Riviera Maya

Mexico’s beloved strip is a long corridor where couples can discover some of the country’s best eco-parks, the quietest beaches, and the most enchanting tropical cenotes. In between all the Instagram-perfect beaches and experiences, whisk yourselves back to a charming boutique hotel or a big all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen, a funky beach town considered by some to be the more chill, laid-back sibling of Cancun.

Most Romantic Spot in the Riviera Maya

It doesn’t get more romantic than Puerto Morelos Beach – picturesque tropical bliss with soft white sands, deep turquoise waters, and gently swaying palm trees. There’s something for everyone at this iconic Riviera Maya beach, with ample opportunities for sunbathing, snorkeling, and exploring the main docks to the north and south of the main beach. At sunset, the sky fills with a rich palette of colors that provides a sensational backdrop for romantic honeymoon memories.

Things to Do in the Riviera Maya

• Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote, and Caves – Experience some of the best sights that Yucatan has to offer on this action-packed tour. You’ll explore Tulum Ruins and the Mayan Ruins, snorkel in the crystal-clear Caribbean, and enjoy a tasty lunch.
• Sailing Experience to Isla Mujeres in a Catamaran – For a luxurious and romantic getaway, hop aboard this catamaran cruise and set sail to Isla Mujeres. Couples will be able to snorkel in Caribbean reefs and bask in the tropical beauty.
• Small Group Whale Sharks Tour – This eco-friendly tour takes honeymooners from Playa del Carmen to the Yucatan Coast to swim with incredible aquatic life like whale sharks, dolphins, turtles, and manta rays.
• ATV Tour, Ziplines, and Cenote Swim – This all-day tour takes adrenaline-seekers through the Mayan jungle for an all-in-one adventure featuring private ATVs, fast ziplines, and hidden cenotes.
• Rio Secreto – Only just recently discovered, this underground river is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The unblemished caverns have developed over thousands of years, creating a natural wonder that has to be seen to be believed.
• Akumal Beach – It’s all about the beaches in the Riviera Maya, and Akumal Beach is certainly one of the best. The Yucatan favorite is known for its gorgeous views, laid-back vibe, and direct access to water activities.
• Tulum Archaeological Site – Set atop magnificent cliffs overlooking the Caribbean, this site dates back to the 13th century and remains one of the most popular coastal Maya sites

Riviera Maya Restaurants & Local Cuisine

• Panoramic Caribbean views await at Mi Amor Restaurant, which features both outdoor dining and a gorgeous indoor dining area with glass walls. The award-winning menu is bursting with local flavors and fresh-caught seafood specialties.
• Romance abounds at Parole Tulum. The acclaimed restaurant is nestled within Tulum’s jungle, giving honeymooners the opportunity to indulge in exceptional seafood dishes while surrounded by lush greenery.
• You’ll dine mere feet from gentle Caribbean waves at Mezzanine Thai Restaurant & Bar. Delectable Thai favorites like massaman curry and pad krapao take couples on a flavor vacation amid a peaceful tropical vibe.
• Sushi lovers will not want to miss SushiClub Playa del Carmen. Located in the city and having a relaxing, casual atmosphere, the restaurant takes pride in crafting innovative new rolls and special dishes.
• Exceptional steaks and seafood specialties make Chambao Tulum a time-tested favorite. The restaurant regularly features live music, further enhancing its candlelit ambience for romantic meals.
• True to its name, Alessia Rooftop Restaurant towers above Playa del Carmen and offers absolutely breathtaking views of the coastline. Couples will love the Asian-inspired cuisine, signature cocktails, and live music.

Traveling to the Riviera Maya

Where is the Riviera Maya?
The Riviera Maya is situated along the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. It extends southward from the city of Cancún, which is located in the state of Quintana Roo. The Riviera Maya spans approximately 80 miles along the Caribbean coastline and includes Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Morelos, and Akuma.

Flights to the Riviera Maya
The most convenient airport to fly into the Riviera Maya is Cancún International Airport (CUN). Major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United offer direct flights to Cancun from major U.S. cities like New York, Baltimore, Washington, Atlanta, and more.

From Cancún, you can take a shuttle or rent a car to drive south to the Riviera Maya. Puerto Morelos is right beneath Cancun, or you can enjoy the 50-mile coastal drive down to Tulum.

Riviera Maya Weather
Riviera Maya enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The dry season between December and April sees daytime temperatures in the 80s and nighttime temps in the mid-60s or low 70s. The rainy season is significantly longer and is accompanied by hotter temperatures (averaging 91 degrees during the daytime and 74 degrees at night in August).

What is the best month to travel to the Riviera Maya?
The most popular time to honeymoon in the Riviera Maya is during the springtime. Between March and June, daytime temperatures hover in the high 80s while evening temperatures rarely drop below 70 degrees. Add in that this is the island’s dry season, and you have the makings of a perfect trip to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. Regardless of the season, the Riviera Maya offers warm temperatures and a tropical environment, making it a popular year-round destination for beach lovers.

If you’re looking for the best accommodation rates and fewer crowds, the rainy season between June and October can be a good option. Just keep in mind that you may have to make do with showers and some hot temps in the low-90s.

How long should a honeymoon in Riviera Maya be?
Honeymooners looking to enjoy all that the Rivera Maya has to offer will want to spend at least a week. Between the attractions, beaches, and restaurants stretching across 80 miles of towns, you’ll want to spend as much time as time allows!