For the last couple of years, sargassum has become a topic in Riviera Maya and other beaches around. You plan for your vacation, and then the sargassum in the Riviera Maya comes to ruin your plans. As a traveler, and even as a resident, you don’t want to think or hear about it.
But what can you do to have a great time if the sargassum is trying to get in your way? Well, let me tell you how to avoid it, but first, let’s find out what is this monster under the bed.
What is Sargassum?
This macroalga comes from two places: the Sargassum Sea, near Bermuda and recently from northern Ecuador. They accumulate off the coast of Brazil, and thanks to sea currents, they enter the Caribbean.Â
Many believe that climate change has a lot to do with the arrival of more sargassum to the beaches of the Mexican Caribbean. The high temperatures of the ocean and the wind can change the direction of the currents. These currents cause the amount of sargassum arriving at the shore to increase.Â
Sargassum Monitoring
We can do little to change what Mother Nature decides to do, and there is no easy way to predict when there will be sargassum and when the beaches will be clear. However, there’s much more to Riviera Maya than just its beaches.
Of course, if you’re staying in a hotel, you can expect them to make every effort to clean up the beaches as best they can. Many of the largest hotels have invested in tractors that remove sargassum from their shores. However, we should note that depending on ocean currents, it is not always an easy job.
There are Live webcams that give you a picture of what their beaches and some other places around Riviera Maya look like at the moment. You also can visit the site https://www.facebook.com/RedSargazo to view the updated map of sargassum monitoring.
Best Things to do if there is Sargassum in the Riviera Maya
Come rain or shine…or sargassum, you can be sure there is always something fun to do in and around Riviera Maya. From shopping and museums to jungle adventures, and from archeological sites to sublime beaches.
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Beaches and Lagoons
 When sargassum is terrible in the Riviera Maya, the west coast of the island of Cozumel is completely cleared, mainly because of its geography. The crossing by ferry takes about 45 minutes to get there, and the boats operate every day, every hour. You can take the first boat at 6:45 am and the last at 11:00 pm. For more information, you can visit Ultramar Ferry or Winjet Ferry schedules.
This is also the case of Isla Mujeres, where you will find some of the most beautiful beaches of Quintana Roo. Also, you may even go to the Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) of Bacalar with its Lagoon of Seven Colors.
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Parks
 There are large theme parks throughout the Riviera Maya where you can go and try several different adventurous activities at your leisure. You may encounter activities for every age range and taste.
- Â Cenotes
If you have not yet experienced Yucatán’s cenotes, it is about time to do it. With their underground caves full of stalactites and stalagmites and the clear water below. These sites take you to another dimension. There are hundreds of these natural wonders throughout the Riviera Maya, like Dos Ojos, Cenote Azul, Chaak Tun, Gran Cenote, and the list goes on.
- Archeological sitesÂ
Tulum, Chichen Itza, Coba are some of the favourite archeological sites to visit, from the breathtaking views of Tulum or from the top of Coba’s pyramid to the historical importance of Chichen Itza. You will be amazed!
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MuseumsÂ
If it is raining or too hot outside you can go to the museums. The 3D Museum of Wonders, which has the famous works of art by Kurt Wenner, will be a wonderful experience for kids and adults as well. There is also the Frida Khalo museum on 5th Avenue. The museum depicts the life of this extraordinary Mexican artist.
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GolfÂ
If you love to play golf, You will be fascinated by the spectacular courses around. You can expect to find golf courses with fantastic weather and excellent service. Overlooking the sea or water canals and surrounded by the jungle and local flora and fauna. And the only PGA course in Latin America. It will always be an amazing way to spend time.
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Fifth AvenueÂ
In this 5-mile promenade in the heart of Playa del Carmen, you will find everything you need. Strolling along this Avenue, you will encounter all kinds of exciting places. From souvenir stores to world-class restaurants, museums, international brand stores, nightlife and much more!
Don’t forget to try the traditional Mexican gastronomy and drinks and enjoy the warmth and friendly Mexican culture!
No matter your interests or preferences, sargassum is not a problem. You can be sure that the Riviera Maya has something for you!