Choose from 73 Fun Things to Do in Riviera Maya The Yucatan
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 73 listings.
Muyil
Stretching along the banks of a coastal lagoon and dominated by the 17-meter-tall El Castillo, one of the region’s tallest pyramids, the little-visited Mayan ruins of Muyil are undeniably photogenic and make a unique alternative to the nearby sites of Tulum and Coba.
Set on the edge of the Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve, Muyil is a worthwhile detour for hikers and there are a number of significant ruins to explore, as well as an observation tower, offering views over the neighboring lagoon, and boat rides around the lagoon. The ancient settlement is estimated to have dated back to as early as 300 BC and remaining structures include the ‘Sacbé’, a five-meter-wide ancient road, and the ‘Pink Palace’, renowned for its well-preserved stuccos.
Practical Info
Muyil is located by the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, around 20 km south of Tulum.
Address: Tulum, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Mexico
From $ 115
Labna
Labna is an excellent site for archaeology lovers and architectural buffs with its Mayan building ruins that were built in the ancient Puuc style. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula by the larger Uxmal ruins, Labna is a compact structure hidden within the Puuc Hills. Though smaller than some of the other Mayan ruin compounds in Mexico, it is impressive nonetheless. Labna was once used as a ceremonial center by the Mayans during the pre-Columbian era.
Labna’s impressive Gateway Arch is still standing today, and visitors can stand under it and walk through it while marveling at its intricate construction. It is believed that this arch was used to signify the start of the area of the ancient village where the priest and the elite people of Labna lived. Relief designs are etched into the side of the arch, providing impressive details that visitors love taking pictures of. Labna, along with the Uxmal ruins, are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is estimated that Labna was inhabited by as many as 2,000 people between 750 AD and 1,000 AD.
Practical Info
Labna is located a little over two hours south of Merida and is accessible by car or tour bus.
Address: Labna, The Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 1,054
Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida)
The pedestrian-only Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) runs parallel to the ocean in downtown Playa del Carmen. This bustling tourist strip provides easy beach access and is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs. Lining Fifth Avenue are shops aplenty, including those selling artisan crafts, fine jewelry, and cigars.
The Basics
A walk along Fifth Avenue is the best way to experience the lively atmosphere of Playa del Carmen. In addition to abundant shops and eateries, street vendors sell everything from fresh coconuts to handicrafts and sunglasses, and street performers are often seen entertaining the masses. The hotels on Fifth Avenue boast an ideal location, just steps from the beach and downtown attractions.
Visit Fifth Avenue independently or as part of a Playa del Carmen sightseeing tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cancun. Tours typically include a visit to Maya ruins and/or a cenote swim. There are also popular Fifth Avenue evening tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fifth Avenue is ideal for those looking for a meal, a drink, and/or souvenirs and other goods to take home.
- Bring sun protection and plenty of water, as there is little shade along Fifth Avenue.
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the Playa del Carmen tourist areas.
How to Get There
Fifth Avenue is located in downtown Playa del Carmen. If you take a bus into the city, it’ll likely be the first place you see—the ADO Bus Station sits on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Avenida Benito Juarez. Many resorts along Mexico’s Riviera Maya provide bus service to Playa del Carmen during the week.
When to Get There
As with all of the Riviera Maya, Fifth Avenue is almost always crowded, except for early in the morning before the shops open (businesses have varying opening hours). Winter brings large numbers of travelers to Playa del Carmen, and the weeks before and after Easter are some of the busiest.
Fundadores Park (El Zócalo)
Located just off the ferry dock, Fundadores Park (El Zócalo) is a beachside park that sits along Fifth Avenue. It’s the heart of old Playa del Carmen and the main square from which the rest of the tourist area branches out. The perimeter of the park is lined with shops selling local crafts and souvenirs, restaurants, popular hotels, a bandstand, Our Lady of Carmen church, the arched beachside Portal Maya sculpture, and a playground for kids.
Address: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
From $ 59
Nohoch Mul
Scale the ancient stone steps of the Yucatan’s tallest Mayan pyramid, Nohoch Mul, which overlooks the ruins of the Coba archeological site. Coba was once a grand town, comparable in size to the more popular Chichen Itza, and at 137 feet tall, Nohoch Mul stands some 40 feet taller than Chichen Itza’s El Castillo pyramid. At the top, you’ll find a small temple with sculptures of a descending god. Only a small fraction of Coba has been excavated, even the backside of Nohoch Mul remains enshrouded by jungle, and from the top of the pyramid, you can see jungle-covered hills in the distance that are in fact yet-to-be-uncovered structures.
Practical Info
Coba sits inland, about 40 minutes drive from the coastal town of Tulum. The site has bathrooms at the entrance, but is otherwise far less developed than spots like Cichen Itza. At the entrance, you can hire walking guides and pedi-cab tours, or simply rent a bicycle to tour on your own.
Address: Coba, Mexico
Hours: Every day, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: Entrance to the Coba archeological site costs about $4
From $ 70
Dzibilchaltun Ruins
Near the ancient town of Merida, you’ll find the massive but beautifully ruinous structure known as the Dzibilchaltun Ruins. Though somewhat of a tongue twister for traditional English speakers, the name means “place where there is writing on the stones,” but unfortunately, due to erosion, you’ll no longer find much writing on the stones here. Instead, the intrepid explorer is rewarded with over 8,400 architectural structures to discover, many of which have astronomical (as well as religious) significance. Explore the stunning interior of the Temple of the Seven Dolls, listen to stories of absolute power at the Open Chapel and learn about the rich ancient Mayan civilization that was inhabited all the way through to 1500 A.D. when the Spaniards arrived.
Practical Info
Dzibilchaltun is only nine miles from Merida. If you’d rather drive, take the Merida/Progreso Highway north for seven miles, watching the signs as you go. You will end up taking two right turns as you make your way to the ruins.
Address: Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 55
Mandala Nightclub
Cancún is full of places to party, but the decor at the Mandala nightclub—a multilevel venue in Cancún’s hotel zone—sets it apart. Guests enjoy the wide-open dance floor, glittery lights, and impressive entryway. The club is also known for weekly pool parties, when guests dance to live DJ sets beside the pool or soak in the Jacuzzi.
The Basics
A favorite spot within Cancún’s nightlife scene, Mandala boasts Asian-themed decor with opulent chandeliers and mandala motifs. Skip-the-line VIP packages include access to an open bar that serves unlimited drinks until 3:30am. Other options include admittance to an exclusive VIP section with a private waiter. Mandala is also a frequent stop on bar crawl tours of Cancún.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress to impress because casual clothes are considered a big no-no.
- Bottle service is available for groups of six or more.
- The open bar usually doesn’t include specialty drinks such as energy drinks, premium cocktails, or bottled water.
How to Get There
The club is located on Kukulcan Boulevard in Cancun’s hotel zone and opens daily at 9:30pm. Guests can purchase tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. Bar crawl-type tours typically don’t offer transportation, but the club is easily accessible by taxi or bus. Buses in the hotel zone run 24 hours a day.
When to Get There
Mandala nightclub hosts two theme nights each week. Every Monday, a Mardi Gras party takes over, complete with bead necklaces, shots, and contests inspired by Carnival. On Thursday, Mandala Gone Wild is the club’s version of year-round spring break. The club also hosts a festive New Year’s Eve celebration that requires a special ticket.
Nearby Señor Frog's
Another popular Cancún nightclub, Señor Frog's, offers similar VIP service packages with open bar and skip-the-line access, and it’s located right next to Mandala. Known for its fun party vibes and spring break-style atmosphere, Señor Frog's also offers dinner, so it’s a convenient place to grab food before heading to Mandala.
Address: Blvd Kukulkan km 9 Zona Hotelera, Cancun, Mexico
From $ 35
Nohoch Nah Chich
Dive into the depths of the Yucatan’s longest subterranean cave system at Nohoch Nah Chich outside Cancun. Exploring this enormous cenote studded with stalactites and stalagmites offers the experience of a lifetime for diving enthusiasts, while nondivers can swim and snorkel in its freshwater rivers and pools.
The Basics
Nohoch Nah Chich, whose name is Mayan for “giant bird cage,” is an easily accessible cenote popular for diving day trips with certified diving guides from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It’s part of the Yucatan’s vast Sac Actun cave system, which extends for more than 216 miles (348 kilometers) and stretches 5 miles (8 kilometers) inland. At Nohoch Nah Chich you can learn about the formation and history of the underwater caves that the ancient Maya believed were sacred portals to the underworld.
You can visit the cenote independently or on a day tour from Cancun or Playa del Carmen that may also include rappelling, ziplining, and a ride in an all-terrain vehicle. If you want to avoid renting a car in Mexico, you can opt for a tour that includes round-trip transportation from your hotel.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nohoch Nah Chich is a must-see for divers and snorkelers visiting the area.
- Diving in the cenote is for experienced divers only; nondivers can swim and snorkel.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces, and bring sun protection and mosquito repellent.
- The cenote offers basic facilities, including parking and restrooms.
How to Get There
The main entrance to Nohoch Nah Chich is in the Maya community of Rancho San Felipe, about 2.8 miles (4.6 kilometers) south of Cenote Dos Ojos on Highway 307. It’s accessible either by private tour or your own transportation.
When to Get There
Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich is open year-round and cenote tours operate in all weather conditions. Winter brings large numbers of travelers to the Yucatan; during this time, plan to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Rancho San Felipe
While at Nohoch Nah Chich, set aside some time to explore Rancho San Felipe and meet the residents of this modern-day Maya community. The ranch belongs to a Maya family that has lived in this remote jungle location for over 30 years. Experience a traditional purification ceremony led by the village shaman and taste homemade classic Maya fare.
Address: Riviera Maya, Mexico
From $ 119
Escenica Tower (Torre Escenica)
Because Cancun is a flat coastal plain, you don’t really need to gain much elevation for a sweeping view of the town. Imagine, then, the panoramic view from atop Escenica Tower (Torre Escénica), considering the tower puts you 264 feet above the town. As part of the Xcaret network of sights, Escenica Tower offers visitors a view of the massive Xcaret complex, as well as the string of Cancun beaches all the way out to Cozumel in the distance. This is the highest point on the Riviera Maya, and because the enclosed, air-conditioned platform slowly rotates while climbing the tower, all you need to do is look out the window and take in the time-stopping view.
Insider's Tip: For an exceptionally dramatic view of Cancun, visit the tower at sunset.
Practical Info
The Torre Escénica is located on the Embarcadero of Playa Linda. The tower can fit up to 60 people at a time, and includes a short history of the surrounding area as well as the sights you can see from the top. The ride is accessible to travelers with mobility issues, and lasts about 15 minutes.
Address: Torre Escénica Cancun, Blvd Kukulkan, Cancun, Mexico
Hours: 9am-9pm daily
Admission: $15 for adults, $7.50 for children 5-11, and free for children 4 and under.
From $ 15
Paseo de Montejo
While the center of Merida is all Spanish Colonial in architecture and layout, Paseo de Montejo is the product of a brief period when the French controlled Mexico and built a grand boulevard lined by mansions. Several upscale hotels, nightclubs, and hot restaurants are on this stretch, retaining their original interesting façades. It’s a pleasant street for walking, with wide shady sidewalks and interesting shops and galleries here and there. It ends at a roundabout with the city’s history laid out in stone on a relief in the center. Just before that are two places showing where we’ve come: a small tourist shopping mall on one side and a Super Wal-mart on the other.
If you stay on this boulevard heading north in a car, eventually it turns into a highway that goes 40 minutes to Progreso’s beach and cruise ship dock, on the Gulf of Mexico.
It’s a long, hot walk to get here from the center, however, so most visitors see Paseo de Montejo on a horse carriage ride or take a taxi to the end and walk back via Santa Lucia and Santa Ana parks.
If you stay on this boulevard heading north in a car, eventually it turns into a highway that goes 40 minutes to Progreso’s beach and cruise ship dock, on the Gulf of Mexico.
It’s a long, hot walk to get here from the center, however, so most visitors see Paseo de Montejo on a horse carriage ride or take a taxi to the end and walk back via Santa Lucia and Santa Ana parks.
Address: Mexico
From $ 17
Kantun Chi Ecopark
Built around the cenotes and jungle of the Riviera Maya, the Kantun Chi Ecopark makes a popular choice for a day trip from Cancun or Tulum, offering a unique way to explore the dramatic natural scenery and learn about the region’s long Mayan history.
A subterranean playground of cenotes, underground caves and grottoes, dripping with stalactites, stalagmites and ancient columns, the dramatic landscape is the ideal backdrop for an adventure. Go swimming in the freshwater cenotes, try snorkeling or diving in the vast caverns, or go kayaking around the underground caverns.
Practical Info
Kantun Chi Ecopark is located about 90 km south of Cancun and is open daily from 9am-6pm.
Address: Carretera Federal Cancún-Tulum, km 1266.8, Puerto Aventuras, Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico 77734, Mexico
Hours: 9am-6pm
From $ 140
Kabah
This minor archeological site on the Puuc Route south of Merida is worth visiting to see its Palace of the Masks, an ornate structure covered with hundreds of masks of the same figure: the rain god Chaac. This repeating motif is rare in Mayan art and perhaps illustrates the importance of water—or the lack of it some years. There are no underground cenotes in this area, so rainfall was the only source of water.
Artifacts have been found here going as far back as the third century BC, but most of what remains was built between the 7th and 11th centuries AD. It was abandoned soon after and was empty when the Spanish conquistadores arrived.
Some of the sculpted elements of the site have been whisked off to various museums, but several low stone buildings and pyramids remain. Since Kabah is in a region dotted with other ruins, it’s usually a quick stop as part of a multi-site tour.
Artifacts have been found here going as far back as the third century BC, but most of what remains was built between the 7th and 11th centuries AD. It was abandoned soon after and was empty when the Spanish conquistadores arrived.
Some of the sculpted elements of the site have been whisked off to various museums, but several low stone buildings and pyramids remain. Since Kabah is in a region dotted with other ruins, it’s usually a quick stop as part of a multi-site tour.
Practical Info
Location: 53 miles from Merida
Address: Mexico
Hours: Open 8am - 5pm daily.
Admission: $3.50
From $ 62
Ek Balam
Once an ancient Maya town, Ek Balam (meaning “black jaguar” in the Mayan language) is now one of the largest archaeological sites in Mexico, famous for its 96-foot-tall (29-meter-tall) Acropolis, a stone temple that offers picturesque jungle views from its peak. Don’t miss the jaguar motifs peppered around the site’s numerous structures.
The Basics
Situated about 100 miles (160 kilometers) from the popular tourist destination of Chichen Itza, Ek Balam isn’t quite as popular as its massive neighbor, making it less crowded. The attraction offers a chance to imagine Maya culture as it was thousands of years ago.
Ek Balam tours typically include hotel pickup and drop-off, and leave from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and other Riviera Maya destinations. Excursions range from a half day to a full day, and often visit other popular attractions such as Tulum Archaeological Site, the ruins at Chichen Itza, and nearby cenotes (underground lakes). Private tours are available for a personalized experience, and some day trips include a personal photographer.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ek Balam is a must-see for history buffs and culture lovers.
- The Caribbean sun can get very hot and there isn’t much shade at Ek Balam, so remember to bring sun protection and plenty water.
- It’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes so you can explore the ruins at length.
How to Get There
Ek Balam is located on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, roughly two hours by road from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. You can get there by taxi, rental car, or guided tour. The closest international airport is in Cancun.
When to Get There
Ek Balam is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms if you plan to participate in outdoor activities.
What to See Near Ek Balam
The nearby Quintana Roo region is full of attractions, both natural and man-made. Nearby Playa del Carmen is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and shopping. The Maya ruins at Coba are also a must-see, with a 138-foot-high (42-meter-high) stone pyramid. The archaeological sites of Tulum and Chichen Itza are also great spots to explore. For an island getaway, visit the shores of Isla Mujeres or Cozumel.
Address: Ek Balam, The Yucatan, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 89
Garrafon Natural Reef Park
Located just outside Cancun, Garrafon Natural Reef Park is a natural amusement park that offers recreational activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, ziplining, and biking. With colorful coral reefs, tropical hills, and rugged coastal cliffs, Garrafon Natural Reef Park allows you to experience some of the best of Mexico’s outdoor treasures.
The Basics
Garrafon Natural Reef Park offers more than 20 land- and water-based activities. Strap yourself into a harness and glide through the air on a zipline, explore the island by bike, hike to an ancient Maya temple, or relax in a lounge chair by the beach. Or take a dip in the clear Caribbean Sea, kayak, snorkel, or swim with dolphins.
Most tours of Garrafon Natural Reef Park leave from Cancun and include pickup and drop-off from local hotels. Basic ticket packages include buffet lunch, snorkel equipment, life jackets, kayaks, hammocks, pool entry, and ziplining. Upgraded packages include add-ons such as an open bar, VIP lounge access, and gourmet meals.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Garrafon Natural Reef Park is ideal for nature lovers and thrill seekers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and a swimsuit.
- Visitor facilities include lockers, restrooms, restaurants, and a bar.
- Reservations for activities at the park are highly recommended.
How to Get There
Garrafon Natural Reef Park is located on the southern point of Isla Mujeres, an island roughly 30 minutes by ferry from Cancun on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Some tours include roundtrip transportation, but you can also travel by taxi or rental car.
When to Get There
The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.
Must-do Experiences at Garrafon Natural Reef Park
Ideal for nature lovers and families with kids, Dolphin Discovery allows you to swim with these friendly marine mammals, as well as sea lions, manatees, sharks, and stingrays. For a more laid-back experience, the park’s infinity pool offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Cancun bay. The park’s zipline which, allows you to cruise through the air at almost 100 feet (30.5 meters) above sea level, is another must-do.
Address: Camino Sac Bajo, Lote 26 Fraccionamiento Paraíso Laguna Mar, Isla Mujeres, QROO Mexico 77400, Mexico
From $ 69
Jolly Roger Pirate Ship
Offering family entertainment that both adults and children can enjoy, the Jolly Roger Pirate Ship sets sail from the Riviera Maya and sails the Caribbean seas while dazzling passengers with swashbuckling pirate shows and hearty food. The ship is a modern replica of the Santa Maria, which Columbus is said to have journeyed on when he discovered the Americas.
The Jolly Roger features four decks and can accommodate up to 240 passengers, with plenty of space for entertainment and dining. Filet mignon, lobster, a vegetarian option, plus a special pirate kids menu are on offer, not to mention the open bar with free domestic drinks. The pirate show is a blend of comedy and adventure, interspersed by dinner, fireworks, and dancing. Expect dramatic sword fighting, exploding cannons, and amazing acrobatics, all designed to entertain, delight, and draw you in to this unique pirate adventure.
Insider’s Tip: This is a popular attraction, so it's a good idea to book tickets in advance. Dinner, drinks and entertainment are all included in the ticket price.
Practical Info
The Jolly Roger Pirate Ship departs from the Playa Linda Pier. A pier tax of $11 per person in addition to the cost of the tour is required upon departure.
Address: Boulevard Kukulkan, Km 4.5, Cancun, Mexico
Hours: 6:30am-10pm
Admission: From $87
From $ 100
El Zócalo
Located just off the ferry dock, Fundadores Park (El Zocalo) is the center of Playa del Carmen. This beachside park sits along Playa del Carmen’s famous Fifth Avenue, and it’s the main square from which the rest of the tourist area branches out. From El Zócalo you’ll have a gorgeous view of the ocean and easy access to the beaches.
The Basics
The perimeter of El Zócalo is lined with shops selling local crafts that make great souvenirs and gifts; popular hotels; a bandstand; Our Lady of Carmen church; the arched beachside Portal Maya sculpture; and a playground for kids.
Visitors can also see a performance of the Papantla Flyers ritual, most commonly associated with the Papantla, Veracruz, area of Mexico, during which four men tied to ropes descend from a 98-foot (30-meter) pole while a fifth remains on top playing a flute.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visit El Zócalo independently or as part of a sightseeing tour.
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the tourist areas.
- Bring sun protection and plenty of water, as there is little shade in the park.
- Set aside time to peruse the shops located along the perimeter of the square.
How to Get There
Fundadores Park sits just outside of the ADO Bus Station on Fifth Avenue between Avenida Benito Juarez and the ferry dock. If you take a bus into the city, it’ll likely be the first place you see. If you’re staying in downtown, it’s an easy walk to El Zócalo.
When to Get There
Playa del Carmen’s El Zócalo can be visited year-round and it’s almost always crowded. If you want to try and beat the crowds, plan to arrive early in the morning before the shops open. It’s also a good place to watch the sunrise.
Portal Maya Sculpture
At the front of the park, a beachside sculpture depicts a man and women clasping hands in a spiral of wind and water to form an archway. Portal Maya stands over 50 feet (15 meters) high and commemorates the December 2012 end of the Maya calendar. Visitors to El Zócalo can walk around the piece to see it up close.
Address: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
From $ 105
Maya Museum (Museo Maya)
Take a break from the beaches of Cancun to explore artifacts from Mexico’s ancient past at the Maya Museum, one of the largest created by the National Institute of Anthropology and History. Inside the museum, visitors can see incredible items recovered from sites like Chichen Itza and Tulum, including the Woman of the Palms, ancient skeletal remains found submerged in a water-filled cave near Tulum. Next to the museum is an ancient archaeological site called San Miguelito, where visitors can stroll among the ruins and gardens.
Practical Info
The Maya Museum is located at the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone, making it easily reached by taxi or bus. It’s open every day except Mondays, and the $4/person entrance fee is well worth it to explore such unique remnants of Mayan history.
Address: Km. 16.5 Kukulcan Blvd., Cancun 77500, Mexico
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission: Admission costs 65 pesos (about $4) per person
From $ 5
Isla Contoy
This small island off of Mexico’s Caribbean coast has become one of the most important nature reserves in the region, particularly for marine birds such as the brown pelican and the double-crested cormorant. The tropical paradise, of which more than 70% is covered in mangrove forest, is home to white sand beaches and palms, as well as an extensive reef just off of its shores. Because the island is well protected, it is believed to have some of the best snorkeling and bird watching in the country.
At only five miles in length, Isla Contoy can make visitors feel like they have their own private tropical island. In addition to serving as a secluded getaway, the island is an important nesting ground for both local birds and sea turtles.
Trails wind throughout the island, offering views of the turquoise waters and beaches as well as many opportunities to see local wildlife. Guided tours take visitors through the wilderness and often include snorkeling on the beautiful Ixlache Reef.
Practical Info
Isla Contoy is about 30 miles north of Isla Mujeres, which is a short ferry ride from Cancun. Access is granted to a maximum of 200 daily visitors, so the area is best visited with a tour group to obtain the necessary permits.
Address: Isla Contoy, 77500, Mexico
From $ 80
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres (the “Island of Women”) is known for its rich marine life and pristine beaches. Here you can snorkel at Manchones Reef, scuba dive in the Cave of Sleeping Sharks, or stretch out on the white sands of North Beach (Playa Norte). On land you’ll find bustling nightlife, with oceanside bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood.
The Basics
Most Isla Mujeres tours leave from Cancun, whether you want to travel by sailboat, catamaran, or motorboat. A snorkeling excursion is one of the best ways to experience the island’s diverse aquatic life, and many Isla Mujeres day trips visit the Manchones, El Meco, or Garrafon reefs. If you’re feeling daring, some tours include a swim with whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish. Combo tours from Cancun allow you to visit Isla Mujeres along with other Riviera Maya attractions such as Contoy Island (Isla Contoy), Xcaret Park, or Chichen Itza.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Isla Mujeres is a must-see destination for beach and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring a towel, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.
- It’s a good idea to bring cash (pesos) for gratuities or other purchases.
How to Get There
Isla Mujeres is located just off the coast of Cancun. Ferries run from the mainland every half hour and drop off at the island’s downtown area, close to the beaches and shopping streets. Because Isla Mujeres is only five miles (eight kilometers) long, most people use golf carts or scooters to get around.
When to Get There
Winter is the busiest time to visit, when the weather is warm and dry. Hurricane season runs from May through September and often brings rain and clouds. July and August are the best months to see whale sharks in Isla Mujeres, when hundreds of them gather off the coast.
Things to Do Near Isla Mujeres
Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a paradise for ocean lovers and history buffs, with clear Caribbean waters and ancient Maya ruins such as Tulum and Chichen Itza. Popular mainland destinations include Cancun and Playa del Carmen, while the nearby island of Cozumel is an excellent scuba diving destination, known for its rich coral reefs.
Address: Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Izamal Ruins
A small colonial city in Mexico’s Yucatan region, Izamal combines the aesthetics of old and new, with ancient pyramids standing alongside an old Spanish monastery and yellow-painted town buildings. The city was once an ancient Maya ceremonial center, and the largest pyramid—dubbed Kinich Kak Mo—was a holy site built for the Maya sun god.
The Basics
Most Izamal tours leave from Merida and include pickup and drop-off from local hotels. Excursions typically last a full day and visit both the ruins and the adjacent town. Some tours also include a romantic carriage ride in Izamal and a light-and-sound show at the Franciscan convent. For a personalized experience, private tours are also available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Izamal is a must-see attraction for history buffs and culture lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, comfortable shoes for exploring, and plenty of water.
- It’s a good idea to bring cash (usd or pesos) for tips and shopping.
How to Get There
Izamal is easy to reach from Merida, which is just 45 (72 kilometers) miles away by road; it can also be accessed via a day trip from Cancun, which is 3.5 hours away. You can get there by taxi, rental car, or on a guided tour.
When to Get There
You can visit the Izamal ruins year-round, but it’s is busiest from December through April when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms. It’s a good idea to visit early in the day to the avoid crowds and afternoon heat.
Other Must-See Archaeological Sites
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is full of ancient Maya ruins. Chichen Itza is one of the largest and most popular, while Tulum Archeological Site, Ek Balam, and the ruins at Coba are also excellent remnants from the ancient Maya civilization.
Address: Izamal, The Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 48
El Rey Ruins (Las Ruinas del Rey)
Located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, the El Rey Ruins (Las Ruinas del Rey) are an archaeological site containing 47 ancient Maya stone structures. Named for a mask and skull found on-site thought to honor the Maya sun god, these ruins are the remains of ceremonial buildings and market areas.
The Basics
If you’re staying in Cancun, the El Rey Ruins are a great way to see ancient Maya ruins without traveling to Chichen Itza or Tulum. At the ruins, you can explore Maya history, take pictures of the many iguanas that live there, and enjoy views of Nichupte Lagoon and the Hotel Zone from atop the structures. Visit on your own or as part of a full-day tour of the area. Some excursions visit the El Rey Ruins along with a cenote (underground swimming hole), an interactive zoo, and a ziplining park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- These ancient ruins are a must-see for history buffs.
- Remember to bring sun protection, plenty of water, and shoes suitable for walking on rough terrain.
- The ruins are not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The archaeological zone (zona arqueologica) is located at the westernmost tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Adjacent to the Iberostar Golf Club, the ruins are roughly 15 minutes by road from Cancun International Airport. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or on a guided tour.
When to Get There
You can visit the archaeological site year-round, although the Cancun Hotel Zone is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.
What to See near the El Rey Ruins
Mexico’s Caribbean Quintana Roo region is full of attractions, both natural and man-made. Nearby Playa del Carmen is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and shopping. The Maya ruins at Coba are also a must-see, with a 138-foot-high (42-meter-high) stone pyramid. Further Maya ruins at Tulum and Chichen Itza are also great spots to explore. For an island getaway, visit the shores of Isla Mujeres or Cozumel.
Address: Blvd Kukulcan Km 17, Zona Hotelera, Cancun 77500, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 189