Mexico’s Riviera Maya is not just a destination for sun-seeking adults. It’s a haven for families seeking unforgettable experiences in a spectacular setting. From ancient ruins and authentic cultural immersion to eco-parks and thrilling adventures, the destination offers endless kid-friendly activities. Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a family adventure in the Riviera Maya.
Explore the Mayan Ruins of Tulum
Start your Riviera Maya family adventure with a visit to the breathtaking Tulum ruins, with amazingly well-preserved structures that stretch back to the 13th century. It’s a scenic spot, to say the least. Perched on a stunning cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, these ancient Mayan ruins provide a captivating glimpse into Mexican history. Kids will be fascinated by the towering temples, secret passageways, and the opportunity to learn about Mayan civilization. After you’ve had your fill, the nearby Tulum Beach offers a great spot for swimming, sandcastles and kicking back.
- Tulum Travel Tip: The ruins are a popular tourist attraction; your best bet to avoid the crowds is to get there early in the morning. You’ll have much more room to explore!
Swim with Sea Turtles in Akumal
For an utterly unique underwater experience, head to Akumal. This coastal town is famous for its sea turtle population — in fact, “Akumal” is a Mayan word that translates to “place of the sea turtles.” Your children will be thrilled to snorkel alongside these gentle creatures in their natural habitat — and the bay is protected by a reef, so the waters are almost always gentle and shallow. Guides can ensure a safe and educational experience throughout your visit, providing interesting facts about the sea turtles and the importance of marine conservation.
- Akumal Travel Tip: The best time of year to see Akumal’s sea turtles is between May and November — but there are turtles in the bay year-round.
Get Cultured At Xcaret Park
Nature, culture and adventure — all in one place! During the course of a single day at Xcaret Park in Playa del Carmen, your kids can interact with animals at a zoo, swim in underground rivers and experience the adrenaline rush of zip-lining through a lush jungle. If that’s not enough, the park also hosts an array of cultural performances that showcase traditional music, dance and folklore, guaranteeing a memorable experience for the whole family.
- Xcaret Travel Tip: Bring your toddler! Kids under four years of age get free admission.
Go On A Riviera Maya Safari
You don’t have to go to Africa to go on a safari. In the Riviera Maya, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve offers a family eco-adventure like no other. At more than 1.3 million acres, it’s by far the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean and the largest coastal protected area in Mexico On a lagoon cruise of this UNESCO world heritage property, you’ll encounter everything from sunbathing crocodiles to dazzlingly colorful tropical birds to playful dolphins. And keep a close eye for the endangered West Indian manatee, a rare sighting in the Caribbean Sea.
- Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: With crystal clear waters and more than 500 species of fish, the reserve is one of the best places in the Riviera Maya for snorkeling.
Visit A 3-D Museum
You have to see this magical Playa del Carmen attraction to believe it. The interactive and immersive 3-D Museum of Wonders features an astonishing collection of three-dimensional optical illusions that will have the entire family rubbing their eyes in awe. This isn’t your typical art gallery — thanks to clever conceptual visuals, you’ll be able to “jump” right into the artwork. Make sure to take lots of family photos!
- 3-D Museum of Wonders Tip: The museum is located just moments away from Playa del Carmen’s famed 5th Avenue (La Quinta Avenida), which is filled with great restaurants, shopping and entertainment.
Family Friendly Riviera Maya Resorts
- The Grand Mayan at Vidanta Riviera Maya: Just a short drive from Playa del Carmen, this luxury resort delivers everything a family needs for an unforgettable trip. The highlight might just be the incredible Jungala Aqua Experience, featuring wave pools, water slides, lazy rivers and much more.
- El Cid Hotel Marina Riviera Maya: While the kids are enjoying supervised activities and water slides, parents can take advantage of this Riviera Maya hotel’s recently updated El Cocay Spa, offering indulgent Mayan-inspired massages and body wraps.
Start planning your family’s Riviera Maya vacation with RedWeek now.