Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya is the coastal stretch of the Yucatán Peninsula that runs roughly from Puerto Morelos in the north down to Tulum in the south. Known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and access to Mayan history, the region has become one of Mexico’s most popular destinations for both leisure and adventure travel.

What is the Mayan Riviera?

The term “Mayan Riviera” (or Riviera Maya) refers to this entire area of the Caribbean coastline in Quintana Roo. It blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage, offering everything from snorkeling with sea turtles to exploring ancient ruins. Travelers come for both relaxation and discovery, with a mix of quiet bays and lively beach towns.

Where is Riviera Maya?

The Riviera Maya is located along the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula, facing the Caribbean Sea. Its location makes it easily accessible from Cancún International Airport, which is the main entry point for visitors heading south toward this coastal region.

Akumal

Akumal is a small coastal town best known for its calm bays and resident sea turtles. The name itself means “Place of the Turtles” in Mayan, and snorkeling here offers a chance to see these creatures up close. Akumal itself isn’t a single location with opening hours and an entrance fee, but rather a bay with public access to the beach and various attractions like the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary or Yal-Kú Lagoon, which do have specific fees and hours. For Akumal Beach, there is a public access point to the beach from which you can walk to the main bay area. For Yal-Kú Lagoon, an entrance fee applies, which includes the use of the facilities for snorkeling in the calm, crystalline waters.

Akumal Bay and Beach

Opening Hours: As a public bay, Akumal Beach does not have specific opening hours for general access.
Entrance Fee: There is a public access point to the beach, but specific fees might apply if you are accessing private sections of the beach.

Bahia Principe

Bahia Principe is not a traditional town but a large resort and residential complex south of Akumal. It includes several luxury hotels, golf courses, and a gated residential community. Access: The complex itself does not charge an entrance fee, but access is limited to resort guests, property owners, or visitors with a day pass.

Day passes: These typically range from $70–$120 USD per adult, depending on the hotel (such as Bahia Principe Sian Kaan) and the package (food, drinks, pool, and beach access included).
Golf: The Riviera Maya Golf Club, located within the complex, charges around $110–$150 USD for 18 holes, with seasonal promotions available.

Riviera Maya Hotels and Resorts

The region offers a wide selection of Riviera Maya hotels and Riviera Maya resorts, ranging from all-inclusive complexes to boutique beachfront escapes. Some of the most notable include:

Bahia Principe Sian Kaan – Part of the Bahia Principe complex, known for its adults-only luxury and golf access.
Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya – A large beachfront resort with multiple pools, restaurants, and family-friendly amenities.
Conrad Tulum – A stylish luxury resort with wellness-focused offerings and a quieter atmosphere.
Dreams Tulum – Family-friendly and close to Tulum’s archaeological site.
Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya – Popular for snorkeling and dolphin encounters within the resort’s beach area.
TRS Yucatan – Adults-only, offering private pools and a more exclusive setting.
Grand Palladium Colonial – A resort with wide-ranging activities, appealing to both couples and families.