20 Cenotes near Puerto Aventura [The Ultimate Guide; Info, Prices, Maps]
What to do in the Riveria Maya?
Welcome to our guide to cool day trips and spots near Playa del Carmen that are easily accessible with your ride! Whether you're a local or a tourist, we've got you covered with some amazing destinations that are sure to make your day unforgettable. From hidden cenotes to charming colonial towns, let's explore the best of what this region has to offer.
For tours
Xpuha Beach
Xpu-Ha Beach is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. The beach boasts soft, powdery white sands that stretch along the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, creating an idyllic setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Beyond its beauty, Xpu-Ha is also known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs just off the shore, encountering a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and other marine life. Additionally, the beach offers various water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking, perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure. For those looking to unwind, Xpu-Ha Beach is dotted with shady palm trees, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and picnics. There are also beachfront restaurants and bars where visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean. Overall, Xpu-Ha Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination along the Riviera Maya coastline.
28 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
Free Public Access
Paamul Beach
Paamul Beach, a serene oasis along the Riviera Maya, is conveniently located just 20 minutes (approximately 16 kilometers) south of Playa del Carmen. Snorkeling enthusiasts can easily access the vibrant coral reefs just offshore, while the beach's free public access invites all to enjoy its beauty. After a day of exploration, visitors can unwind at one of the beach's charming restaurants and bars, indulging in delicious seafood dishes and refreshing beverages amidst stunning coastal views. Paamul Beach offers the perfect blend of natural wonder and convenience for a memorable seaside retreat.
18 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
Free Public Access
Cenote Jardín Del Edén
Cenote Jardín del Edén, just 18 minutes (approximately 21 kilometers) from Playa del Carmen, invites visitors to immerse themselves in its natural splendor. With its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush jungle foliage and limestone formations, it's a captivating destination for exploration and relaxation. Admission to this enchanting cenote typically costs around 100 pesos, offering an affordable opportunity to discover one of nature's hidden gems in the Yucatan Peninsula.
18 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
100-120 Peso Entrance Fee
Akumal + Turtle Swim
Akumal, a charming coastal town along the Riviera Maya, beckons visitors with its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and abundant marine life. Known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, particularly with sea turtles, Akumal offers a magical underwater world waiting to be explored. Beyond the shore, lush jungle foliage provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Located just 30 minutes (approximately 35 kilometers) south of Playa del Carmen, Akumal is easily accessible for a day trip or a longer stay, promising an unforgettable escape on Mexico's Caribbean coast.
29 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
Free Public Access
Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos, a quaint seaside village nestled between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, offers a tranquil escape on the Riviera Maya. With its laid-back atmosphere, colorful streets, and charming fishing pier, Puerto Morelos exudes authentic Mexican charm. Visitors can explore the town's vibrant coral reef, just offshore, perfect for snorkeling and diving adventures. Indulge in fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, stroll along the sandy shores, or simply unwind and take in the breathtaking Caribbean views. Puerto Morelos invites travelers to experience the beauty and tranquility of Mexico's Caribbean coast.
Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo 77580, Mexico
32 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
Free Public Access
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a gem of the Caribbean, celebrated for its serene ambiance and breathtaking scenery. The island features soft, powdery white sands that extend into the clear, turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, crafting a picturesque backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely beach walks. In addition to its stunning beauty, Isla Mujeres is famed for its exceptional snorkeling and diving spots. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish and diverse marine life. The island also offers various water sports, including paddleboarding and kayaking, perfect for adventure enthusiasts. For those seeking relaxation, Isla Mujeres is lined with shady palm trees, offering plenty of spots to unwind and enjoy a picnic. Beachfront restaurants and bars are abundant, where visitors can savor delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks while taking in the panoramic ocean views. Isla Mujeres is conveniently located about 110 kilometers (68 miles) from Playa del Carmen. The journey typically involves a drive to Cancun, followed by a short ferry ride to the island. The entire trip usually takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it an accessible and worthwhile day trip. Overall, Isla Mujeres provides a harmonious blend of natural beauty, peacefulness, and recreational activities, making it an essential destination for travelers exploring the Riviera Maya coastline.
2h 30 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
Free Public Access
Cozumel
Cozumel is a gem of the Caribbean, celebrated for its serene ambiance and breathtaking scenery. The island features soft, powdery white sands that extend into the clear, turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, crafting a picturesque backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely beach walks. In addition to its stunning beauty, Cozumel is famed for its exceptional snorkeling and diving spots. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish and diverse marine life. The island also offers various water sports, including paddleboarding and kayaking, perfect for adventure enthusiasts. For those seeking relaxation, Cozumel is lined with shady palm trees, offering plenty of spots to unwind and enjoy a picnic. Beachfront restaurants and bars are abundant, where visitors can savor delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks while taking in the panoramic ocean views. Cozumel is conveniently located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Playa del Carmen. The journey typically involves a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to the island, which takes around 45 minutes. The entire trip, including travel time to the ferry terminal, usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, making it an accessible and worthwhile day trip. Overall, Cozumel provides a harmonious blend of natural beauty, peacefulness, and recreational activities, making it an essential destination for travelers exploring the Riviera Maya coastline.
45 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
Ferry needed - 250 pesos
Kaan Luum Lagoon
Kaan Luum Lagoon is a hidden treasure of the Riviera Maya, celebrated for its serene ambiance and breathtaking scenery. The lagoon features a striking contrast between its shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters and the deep cenote at its center, creating a unique and picturesque setting for swimming, sunbathing, and nature walks. In addition to its stunning beauty, Kaan Luum Lagoon is famed for its tranquil waters, perfect for a relaxing swim or a leisurely float. The lagoon also offers exceptional opportunities for snorkeling, where visitors can explore the vibrant aquatic life and the intriguing depths of the cenote. For those seeking a bit of adventure, paddleboarding and kayaking are popular activities that allow for a closer connection with the lagoon's natural beauty. For those seeking relaxation, Kaan Luum Lagoon is surrounded by lush vegetation, offering plenty of shady spots to unwind and enjoy a picnic. The lagoon's peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal location for a day of rest and rejuvenation. Kaan Luum Lagoon is conveniently located about 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Playa del Carmen, making it easily accessible by car. The drive from Playa del Carmen to Kaan Luum Lagoon typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, providing a quick escape into nature. Overall, Kaan Luum Lagoon provides a harmonious blend of natural beauty, peacefulness, and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Riviera Maya coastline.
laguna kaan luum, 77760 Tulum, Q.R.
1 hr 9 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
Free Public Access
Tulum Ruins
Tulum Ruins is a captivating destination in the Riviera Maya, celebrated for its historical significance and stunning seaside views. The ancient Mayan ruins are perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, creating a dramatic and picturesque setting for exploration and photography. In addition to its rich history, Tulum Ruins offers visitors the chance to delve into the past and discover the well-preserved structures, including the iconic El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God. The site is also home to various wildlife, adding to the allure of this historical treasure. For those seeking adventure, Tulum Ruins provides excellent opportunities for exploring the surrounding area, including snorkeling and swimming in the nearby cenotes. The beach below the ruins offers a perfect spot to cool off and relax after a day of exploration. For those seeking relaxation, Tulum Ruins is surrounded by beautiful beaches and lush vegetation, offering plenty of spots to unwind and enjoy a picnic. The serene atmosphere and breathtaking views make it an ideal location for a day of rest and rejuvenation. Tulum Ruins is conveniently located about 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Playa del Carmen, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. The drive from Playa del Carmen to Tulum Ruins typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, providing a quick and enriching escape into history and nature. Overall, Tulum Ruins provides a harmonious blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Riviera Maya coastline.
Tulum, Zona Arqueológica, 77765
28 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
95 peso ($6USD)
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is a world-renowned archaeological site in the Yucatán Peninsula, celebrated for its historical significance and awe-inspiring architecture. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the ancient Mayan city boasts impressive structures, including the iconic El Castillo (the Temple of Kukulkan), the Great Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors, creating a mesmerizing setting for exploration and photography. In addition to its rich history, Chichen Itza offers visitors the chance to delve into the past and uncover the mysteries of Mayan civilization. The well-preserved ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into the advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture possessed by the Mayans. Guided tours are available to enhance the experience, providing detailed insights into the site's significance and history. For those seeking adventure, Chichen Itza provides excellent opportunities for exploring the surrounding area, including visiting nearby cenotes for a refreshing swim or snorkeling. The Sacred Cenote within the site offers a unique look into the rituals and traditions of the ancient Mayans. For those seeking relaxation, Chichen Itza is surrounded by lush vegetation and tranquil spots, perfect for unwinding and enjoying a picnic. The serene atmosphere and breathtaking views make it an ideal location for a day of cultural immersion and rejuvenation. Chichen Itza is located about 180 kilometers (112 miles) from Playa del Carmen, making it accessible by car or through organized tours. The drive from Playa del Carmen to Chichen Itza typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, offering a rewarding journey into the heart of Mayan history. Overall, Chichen Itza provides a harmonious blend of historical significance, architectural marvels, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Yucatán Peninsula.
Chichen Itza Archaeological site, 97751 Yucatan
1hr 48 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
Admission Fee - $47USD
Valladolid
Xpu-Ha Beach is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. The beach boasts soft, powdery white sands that stretch along the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, creating an idyllic setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Beyond its beauty, Xpu-Ha is also known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs just off the shore, encountering a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and other marine life. Additionally, the beach offers various water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking, perfect for those seeking a bit of adventure. For those looking to unwind, Xpu-Ha Beach is dotted with shady palm trees, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and picnics. There are also beachfront restaurants and bars where visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean. Overall, Xpu-Ha Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and recreational activities, making it a must-visit destination along the Riviera Maya coastline.
C. 41, Centro, 97780 Valladolid, Yuc.
2h 10 minutes from Playa Del Carmen
BDO from Playa 300 Pesos
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