The Riviera Maya center is around 12 miles north of Chac Mol and 13 miles northwest of Xcaret Eco Theme Park.
During the summer rainy season, the Riviera Maya is extremely hot and humid. This period lasts from May to September, which can make a stay here unbearable if you can't stand the heat. One good thing about visiting the Yucatan Peninsula in the summer is that it's relatively protected from hurricanes. You may experience strong storms, but rarely a full-fledged hurricane. Because summers can be so stifling, hotel rates tend to drop.
The winter months from December to April are considered the Riviera Maya's peak tourist season. Many travelers escape cold northern climates in order to enjoy a week or two in Caribbean paradise, so hotel rates tend to skyrocket. You'll also experience more crowds at the resorts and area attractions, but the weather is pleasantly mild, and you don't run the risk of dealing with rainfall.
For the best of both worlds – fewer crowds and great hotel rates – try traveling during the shoulder seasons. Late April to early May and late November to early December are relatively uncrowded, and you can find amazing deals on hotel rates.
If you do your research, you can save even more money during your stay in the Riviera Maya by taking advantage of discounts. For instance, AAA members can enjoy special discounted rates from AAA-designated hotels. Grand Velas Riviera Maya is just one of the area's five-diamond AAA award recipients, which can help you save as much as 20 percent.
In addition to special membership rates, most hotels hold their own special sales, seasonal discounts, and special offers. Booking the spring or summer deal at Grand Velas Riviera Maya can get you 10 percent off the resort boutique and a spa credit. The Hard Rock Hotel's online exclusive deals can save you as much as 35 percent. You can also find honeymoon packages, suite deals, and other special offers by booking in advance.
The Riviera Maya offers several mid-range resort options that give you plenty of value for your money. The Iberostar Riviera Maya complex, for instance, consists of five interconnected Iberostar resorts. On the more affordable end is the Iberostar Paraiso Del Mar and Iberostar Paraiso Beach. Mid-range offerings at the complex include the Iberostar Paraiso Lindo and Iberostar Paraiso Maya. These all-inclusive family friendly resorts offer access to several restaurants, pools, spa services, and live entertainment, all at customizable rates that won't break the bank.
Magic Blue is a tropically inspired accommodation with a thatched roof and refined guest rooms. Located just a seven-minute walk from the Riviera Art Gallery, Magic Blue provides guests with hammocks, Wi-Fi, cable TV, coffeemakers, and room service. Freebies include breakfast and an outdoor pool with sun loungers.
Another great option is the Omni Puerto Aventuras Beach Resort in a lovely yachting community. This upscale resort features garden or marina views, locally inspired décor, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms, and ceiling fans. Enjoy a free breakfast in the open-air restaurant and the on-site Mayan-themed eatery.
Allegro Playacar Resort is an affordable all-inclusive offering free meals, drinks, and snacks served across five bars and three restaurants. Guests can enjoy two outdoor pools, tropical gardens, sun loungers, and water sports.
With so much to experience in the Riviera Maya, planning your itinerary can feel a bit overwhelming. If you're interested in historical sites, be sure to book a group tour to Tulum or Chichen Itza. Depending on where you're staying, a tour to these ruins can last all day, so bring plenty of bottled water, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Swimming in cenotes, or natural water-filled sinkholes, is a popular tourist pastime. Many tours to nearby ruins include stopping at cenotes for a swim, so be sure to book your reservations early to ensure you can participate in this beloved activity.
Playa del Carmen is noted for its shops, but you'd be surprised at how vibrant the nightlife is. A trip to the Riviera Maya wouldn't be complete without a visit to one of the city's local hotspots, particularly the Coco Bongo nightclub. Keep in mind, though, that the nightlife in Playa del Carmen tends to start late, so don't expect the fun to get underway until after 11 p.m.
Whether you're looking for an upscale all-inclusive with all the trimmings or an understated beachfront accommodation that won't break the bank, the Riviera Maya region offers a little something for everyone.
Below are reviews of the city of Riviera Maya, Mexico from an actual visitor's perspective.
Loved the staff, super friendly and helpful.
Did tours and activities in Riviera Maya.
Staff and property were top notch!