Playa del Carmen has transformed from a sleepy fishing village into one of the Riviera Maya’s most dynamic coastal destinations. Nestled along the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, it offers a unique blend of European flair, bohemian energy, and authentic Mexican charm.
While many travelers use it as a launchpad for Cancun or Tulum, Playa del Carmen deserves its own dedicated itinerary. The city is incredibly walkable, making it easy to explore boutique shops, open-air restaurants, and hidden courtyards without needing a car.
The heart of the action is La Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue, a pedestrian-only thoroughfare buzzing with life day and night. Yet, stepping just a few blocks away reveals quiet residential streets, local taco stands, and a more laid-back rhythm that invites you to slow down.
Whether you are traveling solo, on a romantic getaway, or with family, the region offers a diverse mix of adventure and relaxation. From underground rivers and ancient ruins to vibrant beach clubs and world-class diving, there is no shortage of ways to fill your days.
Because the weather is warm year-round, outdoor activities remain accessible in every season. However, planning a mix of cultural, aquatic, and culinary experiences ensures you see beyond the typical tourist trail.
To help you make the most of your visit, we have curated a list of standout attractions and experiences that capture the essence of this Caribbean gem.
From swimming in cenotes to strolling through eco-parks, these are the essential stops you should include on your Playa del Carmen itinerary.
Xcaret Park
| Address | Carretera Chetumal, Puerto Juarez km 282-Int B, Colonia Rancho Xcaret, Juárez, 77580 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 998 883 3143 |
Xcaret Eco Park in the heart of the Riviera Maya is one of the most spectacular and unique theme parks in the world – a breathtaking blend of nature, culture, adventure and entertainment that truly has something for everyone! 😍🌴
As seen in the photos, the highlights are simply extraordinary:
The crown jewel of Xcaret is without doubt the legendary Xcaret México Espectacular evening show! 🎭 Performed in a massive open-air amphitheatre seating thousands of guests, this jaw-dropping 2-hour spectacular celebrates 3,000 years of Mexican history and culture through stunning costumes, live music, dance and breathtaking theatrical effects – bathed in dramatic blue and golden lighting. An absolute must-see! 💙✨
The traditional Charro horsemen 🐴 put on a fantastic equestrian display showcasing the finest traditions of Mexican horsemanship – elegantly dressed in traditional attire riding magnificent white horses. Truly impressive!
The passionate wildlife staff present fascinating encounters with majestic native birds of prey including eagles 🦅 – a wonderful and educational experience for all ages!
And the natural lagoon area is simply stunning – crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and thatched palapas create an idyllic Caribbean paradise! 🏖️💙
More highlights not to miss:
🤿 Underground river swim through mysterious caves
🦋 Magical Butterfly Pavilion
🐠 Spectacular Coral Reef Aquarium
🏛️ Ancient Mayan ruins and Mayan Village
🐆 Wildlife sanctuary with jaguars, flamingos and native species
Practical tips:
🎟️ Book tickets in advance online – prices start from $120 USD for adults
🕐 Arrive early – the park is huge and needs a full day to explore!
🌅 Stay for the evening Espectacular show – it's worth every minute!
🚗 Just 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen
An absolutely unforgettable experience that captures the very best of Mexico's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage!
Highly recommended for families, couples and adventure seekers alike! 👍🏽😀🇲🇽🌴
My husband surprised me with this trip. It was amazing!! Something I had never witnessed before. The show, the adventure.. we enjoyed a lot. And the unlimited buffet at California Baja was lovely. We spent a beautiful moment at this beautiful and very large property.
My wife and I attended the Mexico Espectacular and it was great. We have eaten at many restaurants throughout México and this one is definitely a gem! The ingredients were all fresh and delicious! The food courses were and flavorful! We sat close to the stage and the dinner show view was top notch! The wait staff was very attentive and friendly. The food was innovative and delicious! It was a modern take of old traditional México favorites! When you do the dinner theater, make sure you pay attention to the show. You could easily get lost in the delicious food but you have to focus on the show as well. A lot happens in those two hours or so go by so fast. The final desert is awesome! The price may seem a little steep, but the seats, the comfort, the service and the great food is well worth it! Believe me! I was skeptical as first, but it was well worth it! Buen provecho!
Family of 3 at Xcaret Park: Why All-Inclusive is a Must + Tips for the Ultimate Night Show!
We visited Xcaret Park on the first day of our family vacation, and it was an absolute hit! We arrived around 10:30 AM and stayed until closing at 9:00 PM—time flew by so fast because we were having so much fun. The biggest takeaway? Our child loved it so much that I highly recommend getting the all-inclusive (Xcaret Plus) ticket.
Based on our experience, here is a breakdown of our itinerary, tips, and an honest review to help you plan your day!
🗺️ Recommended Route & Key Activities
Start with the Underground Rivers (River Flow): Upon entering, head toward the lockers located near the far-left edge of the map by the River Flow entrance. Store your valuables securely there and start your day with the underground river swim. It’s a unique, stunning 1km journey through caves and tunnels that takes about an hour. Our kid absolutely loved it and wasn't bored for a single second!
An Afternoon Packed with Sightseeing: Once you exit the river, the path naturally guides you toward the rest of the attractions. From seeing the dolphins to exploring the botanical gardens and wildlife habitats, there is an endless amount of things to see and do.
🍽️ Buffet Strategy: "Eat Around 2:00 PM"
The Xcaret Plus ticket includes one buffet meal. If you want to have enough fuel to play all the way until 9:00 PM, we highly recommend eating around 2:00 PM as a late lunch/early dinner.
While there are several dining options, we highly recommend Chibalí (or La Cocina / El Maguey depending on the area), which specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine. The local flavors were fantastic and deeply satisfying.
🌟 The Ultimate Highlight: The 7:00 PM Night Show (A Must-Watch!)
The absolute highlight of Xcaret is the spectacular night show starting at 7:00 PM**. It takes place in the large dome theater located at the bottom-left corner of the map.
At around 2 hours, the runtime is a bit long, but you will deeply regret it if you skip it! With a massive cast of 100 to 200 performers, the scale and production quality are incredible—easily on par with a Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas. It is worth every single minute.
💡 Room for Improvement
My only complaint is that the Xcaret Plus ticket limits the buffet to just a single entry. Considering how massive the park is and how much energy you burn walking around, it feels a bit stingy. After all, how much can people really eat? It would be a much better experience if they removed this restriction.
Final Verdict: An unforgettable, action-packed day where you won't feel bored for even a second. If you are traveling to Cancun with kids, this is an absolute must-visit!
Outstanding place to visit, we were lucky to be staying at the also fantastic hotel next door (occidental 😎)
The water tunnels are amazing - don’t worry about getting lockers, take the risk and put it all in the bags they provide at the start of the ride and pick it all up at the end, we done this on four occasions and no issues
Great area to snorkel - relax, take in the fantastic surroundings…
Animal attractions everywhere are amazing…..
Night time show is also a must do !
Breakfast buffet is a good start to the day at the main entrance.
Flying men are impressive…..
Butterfly’s and aviary enclosures are worth seeing….👍🏻👍🏻
We had a really great 4 / 5 days in this park!!
Xplor Park
| Address | Carretera Chetumal, Puerto Juarez Km 282, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 998 883 3143 |
We’ve been coming to Playa del Carmen for years and had always been a little skeptical about trying this place. This year, the twins turned 10, so we decided to finally give it a try—and WOW, we’re so glad we did!
The day honestly went by way too fast. Every activity was amazing, everything was extremely well organized, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We had both lunch and dinner there, and the food and drinks were fantastic.
Most importantly, the twins absolutely loved it—and so did we! Every activity was so much fun that we’re still talking about it and remembering all the highlights.
Part of us said, “Wow, we should have done this years ago!” But at the same time, we think 10 was actually the perfect age for the twins to experience everything and get the most out of the day.
It is definitely a little pricey, but honestly, it was worth every penny. We would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Playa del Carmen, especially families with kids.
Overall, as a family outing. This is decent, you’re given a lot of time to spend within the park, you can do everything multiple times and it also includes food.
There is a lot of walking between majority of rides. Advise, make sure you have some sort of footwear, can realistically be anything that would be suitable for long distance walking, maybe you can use them for the water activities too, so maybe something light weight, mesh or breathable?
The walking around took it out of my family, little unwilling to do things twice. The vehicles section had the biggest queue for us, think we waited around 35 minutes to get into a car. Definitely worth it though, just be careful not to have someone in front of you who is super slow, or as if does not know how to drive. They advise they check to make sure you have a valid driving license, they do not!
This was fun.
This place was amazing! LOTS OF WALKING, we walked about a total of 6 miles the entire day here. Very worth buying the tickets in advance and with the buffet. Zipline was great but make sure you can walk uphill and stairs, good comfortable water shoes are a MUST, no crocs or flip-flops. Buy the photo package, it’s 100% worth it, no need to use your phone for a camera but a GoPro would be good!
Fantastic park with hours of excitement and fun. We arrived early with pre-bought tickets and yes it was busy but we got checked relatively quick. We found the park well organized, well signed, and clean. Everything is centred around ‘the heart’ with all activities accessible from this location. First we did the amphibious vehicle a through the jungle ride including water. Then we did the 7- circuit zip-line that ended going into a lagoon. Then, we did the toboganxode, a 5 in 1 water slide. Best minute of your life. Next, we had buffet style lunch that had lots of variety and pretty tasty. We spent the afternoon walking and swimming through the cave system. What a blast. Leave your valuables in the locker, bring a water proof camera with a teacher or clip and closed toed water shoes. There are cameras all over the park that correspond to your helmet number. An extra fee will give access to all these photos. Yo are guaranteed to get wet and have a great time.
Such a fun place! Absolutely loved it and would totally go again. It’s quite expensive though and we were told that you could not zip line if you’re more than 136kgs, however, they put my partner and I on one zip line together where we weigh around 150 something kgs together. We were a bit scared of that.
The restaurant and beverage place is amazing!
I’d recommend doing the water slide first and then the zip line at the start of the day. They are the most popular and when we went, we did them first and there were almost no lines.
Río Secreto
| Address | Carretera Federal Libre Chetumal - Puerto Juárez Km 283.5, Ejido Sur, 77712, 77712 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Phone | 984 242 0337 |
Exploring an underground river was never on my bucket list but it should be on yours. This tour is safe, educational and otherworldly. Pepe our guide was professional, personable and had a great sense of humor. It was obvious he not only loved his job but loved sharing his knowledge to and educate visitors on this sacred, special and important ecosystem.
Not only is this the source of freshwater for the entire Yucatan peninsula it is an important part of the Mayan cosmology. It is under threat from human activity like the unfortunate Tren Maya, a failed project of AMLO the previous president of Mexico, that devastated large swaths of the pristine jungle and crushed many caves and cenotes.
I appreciate that the eco park only uses 10% of the entire rio Secreto. It didn’t feel touristy at all. Although there were many groups at the timeslot my group was only 12 people. Everyone was respectful and adhered to the rules of no touching, amount other things.
Book direct to find the best pricing.
A hidden gem. This experience is a life-changing event. The natural wonder that is this cave and underground river are demonstrated beautifully by the wonderful team of tour guides, staff, and photographers. Shout out to Pato our photographer for taking his time to curate perfect romantic pictures of me and my wife. He truly went above and beyond to make our trip memorable. The beauty of the cave leaves one speechless. I can not put together enough adjectives to describe how mesmerizing. 11/10 recommend.
An experience of a lifetime. Our guide Gaby was amazing. Informative, patient and reassuring. We biked, hiked, ziplined and rapelled before heading underground into a magical world. Word of caution, the bike ride is very bumpy with rocks and tree limbs. So very worth the price of admission.
A great experience through a cave! The tour guide was nice and informative (spoke English and Spanish). Some of our party are not the best swimmers but everyone was able to enjoy themselves. Time in the cave was about 90mins and total time at the facility, including preparing and eating afterwards, was about 3 hours. You are not allowed to bring cameras into the cave though they do have a photographer so you can purchase pictures afterward.
Great guides! I had a wonderful time and I highly recommend visiting the crystal cavern excursion! I loved swimming in the beautiful water and seeing the tiny shrimp and little bats.
3D Museum of Wonders
| Address | 10 Avenida Nte., Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | 984 181 7782 |
Yesi was amazing. She made sure that all of our photos came out with the perfect perspective that we needed to see the 3-D photos. We had an amazing time we didn’t feel rushed and we’re so glad that we decided to do this again. We came five years ago and we thought it was awesome then and this just brought back such a great memory. Thank you
We had a great experience & lots of fun there at the 3D Museum of Wonders because of Yesi. At first we didn’t really know how to pose right or take good pictures even if there are samples everywhere. It’s hard to appreciate the would be outcome just by looking at the huge paintings. So we were so lucky it wasn’t that busy & Yesi was there & able to help us. She’s very nice, helpful, patient & very passionate about her job there. She explained stuff, gave us good ideas on what to pose where to pose, she took fantastic photos & even a small interactive video for my family. The paintings would then look good on the pictures & there you would really appreciate the 3D effect. So I would say that without her there helping us, we wouldn’t really appreciate fully all these 3D effect paintings & wouldn’t hve that much fun. Thank you Yesi ❤️! This museum is a must-visit as it’s very unique & makes me wonder that who ever made this drawings is amazing with great imagination & creativity…just artistically Wow! Every penny is worth it because u bring your own camera & you get yourself unlimited pictures if you want (unlike some parks that would sell you very expensive photo packages, hehe).
Super fun time! Interactive! Jesse was such a delight guiding us and taking super fun photos!!! Would definitely recommend this museum, and it earns 5 Stars!😍
The museum was very interactive and our guide Jessi was very kind and helpful with tips on how to take the best picture shots. The museum is a great experience for the family and something different to do while you are in Cancun. I highly recommend 👌 ☺️ 👍
Great museum with around 36 large 3D paintings. Jessy (I hope I got her name right) was very helpful — she explained everything I needed to know and even offered to take photos. I shamelessly asked her to take many photos (around 30), and in almost all of them she suggested excellent poses and ideas. The entrance fee was 700 pesos, and during my visit on a Wednesday, I was lucky to have the museum almost entirely to myself. Highly recommended!
Parque Los Fundadores
| Address | Av Benito Juárez, Centro, 77713 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
This place is beautiful. The beaches are blue water soft white sand. It’s like heaven is pretty crowded though sometimes but it is beautiful the ferries leave from here to Cozumel Island a lot of tourist shopping places, but do negotiate the prices. They’re usually overpriced. There’s a mall where there’s some designer brands and get some good deals there. Try the local food here. They’re pretty good too popular tourist spot.
We not stay long base on the strong winds “ smells “ and rain .
There’ve many local people to ask / sell us ferry tickets and day trips , keep asking , but very friendly.
The beach was beautiful for a wedding. And thats just what we did.
Ferry trip to Cozumel from Playcar. Fun day checking out the harbor and shopping area
I recently visited Parque Los Fundadores in Playa del Carmen, and I was impressed by this beautiful park.
Beautiful Grounds: The park's lush gardens, walking paths, and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Not to mention the beautiful beach!! Volleyball nets are an another way to spend the day there. Nuestra Senora del Carmen Church is used for many wedding and church services. On Sundays you will see a line of people out of the church. It is a pretty iconic building in Playa with the clear blue ocean in the background
Iconic Arch: The park's iconic arch, a replica of the original entrance to Playa del Carmen. It’s named Portal Maya 2012 m, It celebrates the Mayan calendar. The sculpture was designed by artist Arturo Taravez who is from Guanajuato, Mexico. The sculpture is 16 meters high or about 52 feet high and its truly is a great spot for photos.
Cultural Events: The park often hosts cultural events, concerts, and festivals, which showcase the local community's vibrant spirit. We were able to watch the Danza de los Voladores and the humul dancers both shows were beautiful!
Amenities
Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the park.
Food and Drink: Various food and drink vendors are available, offering a range of local cuisine and refreshments. Plus you’re on Quinta Avenida and it’s full of restaurants and quick grab and go places.
Seating: Plenty of benches and seating areas are available, making it easy to take a break and enjoy the surroundings. But watch your step!
Tips and Recommendations:
Visit in the Evening: The park takes on a magical atmosphere in the evening, with beautiful lighting and live music. They have lots of entertainment in the evenings. It’s quite lively!!
Bring a Camera: The park's scenic views, iconic arch, and cultural events make it a photographer's paradise.
Check the Events Calendar: Plan your visit around cultural events, concerts, or festivals to experience the atmosphere!
Parque Los Fundador- is a must-visit destination in Playa del Carmen.
Xel-Há
| Address | Carretera Chetumal Puerto Juárez Km 240, locales 1 & 2, módulo B, 77780 Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 998 883 3143 |
We had an amazing day at Xel-Há in Quintana Roo, Mexico! We booked our tickets through the Xcaret website, and the entire experience was very convenient. The transportation was included, and their bus picked us up from our hotel and took us directly to the park, making the trip stress-free.
Xel-Há is a beautiful natural park with crystal-clear waters, amazing views, and plenty of activities for all ages. We enjoyed swimming, snorkeling, exploring the natural surroundings, and relaxing in the beautiful environment. The park was clean, well organized, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The food and drinks included with the package were also a nice bonus.
It was a perfect day trip from Cancún and a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya. We highly recommend visiting Xel-Há and booking through Xcaret for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
A beautiful park that is really cool if you have kids, although I’m not sure if the cost is really worth it for what you get.
The park is extremely well maintained - there are a ton of lounge chairs throughout, and it’s really easy to get a drink. Staff are everywhere to guide you where you want to go. We visited one of the buffet restaurants and the food was excellent for a buffet. Lots of choice and it all tasted great. Towels, lockers, life vests and snorkel gear are all included in your admission.
We did the lazy river, which was pretty cool, and also saw the manatees, but other than that we were not super interested in doing any of the activities like zip lining, cliff jumps, the slide (unfortunately I was not allowed because I’m pregnant), or the dolphin swim (so unethical - please don’t do it). There are lots of walking trails, a floating bridge and bicycle rentals, among other things - plus a nice kids area with a treetop walk that was super cool. Staff were very pleasant and it is apparent that the park is a well oiled machine - it gets five stars for being super well run. But, had we not received our tickets for free thanks to a timeshare presentation, I definitely would not have paid $183CAD (each) to visit here. Perhaps if you are more adventurous than us you will enjoy yourself here!
Definitely recommend going here, my Wife and I did the Manatee encounter and it was great! We had Yonathan as our instructor during this experience and he was great, very friendly, informative and you can tell he loves what he does. We also did power snorkeling and it was fun! Our instructors Alexis and Alex were great, friendly and showed us how to use the equipment in a quick manner to make sure we had enough time to enjoy the small “jet-ski” I guess you could call it.
Many activities to do! Very fun as Family, couples or friends. From the driver and instructor on the way there Jesus our driver, Jose Manuel our guide and to the way back, Victor as our driver and Manuel as our guide.
I also HIGHLY recommend you get the picture package, your going to end up wanting it, save yourself the trouble and just buy before you begin enjoying the park rather than on the way out.
10/10 Experience
My biggest tip: go right at opening so you can enjoy breakfast before the park gets busier. The park is laid out really conveniently, with plenty of access points throughout, and there are lots of life jackets and snorkel rentals available, so everything feels easy and organized.
The scenery is absolutely beautiful—lush jungle, clear water, and plenty of wildlife and natural beauty everywhere you look. There’s also a great variety of things to see and do, so you can easily spend the entire day here without feeling like you’ve run out of activities. Our favourite was floating down the river and taking a stop to cliff jump.
It’s a great combination of adventure, nature, swimming and relaxing. Definitely plan for a full day, and arrive early to make the most of it!
We were really impressed with the dolphin experience. The dolphins appeared very happy and active. We thought they looked very well kept after and lived a good life which is a 10/10. The only downside was the price for the photos. That's an added pretty penny, but definitely worth budgeting for.
There's so much to do here but we were short of time. Plan to spend a whole day here!
Dolphin Discovery Playa del Carmen
| Address | Carr. Cancún - Tulum KM 55.3, PCN Colonia Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| Phone | 800 727 5391 |
It was amazing!
Marco was an awesome marine expert, very knowledgeable and patient!
The dolphins we got to meet were Nautilus and Amadeus, both very excited, well taken care of.
They were so happy to see everyone.
Marco was helpful and encouraging; I highly recommend this experience!
Excellent experience. Guide was amazing and had lots of fun and learnt lots about dolphins. Professional pictures were very pricy, but you are not allowed your own camera. Had to buy the package anyways for memories sake.
By far one of the best memories of our family vacation!! This place was so intune with our special needs and so kind and eager to help in any way! Our son was approached with love and patience to help conquer his fears and he succeeded! Huge thanks to the staff that worked hard to capture the photos of his connection with the beautiful dolphins and huge thanks for the lady providing the instructions in the pool who kept her approach gentle and patient with our kid. In addition the place is super clean and you can buy tickets ahead to include time on one of the best cleanest and prettiest beaches in Mexico. However dining there( buffet only w drinks 11am- 5 pm) was ridiculously priced especially if your tour ends in the afternoon and the price was $80 pp!!
This was an incredible once in a lifetime experience. I wish they were not so expensive. The only way to get pictures is to buy their expensive package. Given how expensive it was, I was pleased they DO take a lot of really good shots to remember the experience.
Be mindful of the hidden fees, especially the dolphin photos—they can cost more than the activity itself. That said, the experience is memorable and well worth it with small children.
Cenote Azul
| Address | Riviera Maya, Carr. Cancún - Tulum Km 266, 77734 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 984 151 9925 |
Cenote Azul was one of our favorite stops during our trip to the Riviera Maya.
The water is incredibly clear and beautiful, making it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. It’s especially family-friendly, as many areas are only about 3–4 feet deep, allowing children to safely enjoy the water. We highly recommend wearing water shoes, as some of the rocks can be slippery.
What impressed us most was how well the site is managed. The parking area is organized, the ticket office is clean and efficient, and the pathways are easy to follow. The restrooms and changing facilities are also much cleaner and better maintained than many other natural cenotes we’ve visited.
One of the highlights was the abundance of small fish in the water. Sitting quietly by the edge and letting the fish gather around your feet felt like a natural fish spa experience. It’s also a wonderful place to observe nature and enjoy the peaceful jungle surroundings.
If you don’t bring your own equipment, life jackets and snorkeling gear are available for rent on-site. During our visit in May 2026, life jackets were 40 pesos and snorkeling masks were 70 pesos. Be aware that prices are significantly higher if you pay in U.S. dollars, so it’s a good idea to exchange some Mexican pesos in advance and bring cash.
If you’re in a hurry, you can enjoy the cenote in about 1–1.5 hours. However, if you have more time, this is the kind of place where you can easily spend half a day relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, and simply enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the jungle.
A well-maintained, family-friendly cenote that we would gladly visit again.
Beautiful cenote with so much wildlife! We visited on a Saturday afternoon, and it was fairly busy, but the cenote was big enough that it didn’t feel overcrowded. Entry is 180 pesos. There are showers, changing rooms and lockers, plus a place to get snacks and drinks. Snorkelling here is fun too, there’s lots of fish to see and the water is crystal clear.
Beautiful area with lots of different spots to explore. There is one main swimming location and then maybe ten or so smaller pools scattered throughout the forest. Most of the cenote is relatively shallow, though there are some sections that get up to about 15 feet deep. There is a small cliff with diving platform in the deeper area that was a lot of fun.
The only reason this review is 3 stars is that there were TONS of people when we visited. If you like privacy, this cenote is not for you. We still had a great time because of how nice the property was; but if I had to estimate, there were probably over 100 people at the time we visited (which was late in the afternoon).
Fantastic experience at Cenote Azul with family and friends. We walked there from Barcelo Maya Tropical with friends and family in a group of about 14. Everyone had a great time! There are a number of pool areas, including the main one which you can jump from an 11ft cliff. The water was crystal clear. There are iguanas all over the place and a covered sitting area near the canteen and gift shop inside. It was very affordable as well. $12 USD or 180 MXN. Great afternoon and would definitely recommend!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Cenote Azul – Absolutely Worth the Stop!
What an awesome experience! Cenote Azul is absolutely beautiful — crystal-clear water, plenty of places to swim and cool off, and that natural jungle setting makes it feel like you found a little hidden paradise. 🌴💦
We loved that it wasn’t some overly manufactured tourist attraction. You can just come in, relax, swim, explore, and enjoy one of the things that makes this part of Mexico so special.
The water is refreshing, the scenery is gorgeous, and there are spots for both relaxing and jumping in if you’re feeling adventurous. 😎
If you’re staying around Playa del Carmen, Cenote Azul is definitely worth the drive. Bring water shoes, get there early, and enjoy it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — we’d absolutely come back!
Cenote Chaak Tun
| Address | Av. Benito Juarez 7-km 4, Ejidal, 77723 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Phone | 984 218 0992 |
Beautiful area. Funny and knowledgeable guides. Refreshing water swims. This was an incredible time. Your skin will be so smooth after your time in the water. Highly recommended. Two different caves with one being mostly just swimming while the other feels like an adventure.
I visited this place on June 30th 2026, the entrance fee is $850 pesos = $50 USD and it includes life jacket, lockers, googles, a helmet and a flashlight. No phone or cameras or GoPros allowed. THIS IS A GUIDED TOUR PLACE!! Andy is a super cool guy and explained everything we needed to know. Tequila tasting was also very fun which is included in the package.
Visiting Cenote Chaak Tun feels less like a typical outing and more like stepping into something quietly extraordinary. The atmosphere is calm to the point of being almost meditative. It’s a combination of cool air, still water, and the subtle echos of water, wildlife, and other sounds.
The caverns are filled with intricate rock formations and light filters through some small openings to create a soft, almost surreal glow across the water. Swimming there is a different experience entirely. It is peaceful, grounding, and a little humbling. Highly recommend visiting and taking in both the beauty above & below the water.
Andres was a great guide. Very funny and lots of information about the cave and eco system. HE did not rush us during our tour and took is back after our tour to look at the monkeys playing in the tree tops. A great morning in Playa del carmen at Chaak Tun.
Monday, February 23rd, 3 PM. It was our first time and it was amazing!
The water excursion was very well organized, and with the life jackets you really feel safe. The cave tour was great as well. The explanations were very detailed, which really immerses you in the experience. It was very complete from start to finish.
A huge thank you to our guide, Noël, he was exceptional! Very kind, attentive, funny, and he speaks both English and Spanish. He explained so many things to us and truly made the experience even more special.
I won’t share all the details and will leave some surprises for others, but I highly recommend it. It’s absolutely worth it for a unique and enriching experience. Thanks again, Noël, we hope to run into you one day in Quebec 😊
Jay and Leslie
Ecopark Kantun Chi
| Address | Carretera Federal Cancún - Tulum, km 266.8 Puerto Aventuras, 77734 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 984 271 0681 |
Highlight of our vacation. The cave swimming was truly impressive. Well organized, nice place overall and very friendly. We did the complete package with food. I recommend it. You get the real cave, access to a "private" cenotes, and the food was excellent. The restaurant was really nice looking. Elevated experience.
Beautiful, fun, clean, well organized - gorgeous gorgeous and yummy upscale restaurant- loads of iguanas and birds. 4 cenotes that you can swim in without doing a tour and they are all pristine and fun!
We had a fabulous visit to Kantun Chi. We ended up purchasing the underground river tour, and I’m so glad we did. It was amazing and a one-of-a-kind experience. It was beautiful and our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. The walkways are well maintained and very pretty. The water is crystal clear and so clean. If you have a child you might consider bringing a wetsuit because the water is cold.
I honestly didn’t expect this park to be so great. Our family went today and I felt like we were the only ones there. Perfect mix of wild forest and super well maintained garden. Cenotes clear, beautiful and safe even for a 3yo, some of them with kayaks easily accessible to use. Life jackets were included in the price, we did just cenotes (750 pesos), without underground river. There is a very nice restaurant inside too - Lol-Ha with a playground for kids and a kids menu. I’m so glad we went even though we saw so many cenotes in the area already.
We had an amazing experience at Kantun Chi! We chose the 4 cenotes+grutas package, our cave guide Valentín was awesome and did a great job of explaining everything! Mexicans get a discount upon showing ID (we showed our passports).
Coco Bongo
| Address | Calle 12 Norte, esquina con Av. 10 Norte, Col. Centro, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM Wednesday: 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM Thursday: 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM Friday: 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 PM – 3:00 AM |
| Phone | 800 841 4636 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A world-class spectacle that is not to be missed!
An absolutely fantastic experience! Coco Bongo is way more than just a nightclub—it is a highly professional, top-tier production on par with the world’s best shows.
The choreography, sound system, visual effects, and overall energy are unmatched. Every single performer, acrobat, and dancer is incredibly talented; they didn’t just meet my high expectations, they completely exceeded them. The sheer momentum of the show keeps you captivated from start to finish.
Professionalism at its finest and excellent organization throughout the night. Definitely an experience that is worth every penny and a absolute must-visit. Highly recommended!
I’ve never seen a venue combine a show and a nightclub quite like this. From around 9 PM until 2 AM, there was nonstop entertainment—performances, music, and high-energy shows the entire time.
We got tickets that included entrance, the shows, a premium open bar, and a snack (choice of a mini hamburger, hot dog, fries, or nachos), which was a great value for the experience.
Our server, Miguel, was amazing—he truly became part of the party and made the night even more enjoyable. It was fantastic to see how much the staff seemed to enjoy themselves as well; they weren’t just working, they were part of the show.
Drinks kept coming all night, and anything we asked for was brought quickly, even with the large crowd. The crowd management was also very well handled, which made the whole experience feel smooth and organized despite how busy it was.
Came here with my husband and oh my God! This is our first time ever coming to a place like this! So much fun! Fun music! Comedy sketches with the mask and Beetlejuice! Such a great time for all the young folks and groups!
The service is so friendly and top notch!
⭐ 2/5 – Outstanding show ruined by terrible Gold Ticket experience
The entertainment at Cocobongo Playa del Carmen was excellent — the dancers and performances were truly second to none and the highlight of the night.
However, the Gold Ticket service was an absolute disappointment and not worth the high price at all. We were let in at the very last minute and forced to stand in a long queue. Once inside, we were shoved right at the back, on the top level, with an extremely poor view of the stage. We could barely see anything.
The so-called “included” food was pathetic — a dry hot dog in bread with cold chips — and we had to chase staff down to even get it while others were being served. To make matters worse, we were constantly pressured to buy more expensive drinks after already paying a premium for the ticket.
Warning: Seating appears to be based on how you look. If you’re not young, dressed up, or “camera-ready,” expect to be hidden at the back. Do yourself a favour and request a good seat in advance if you buy Gold — or just skip the upgrade entirely. The Gold package is misleading and poor value.
Fantastic show, but the Gold Ticket experience was frustrating and disappointing. Manage your expectations or avoid the upgrade.
Salvador is an amazing waiter! Very good looking, full of energy and is just all around vibes. He’s also very attentive. This place is a fun time. Definitely worth checking out.
Delphinus Xcaret
| Address | Carretera, Chetumal-Cancun Km 282, Solidaridad, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Phone | 984 871 4173 |
The Delphinus dolphin experience at Xcaret Park is one of the most magical and moving encounters with marine life you will ever have – a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with you forever! 😍🐬🇲🇽
🌊 The Habitat
As seen in the photos, the dolphins live in a stunning natural habitat carved into the Yucatán limestone – crystal-clear turquoise water surrounded by ancient rock walls, jungle canopy and natural cave overhangs! The pool reaches 4 metres deep (as shown on the depth sign: "Profundidad 4 Mt.") and is filled with fresh Caribbean seawater. 💎
This is no artificial concrete tank – it feels like swimming in a natural cenote alongside these incredible creatures! 🪨🌿
🐬 The Experience
The interaction is absolutely breathtaking! As captured in the photos, you get incredibly close to the dolphins – gentle, curious and intelligent beings who genuinely seem to enjoy the human contact!
The trainers (wearing their signature blue vests) are professional, warm and clearly have a deep bond with each animal. You can see the dolphins gliding gracefully towards their trainers with trust and affection. 💙
Activities during the swim include:
🤗 Petting, hugging and receiving kisses from the dolphins
👋 Learning hand signals to communicate with them
🦈 Watching them perform impressive acrobatics
🏊 The famous "Superman" push – dolphins propel you across the water with their tails!
🎵 Listening to their fascinating underwater sounds
📋 Programme Options
Delphinus offers several levels to suit every visitor:
🐬 Harmony – 20 minutes, 10 interactions, groups of 10 (from $87 USD)
🐬 Interax – 30 minutes, 14 interactions, groups of 6 (from $95 USD)
🐬 Primax – 45 minutes, 18 interactions, groups of just 4 (from $115 USD)
All programmes include a 15-minute training session with bilingual staff (Spanish and English) before entering the water.
🌱 Conservation
What truly sets Delphinus apart is their commitment to marine conservation:
🏆 Guinness World Record holder for their dolphin breeding programme!
🍼 A dedicated private maternity area for newborn calves
🔬 Collaboration with marine biologists and conservation organisations
📚 Educational briefings on dolphin behaviour and ocean protection
🌿 All interactions supervised in small groups for animal wellbeing
💡 Tips
🕐 Book well in advance – especially in high season!
📸 No cameras or phones allowed in the water (professional photos available for purchase)
☀️ No sunscreen allowed in the dolphin area – to protect their skin
🩱 Wear a swimsuit and be prepared for a mandatory life vest
👶 Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult in the water
🤰 Not recommended for pregnant women or those with heart conditions
🕐 Opening Hours
Monday – Sunday: 8:30 – 16:30
The moment a dolphin looks you in the eye and gently nuzzles your hand – you understand why people say this is a life-changing experience. Pure magic! ✨🐬
Highly recommended for families, couples and anyone wanting an ethical and unforgettable connection with one of nature's most extraordinary animals! 👍🏼😀🐬
Xcaret Dolphin Experience 🐬
We upgraded to the dolphin experience when we arrived at the entrance and I’m so glad we did it ended up being one of the most special parts of the day.
You have to shower beforehand and remove all jewellery and cameras/phones, but don’t worry they have a professional photographer taking photos throughout so you can still capture the memories. The sessions are quite short, so make sure you enjoy every single moment rather than worrying about pictures.
We booked the earliest slot and I’d really recommend doing it first thing in the day. The dolphins were active, the staff were calm and informative, and we were still full of energy (which definitely helps because the park itself is a long, busy day!).
It felt very well organised and the trainers clearly cared about both the dolphins and the visitors. A once-in-a-lifetime experience and something we’re really glad we didn’t talk ourselves out of doing!
Very disappointing experience.
We originally booked the 20-minute dolphin encounter but were convinced to upgrade to the 30-minute package because we were told the kids would get additional activities and actually swim with the dolphins. That was the main reason we paid extra.
We were also told we would be able to watch from about 10–12 meters away, but in reality we were much farther, making it difficult to see what was happening.
Out of our three children, only our oldest briefly went beyond the platform for less than a minute. Our other two never got the chance. We later learned they had been asked if they knew how to swim and answered no. A supervisor later suggested there may have been a language barrier. If children are wearing life jackets and the activity is advertised as part of the package, this should have been handled much better.
The entire experience felt more like a photo-selling operation than a genuine dolphin encounter. To make matters worse, the supervisor simply kept repeating company policies instead of offering a meaningful solution. The only options offered were to repeat the activity or receive a discount on an overpriced photo package.
I already know the response to this review will likely be another copy-and-paste explanation about policies and procedures. Unfortunately, policies don't change the fact that our children left disappointed and that we paid extra for an experience they never received.
Save your money and go somewhere that genuinely cares about families and customer satisfaction, not just selling upgrades and expensive photos
🐬 Dolphin Activity (Partial Review)
I would like to be transparent from the beginning and say that I did not personally take part in this activity, so please consider my review as partial and observational only. I can’t comment on the trainers’ performance or guest experience.
I did, however, take a few short videos from a distance — just to help future visitors get a sense of the setup and overall atmosphere in advance.
Personally, I felt uncomfortable seeing dolphins kept in captivity, so I chose not to participate. As for the prices, I prefer not to comment in detail — I was honestly speechless.
Fabulous place. It is impossible to do it all in 1 day. It was very expensive but definitely worth it. The sea turtle conservation program is wonderful.
Keep in mind it's a lot of walking, so plan your footwear accordingly. Also bring swimwear as there are several opportunities to get wet and cool off.
Tips for Visiting Playa del Carmen
A little local knowledge goes a long way in Playa del Carmen, especially if you want to avoid common tourist pitfalls and stretch your budget further. The city is generally safe and easy to navigate, but understanding local customs, transportation options, and timing can dramatically improve your experience. Keep these practical tips in mind before you head out.
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Carry pesos instead of US dollars. While many businesses accept dollars, you will almost always get a better exchange rate by using the local currency. ATMs are widely available, but opt for ones inside banks to avoid skimming devices and high fees.
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Negotiate taxi fares before getting in. Taxis in Playa del Carmen do not use meters. Ask for the price upfront and do not hesitate to negotiate, especially if you are not in a rush. For longer distances, consider using a ride-hailing app or renting a bike.
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Book popular attractions early in the morning. Sites like Xcaret, Xplor, and the Tulum ruins get crowded by mid-morning. Arriving at opening time not only means cooler temperatures but also shorter lines and better photo opportunities.
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Wear reef-safe sunscreen. Many cenotes and marine parks prohibit chemical sunscreens that harm the delicate ecosystem. Purchase biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen before your trip, as it can be expensive and hard to find locally.
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Stay hydrated and pace yourself. The Caribbean heat and humidity can be intense, even on cloudy days. Carry a reusable water bottle, take breaks in the shade, and remember that many attractions involve a lot of walking or swimming.
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Learn a few basic Spanish phrases. While English is widely spoken in tourist zones, locals appreciate any effort to speak Spanish. Simple words like “gracias,” “por favor,” and “buenos días” go a long way in creating positive interactions.
Playa del Carmen rewards travelers who balance structured sightseeing with spontaneous wandering. Some of the best memories come from turning down an unmarked side street, stopping at a family-owned taqueria, or lingering at a beach club long after the sun goes down.
Whether you spend your days diving into cenotes or simply soaking up the Caribbean sun, this stretch of the Riviera Maya has a way of staying with you long after you leave. Pack light, keep an open mind, and let the rhythm of the coast guide your journey.
