by Plalla Real Estate 
Would you like to take a beach vacation, live by the ocean or invest in real estate in Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Riviera Maya?
We created this comprehensive Riviera Maya Travel Guide, where you will discover the best of Riviera Maya so you can plan your trip right
You will also find answers to all your questions, you will learn what the Riviera Maya is, where it is located, what places are part of it, what is the difference with Cancun, when is the best time to visit it, how to get here and around, and as a foreigner you will discover other important things before traveling.
This guide will also help you if you want to buy a home in Playa del Carmen, Tulum or Riviera Maya, you will discover what kind of lifestyle you can have, where to invest and count on us to help you during the buying process. We will save you time, money and hassle!
If you have any questions, please write them in the comments section at the bottom of this page and we will gladly answer them.
The Riviera Maya is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world, it is located in Mexico, along the Caribbean Sea. It receives millions of tourists every year who come to enjoy a beach vacation, although many end up missing out on the great wonders it has.
Imagine all-inclusive hotels for all tastes and budgets, restaurants, bars and nightclubs on the beach, water sports, countless tours and activities, festivals, shows, international events, golf, yachts, spa, temazcal, galleries and museums same as all major tourist destinations.
But what makes it so special are its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, second largest coral barrier in the world, cenotes, lagoons, underground rivers, ecological reserves, flora and fauna diversity, archaeological sites, Mayan towns, theme parks and ecotourism.
It’s paradise on earth!
What means Riviera Maya?
Riviera Maya comes from the words: “Riviera” which represents the exclusivity and glamor of the area and “Maya” in honor of the Mayan culture, since here are several of the most important cities of the Mayan civilization.
The Riviera Maya is truly unique in the world, it is very difficult to find other destination with so many activities to do, places to visit, a great diversity of its ecosystem, the Mayan culture, food, accommodation for all budgets and tours for all tastes.
Romance is everywhere, being one of the favorite places for those looking for a beach wedding and honeymoon. Love Is In The Air!
Where is the Riviera Maya?
The Riviera Maya is located in the Mexican Caribbean in the state of Quintana Roo in Mexico. Just south of the Cancun, the famous tourist resort and starts from the small town of Puerto Morelos to Punta Allen in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.
The two mayor cities are Playa del Carmen with an exclusive and cosmopolitan atmosphere, and Tulum with a bohemian and mystical atmosphere.
What cities are in the Mexican Riviera?
- Punta Maroma
- Playa del Carmen
- Puerto Aventuras
- Xpuha
- Akumal
- Tulum
- Coba
- Sian Ka’an
The Riviera Maya along with Cancun receive 40% of all tourists in Mexico. That’s right, Cancun is not part of the Riviera Maya and many people don’t know it. Cancun’s development boom was until 2005. Cancun continues to grow, but not at the same pace as before and now we are experiencing the Riviera Maya’s real estate boom in its 2 main cities: Playa del Carmen and Tulum, the fastest growing in Latin America.
What cities are not in the Mexican Riviera?
- Cancun
- Chichen Itza
- Isla Mujeres
- Puerto Morelos
- Cozumel island
- Holbox island
- Bacalar
- Mahahual or Costa Maya
These are hot tourist spots around the Riviera Maya, an excellent option for one day trip, although it is worth investing 2 or 3 days in Holbox island and Mahahual because of its gorgeous beaches.
Is Cancun and Riviera Maya the same thing?
No, it is not the same thing. Cancun is a city of 900,000 inhabitants with all its tourist services in a touristic area. In contrast, the Riviera Maya is an area, which includes small cities and towns, it has 399,726 inhabitants, only Playa del Carmen has 304,942 residents and Tulum just 46,721 residents.
10.9% of the population are born in other countries, where the majority of foreign residents come from the United States, Canada, Europe and South America, influencing the local gastronomy.
Is Riviera Maya nicer than Cancun?
If you want an all-inclusive hotel, you just want to rest and you do not plan to go out then both tourist destinations are very good options, but if you want to get to know the area and all its wonders then we think it is better to stay in the Riviera Maya because the vast majority of the attractions are in the Riviera Maya, and thus you will save time and avoid traveling every day.
Interesting Fact: the Riviera Maya has more luxury hotels and grand tourism than Cancun, despite being a much newer tourist destination.
Which one do you think is better Riviera Maya or Cancun?
What is the best time of year to go to Riviera Maya?
Well it depends on you and when you have your vacation, but if you can choose when to travel then there are 3 variables that you must take into account: weather, school breaks and holidays.
- What is the hottest month in Riviera Maya? They are 2 months, July and August, on average 32°C or 90°F.
- What are the coldest months of the year? December, January and February, on average 23°C or 73°F.
- What is the rainy season in Riviera Maya? Sometimes it rains all day during the rain season from September to November.
When is low season in the Riviera Maya?
The off-season in the Riviera Maya is the same than the wet season from September to November because they are the months with the most rain.
When is high season in the Riviera Maya?
The dry season in the Riviera Maya is from the end of November to August, having as a shoulder season the months of November and March to August, while the peak season, when most people prefer to take their vacations, especially tourists from cold countries, is from December to February.
We experienced several peaks during Easter, Spring Break and during the mexican school breaks in July and August. Keep in mind that many people plan their trips on these dates so flights and accommodation prices will increase.
What is hurricane season in Riviera Maya?
The Riviera Maya and Cancun hurricane season is from June to November, normally the months of June, July and August are months where we can get some light rains occasionally and they might become tropical storms.
The season with the highest probability of hurricanes in the Riviera Maya is from September to November, we get usually category 1 or 2 hurricanes, nothing to worry about. This zone has not received any dangerous hurricanes since 2005, on top of that, the geographic location of the Riviera Maya is privileged since it is protected against hurricanes by Cozumel island and other islands of the Caribbean.
What is the best month to visit Riviera Maya?
The best month to visit Riviera Maya can be any month from November to August, as it has a subtropical climate with a very pleasant temperature throughout the year, an average temperature of 25°C or 77°F in approximately 250 sunny days.
Riviera Maya Climate
| Celsius (°C) | Fahrenheit (°F) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Max | Min | Rain (mm) | Max | Min | Rain (in) |
| January | 26.5 | 22.5 | 52.3 | 79.7 | 72.5 | 2.06 |
| February | 27.1 | 22.8 | 41.2 | 80.8 | 73 | 1.62 |
| March | 27.8 | 23.2 | 36.4 | 82 | 73.8 | 1.43 |
| April | 29.5 | 24.4 | 18.6 | 85.1 | 75.9 | 0.73 |
| May | 30.6 | 25.3 | 68.2 | 87 | 77.5 | 2.68 |
| June | 31.1 | 25.8 | 110.5 | 88 | 78.4 | 4.35 |
| July | 31.8 | 26.3 | 43.4 | 89.2 | 79.3 | 1.71 |
| August | 32.1 | 26.4 | 85.6 | 89.8 | 79.3 | 3.37 |
| September | 31.8 | 26.3 | 113.1 | 89.2 | 79.3 | 4.45 |
| October | 30.2 | 25.2 | 135.3 | 86.4 | 77.4 | 5.32 |
| November | 28.4 | 23.7 | 82.8 | 83.1 | 74.7 | 3.26 |
| December | 27.5 | 23.5 | 64.6 | 81.5 | 74.3 | 2.54 |
How to get to the Riviera Maya?
The vast majority of tourists arrive to the Riviera Maya by plane from Cancun International Airport, with direct flights from some of the most important cities in Mexico, United States, Canada, Europe and South America.
Some venture to travel by bus, car and motorcycle from different places in the Mexican Republic, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, the United States and even Canada.
Likewise, tourists arrive by cruise ships to Cozumel, Calica and Progreso ports. The Cozumel port is the largest in Mexico and from there you can take a Ferry to Playa del Carmen.
How far is Riviera Maya from airport?
It depends on what part of the Riviera Maya you want to visit, but you can travel from 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, check out our table of distances.
Table of distances of the main touristic spots in the Riviera Maya and its surroundings
| Start | Destination | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport | Playa del Carmen | Tulum | |
| Airport | 40 min 52 km 32.3 mi | 1 h 25 min 117 km 72.7 mi | |
| Puerto Morelos | 18 min 23 km 14.3 mi | 20 min 34 km 21.1 mi | 1 h 05 min 96 km 59.7 mi |
| Playa del Carmen | 40 min 52 km 32.3 mi | 45 min 62 km 38.5 mi | |
| Xcaret | 49 min 61 km 37.9 mi | 9 min 9 km 5.6 mi | 36 min 53 km 32.9 mi |
| Puerto Aventuras | 55 min 74 km 45.9 mi | 15 min 22 km 13.7 mi | 30 min 40 km 24.9 mi |
| Xpuha | 58 min 79 km 49.1 mi | 18 min 27 km 16.8 mi | 27 min 35 km 21.7 mi |
| Akumal | 1h 05 min 89 km 55.3 mi | 25 min 37 km 22.9 mi | 20 min 25 km 15.5 mi |
| Tulum | 1 h 25 min 114 km 70.8 mi | 45 min 62 km 38.5 mi | |
| Sian Ka’an | 2 h 10 min 134 km 83.3 mi | 1 h 30 min 82 km 50.9 mi | 45 min 20 km 12.4 mi |
| Coba | 2 h 05 min 161 km 100.1 mi | 1 h 25 min 109 km 67.7 mi | 40 min 47 km 29.2 mi |
| Cancun | 15 min 14 km 8.7 mi | 56 min 73 km 45.4 mi | 1 h 33 min 128 km 79.5 mi |
| Isla Mujeres | 1 h 06 min 30 km 18.6 mi | 1 h 44 min 89 km 55.3 mi | 2 h 23 min 144 km 89.5 mi |
| Cozumel island | 1 h 20 min 70 km 43.5 mi | 40 min 18 km 11.2 mi | 1 h 27 min 80 km 49.7 mi |
| Chichen Itzá | 2 h 27 min 201 km 124.9 mi | 2 h 17 min 186 km 115.6 mi | 1 h 56 min 147 km 91.3 mi |
| Holbox island | 2 h 30 min 143 km 88.9 mi | 2 h 24 min 137 km 85.1 mi | 3 h 06 min 182 km 113.1 mi |
| Bacalar | 3 h 43 min 330 km 205.1 mi | 3 h 03 min 278 km 172.7 mi | 2 h 21 min 216 km 134.2 mi |
| Mahahual / Costa Maya | 3 h 51 min 340 km 211.3 mi | 3 h 11 min 288 km 178.9 mi | 2 h 28 min 226 km 140.4 mi |
How do you get to Riviera Maya from Cancun airport?
Bus
The ADO bus company offers the bus service from the Cancun airport to the Riviera Maya, they travel frequently, they have air conditioning, Wi-Fi and all the amenities. Travel to the main cities of Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
Bus is the best option for people who want to travel comfortably to Playa del Carmen and Tulum, and want the best price.
Bus Price List from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen and Tulum
| City | Passenger | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Playa del Carmen | Adult | $216 MXN $11 USD |
| Children | $108 MXN $5.50 USD | |
| Tulum | Adult | $288 MXN $14 USD |
Children | $144 MXN $7 USD |
Taxi
Taxis from the Cancun airport to the Riviera Maya provide you with more comfort since you do not have to wait and they take you directly to your hotel, but it is important to agree on the price before boarding a taxi to avoid being overcharged.
Taxi is the best option for small families or groups of friends of 3 or 4 people.
Taxi Price List from Cancun Airport to Riviera Maya
| City | Price |
|---|---|
| Puerto Morelos | $600 MXN $30 USD |
| Playa del Carmen | $900 MXN $45 USD |
| Akumal | $1,400 MXN $70 USD |
| Tulum | $1,600 MXN $80 USD |
Car Rental
Rent a car is very easy and versatile, since you can travel everywhere comfortably and can find public and private parking lots and some parking meters at any destination. You can find car rental agencies in Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cancun airport with: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Europcar, Expedia, Hertz, National Car Rental, etc.
Car rental is the best option for tourists who want to move freely, especially to places where there is little transportation.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Riviera Maya?
Car Rental Price List for Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Cancun Airport
| Car | Price |
|---|---|
Mini | $281 MXN $14 USD |
| Compact | $304 MXN $15 USD |
| Medium | $326 MXN $16 USD |
| Big | $397 MXN $20 USD |
| SUV | $715 MXN $36 USD |
Shuttle
The Shuttles are small buses or vans that provide transfers from the Cancun Airport to the Riviera Maya, they only pick up and drop off passagers at the large hotels in Playa del Carmen and Tulum. It works as a shared taxi, but larger and more comfortable. Prior reservation is required on their websites.
Shuttle is the best option for solo travelers and couples staying in Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
Price List for Cancun Airport Transfers to Playa del Carmen and Tulum
| City | Price |
|---|---|
| Playa del Carmen | $480 MXN $24 USD |
| Tulum | $800 MXN $40 USD |
Private Transfer
It is the most comfortable and fastest way to get anywhere, but it is also the most expensive. They will pick you up at the airport, terminal or your accommodation, they wait for you as long as you need and they do not charge you for excess luggage. You can request the one-way trip or round trip where they can wait up to 7 hours. They also offer transportation services for groups, weddings and tours.
Private Transfer is the best option for those looking for comfort and do not mind paying a little more.
How much does a private transfer cost from the Cancun airport?
Cancun Airport Private Transportation Price List
| City | Private Transfer (1 to 7 pax) | VIP Transfer (1 to 5 pax) | Economy Limousine (1 to 8 pax) | Limousine (1 to 8 pax) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | One way | Round trip | One way | Round trip | One way | Round trip | One way | Round trip |
| Puerto Morelos | $780 MXN $39 USD | $1,200 MXN $60 USD | $1,180 MXN $59 USD | $1,980 MXN $99 USD | $3,400 MXN $170 USD | $6,000 MXN $300 USD | $3,900 MXN $195 USD | $6,400 MXN $320 USD |
| Playa Del Carmen | $1,000 MXN $50 USD | $1,800 MXN $90 USD | $1,380 MXN $69 USD | $1,480 MXN $124 USD | $4,000 MXN $200 USD | $7,600 MXN $380 USD | $5,560 MXN $278 USD | $8,120 MXN $406 USD |
| Puerto Aventuras | $1,200 MXN $60 USD | $2,200 MXN $110 USD | $1,580 MXN $79 USD | $2,580 MXN $129 USD | n/a | n/a | $6,980 MXN $349 USD | $8,480 MXN $424 USD |
| Akumal | $1,480 MXN $74 USD | $2,540 MXN $127 USD | $1,600 MXN $80 USD | $2,700 MXN $135 USD | n/a | n/a | $6,300 MXN $315 USD | $10,200 MXN $510 USD |
| Tulum | $1,400 MXN $70 USD | $2,700 MXN $135 USD | $1,980 MXN $99 USD | $3,280 MXN $164 USD | n/a | n/a | $8,400 MXN $420 USD | $1,240 MXN $620 USD |
Bike
Traveling by bicycle in Tulum and Playa del Carmen is very popular, you can find bicycle rentals everywhere like in your accommodation, Bike Rentals or Rent a Bike businesses and even Playa del Carmen has a Shared Public Bike Rental System that you can find everywhere.
Bike is the best option for people who want to travel short distances and in an ecological way.
Bike Rental Price List in Tulum and Playa del Carmen
| City | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tulum | 1 Day | $150 MXN $8 USD |
| 2 Days | $300 MXN $16 USD | |
| 3 Days | $450 MXN $24 USD | |
| 7 Days | $1,050 MXN $56 USD | |
| Playa del Carmen | 1 Day | $98 MXN $5 USD |
| 3 Days | $196 MXN $10 USD | |
| 7 Days | $328 MXN $16 USD | |
| 365 Days | $420 MXN $21 USD |
Do you want to live or invest in real estate in Playa del Carmen, Tulum or Riviera Maya?
If you like the Riviera Maya and are planning to invest in Real Estate, contact us at (+52) 984 218 2330 we answer phone calls, WhatsApp and Telegram messages. If you’re not ready to invest yet, check out our real estate listings: https://plalla.com/en/real-estate/
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Conclusion
This is the end of our Riviera Maya Travel Guide and by now you already know why you should come here and although it is impossible to stop thinking about its white sandy beaches, turquoise blue waters and all inclusive hotels, you know you can find much more than that.
The Riviera Maya is full of activities to do and places to visit, such as: the pyramids of Tulum and Chichen Itzá, explore cenotes and underground rivers, dive in the second largest corral barrier in the world, swim with dolphins, turtles or sharks, visit Xcaret and other theme parks, take a yoga class on the beach, etc.
Do you like music? Check out 12th street in Playa del Carmen where you will find the already renowned Coco Bongo, and many more clubs and bars. Do you like electronic music? Try Mamitas beach or if you are looking for something more bohemian you will find it at Boca Paila street in Tulum.
Explore the Riviera Maya and be amazed!
What do you think this guide is missing?
If you have any comments or questions, write them in the comment section at the bottom of this page and we will gladly answer them.
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