On reaching Tulum you can spend your time at Tulum Beach or explore various cenotes like Cenotes Corazon del Paraiso and Cenote Calavera. While you are in Tulum you can also explore the Nohoch Mul, a.k.a. Coba ruins. Subsequently, you must also visit Chichen Itza which is just a 2-hour drive from Tulum.
Akumal
Just 30 minutes from Tulum is Akumal which is another great spot where you can spend time. You can easily find a bus ride from Tulum to Akumal which makes the travel easier. When you are in Akumal you can also explore one of the popular cenotes in Riviera Maya known as Cenotes Dos Ojos. You can also head to Akumal Beach for some beach time whether you are solo or with your friends or partner. You can also snorkel here in Half Moon Bay which is a great place for snorkel enthusiasts.
Playa del Carmen
Just 40 minutes north of Akumal is Playa del Carmen and you can find buses and taxis that can help you get to Playa del Carmen. Known as one of the most popular diving destinations in Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is ideal for both, those who prefer laidback holidays and for the ones who seek adventure. This is where you can find ample accommodations and you can choose what you want to do with it. You can also explore Cenote Chaak Tun and Cenote Semiabierto Pajaros. Apart from the beaches and cenotes, Playa del Carmen can also provide you with tons of restaurants, cafes, bars and shopping areas that would keep most tourists busy. You can also explore the highly popular Xcaret Park known for snorkeling and cave diving activities.
You can stay a day or two in Playa del Carmen before you head back to Cancun or Tulum. From here you can catch an international flight home which makes the trip to Riviera Maya easier and memorable.
