5-Day Itinerary Exploring the Maya Riviera – Mexico

Welcome to Maya Riviera, Mexico! After arriving and checking into your hotel, take some time to settle in and enjoy the amenities. Whether it's a luxurious spa treatment, a refreshing dip in the pool or lounging on the beach, make the most of your first day in paradise.

For dinner, venture out to some of the amazing restaurants this area has to offer.

If you're staying closer to Tulum, check out ARCA from Mexican American chef Jose Luis Hinostroza, whose past work includes gigs at Alinea and Noma. Everything on the menu is incredible, so you can't go wrong here.

If you're in the Cancun area, visit Puerto Madero for a delicious and memorable dinner. Inspired by the Argentinian steakhouses of Buenos Aires, this restaurant offers a wide array of steak and seafood menu items as well as wines from the Mendoza region of Argentina. The portions are generous, so pace yourself!

Today is all about exploring the natural wonders of the Maya Riviera region. Start your day early and head to the Ruta de Cenotes, a scenic route lined with cenotes, or natural sinkholes. You can rent a car or hire a driver to take you from place to place, but I definitely recommend having a car with you all day as opposed to Ubering — that way, you can run on your own schedule and easily jump from one cenote to the next.

Before diving into your first cenote, stop in Tulum for a delicious breakfast at one of their many popular restaurants, like Burrito Amor — try any of the egg burritos.

From there, head to Gran Cenote, a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling with crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations. Next, make your way to Dos Ojos Cenote, known for its two connected sinkholes that offer a unique underwater cave-diving experience. For a different cenote experience, visit Kaan Luum Lagoon, a massive open-air cenote surrounded by mangroves, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting for swimming and relaxing.

After exploring the cenotes, continue your adventure by visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is one of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites, offering breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history. Alternatively, head to Coba to explore the ancient ruins by bike or on foot, and climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid for panoramic views of the jungle canopy.

On your third day, I recommend diving into the vibrant underwater world of the Great Maya Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. There's no shortage of reefs in the area, but if you need help deciding, head to Akumal, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, including sea turtles. Snorkel alongside these gentle creatures as they glide gracefully through the water, surrounded by colorful fish and coral formations.

After snorkeling, relax on the pristine beaches of Akumal and soak up the sun before heading to Tulum for a dinner you won't forget.

Hartwood is a culinary gem in Tulum that consistently tops the list of best restaurants in the area and has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts from around the world. The chef commits to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the restaurant's open-air kitchen adds to the experience, allowing diners to watch as their meals are prepared over an open flame. The menu at Hartwood changes daily, but some favorites include the wood-fired octopus and the grilled fish tacos!

Embark on a thrilling adventure at Xplor Park in Maya Riviera, Mexico, where adrenaline-pumping activities await. Zip-line through the jungle canopy and soar over lush landscapes, feel a rush of excitement on the 5-in-1 waterslide, or explore the underground caves and rivers on a rafting or swimming expedition. For those seeking an extra challenge, tackle the off-road amphibious vehicle course, navigating through rugged terrain and natural obstacles for an exhilarating few hours.

After a day of activities, you can unwind at Xplor Park's relaxing hammock splash and float along the crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun.

For those who prefer to keep the party going, head north to Rosa Negra for dinner in Cancun. Set on the lagoon with incredible sunset views, this over-the-top restaurant offers smoked trout from Tasmania, Tomahawk steaks from Australia and Japanese Wagyu, all while DJs, drummers and fire dancers perform to guests' delight.

On your final day, take some time to relax and rejuvenate. Start your day with a yoga session — many hotels in the area host them on the beach surrounded by the sounds of the ocean and the warmth of the sun. Afterward, indulge in a Temazcal ceremony, a traditional Mayan sweat lodge experience. Led by a local shaman, the Temazcal is believed to cleanse the mind, body and spirit, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

If you're flying out of Cancun, grab lunch at Taqueria Los Chachalacos for a delicious but casual bite before you hit the airport.

If you're departing from Tulum, enjoy Mediterranean food at Loco Tulum and be on your merry way.

Wherever you're headed, I recommend taking 10 minutes on your last day to reflect on your time in Maya Riviera, Mexico, and how the region makes you feel more connected to nature, wildlife, history and yourself. With a perfect blend of adventure, culture and relaxation, there's no shortage of unforgettable experiences to be had in this beautiful corner of Mexico.