Riviera Maya

Travel Guide

A pyramid with stone steps and two stone heads at the top.
An aerial view of a historical site with ruins, pathways, and a beach.
A coastal archaeological site with ruins and a clear sky.
A turquoise sea with boats, a sandy beach, and palm trees.
A beach with clear turquoise waters, a rocky cliff with palm trees, and a wooden walkway.

Riviera Maya combines stunning beaches, adventure parks, and unique shopping experiences, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Riviera Maya is an ideal destination for outdoor and beach travelers. You can explore natural wonders like Tancah, a coastal region known for its beaches and outdoor tourism. For those seeking adventure, nearby Xcaret Eco Theme Park and Xplor Theme Park offer a range of recreational activities. If you're interested in leisure, visit nearby Plaza Las Americas and Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall for shopping opportunities. Don't forget to check out the marina at Terminal Punta Venado and the natural reserve at Río Secreto.

Take time to wander through nearby areas that each offer unique experiences. Paamul is known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, making it a great spot for relaxation and exploration. Playa del Carmen is another area worth visiting, famous for family-friendly attractions like Quinta Avenida and Mamitas Beach, as well as El Camaleón Mayakoba Golf Course. Similarly, Xcaret is recognized for its family-oriented entertainment, featuring the Museum of Popular Mexican Art.

The best time to visit Riviera Maya is influenced more by rainfall than temperature, as the weather remains warm and fairly constant year-round. Expect heavier rain in June and September, which can affect outdoor plans. If you prefer to avoid the rain, consider visiting during the drier months, when the region is less crowded and offers a more pleasant experience.

Riviera Maya Travel Guide Video

Occidental at Xcaret Destination - All Inclusive

Occidental at Xcaret Destination - All Inclusive

4 out of 5
Carretera Federal 307, KM 282 Playa del Carmen QROO
$444 nightly
The price is $540 total per night from Nov 16 to Nov 17
$540 total
Nov 16 - Nov 17
Total with taxes and fees
Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and 7 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Xcaret Eco Theme ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (5,925 reviews)
"Like: nature setting, not too crowded, good food, clean. Wonderful beach. Wish to improve: specialty dining booking be done on-line or 1 time at check in not everyday at 7am. Take out food from buffet to the room or pool."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Occidental at Xcaret Destination - All Inclusive
Hotel Xcaret Mexico - All Parks / All Fun Inclusive

Hotel Xcaret Mexico - All Parks / All Fun Inclusive

5 out of 5
Carr. Chetumal - Puerto Juarez Km. 282 Playa del Carmen QROO
$836 nightly
The price is $1,015 total per night from Nov 18 to Nov 19
$1,015 total
Nov 18 - Nov 19
Total with taxes and fees
Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and 15 outdoor pools. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular attractions Xcaret ...
Hotel Xcaret Mexico - All Parks / All Fun Inclusive
Barceló Maya Palace - All Inclusive

Barceló Maya Palace - All Inclusive

4.5 out of 5
Cta Chetumal Puerto Juarez KM 266.3 Xpu-Ha QROO
$338 nightly
The price is $412 total per night from Dec 12 to Dec 13
$412 total
Dec 12 - Dec 13
Total with taxes and fees
Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Puerto Aventuras Marina ...
9/10 Wonderful! (2,208 reviews)
"The resort is nice. Grounds are beautiful. The kids love the kids pool. Brazilian restaurants was delicious. However the rooms are too far. Also, no food service at the pool ; only drink service. The only places for breakfast or lunch were the buffets. No small snack bars or cafes. If you want ocean ..."

Reviewed on Nov 13, 2026

Barceló Maya Palace - All Inclusive
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Xambé

Xambé

4 out of 5
Avenida Central, Aldea Zama Tulum QROO
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Tulum. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (168 reviews)
"Had a great stay and very peaceful"

Reviewed on Nov 9, 2026

Xambé
Irie Tulum

Irie Tulum

4 out of 5
Av. Central Tulum QROO
Stay at this aparthotel in Tulum. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
Irie Tulum
Otonomus Tulum

Otonomus Tulum

2.5 out of 5
Calle 71 sur mz 699 L1 004 Tulum QROO
Stay at this aparthotel in Tulum. Enjoy free WiFi, onsite spa services, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Tulum Beach and Playa Paraiso are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (295 reviews)
"Smooth check-in, staff is super friendly, the room was clean. 100% recommend this place. Also very close to the beach"

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

Otonomus Tulum
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Riviera Maya attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

What cuisines can you find in Riviera Maya?
In Riviera Maya you can find South American cuisine, offering dishes like fresh ceviche, savory empanadas, and grilled meats. Travelers can also enjoy Mexican specialties such as tacos and enchiladas. Additionally, there are Asian, European, seafood, and Italian dining options available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Riviera Maya?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Riviera Maya by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Riviera Maya with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Riviera Maya trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Riviera Maya?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Riviera Maya can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Riviera Maya trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Riviera Maya trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Riviera Maya trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Riviera Maya trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Riviera Maya?
If it's your first trip to Riviera Maya, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Riviera Maya hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Riviera Maya hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Riviera Maya

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