Pack your swimsuit and snorkeling gear and get ready for a Riviera Maya beach day. Stretching from Puerto Morelos for nearly 100 miles to Tulum and south to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, there are so many beaches to explore and crystal-clear lagoons to snorkel in. A stop in Playa del Carmen, beach capital of the Riviera Maya, is a must for shopping and dinner on the return journey. And if you want to add more adventures, explore the archaeological sites of Tulum or Coba or visit countless cenote parks in the jungle. Here are some of our favorite Riviera Maya beaches to get you started.

Puerto Morelos

Although it is a municipal district in its own right, the fishing village of Puerto Morelos is the gateway to the Riviera Maya. It has a chain of lovely family-friendly beaches to the north and south of town. The Mesoamerican Reef lies offshore and the coral reefs of Puerto Morelos are protected by a national park. In addition to beaches and reefs, Puerto Morelos attractions include jungle wonders ranging from cenotes and caves to the second largest botanical garden in Mexico.

Punta Maroma

One of the Mexican Caribbean’s most beautiful bays, Punta Maroma is located between Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen

You can spend the whole day at a cool Playa del Carmen beach club or visit the Riviera Maya’s lively capital in the afternoon after a day of exploring. Walk along Quinta Avenida and choose a place for dinner, drinks or coffee and gelato. Browse the boutiques, craft galleries and department stores or simply enjoy the ambiance, the flickering lights in the trees and the sounds of live music, everything from jazz and guitar to rock, reggae and mariachi serenades.

Xpu-Ha

Although several large resorts line the Xpu-Ha shoreline, the southern stretches of this beautiful bay preserve their charms of palm trees, palapas and rustic beach bars. Find your spot, snack on fresh seafood and enjoy the spectacular Caribbean views.

Puerto Aventuras

A resort community with lovely beaches, a relaxed vibe and some great restaurants for lunch. Head for the shoreline, the golf course or the marina for a fishing or scuba trip. Stroll along the waterfront, check out the boutiques and choose a spot for a drink or lunch.

Akumal

With its palm-lined beach, gentle waves, thatched roof palapa bars and restaurants you’d think that this picturesque bay had charms enough but there’s much more below the surface. The offshore reefs are popular for diving and snorkeling and you’ll soon be surrounded by tropical fish. The greatest thrill of all is to spot a green or loggerhead turtle. In the Maya language, Akumal means “place of the turtles.”

Follow the coast road north from Akumal past Half Moon Bay to the shores of Caleta Yalku, an inlet of crystal-clear turquoise waters fed by underground rivers that is popular for snorkeling.

Xcacel

A dirt track through the jungle and a palm grove leads to the pristine bay of Xcacel, designated a turtle sanctuary in 1998 by the Quintana Roo state government. One of the Riviera Maya’s best kept secrets, it is a beautiful spot for snorkeling, beach time and celebrating nature.

Tulum

Visit the ancient Maya city of Tulum and take in the breathtaking views of the Mexican Caribbean and white sand beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. There is actually a small bay at the foot of the cliff in the archaeological site where you can cool your feet in the shallows. Follow the coast road south for glimpses of more of Tulum’s beaches, you can even drive as far as Boca Paila in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.

Thomas More Travel is your guide for amazing day trips. Visit the website and start choosing activities for your next vacation.