In last week’s blog post, we listed 5 of our top favorite things to do in Playa del Carmen for fun, adventure and culture. The list included playing on scenic championship golf courses, swimming in awe-inspiring cenotes, zip lining and cliff jumping in adventure parks. Stand up paddle boarding in the quaint town of Tulum, and spending a day at sea, diving, fishing and sailing along the glistening, turquoise waters also carved a spot on our Part 1 of our Mayan Riviera activity list.
This week we will continue on and complete our top 10 list!
6) Spending the night on one of the paradisiacal islands near Playa del Carmen.
There are three popular islands which beckon visitors with their small town charm and shallow shorelines on which you can wade hundreds of feet out through warm, translucent waters.
Cozumel has a world-renowned reputation for its deep sea diving. Just off the alabaster beaches of Cozumel is the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, where diving enthusiasts have the opportunity to explore the plentitude of vibrant marine life in exceptionally clear waters.
On the center of the island is also a Mayan archeological site, where Mayan women would come to pay homage to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and healing. A direct ferry service shuttles travelers to and from Playa del Carmen every hour and the ride lasts 45 minutes.
The island of Holbox can be accessed only by boat or ferry and is approximately a 1.25 hour drive from Playa plus 20 minute ferry ride. Visitors can view pink flamingos in their natural mangrove habitat, swim with whale sharks from July to September and enjoy the island’s famous lobster pizzas.
Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation around the picturesque island of Isla Mujeres. Visitors can take a 1 hour ferry from Cancun or there are several excursions which offer various stops including snorkeling in the MUSA underwater museum, and a stopover at nearby Isla Contoy, as well as exhilarating sailing and catamaran tours.
7) Swim with sea turtles in Akumal
Akumal, meaning “Place of the Turtle” in Maya, is a pristine bay and turtle sanctuary. Located only 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, this pueblita, or “little town” is speckled with divine eateries such as Turtle Bay Cafe, ice cream parlors, artisan stores, and seaside restaurants overlooking the breathtaking harbor.
There is a snorkel, dive and fishing shop in the bay area where you can rent gear for $15 USD per hour. However, if you have your own equipment, you can swim approximately a hundred feet from the shore to witness and glide underwater with giant sea turtles. It is truly a magical and memorable experience.
8) Walk on sacred sites where an ancient Mayan civilization once lived
There are several archeological sites along the Yucatán Peninsula but the three largest and most visited are Tulum, Chichén Itzá and Cobá. If you decide to rent a car or take the ADO bus and explore on your own, it is advised that you hire a guide who will explain the symbolism, architectural styles, and history of the Mayan people. The tours are much more enjoyable and interesting when you can gain insight into the highly sophisticated,mathematical and astrological skills this fascinating civilization possessed from a knowledgeable guide.
A complete tour of one of the well-preserved, centuries old remnants lasts 2 to 3 hours and it is recommended that you go as early as possible to avoid the heat of the midday and crowds from the tour buses. As part of your itinerary, be sure to include a cenote on your day trip. There are thousands speckled throughout the peninsula and several of these awe-inspiring swimming holes are on-route to the ruin sites.
9) The Ixchel Jungle Spa
Established in 1994, the Jungle Spa originated from the concept of helping local Mayan woman in the community provide financially for their families. These expert healers were massaged out of the womb and were taught the art of therapeutic massage by their grandparents who came in after strenuous days out in the fields.
This non-traditional spa is a non-profit organization and receives rave reviews for the natural healing techniques and successful outcomes in treating aches and pains in every region of the body. This jungle spa is a unique and unforgetable opportunity to witness sustained Mayan customs passed down from generations.
10) The Little Mexican Cooking School
Located 20 minutes north of Playa del Carmen in the town of Puerto Morelos, The Little Mexican Cooking School provides foodies and chefs in the making, with both an animated and educational encounter as part of your Mayan Riviera getaway.
The full day begins with a light breakfast then delves into a highly pleasurable gastronomic experience. Learn the history of the authentic flavors and preparation methods behind savory Mexican dishes. Sample popular beverages and traditional recipes sure to become favorites in your cooking repertoire. After a delicious mid-afternoon meal, take a stroll through the quaint neighborhood, peruse the artisan shops or sip cool Mexican-Caribbean cocktails seaside.
Although this concludes our top suggestions for fun, adventure and culture in Playa del Carmen, the beauty and magic of the region is truly limitless. If you are planning an upcoming trip the magical Mayan Riviera, Bric Vacation Rentals reservation specialists and professional ambassador team can assist you with your travel plans! We invite you to visit our website for in-depth information on accommodations, attractions and the best restaurants in the area.
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