6 Top Reasons to Visit Mexico’s Riviera Maya

When I asked my husband where he wanted to go for a milestone birthday, he responded “You know, I’ve always wanted to see Mayan ruins.”

That was a few years back, yet the wonderful memories of magical mystical Riviera Maya along the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula continue to beckon and beguile us. Which is why it’s on the top of our “to do” list again in 2021.

Yes, Riviera Maya has magnificent white sand beaches, stunning tourmaline waters, and a laid-back tropical vibe like many other Caribbean destinations. So, what is it that makes this piece of paradise stand out?

Aside from its Caribbean charm and its warm, welcoming people, here’s more of Riviera Maya’s seductive offerings.

Mayan Ruins

One of the top reasons my husband and so many others choose to visit Mexico’s Riviera Maya is its spectacular Mayan temples and ruins.

Chichén Itzá is the star of the show and the most visited of the archeological sites. In 2007 it was named one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. It’s magnificent towering Temple of Kulukan is the iconic showpiece of the expansive historic site. It’s utterly unbelievable!

Tulum is the best-preserved coastal site in all of Mexico, and rumored to possess the best magical energy. If it’s not awe-inspiring enough, it’s location directly on the Caribbean Sea definitely sets it apart. And the views are stunning.

The Mayan city of Coba is the Riviera’s most recent archeological unveiling. Each exploration reveals more artifacts and expansive ruins and it’s one of the reasons we’re heading back next year– to see what’s been newly revealed.

Cenotes

Pronounced (sen-o-tays), these geologically rare freshwater sinkholes were formed thousands of years ago. Vital and sacred to the Mayans, they were believed to be secret entrances to the underworld.

There are hundreds of cenotes in the Riviera, but one of our favorites is Dos Ojos (Two Eyes) with caverns forming one of the longest underwater caves in the world. We loved swimming in its crystal clear and refreshing cool waters– a welcome respite from the heat of the day.

Akumal Beach

This picture-perfect stretch of white sand in Tulum meaning “place of turtles” is a natural refuge for these creatures who love gliding peacefully through these beautiful waters. A wide stretch of stunning beaches encompasses a series of five calm turquoise bays. The protected offshore reefs make the area an ideal haven for swimming, tide pooling, kayaking, snorkeling or diving.

Adventure Park Like No Other

We loved our visit to Xel- Há, a Yucatan paradise and wonder-filled water sanctuary. This natural inlet with caves and grottos is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, river tubing, and discovering native tropical fish. The park also offers an over-water zip-line, a 16-foot wall cliff for jumping (yes, we skipped it) and suspended roping extending over the river (we did try this). There’s even a scenic lighthouse with a fun waterslide and children’s area for younger tykes. But there’s so much more. It’s worth a day trip by itself.

Tantalizing Mexican Cuisine

You know the old adage “I’ve never had a bad meal here ever.” Well, it’s absolutely true about Riviera Maya. First of all, due to its adjacent Caribbean waters, seafood here is incredible. Chefs at the resorts and local restaurants are proud of their delectable Mexican tropical creations, and it’s evident in every single bite, no matter where we’ve dined.

Dining in a 10,000-Year-Old Cave

I have to give a foodie shout-out to one unforgettable experience we had in the delightful town of Playa del Carmen. Alux (a-loosh) is a spectacular rambling underworld cavern with stalagmites, stalactites, and other fascinating rock formations including a crystal-clear cenote. It’s so mesmerizing, you may not remember exactly what you ordered here, but you’ll forever recall the experience. Just don’t forget to book your reservation well ahead.

La vida es hermosa as they say. Life is beautiful here in Riviera Maya.

Not to worry about being proficient with the Spanish language when you come. For even if you master just a few phrases, the locals will smile and love you even more!

Blog by: Noreen Kompanik, Freelance Travel Journalist/Associate Editor & Wishes Traveler