Of the many picturesque coastlines in Mexico’s geography, few are more swoon-worthy than the Riviera Maya. Drive down the country’s Federal Highway 307, which hugs Mexico’s eastern Caribbean coastline along the Yucatán peninsula, and you’ll find a host of fabulous beaches, Mayan ruins, and of course, stunning boutique hotels. To help you navigate the wealth of destinations waiting to be explored, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite sites, eats, and stays along the Riviera Maya.
Where to Stay:
Nizuc
While Cancun is not technically part of the Riviera Maya, its airport is generally the easiest port of entry into the region. As such, if you’re weary after a long day of travel, we’d highly recommend a pit stop at the stunning Nizuc Hotel, where Cancun is all grown up. With a private beach, plenty of dining options, and a chic modernist aesthetic, it’s the perfect way to start your Riviera Maya adventure.
Hotel Esencia
Initially built as a secret hideaway for an Italian duchess, Hotel Esencia is the ultimate luxury boutique stay in the Riviera Maya. From a daily coffee and pastry drop-off to private cabanas on the beach to badminton and tennis through the jungle, there’s nothing you can’t experience from the comfort of your private villa.
Where to Eat:
NÜ
Representing some of the finest ingredients from the Riviera Maya and modern Mexican cooking techniques, NÜ is easily one of the best restaurants in the Riviera Maya. Expert mixologists put on a fabulous show, only enhanced by the stunning jungle setting of the restaurant itself.
Cocina de Autor
This one-star Michelin restaurant is a stunning homage to regional cooking from Chef Nahúm Velasco. Located in the expansive Grand Velas Riviera Maya, the tasting menu at this beautiful restaurant is well worth the splurge.
Where to Drink:
Zapote Bar
A mainstay on North America’s 50 Best Bars list, this fabulous little cocktail bar is worth the trip to Mayakoba. Expertly created cocktails are inspired by the flora and fauna of the Riviera Maya itself, as well as its ancestral history. And if you have one too many, a stay at the Rosewood Mayakoba isn’t the worst thing.
Local Coffee + Shop
In Puerto Moreles, the northernmost “border” of the Riviera Maya, you’ll find a delightful cafe whose name tells you all you need to know – it’s a local coffee shop serving up some of the best coffee and breakfast you’ll find in the region. Get the ancestral coffee and any of the toasts.
Where to Visit:
Tulum Ruins
For stunning Mayan ruins directly within the Riviera Maya, head to the beach town of Tulum. Tulum is known not only for its gorgeous white sands and boutiques but also for its 13th-century archaeological site. Be sure to visit the imposing structure during your time in the resort town.
Rio Secreto
One of the best water-based experiences in the Riviera Maya isn’t even at a beach. Instead, it’s at Rio Secreto, or the Secret River, an ethereal underground river that weaves its way through hidden caves complete with stalactites and stalagmites.
Bacalar Lagoon
If the saltwater of the ocean begins to take its toll on you, head over to this lovely freshwater lake (actually the second largest in the country). Swim on your own, or take a tour via kayaks, pontoons, or other water vessels.
MUSA
Checking out a museum on vacation is always worth the time, and it is only made more so when said museum is underwater. MUSA is located just off the shores of beautiful Isla Mujeres, a short ferry ride from Cancun. You can experience the underwater exhibits either via snorkeling or glass-bottomed boats.
Akumal Beach
You can’t go wrong with any beach along the Riviera Maya, but for wildlife lovers, the beach in Akumal may take the cake. Not only are shores full of white sand and the waters relatively calm, but an abundance of sea turtles also call this expanse of land their home.
Other Articles You May Like:
● Encantada Tulum Is a Luxe Bohemian Escape on the Riviera Maya’s Pristine Shores
● This Chic Brings Wellness and Spirituality to the Riviera Maya
● You Can Stay at Pablo Escobar’s Tulum Mansion-Turned-Hotel
