Quintana Roo Discovered: A Luxe & Adventurous Guide to Mexico’s Caribbean Coast

Top experiences in Quintana Roo by location

Isla Mujeres

• Swim with whale sharks: If you're visiting between June and September, don’t miss the chance to snorkel alongside these gentle giants. It’s a rare and unforgettable experience.

• Visit Playa Norte: Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world, this beach has shallow, crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Arrive early to secure a great spot.

• Luxury catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres (from Cancun or Playa del Carmen): Spend the day sailing with stops for snorkeling and visiting Isla Mujeres’ charming downtown. Many tours include food, drinks (typically an open bar) and private beach club access.

• Explore the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA): This underwater museum features over 500 sculptures, forming an artificial reef. You can snorkel, scuba dive or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see this unique attraction.There are many local dive shops where you can get dive certified.

Cancun

• Coco Bongo Cancun: This world-famous nightlife experience blends live performances, acrobatics and a high-energy club atmosphere. It’s a must if you’re looking for an unforgettable night out.

• Day trip to Isla Mujeres: Just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres (see above!) makes for a perfect day trip with its beautiful beaches, laid-back vibe and authentic Mexican eateries.

• Nichupté Lagoon wildlife and sunset boat tour: This peaceful mangrove-lined lagoon is a great spot for kayaking, jet skiing or taking a sunset boat tour to spot crocodiles and tropical birds.

Playa del Carmen

• Cenote hopping: Playa del Carmen is a gateway to some of the Yucatán Peninsula’s most stunning cenotes, including Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote. Arrive early for the best experience and crystal-clear waters.

• Fifth Avenue shopping and dining: Playa’s Quinta Avenida is a lively pedestrian street lined with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants. It's perfect for an evening stroll and indulging in fresh seafood or mezcal cocktails.

• Coco Bongo Playa del Carmen: Just like its Cancun counterpart, this venue offers a mix of acrobatics, music and live entertainment for an exciting night out.

Tulum

• Mayan Ruins of Tulum: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, these ancient ruins are a must-see. Visit early to avoid crowds and then cool off at Playa Ruinas or Paraiso Beach.

• Beachfront dining at Chamico’s: A hidden gem with rustic charm, this beachside spot serves fresh ceviche and seafood tacos. Bring cash, as they don’t always accept cards.

• Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO-listed natural paradise with mangroves, wetlands and abundant wildlife. Take a guided boat tour to see dolphins, sea turtles and exotic birds.

Day trips

• Chichén Itzá & Cenote Ik Kil: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is a must-visit for history lovers. After exploring the ruins, cool off at Cenote Ik Kil, a breathtaking underground sinkhole with crystal-clear waters. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

• Cozumel snorkeling and diving: Just a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel boasts some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean. Palancar Reef and El Cielo are top spots with vibrant marine life and starfish-covered sandbanks.

• Akumal to swim with turtles: Known for its sea turtle population, Akumal is a fantastic spot for snorkeling with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. Visit early in the morning for the best chance of swimming with turtles before the crowds arrive.

• Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site south of Tulum, Sian Ka’an is a protected ecosystem with mangroves, lagoons and diverse wildlife. Take a boat tour to see dolphins, sea turtles and exotic birds in their natural environment.

• Holbox Island, a laid-back paradise: A car-free island known for its bohemian vibe, Holbox offers white sand beaches, clear waters and the famous bioluminescent plankton at night. Rent a bike or golf cart to explore, and don’t miss the whale shark tours (seasonal from June to September).

Breakfast and brunch

• Burrito Amor: A Tulum staple serving fresh, organic burritos with gluten-free options. Their coconut tortillas are a must-try.

• La Cueva del Chango: A lush, jungle-style restaurant in Playa del Carmen known for authentic Mexican breakfasts and fresh fruit juices.

• El Granero Grill: A cozy island breakfast spot offering delicious chilaquiles and fresh coffee in a relaxed setting.

Lunch and dinner

• Hartwood Tulum: A world-renowned open-air restaurant using fresh, local ingredients. Reservations are highly recommended.

• RosaNegra Cancun: An upscale Latin fusion restaurant with an amazing atmosphere, live music and a great selection of seafood and steaks.

• Los Aguachiles Playa del Carmen: A local favorite for fresh ceviches, seafood tacos and tostadas in a casual setting.

Drinks and nightlife

• Gitano Tulum: A chic mezcal bar in the jungle with craft cocktails, live music and a trendy atmosphere.

• La Vaquita Cancun: A lively, open-air bar known for oversized drinks and a fun party atmosphere.

• Xibalba Rooftop Isla Mujeres: A hidden gem for watching the sunset while sipping on margaritas and mezcal cocktails.

• Mamita’s Beach Club Playa del Carmen: A popular beachfront spot with great cocktails, lounge chairs and DJ sets right by the ocean.