Located in the heart of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun and Now Jade Riviera Cancun are just within a short drive of many exciting tours, activities and attractions. If you’re looking for a little adventure outside of our resorts, here are a few recommended day trips within the Riviera Cancun area.

Akumal: Akumal is a small beach-front community located just south of Cancun, known for its swimming, snorkeling and abundant marine life. Akumal means “Place of the Turtle” in the Mayan language, and if you snorkel here, you just might see one swimming alongside you. There are three beautiful bays to choose from, all of which are great for snorkeling, kayaking and swimming! During your adventures in Akumal, you’ll discover all the wonders that lay below the surface, such as tropical fish, colorful corals, and adorable sea turtles.

Come face to face with this guy in Akumal! Photo credit: amstardmc.com.

Playa del Carmen: Playa del Carmen is the region’s top destination for shopping, dining and nightlife. There’s plenty to keep you occupied here, and it serves as an ideal base for exploring the region as it lies right in the heart of Riviera Maya. Tourists will love the stylish beach clubs, shopping on the popular Fifth Avenue strip by day and enjoying the sounds of rock, salsa and reggae at the bars and nightclubs by night. Also, as one of the Riviera Maya’s top culinary destinations, your taste buds will love everything about Playa del Carmen!

There’s always something going on in Playa del Carmen! Photo credit: Xcaret.com.

XCaret Eco-Archaeological Park: Take the day to visit the renowned XCaret Eco-Archaeological Park for an adventure unlike anything you’ve experienced before. This ecological/archaeological theme park combines historical Mayan history and its tropical lagoon ecology into one day-long fun experience. You’ll learn about the area’s flora, fauna, and Mayan culture, as well as enjoy lots of water activities such as swimming in an underground river. Located just south of Cancun, this is a great place for an exciting family day trip!

Experience a true Mexican adventure at XCaret Eco-Archaeological Park. Photo credit: adminmx.olympus-tours.com.

XelHa Eco-Aquatic Park/Archaeological Site: Enjoy an aquatic adventure through lagoons and caves while taking in the ancient Mayan culture and viewing artifacts of the past. Other optional activities include cliff diving, rope bridge walking, bicycling, kayaking, swim with the dolphins, scuba, underwater breathing bubble and much more. As a popular tourist attraction, Xel-Ha Eco-Aquatic Park is the perfect place to take a family day trip!

Did you even know water could be that beautiful shade of teal? See it for yourself at Xel-Ha! Photo credit: Amstardmc.com

Tulum Mayan Ruins: Located in the one of the most important cities of its time, the ruins feature ancient artifacts, pyramids and beautiful ocean waters. This archaeological site is one of a kind, perched high atop a cliff, against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. Tulum’s greatest attraction is its location. In Maya, Tulum means “Wall”, and the city was christened thus because it is a walled city; one of the very few the ancients ever built. This is definitely a must visit during your stay at Riviera Cancun!

Get to know the history of the are you’re vacationing in at the striking ruins of Tulum. Photo credit: Bill-In-Tulsa.com.

Are you ready to explore the beautiful city of Riviera Cancun? Plan your stay today at Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun or Now Jade Riviera Cancun to experience all of the adventures that await you!