This bustling beach town is known for its beautiful coastline and lively downtown, boasting plenty of top-notch eateries and boutiques. But when you need a break from the sand, surf, and shopping, you’re only a quick drive away from some of Riveria Maya’s most notable landmarks and sites. To make the most of your trip to Playa del Carmen, add these 7 experiences and sites to your vacation to-do list.
Mayan Ruins of Tulum
No trip to the Riviera May is complete without a trip to see the Mayan ruins. Marvels of architecture and engineering, the ruins offer a glimpse of Mayan civilization set against a backdrop of breathtaking vistas.
Valladolid
Visit Valladolid and travel back in time to the year 1543. The Spanish Colonial town played an important role in Mexico’s history and boasts stunning colonial-era architecture and a blossoming community of talented artisans.
Cozumel
Cozumel is a small island off the coast of Playa del Carmen, known for its pristine beaches, bright coral reefs, and magnificent jungle landscapes. You can catch a ferry in Playa del Carmen and take a 45-minute ride out to the island for a fun-filled day of exploring. Grab the last boat back to the mainland and enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the water.
Akumal
In the Mayan language, Akumal means “place of the turtles,” and the name still rings true today. The protected bay area is a favorite spot for sea turtles to lay their eggs and has diverse marine life, making it a top destination for snorkeling and diving. The area’s subterranean rivers and caves are also worth a visit, as are Akumal’s white sandy beaches.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO biosphere preserve, Sian Ka’an is a must-see for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. With acres of tropical forests, an abundance of wildlife, including over 300 species of tropical birds, and a barrier reef, the preserve is rich in both biodiversity and beauty.
Aktun Chen Ecological Park
At Aktun Chen, you’ll venture deep into the Riveria Maya’s virgin rainforest, where you’ll discover a vast array of ecological wonders. Explore the five-million-year-old cave with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, snorkel through vast cenotes, zip line through the jungle canopy, or meet animals native to the Yucatán Peninsula, like peccaries, spider monkeys, and parrots.
Cobá
Once one of the most important cities in the Mayan civilization, Cobá covers a sprawling 26 miles near Playa del Carmen. Still in the process of being excavated by archeologists, the impressive site sits deep in the jungle of the Riviera Maya and has a variety of interesting, ancient structures to discover, like the Pyramid of Painted Lintel and Temple of the Church.
Though the white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters might be what lead you to Playa del Carmen, there’s so much more to discover. Close in proximity to everything from ancient Mayan cities to awe-inspiring caves and bright coral reefs, setting down roots in Playa del Carmen is the ideal way to make the most of your stay in Mexico’s Riveria Maya.
Image via Flickr by Rodrigo Accurcio
NOTES FROM THE BACK ROW 