Yulia Saf 
Are you ready to have a magical holiday on Riviera Maya, Mexico’s paradise coast? White sand beaches, an amazing underwater world, beach parties, Mayan ruins, and Mexican tacos are waiting!
I spent my honeymoon here and could not have chosen a better destination! In this guide, I share all the best cities you can stay in Riviera Maya from a personal perspective to help you find the ideal spot for you!
Tulum is the most up-and-coming city with the Insta-perfect landscapes and vibe, but I’ve got plenty of other fun places in store! I also cherry-picked the best hotels in every place and sorted them by budget, so you’ll be able to book your stay in seconds!
And about that, make sure to book far in advance! Riviera Maya is booming with tourism lately, so you don’t want to miss out on the best deals!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Check out the best hotels to stay in Tulum, one of Riviera Maya’s most trending cities:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Tulum – best place to stay in Riviera Maya for first-timers
- 2. Playa del Carmen – coolest town to stay in Riviera Maya
- 3. Puerto Morelos – where to stay with kids + for a local vibe
- 4. Akumal – the best town in Riviera Maya for nature lovers & relaxation
- 5. Puerto Aventuras – where to stay for a high-end resort-style vacation
- 6. Cancun – where to stay in Riviera Maya for the city vibe
- BONUS: Best all-inclusive hotels in Riviera Maya for all budgets
- FAQs about the best places to stay in the Riviera Maya
- Final words on best places to stay in Riviera Maya
Here is a map with the 6 best cities to stay in Riviera Maya that I will be talking about in this blog post so you can easily visualize them:
- Tulum: for first-timers
- Playa del Carmen: the coolest town
- Puerto Morelos: for families
- Akumal: for relaxation
- Puerto Aventuras: for secluded beaches
- Cancun: for a big city vibe
1. Tulum – best place to stay in Riviera Maya for first-timers
Welcome to Riviera Maya’s fastest developing town! Tulum is situated on the South coastline of Riviera Maya and is a 2-hour drive from Cancun airport.
Here, you will find the most famous beaches (public and private) with amazing sea color and powdery sand, Insta-perfect spots with jungly and boho vibes, the most exclusive parties, and stunning natural cenotes (natural caves below ground filled with cool water).
Tulum is divided into 2 areas: Zona Hotelera, the beachfront with all the resorts, and Pueblo, or downtown, where the actual city of Tulum is. I stayed on the beachfront because we wanted to relax and be at one with nature, but many travelers stay both in town and the beach because the vibes are so different!
NOTE: Hotels and food in the town are twice as cheap as the beach zone. Choose your area according to budget but also vibe (beach is for parties, resorts, and seaside vacation, town is for local culture and food).
The main attractions in and around Tulum include the impressive Mayan ruins (map) and just further South, Sian Ka’an (map), a stunning jungle natural reserve with tons of wildlife to spot on boat tours!
Alternatively, for those who are into yoga, Tulum is one of the most famous places for it so why not take a yoga class by the beach? I actually stayed in a beach resort (Shambala Petit Hotel) that was also a yoga retreat, absolutely loved the vibe!
FUN FACT: Riviera Maya, or the Mayan Riviera, is called so because this is the place settled by the ancient Mayan civilization that lived in the area for almost 1,000 years! The term “Riviera Maya” was coined for tourism purposes in 1999 (the place used to be called the Cancun-Tulum corridor), and since then, more and more tourists visit the region every year!
GETTING AROUND: The best way to get around Riviera Maya is by car hire. We rented a car in Cancun airport, drove around, and returned it at the same place, and it was such a smart decision! Especially after I saw how expensive the taxis are! Check out my full guide on renting a car in Cancun for more details.
Also, if you are planning to rent a car, I highly recommend getting a hotel with free parking. Otherwise, use designated parking areas and don’t park on the beach road in Tulum (except in designated areas), as you risk getting towed. Many restaurants and beach clubs offer valet parking.
This 5-star resort is located in the Southern tip of Tulum in the jungly area with the most stunning décor and the best service (according to past guests). Enjoy the 2 swimming pools, multiple restaurants serving local and international food, free parking, and a private beach area!
Other accommodation options in Tulum
Mayan Monkey Hotel has a swimming pool, clean rooms, a good breakfast, and a bar to enjoy a drink in a fun atmosphere
This boutique hotel offers rooms with authentic decoration, a swimming pool, free parking, and a restaurant
This family-friendly Airbnb has fully furnished rooms, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to the restaurants and City Center
Things to do in Tulum
- Spend time at the beautiful Paradise Beach (map)
- Go to the spectacular Parque Nacional Tulum (map) for the Mayan ruins
- Explore the Sian Ka’an Natural Reserve on a full-day boat tour
- Visit the natural beauties of Dos Ojos (map) and Gran Cenote (map)
- Take a photo by the iconic Escultura Ven a la Luz (map)
- Roam around Xel-Há Park, the world’s largest natural aquarium (map)
- Take one of the many epic tours from Tulum
2. Playa del Carmen – coolest town to stay in Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen is located 70 km (40 miles) South of Cancun and about the same distance North of Tulum (almost perfectly in between the 2 resort towns). Tourists and locals alike flock to the city for its chic boutique hotels, long stretches of white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife!
Thanks to its location between the two most popular towns along the coast, Tulum and Cancun, Playa del Carmen is also a great base from which to explore the whole Riviera Maya.
Start your day in Playa del Carmen by discovering famous beaches like the Playa Mamitas (map) or Parque Los Fundadores (map), join beach parties along the numerous beach clubs, and try water sports like parasailing, diving, and snorkeling!
All the amazing food and bars await just across the street from the beachside on Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue, map), the liveliest and best area to stay in Riviera Maya’s Playa del Carmen!
INSIDER’S TIP: Check a restaurant’s Google rating before you go, and only eat in the ones with good reviews! Otherwise, you risk really poor, slow, and overpriced service. Also, the city can get pretty noisy at night, so consider this if you decide to stay in the center of the action! Playacar and Mayakoba are better alternatives if you want to stay close but in a quieter location.
Xcaret Park (map) is a must-visit in Playa del Carmen! I had an amazing time in this HUGE eco-archaeological park! It has underground rivers, ancient ruins, live shows and performances, and even hotels and restaurants (if the name of a place or attraction starts with X, it’s most likely related to this park!)
Also, do not forget to dive into the amazing cenotes! Cenote Azul (map) is halfway between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, and it’s the most beautiful cenote in the region!
PRO TIP: If you’re traveling as a couple and want a romantic place to stay, definitely book adult-only resorts. You’ll find plenty of good ones! I also have a guide on the best options that you can check out here.
Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen
The absolute best of luxury in Playa del Carmen for couples! This all-inclusive boasts an enormous swimming pool, a gym, billiards, a tennis court, an international restaurant with the best chefs, and a rejuvenating spa and wellness center. Let me just add that their bathroom design is out of this world!
Other accommodation options in Playa del Carmen
This beachfront hotel offers a private beach, a great breakfast, and spacious rooms with a sea view
Charming and affordable accommodation with a hot tub just steps from the 5th Avenue
A fabulous, top-rated rental with a rooftop pool and one block away from the ocean
BONUS:
- El Taj Oceanfront and Beachside Condo Hotel – I stayed in this 5-star resort on my honeymoon and it was a blast! I was impressed by their attention to detail and I can say it’s easily one of the best hotels I ever stayed in! I talk more about my experience here in this article on must-do things in Riviera Maya!
- Hotel Xcaret Arte – I had to add one more luxury adult-only option for you as this resort is too incredible not to mention! The entry and transport to all 8 parks (including the famous Xplore and Xel Ha), a luxurious spa, a private beach, and countless restaurants and bars on-site – all are included in your room price!
Things to do in Playa del Carmen
- Join a local food and walking tour
- Sunbathe and swim on beautiful Las Mamitas beach
- Check out the restaurants and bars at Quinta Avenida Norte
- Spend a day (or 2) in the vast Xcaret Park
- Visit the 3D Museum of Wonders
- Book a day trip to Coba & Chichen Itza, monuments of the Mayan civilization
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3. Puerto Morelos – where to stay with kids + for a local vibe
Puerto Morelos is located 97 km (60 miles) North of Tulum and is a very cute town with beautiful beaches and a local vibe. If you want to stay in an area that is less touristy and with fewer crowds, you will love Puerto Morelos!
Good news: in this town, hotels are also more affordable compared to Cancun and Tulum!
Being less touristy doesn’t make the beaches of Puerto Morelos unattractive, though! You will be amazed by the color of the water at the powdery white sand beaches here!
This town is also one of the best spots for snorkeling, diving, and swimming with dolphins, so get ready to mingle with sea creatures!
I recommend this area for families with kids since it’s much quieter, has awesome family resorts, and easy access to kid-friendly attractions like the nice dolphin aquarium (map) and a lush botanical garden (map). Also, the reef keeps the water in Puerto Morales quite gentle, so it’s safe for the kids to swim!
NOTE: Beaches across Riviera Maya have seaweed, especially from late spring to October. However, the hotel and beach staff regularly clean them, so in most places, you can still have a great time! You can also use this map to track the sargassum situation in the area!
TIP: You can also choose to stay in resorts located between cities along the Riviera Maya coast. When we drove along the road, we saw so many great places. A lot of them were all-inclusive, ideal if you want to relax away from the city noise!
In Puerto Morelos, you will find many nice local Mexican restaurants and bars, souvenir shops, and more than enough accommodation options.
Grand Residences Riviera Cancun
This luxury all-inclusive resort has it all covered: delicious meals, round transfers to and fro the airport, 2 swimming pools, an on-site market, and spacious rooms with a classic interior! Pick a room with a jacuzzi and sip cocktails at the bar while the kids enjoy the playroom for the perfect family vacation!
Other accommodation options in Puerto Morelos
The perfect place for families with cozy rooms, a swimming pool, and a full kitchen
This centrally located hotel is a great place to explore the coastline; it offers a swimming pool and spacious rooms
A unique stay deep inside the jungle (a 30-minute ride from Puerto Morelos), only suitable for couples
Things to do in Puerto Morelos
- Have a walk at Jardín Botánico Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín
- Visit the Croco Cun Zoo for fun animal sightings
- Eat ceviche in the iconic El Merkadito seaside restaurant (map)
- Swim and relax at Playa Puerto Morelos (map)
- Go snorkeling at the National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos
- Swim with dolphins at Delphinus Puerto Morelos
- Go for a walk and take amazing photos of the Faro Inclinado (map)
4. Akumal – the best town in Riviera Maya for nature lovers & relaxation
Akumal is located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum and is the perfect place to stay in Riviera Maya if you want to enjoy quiet beaches, swimming with turtles, and beautiful nature. Plus, it’s a nice base if you plan to drive around to other places on the Riviera.
Even though Akumal is generally a quiet town, you will find a great number of restaurants, bars, and hotels, so everything you need here!
In Akumal, the unique landmarks you shouldn’t miss include Cenote Y Laguna Yal Ku (map), Cenote Puerta Maya (map), and Akumal Monkey Sanctuary. The Monkey Sanctuary has awesome tours on ATVs through the jungle that lead you to a remote cenote. Be sure to check it out on their website!
You can swim with turtles at Akumal Beach or Playa Akumal (map), and this was definitely one of the highlights of our trip! An important note, though, if you see red flags anywhere on the bay, be careful as they mark the area where the turtles are hatching their eggs! We got to see how the turtle deeps in the sand to lay her eggs, and it was such a heartwarming moment!
This adults-only hotel is one of the best in Akumal city. The all-inclusive hotel offers 3 swimming pools, a private beach, a beautiful sun terrace, a spa, a wellness center, and a great breakfast. Secrets Akumal Hotel has easy access to the city center, and the famous Playa del Carmen is just a half-hour drive away.
Other accommodation options in Akumal
A lovely 3-star hotel offering bungalows with double beds, ideal for couples and small families
This hotel has easy access to the city center and offers a swimming pool, rooms with free wifi, free parking, and a fabulous breakfast
Enjoy this beautiful place with an outdoor pool overlooking the ocean and featuring an excellent AC (important for Rivera!)
Things to do in Akumal
- Enjoy the crystal clear water at Playa Akumal
- Visit the natural beauty Cenote Y Laguna Yal Ku (map) and Aktun Chen (map)
- See monkeys in their natural environment at Akumal Monkey Sanctuary
- Go snorkeling at Centro Ecológico Akumal (map)
- Swim with sea turtles in Akumal Bay
- Have fun doing water sports activities at Xel-Há Park nearby
- Take a golf lesson at Riviera Maya Golf Club (map)
5. Puerto Aventuras – where to stay for a high-end resort-style vacation
Puerto Aventuras is located 40 km (25 miles) North of Tulum. This is a luxury gated community with access to a marina, golf courts, beaches, and high-end resorts, ideal for those seeking a private atmosphere.
People who stay here say the area is pretty “Americanized” in a way that it very much resembles the closed gated communities you’ll find in the US. The way it’s built makes Puerto Aventuras appealing to couples and families seeking a safe and community-oriented place to stay.
A top attraction in Puerto Aventuras is the Dolphin Discovery Riviera Maya (map), where you can swim and take pictures with the dolphins! The area also has stunning sunset viewpoints, with this one (map) being the most scenic one that I found!
And if you want to enjoy less crowded beaches with white sand and turquoise color water, this place is just for you! The famous beach nearby includes the gorgeous Xpu-Ha Beach (map), just a 7-minute ride from the City Center.
On your way to the beach, you’ll pass by one of the most beautiful cenotes in Riviera Maya, Cenote Azul (map)!
The best thing about staying in Puerto Aventuras is that even though it is a less touristy area, you will still find everything you need, such as beach bars, cafes, and nice restaurants.
Dreams Aventuras All Inclusive
This 4-star all-inclusive resort has it all: a wonderful white sand beachfront location, 2 swimming pools, 7 on-site restaurants, charming rooms with tons of light, and a dedicated desk for booking tours. A great place to stay both for families and couples!
Other options in Puerto Aventuras
A top-rated vacation rental with a pool, spacious rooms, and complimentary breakfast
This hotel has a swimming pool, clean rooms, and is just a few minute’s walking distance to the beach
This family-friendly Airbnb has a large swimming pool and beautifully decorated spacious rooms with a balcony
Things to do in Puerto Aventuras
- Visit the Dolphin Discovery Dreams Puerto Aventuras
- Discover natural caves at Kantun Chi (map)
- Go snorkeling at Cenote Chac Mool (map)
- Visit the Adoratorio ruinas Chac-hal-al (map)
- Have dinner in the iconic El Arbolito Mexican restaurant (map)
- Book a tour or charter a boat with Riviera Elite (map) by the marina
- Swim in the crystal clear water at Xpu-Ha Beach
- Play golf at Puerto Aventuras Golf Club (map)
6. Cancun – where to stay in Riviera Maya for the city vibe
Although technically not part of Riviera Maya (the Riviera starts just South of Cancun), many people consider Cancun part of the area since it’s really close. This is why I decided to have an honorary mention for it!
Many people ask the big question of whether to stay in Riviera Maya or Cancun, and the answer really depends on what you want from your vacation! We combined both during our honeymoon and it’s really easy to move around different cities when you have a car!
From stunning white sand beaches to impressive historical sites, Cancun has something for every kind of traveler and it’s no surprise why so many tourists stay here. You also have the international airport, the most vibrant nightlife, and an excellent base for excursions in the area.
Basically, if you’re into the bustling big-city seaside vacation, Cancun is the way to go! Riviera Maya is more laid-back, although Tulum is quickly getting closer and closer to Cancun in terms of beach parties and nightlife!
Similarly to Tulum, Cancun has two parts: Zona Hotelera, where you will find epic beaches and attractive hotels (there are tons of them; check out our guide for more info!), and Cancun City Center, where you will discover the local culture. Both in Zona Hotelera and in the city, you’ll have plenty of delicious Mexican restaurants to choose from!
Due to its popularity, Cancun also has the highest number of 5-star resorts in Quintana Roo! We have plenty of articles on the topic, including this one featuring the best areas and then another with the best luxury resorts!
This all-inclusive resort in Cancun offers beachfront accommodation with spacious rooms overlooking the beautiful coastline. Enjoy 2 swimming pools, water sports activities, an upscale spa, and a fully-equipped fitness center. The Gran Fiesta Americana all-inclusive package lets you have food in any of 6 restaurants with international cuisine and enjoy drinks from the pool and beach bars, all included in the price! We have personally stayed there and you can read about our experience here.
Other accommodation options in Cancun
Centrally located near the City Center, this hotel offers modern rooms, a swimming pool, and a fitness center
This hotel has a central location and offers a rooftop swimming pool, modern rooms, and free Wi-Fi
Centrally located Airbnb, which offers fully furnished rooms, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to the restaurants and seaside
Things to do in Cancun
- Have an unforgettable experience at Cancun Underwater Museum
- Visit the Interactive Aquarium Cancún
- Try local Mexican food at Mercado 28 (map)
- Spend time at the beautiful beaches of Playa Norte (map) and Playa Delfines (map)
- Visit the El Rey Archaeological Zone (map)
- Take a day trip to Isla Mujeres (map), a beautiful nearby island
- Join a snorkeling tour to discover the spectacular underwater of Cancun
- Have delicious Mexican food with live music at Xoximilco (map)
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$300 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | US$180 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$70 |
| 📍 Best city: | Tulum |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Casa Malca |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Mayan Monkey Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Xscape Tulum |
BONUS: Best all-inclusive hotels in Riviera Maya for all budgets
Riviera Maya is famous for its all-inclusive hotels. These hotels have a slightly higher price compared to bed and breakfast or half-board hotels, but you don’t have to worry about a hefty bill at the end of your stay, as all your meals and drinks are included in the accommodation price!
These incredible hotels often have multiple restaurants, pools, and other activities on offer, so you don’t even need to leave the resort! Actually, I was so in love with my all-inclusive that I couldn’t wait to go back to it after a day of exploring around!
Surely, most of the best all-inclusive resorts fall into the luxury category, so I had the hard task of picking the 3 absolute best ones! The mid-range and budget section was much easier to do, but you can also find multiple good options there!
Luxury (US$700 and up)
The House of AïA
This luxury all-inclusive hotel is located in Playa Del Carmen and has everything you need in one place. The House of AïA Hotel features large outdoor pools, an upscale spa, 5 restaurants, and beautiful suites with private terraces.
You can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear water of the private white sand beach, take yoga classes, fitness lessons, and tai chi sessions for free, and at night, enjoy beautiful cocktails in the hotel’s bar with entertainment.
All of the spacious rooms are family-friendly and have a terrace overlooking the beach. If you want to have a celebrity treatment, I highly recommend staying in the House of AiA Hotel!
Unico 2087
This fabulous all-inclusive resort is located in Akumal, it offers rooms with tropical views, and it’s one of Akumal’s most highly rated properties! Unico resort has an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and, of course, its own private beach area.
The parking and delicious meals (including a generous buffet breakfast) are included in the price! Everyone says the staff is super welcoming, and the room service is top-notch. I can tell a good resort that cares about its guests when I see one, and Unico is definitely it!
Viceroy Riviera Maya
There are so many good all-inclusive luxury resorts in Riviera Maya, but I’ll have to end the list with Viceroy! This one offers luxurious villas with a spa and a wellness center, a beautiful swimming pool, and 2 delicious on-site restaurants.
Two-level villas come with plunge pools (such a romantic setting!), and select ones have ocean views. Definitely one of the best resorts in Riviera Maya for those much-needed zen moments!
Mid-range (from US$350 – US$700)
The Royal Haciendas Resort
The Royal Haciendas Resort & Spa is located in the area of Playa del Carmen and offers 5-star all-inclusive accommodation. This luxury hotel features a large swimming pool, a gorgeous spa, a private beach, and free parking.
The spacious hotel rooms are family-friendly and have a private balcony with sea views. You can enjoy chilling on their beautiful private beach all day long, but if you feel like changing the scene, you can use their free shuttle to the famous Playa del Carmen.
With its pleasant service and great facilities, I have no doubt that you will have a great time here.
Budget (up to US$350)
Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen Adults
This 4-star resort has excellent value for money, beautiful rooms overlooking the ocean, an outdoor pool, and an in-house hot tub. You can also enjoy a spa, a fitness center, and multiple restaurants with, apparently, amazing food in each one!
Most guests loved the location near the center of Playa del Carmen, ideal if you want to explore the area or go bar hopping in the evening! This is an adult-only resort, so it’s great for couples and honeymooners!
FAQs about the best places to stay in the Riviera Maya
🗺️ What are the best cities to stay at in Riviera Maya?
Depends on your preferences, but Tulum and Cancun are great for parties (with Tulum being better for beaches). Puerto Aventuras and Puerto Morelos are better for secluded beaches and privacy, while Akumal is best for nature.
🌴 Is it better to stay in Cancun or Riviera Maya?
Cancun is located in the Northern part of Riviera Maya and is the best place to stay for a big-city resort experience. Riviera Maya is more laid-back and better for relaxation and being at one with nature.
🤔 Is it safe to vacation in Riviera Maya?
Thanks to being a very touristy and popular destination, Riviera Maya is one of the safest places in Mexico, both for couples and families traveling here. Of course, beware of pickpockets in crowded places like in any other touristy spot, and avoid secluded streets.
🏖️ What is the best beach in Riviera Maya?
Xpu Ha Beach and Akumal Beach are some of the best beaches in Riviera Maya.
🛎️ What are the best all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Maya?
The House of AïA and Hotel Xcaret are the best all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Maya that appeal to most travelers!
☀️ What is the best time of year to visit Riviera Maya?
The best time to visit Riviera Maya is between November – February when the weather is not too hot or humid and there are fewer rainy days.
✈️ Where do you fly to for Riviera Maya, Mexico?
Cancun International Airport is the most convenient airport to fly into Riviera Maya, Mexico. Tulum also recently got an international airport, but so far, the number of flights is limited.
🚖 How much is a taxi from Cancun airport to Riviera Maya?
The price will depend on your hotel’s location in Riviera Maya. To give you a better idea, from Cancun International Airport to Cancun City Center (the shortest trip) costs around US$30, and Tulum (the longest trip) costs around US$70.
🏊♀️ Are the beaches in Riviera Maya swimmable?
Yes, you’ll find swimmable beaches across Riviera Maya.
👪 What are the best hotels in Riviera Maya for families?
Barcelo Maya Tropical and Hotel Xcaret are the best hotels for families in Riviera Maya! The Xcaret one includes access to all the fun parks and activities in the area!
👩❤️👨 What are the best hotels in Riviera Maya for adults?
Hotel Xcaret Arte and Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen are the best hotels in Riviera Maya for adults! They offer the best value for money and amenities attractive to couples, like a hot tub, outdoor swimming pool, stunning sunset views, and delicious restaurants.
Final words on best places to stay in Riviera Maya
You’ve reached the end of my guide on where to stay in Riviera Maya! Hopefully, you now know where to stay or at least what each area has to offer! If you’re like me, you can rent a car and tour all the cities or just pick a nice all-inclusive and have a blast there!
If you can’t choose among the many options, I’ll narrow it down to 2 best hotels in Riviera Maya from my personal experience there:
- Grand Fiesta Americana – One of the best luxury places to stay in Cancun, I loved every second I spent here
- El Taj – I loved the view and the service here, definitely the best value for money
If you have any other suggestions or questions about Riviera Maya and Mexico, leave a comment below, I’ll be quick to answer!
Adios,
Yulia
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