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.
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More defined culture and better food in Mexico, though it has become quite 'touristy'. Punta Cana has much better beaches, a more laid back vibe and feels more tropical. I love the people in both places. These answers are really good, very good snapshots.
Abundant in sunny weather, sandy beaches and all-inclusive resorts, Punta Cana is a popular destination for East Coast travelers and other American travelers.
Beautiful BeachesLounging on warm sand surrounded by glimmering turquoise waters is definitely one of the main reasons to visit Punta Cana, and you will not be disappointed in this Caribbean paradise. Bavaro Beach and Macao Beach are some of the best beaches here, but any will be perfect.
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.
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.
Riviera Maya is a more relaxed and laid-back destination than Cancún, with fewer crowds and more nature. It is known for its gorgeous beaches, coral reefs, cenotes (natural swimming holes), and archaeological sites, such as the Mayan ruins of Tulum and Coba.
Notably, the cheapest time to come see Punta Cana is in the off-season months of April through November. Hurricane season, although not usually scary in this area, brings less demand for hotels, flights, and experiences in Punta Cana, meaning lower daily prices.
While it is a very safe location, as it is in other countries and cities, there are places where you shouldn't go by yourself. It is generally safe to leave the resort in Punta Cana, it is recommended that you don't do so by yourself and instead book safe Punta Cana Transportation.
There are high rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjacking and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Tulum), and Acapulco. Criminal groups and drug cartels are present in tourist areas.
Check out the hip epicenter of nightlifeCalle 12, Playa del Carmen is a street lined with bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and entertainment that is one of the major hubs of local Riviera Maya nightlife.
June 2023 Update: Of course it's quite a diverse region, so the safety situation can vary in different areas. However in general the Riviera Maya remains one of the safest areas you can visit in Mexico.
The best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is most settled. The hottest month of the year is May with an average daily maximum of 36 C and an average low of 23 C.
Another reason the best beaches in the Riviera Maya are so popular is the ocean temperature. The water temperature on this, the Caribbean side, is often 10F warmer than the Pacific side. Hence, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and water sports are fabulous all-year-round.
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.
Looking at crime rates, Punta Cana is safer than Cancun. There are no drug cartels in Punta Cana, which makes a difference as violent crime is uncommon. Of course this does not mean that Cancun is not worth visiting, it just means that you have to be a lot more careful.
Spend a relaxed evening at posh beach clubs, party at local nightclubs, or play table games at casinos. Punta Cana has tons of evening action for singles, couples, and large groups on their Caribbean getaway.