Loading Page...

Does Riviera Maya have coral reefs?

The Riviera Maya is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, the longest underground river system, and freshwater cenotes.



People Also Ask

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS), also popularly known as the Great Mayan Reef or Great Maya Reef, is a marine region that stretches over 1,126 kilometres (700 mi) along the coasts of four countries – Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras – from Isla Contoy at the northern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula ...

MORE DETAILS

From this small paradise beach in the Riviera Maya Snorkeling experience, you can go snorkeling off shore and see some coral formations and fishes that are not actually part of the coral reef barrier.

MORE DETAILS

Without a life guard on every beach, it is important to be extra cautious with your kids and how far they choose to swim. Playa del Carmen, the north beach in Tulum, and Akumal all have lifeguards for the beaches but they are limited. Swim close to shore and it you are not a big swimmer, wear a life vest.

MORE DETAILS

While the entire area has great beaches, there is definitely a difference in the types of beaches contained in each area. The ocean water in Cancun tends to have more waves and surf rolling in, while the waters in the Riviera Maya are often calmer thanks to the natural barrier reef that protects this area.

MORE DETAILS

Right in front of Playa del Carmen, the coral reef (second largest in the world) is laying roughly 150 - 200 meters offshore at a depth of 10-15 meters.

MORE DETAILS

Escape the 'blobs:' These beaches in Cancun have little to no seaweed
  • Isla Contoy. “Spanning just five miles long, the island's pristine white sand, untouched by sargassum, stands as its undeniable centerpiece, drawing visitors in with its sheer beauty. ...
  • Playa Tortugas. ...
  • Isla Mujeres Playa Centro. ...
  • Isla Mujeres - Punta Sur.


MORE DETAILS

Its pristine, white beaches, beautiful cenotes, archaeological sites, divers cuisine, restaurants, hotels, condos and resorts. Here are 10 reasons to visit the Riviera Maya, in the south of Cancun, from Puerto Morelos to Punta Allen, Sian Ka'an in the south of Tulum.

MORE DETAILS

Its pristine, white beaches, beautiful cenotes, archaeological sites, divers cuisine, restaurants, hotels, condos and resorts. Here are 10 reasons to visit the Riviera Maya, in the south of Cancun, from Puerto Morelos to Punta Allen, Sian Ka'an in the south of Tulum.

MORE DETAILS

The best months for good weather in Riviera Maya are January, February, March, April, May, July, November and December. On average, the warmest months are April, May, June, July, August, September and October. The rainiest months are June, September and October.

MORE DETAILS

Maroma Beach So it deserves to be on our 21 best beaches in the Riviera Maya. Maroma beach is two miles long and has gentle water, powder-soft sand, and a tropical backdrop. Located on 500 acres of beach and rain forest, it is a fabulous setting for swimming in an exclusive getaway.

MORE DETAILS

Virtually all areas of the Riviera Maya are good for tourists to walk around, aside from two places (you can still go, just exercise increased caution). One is the Cancún downtown, and the other is anything further in-land from Avenida 45 Norte in Playa del Carmen (past the motorway bridge).

MORE DETAILS

Night Diving and snorkeling with the cenote crocodiles in Tulum is what you have come here for. This is a unique adventure that only Koox Diving can offer you. You get the chance to watch crocodiles in their natural habitat during the night.

MORE DETAILS

Playa del Carmen boasts an enviable collection of beaches, where you can enjoy typical Caribbean relaxation and swim in an unspoilt sea, perhaps coming across turtles while you do so.

MORE DETAILS

Tulum is a more rustic and laid-back destination that is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic travel experience. Riviera Maya, on the other hand, offers a wider range of amenities and activities, and is perfect for those looking for a more modern and luxurious travel experience.

MORE DETAILS

There are expensive options in both cities and budget options in both. However, we've noticed on the whole, Rivera Maya tends to be a bit cheaper than Cancun. It's a little off the beaten track and as a result, the resorts tend to be a little easier on the wallet. This is also true of the surrounding area.

MORE DETAILS

If you like excursions, I would say Riviera Maya as well. Good snorkeling, Xel-Ha, Tulum, and Chichen Itza come to mind. If you value a relaxing vacation on one of the best beaches in the world, it's Punta Cana hands down.

MORE DETAILS