7 Wonders of the Mayan Riviera

Looking for white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, tropical climate and friendly locals?

The Mayan Riviera is a top choice for vacationers.

With so many unique things to offer, it’s a top spot for your vacation in Mexico.

Here is PlayadelCarmen.com’s list of the 7 Wonders of the Riviera Maya:

1- Playa del Carmen

With its laid back feel, beautiful beaches, impressive nightlife, and remarkable amount of cuisine from around the world, Playa del Carmen is the place to be. 5th avenue is the perfect place for a stroll to buy your souvenirs, have a meal, or grab a quick drink. Want to party all night long? Head to 12th where Coco Bongo, Blue Parrot, La Santanera and a multitude of other bars and clubs await. Nestled in the heart of the Riviera Maya, there is so much to see and do in Playa del Carmen, we had to devote a whole web site to it!

2- Mayan Ruins & Mayan Culture

A trip to visit one of the ruins is a must when in the Mayan Riviera. Choose Chichen Itza, one of the seven wonders of the world; Coba, the highest pyramid in the Yucatan that you   can still climb; Tulum with its breathtaking views; or Ek Balam , a lesser known but equally impressive ruin. Which one will you choose?

The Mayan culture is still fairly prevalent in the area, despite years of the modern world invading their space. You’ll in intrigued and amazed when you step back in time and visit a  local Mayan community.

3) Snorkeling

he Great Barrier Reef in Australia comes first, but coming in second is not so bad! From Isla Contoy, north of Cancun, all along the Mayan Riviera, through until Belize, Guatemala and Honduras , you will find over 1000km (621 miles) of reef. In addition to 500 species of tropical fish, there are approximately 65 species of coral,  manatees, and giant sea turtles. The many snorkeling options in the Mayan Riviera is pretty impressive, add some giant sea turtles to that equation and it is the experience of a lifetime.

4) Festivals & Events

The BPM festival, the Tequila Festival, the PGA’s Mayakoba Golf Classic, the Jazz Festival, the Riviera Maya Underground Film Festival, and the Cancun Riviera Maya Wine & Food, Playa del Carmen has so much going on we need our own calendar of events.

5) Cenotes

Crystal clear, fresh water sinkholes sprinkle the area. With over 300 km of underground rivers, and an estimated 6000 cenotes, you have your pick. The Mayans believed these waters to have magical rejuvenating powers, and they were sent from the heavens. You can even swim with turtles in cenotes as well.

Once you see one, you too, will believe!

 

6) Eco Parks

With three incredible to choose from, the hardest part of your vacation will be deciding which one! For water babies and snorkel enthusiasts, there is Xel Ha, the world’s largest natural aquarium. For culture vultures and animal lovers, Xcaret is the place to be: coral reef aquariums, flora, fauna, Mayan culture and the spectacular evening show just skims the surface of what is available at Xcaret. Adrenaline junkie? Xplor is calling your name. Can’t decide or want to do them all? Get an X park pass and do it all

7) Whale Sharks

Every year from June until September, the population goes up by about 400 hundred in the Holbox and Isla Mujeres area. Whale sharks migrate here every summer in their search for plankton. These gentle giants, ranging from 8 to 12 metres (25 to 40 feet) in length are completely amenable to having humans swim alongside. Experience the thrill of seeing the wide-mouthed, spotted, docile giant up close when you swim with the whale sharks in Mexico.

 

If this list of incredible things to do in in the Riviera Maya has not convinced you to come for a visit, then we don’t know what will!