Tag Archives: Top Beaches in the Riviera Maya

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Reef Beach

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Beach #14 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: The Reef Beach

Many of the amazing resorts along the Riviera Maya have beautiful and breathtaking beaches. Unfortunately, although the beaches are public, accesses tend to be private, so it is hard to reach them unless you are a guest of the hotel. However, many of these big resorts want to give everyone – not just their guests – the beach resort experience they can offer.

That is why you will find day passes and night passes at most big resorts down the coast of the beautiful Mexican Caribbean. And The Reef Playacar is no exception. The Playacar neighborhood is located in the south end of Playa del Carmen and hosts some of the most beautiful beaches you can find in the Riviera Maya.

Because Playacar is a private community, you need to address that you are visiting The Reef Resort and that you are going for a Day Pass so they let you through. The Day Pass has a cost of $53 USD per person and gives you full access to the hotel’s facilities – including, but not limited to – the pool and beach club. Meals and drinks are included throughout the day (9am to 6pm). If you are looking to enjoy an experience worth hundreds of dollars for a much lower price, then The Reef Playacar Day Pass is the resort to go to.

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The Reef Beach: Getting There

As mentioned above, the Reef Beach is located within the private community of Playacar, which is located in the south end of Playa del Carmen. There are two entrances to Playacar; one on the Federal Highway 309, the other one is on 10th Avenue.

Driving: To reach the 10th Avenue entrance from Cancun, you need to take the Federal Highway 309 towards Playa del Carmen. Upon arriving in Playa del Carmen, you will pass the overpass bridge until reaching a stoplight where you will see Centro Maya to the right, and Sam’s Club to the left. At the stoplight make a U-turn and drive to the outside lanes. Take a right at the Holiday Inn hotel (Diagonal Aeropuerto Street) and drive down that road all the way until the end, where you will reach 10th Avenue South. Take a right; that is the entrance to Playacar. Once you have gone through security, drive straight for about 4 minutes and find The Reef Resort on your left.

If you want to reach the entrance on Federal Highway, drive past the stoplight and take the next U-turn. Incorporate into the outside lanes. You will find the entrance right before the Hospiten hospital.

Taking a Taxi: A taxi from Cancun will charge you around $800 mxn to drive you to Playacar, but there are other options to reaching the Reef Resort. If you are staying in another hotel in Playa del Carmen, they will charge you between $30 and $80 mxn – depending where you are at.

Public transportation:

Colectivos: If you are coming from the north, you need to take a colectivo heading to Tulum and have it drop you off at Centro Maya. Carefully cross the federal highway to the entrance of Playacar. If you are coming from the south, a colectivo towards Playa del Carmen will drop you right near Hospiten. There is no public transport within Playacar, so if you are taking a colectivo you will need to either walk, or take a taxi to reach your destination.

Buses:  There are no buses that drive you to Playacar, so this time, taking a bus will not be an option. The easiest way to reach is by taxi.

The Reef Beach: Things To Do

As with every big resort, The Reef Playacar, has an array of family-fun activities to offer. With your day pass you are allowed to make use of all the hotel’s facilities and activities (some with extra cost).

  • Swim in their amazing pools and enjoy the meals and drinks included the wonderful service.
  • Lay on the beach beds with a beer in hand enjoying the wonderful blue ocean.
  • Rent one of the activities offered such as kayaking, snorkeling, and more.
  • Walk around the hotel looking for their many activities: restaurants, aquatic sports, entertainment, pools, relaxing, and so on.
  • Enjoy a wonderful meal on the beach, or by the pool, already included in your day pass.
  • Once it is 6pm and you are ready to leave the hotel, you can enjoy Playacar’s shopping malls with souvenirs and cafés.

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The Reef Beach: Recommendations

You will be in one of the high-end tourist destinations of Playa del Carmen. Things within Playacar (specially the resorts) are expensive. There isn’t a lack of services; you will find everything you need both inside and outside the resort. However, here are some recommendations:

  • Everywhere you go, always take money. Whether you are inside the hotel wanting to rent out an extra activity, or walking around Playacar wanting to take home a souvenir, you will need the extra cash.
  • Bring sunscreen! If you forget to bring sunscreen you will find yourself needing to purchase one within the hotel. That will not be cheap.
  • Although there are many activities to do within the hotel, bring a book, iPod, kindle, or whatnot. Laying by the pool for a couple of hours may result boring if you don’t have anything to entertain you.
  • Enjoy the food and drinks included in your day pass. You are paying $53 USD per person, make the most of it.

The most important thing, like we always say, is having fun and enjoying your day at the beach. The Riviera Maya is bathed with many beautiful white sand beaches, each special on its own – so go ahead and make the most of your day at the Reef Beach! And if you love it so much, you can always come back and make a reservation for a romantic dinner on the beach!

Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out our options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate is the number one website in real estate in the Riviera Maya and throughout Mexico. We help foreigners find the home of their dreams in the Mexican Caribbean. If you are looking to invest in a vacation, retirement, or full-time property, check out the options we have for you by browsing through our website or contacting one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. They will gladly walk you through the purchasing process and help you become a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Sirenis Beach

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Beach #16 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Sirenis Beach

People often forget that the Riviera Maya stretches beyond Cancun and Playa del Carmen. To the south, you can find many beautiful beaches, often barely populated, that are the definition of a gem. White sand, turquoise waters, and the privacy that everyone loves.

That is why the beautiful beach of Sirenis (a residential complex, and 5-star resort in Akumal) takes up the 16th place on our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya.

Although every beach in Mexican territory (and the world) is public, many lack public accesses. This is the case of Sirenis, and the beach is mainly used by its residents and hotel guests. However, the hotel Grand Sirenis Resort Riviera Maya offers “outsiders” day passes so that they too can enjoy the experience of the resort and the gorgeous beach that stretches right in front.

If you want to visit the Grand Sirenis beach, you need to access it through the hotel, hence needing to buy the Day Pass. Up until April of 2015, you can buy the day pass for $700 MXN per person, however, this price will go up after this promotion is over. Children enjoy 50% off in the day pass.

The day pass will give you the full experience of being a guest at the hotel. You will be able to access all the facilities within, do one free hour of snorkel, or rent any of the other activities such as kayaking; you will be able to enjoy their pools, their slow river, and more. You can buy the Day Pass directly at reception.

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Sirenis Beach: Getting There

Getting to Sirenis is rather easy. It is located just north of Akumal (Sirenis is actually considered part of Akumal) and south of the Palladium Hotel.

Driving: Get onto the Federal Highway 309 and drive south towards Akumal. Before reaching Akumal you will find the Palladium Hotel on your left; it’s time to slow down as a few kilometers ahead you will find Sirenis to your left. It’s easy to spot! If you reach Akumal, you’ve gone too far. Make a U-turn and drive into the main entrance of Sirenis. At the main gate, just say you are going to the Grand Sirenis hotel and they will let you through.

Taking a Taxi: A taxi may be expensive if you are coming from Playa del Carmen or Cancun. However, if you are willing to pay $300+ MXN, then all you have to do is ask them to take you to Sirenis Beach, and they gladly will. Although most taxi drivers know their way around every beach, make sure you also know how he needs to get there (which is the same as driving), in case the taxi driver is unfamiliar with the beach.

Public transportation:

Colectivos: Colectivos, or collective vans, are easily available on the highway. If you are coming from Cancun, first you will need to take one to Playa del Carmen, which will drop you off at the van central. You will then need to take one heading to Tulum and ask to be dropped off at Sirenis. Because you will be on the wrong side of the highway, make sure you either walk to the nearest bridge, or cross very carefully. A van from Playa del Carmen to Sirenis should not charge you more than $35 MXN or around $3 USD, per person.

Buses: ADO buses will not take you to Sirenis as they have set, default routes, and mainly go between big cities. However, there is a service called the Mayab bus (which you can get at the ADO terminals), which make stops as they drive down the highway. You would need to ask the driver to drop you off at Akumal (its nearest stop), and you can then cross the highway and grab a colectivo north and get off at Sirenis (the next stop), or take a taxi from Akumal.

Sirenis Beach: Things to Do

Once you have decided to purchase the Day Pass at Grand Sirenis, there is an array of activities you can enjoy there:

  • You can eat at one of their many restaurants (make sure you ask at Reception if meal are included in the Day Pass)
  • You can enjoy the palapas and beach beds
  • You get one hour of free snorkeling
  • You can head to the dive shop and go on a diving adventure
  • You can rent one of the following activities: kayak, water polo, bingo, beach volley, bike tour, archery, and more.
  • You can relax at one of their three amazing pools
  • After tiring yourself all day with so many activities, you can also just relax and float around the lazy river.

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Sirenis Beach: Recommendations

Although you will be in a resort, there are always some previous recommendations that you should take into consideration:

  • Bring money! You need to pay for the Day Pass, and not all activities are included – you don’t miss out on anything because you forgot your wallet at home.
  • Bring sunscreen! You will be doing activities and relaxing by the beach and the pools all day – nobody wants nasty sunburns.
  • Ask everything you need to know BEFORE buying your Day Pass! Meals may or not may be included depending on the day pass you purchase– same goes for drinks – so make sure you know what all is included before you pay $700 (or more) MXN.
  • Get there early! Call a day prior to your visit to ask at what time the Day Pass become effective, and until what time you can stay at the hotel. In case you don’t want to leave, you can always just end up booking a night there and waking up to the beautiful Sirenis Beach once more.
  • Last, but not least, have fun! Day Passes give you the unique experience of enjoying a resort vacation in a day – and they are a lot of fun! So leave all the stress back home and enjoy the day with your family.

Sounds like the perfect day at Sirenis Beach, right? We’re already looking forward to our day off, for our day pass!

You can continue learning about the best beaches in this beautiful region by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are looking for the perfect beach, make sure you check out our options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate is the number one expert in real estate in Mexico! We help foreigners become homeowners in paradise! If you plan on moving, retiring, or buying a vacation home in Mexico, please feel free to contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. We will gladly take you through the purchasing process of becoming a homeowner in paradise!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Playa Paraiso

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Beach #17 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Playa Paraíso

We don’t get tired of mentioning it: the Riviera Maya is blessed with hundreds of beautiful beaches, all of white sand and clear blue waters filled with the most diverse and beautiful underwater life one could ever imagine. Amongst those hundreds of beaches you can find throughout this gorgeous paradise is Playa Paraiso.

Not to be confused with Tulum’s Playa Paraíso (which, to be fair, is also part of the Riviera Maya), this beach is located a short five minute drive south of Puerto Morelos, or a ten minute drive north of Playa del Carmen. Although the beach has a public access – like every beach in the area – it is only surrounded by hotels such as Iberostar Paraiso and the Grand Mayan Palace.

Like most secluded and not widely known beaches, Playa Paraiso keeps true to its name: paradise. Being “far” from the popular beaches of Playa del Carmen, it has little to offer in the sense of entertainment, food or drinks; but the view, the tranquility and the beauty make up for everything else it lacks.

If you want to get away from the crowds (although the hotel guests will be sharing the beach with you), from the hustle and bustle of the busy cities and from the “buy this, eat here, drink with us” atmosphere, then you’ve picked the right beach!

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Playa Paraíso: Getting There

Getting to Playa Paraíso is really easy, as it is located between the two main cities of Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen.

Driving: If you are driving from Cancun, you need to take the highway 309 south towards Playa del Carmen. Approximately 33 km south of Cancun, right after passing over the Puerto Morelos overpass bridge, you will find the Iberostar and Grand Mayan Palace hotels. The public access is located right by the hotels. If you are coming from Playa del Carmen, you need to drive north towards Puerto Morelos until you reach the mentioned hotels.

Taking a Taxi: Taxis may be somewhat expensive depending on where you are coming from, but they are an easy way to make sure you get to the right place. Just call a cab from wherever you are and ask them to drive you to the public access of Playa Paraíso (make sure you specify which one so you don’t end up in Tulum!).

Public transportation:

Colectivos: Collective vans are easily accessible on the highway, or at their starting points in Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen. If you are in Cancun, you need to hop on a van heading towards Playa del Carmen and ask to get off at Playa Paraíso. If you are coming from Playa, then hop on a van that is headed towards Cancun and do the same thing. Vans charge 35 pesos or less, depending on where you hop on.

Buses: Public buses that stop throughout the highway are accessible from the ADO terminals. They are called Mayabs and drive from Cancun towards south Quintana Roo, and back, making predetermined stops, sort of like colectivos. You may ask at the ADO bus terminal if they stop anywhere near Playa Paraíso or the above mentioned hotels.

Playa Paraíso: Things To Do

Please remember that this beach is secluded and is accessed mainly by the resorts’ guests. This means that there are no restaurants, bars, beach clubs or anything that you may go to. The hotels do not allow “outsiders” to use their facilities, but you may rent the watersport equipment.

  • You can enjoy a nice, long walk down the beach.
  • Water activities are popular on all beaches; you will probably be able to rent kayaks, or go on a fishing, snorkeling or diving tour.
  • You may go snorkeling or swimming in the ocean on your own, as well.

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Playa Paraíso: Recommendations

As mentioned before, there is nothing else on this beach other than the hotel facilities, so here are some recommendations to take into consideration:

  • Because you will be unable to rent out palapas, umbrellas or beach beds, we recommend you bring a chair and your own umbrellas for personal use.
  • Bring your own towels because – unless you bring your own chairs – you will be sitting or lying down on the sand all day.
  • Make a quick stop at a convenience store beforehand and stock up on water, sodas, snacks, or anything else you like to enjoy when spending the day at the beach.
  • Remember that there is little to do, so bring a book, iPad, mp3 player, or the likes, to keep yourself entertained while sunbathing.
  • Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen.

So there you go, it sounds like a perfect day in paradise, doesn’t it?

Learn about all the different beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are looking for the perfect beach, make sure you check out our options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate specializes in helping foreigners become homeowners in the Riviera Maya! If you plan on vacationing often or retiring in the Riviera Maya, contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. We will be happy to walk you through the process of becoming a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Constituyentes

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Beach #18 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Constituyentes

The Riviera Maya is filled with hundreds and hundreds of miles of beautiful, white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxing sites. One of the most popular beaches in Playa del Carmen is the Constituyentes Beach, which is right in the middle of downtown, surrounded by hotels, condos, beach clubs and a lot of things to do.

Decorated with a lengthy pier – which was originally built for the ferry crossing to Cozumel – this beach is both lively and beautiful. Because it is right in the heart of Playa del Carmen, there is everything to do there, as well as you can find anything you need within walking distance.

If you are looking for a great beach to spend the day at without having to move far from the heart of the Riviera Maya, then Constituyentes Beach is a great option. Be reminded that because of its location and its popularity, you will seldom find the beach empty at any time of day. If you’re ready to be surrounded by hundreds of tourists, then give this beautiful place a go!

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Constituyentes Beach: Getting There

If you want to visit this beach, there are several ways of reaching it, depending on where you are coming from.

Driving: If you are coming from Cancun, you need to take the highway 309 south towards Playa del Carmen. Once you arrive to Playa del Carmen, take the exit that signals Constituyentes Avenue and exit to the left. Drive straight down until you reach the beach. If you are already staying in Playa del Carmen, then all you need to do is drive to Constituyentes Avenue and straight down to the beach.

Taking a Van/Taxi: The easiest way to move around within downtown is to walk, or to take a cab. Vans are not a great option as they drive around town, making several stops, when you would only need to go a short drive away from where you are staying.

Public transportation:

Colectivos: Unless you are coming from out of Playa del Carmen, a colectivo is not the best choice; we would recommend a cab or walking. However, if you are coming in from Cancun or Tulum, you can grab a colectivo on the highway heading towards Playa del Carmen, which drops you off eight blocks away from Constituyentes Avenue. You then have the option to take a cab, walk, or take a bus.

Buses: Public buses are available throughout Playa del Carmen, so depending where you are coming from within Playa, you would need to check which bus number drops you off a block away from the beach. There are many options.

Constituyentes Beach: Things to Do

As mentioned above, this beach is right in the heart of Playa del Carmen, offering many things to do:

  • You can enjoy one of the nearby beach clubs, order food and drinks and relax all day.
  • Water activities are popular on the beach; you will be able to rent out kayaks, or rent tours for snorkeling and diving.
  • Walk two blocks to reach 5th Avenue and enjoy everything it has to offer – from coffee shops, to restaurants, to bars and shops and gallerias, everything is within reach.

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Constituyentes Beach: Recommendations

  • While the Riviera Maya is popular for its reef and snorkeling spots, be reminded that the beaches within Playa del Carmen offer little to no marine life. You can take boat tours to nearby spots from these beaches, but you will not be able to see anything on your own just swimming around.
  • If you are not looking to pay for a beach club, make sure you bring your umbrellas to create shade from the sun; there is little to no shadows on this beach.
  • Do not forget to bring money, as you are in downtown and two blocks from 5th Avenue; you are sure to spend some money either eating, or shopping.

Learn about the different beaches in the Riviera Maya, and count down with us to the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya every Friday. If you are looking for the perfect beach, follow our blog and learn about other popular, local hot spots. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate specializes in helping foreigners become homeowners in the Riviera Maya! If you plan on vacationing often or retiring in the Riviera Maya, contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. We will be happy to walk with you through the process of becoming a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Caleta Yal-Ku

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Beach #19 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Caleta Yal-Ku
The coast of the Riviera Maya is full of amazing landscapes like the Caleta Yal-Ku Cove, a Cenote that pumps fresh water in to the cove and pushes it towards the sea. There is fresh and saltwater in this cove, forming a unique and delicate ecosystem that needs to be preserved.

This eco-system can be also found in the popular park of Xel-Ha, but at Xel-Ha you have to spend much more money and you will be surrounded by thousands of visitors. On the other hand Caleta Yal-Ku, has preserved the rustic beauty of the Caribbean, with fewer visitors and at a much lower cost.

Caleta Yal-ku is a beautiful place to spend the day, amongst the many attractions that Akumal offers to its visitors this is one of the highlights.

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Caleta Yal-Ku: Getting there

If you are interested in visiting Caleta Yal-Ku in Akumal, it is important to plan ahead. If you want to take advantage of everything in the area, it is best to arrive early and take time to visit different areas.

Once you get to the entrance of Akumal, the distance to get to the Yal-Ku cove is about 3 km or a little bit less than 2 miles.

Driving: If you are coming from Cancun or Playa del Carmen you need to get on the federal highway 307 southbound towards Tulum (drive 65 miles from Cancun or 22 miles from Playa del Carmen). There are plenty of signs and once you get into Akumal, go through the arches and follow the road until it ends, there will be a few signs marking the way. The Cove has a parking lot, if it is crowded you can also look for a parking spot on the road.

Taking a Van/Taxi: This might be convenient if you are not planning to do any other activities or just want to spend the day at Akumal. Once in Akumal, you can walk, rent a bike for the day or stop a taxi. Distances are short!

Public Transportation:

COLECTIVOS: If you are on a budget, Colectivos are a good way to get to Akumal. Colectivos are white mini vans that drive between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, all along the 307 federal highway. To stop them wave your hand. Tell the driver where you want to go and ask for the price to your destination. The fare from Playa to Akumal costs approximately $2 US.

BUSES: ADO offer direct buses between different destinations in the Riviera Maya. Bus stations are located in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum. They also offer an airport shuttle service from the Cancun International Airport to Playa del Carmen or Tulum. If you choose to use the ADO, you can take a cab or collectivo to get to Akumal from Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

Caleta Yal-Ku: Things to do

  • The favorite thing to do in the area is snorkeling, feel free to bring your own gear or rent it once you get there!
  • Observe the limestone formations under water and the many different kinds of fish and turtles swimming in the area. The water is incredible clear!
  • Enjoy a nice meal or a cold beverage at the on-site restaurant!
  • Challenge yourself and swim all the way to the sea!
  • Observe the mangrove and the many species that live in the area.
  • Experience the halocline, a cloud like effect that can be observed when the fresh and salt water mix.

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Caleta Yal-Ku: Recommendations

  • Yal-ku cove is open daily from 8am to 5:30pm and the admission fee is 150 pesos around 10 USD, there is also a local residents discount if you show your identification. The cove has showers, lockers and bathrooms, you can also rent snorkel equipment or a palapas.
  • The Yal-Ku cove has rocky areas and some roots, it is a good idea to bring your water shoes to keep your feet safe from cuts and scrapes!
  • Parking areas is limited, if you cannot find a parking space it is possible to park in the parking lot at the entrance of the town and take a cab or rent a bike to get to Caleta Yal-Ku.
  • Do not forget to bring your biodegradable suntan lotion and insect repellent, there are restrictions on the use of chemicals in the cove.

Learn about the different beaches throughout the Riviera Maya, and count down with us to the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya every Friday. If you are looking for the perfect beach, follow our blog and learn about other popular, local hot spots. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate is a local American-Owned company that specializes in helping foreigners become homeowners in Mexico. If you are looking for a vacation home, investment property or to retire in paradise, please feel free to contact one of the Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. We will be glad to guide you through the purchasing process and help you find your dream home in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Halfmoon Bay

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Beach #20 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Halfmoon Bay

If you are in the Riviera Maya, you cannot miss a day at the Halfmoon Bay, in Akumal. Experience this small town, walk around and enjoy the beauty of the beach, the Yal Ku lagoon and the cenotes in the area.

Akumal is located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, south of Cancun. An ideal destination for a relaxing day trip, partaking in water sports such as snorkeling, sport fishing or just sunbathing and enjoying a cold beverage.

Akumal in the Mayan language means “Land of turtles” and it is still one of the favorite places for these marine animals to lay their eggs. Three species can be found around Akumal regularly: the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), the green turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata). Year-round you can find juvenile green turtles feeding in the bays and nesting along the reef.

Akumal with its protected shallow bay, secluded beaches and a nearby reefs it is one of the most peaceful places in the Riviera Maya. Everything to enjoy a wonderful day in paradise!

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Halfmoon Bay: Getting there

If you are interested in visiting Akumal and everything it has to offer, there is several ways to get there:

Driving a Rental Car: If you are coming from Cancun or Playa del Carmen you need to get on the federal highway 307 southbound towards Tulum (65 miles from Cancun/ 22 from Playa del Carmen). There are plenty of signs and once you get into Akumal, try to park your car at the entrance parking lot, as parking spaces are limited inside of the community.

Taking a Van/Taxi: This might be convenient if you are not planning to do other activities and just want to spend the day at Akumal. Ask around at the airport or taxi station, shop around on the internet and try to find the best fare.

Public Transportation:

Colectivos: If you are on a budget, Colectivos are a good way to get to Akumal. They are white mini vans (10-14 passengers) that drive between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, all along the 307 federal highway. To stop them wave your hand. Once the van stops get in and tell the driver where you want to go and ask for the price to your destination. The fare from Playa to Akumal costs approximately $2 US.

Buses: ADO is an excellent option and they offer direct buses between different destinations in the Riviera Maya. Bus stations are located in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum and they also offer an airport shuttle service from Cancun International Airport to Playa del Carmen or Tulum. If you choose to use the ADO, you can take a cab or collectivo to get to Akumal from Playa or Tulum.

HalfMoon Bay: Things to do

There is so many things to do around Akumal! Here is some of our favorites:

  • Have a delicious scone and fresh coffee at the Turtle Bay Bakery, they have delicious breakfasts, coffees and pastries.
  • Walk on the bay or rent a bike and explore the town.
  • Go snorkeling and look around for turtles!
  • Visit the Yalku Lagoon: Laguna Yal-ku is surrounded amongst trees and has a nice restaurant, and perfect views. It is a perfect spot for snorkeling, as there is no waves and there is plenty of fish to see. Admission was $10 for adults and $6 for kids and equipment rentals is additional, there are lockers, an outdoor shower and changing rooms.
  • Snorkel or kayak around the bay, enjoy the white sandy beaches or just sun bathe and relax.
  • Stop at La Buena Vida for a nice lunch or dinner and enjoy the views! Lay around in their hammocks and lounge chairs, or take a dip at their pool, or if you are feeling daring you can climb the tree house where you can have drinks!

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Halfmoon Bay: Recommendations

  • The beach at Half Moon Bay is mainly sandy, but there are rocky areas both inside and outside the water. Bring your water shoes to keep your feet safe!
  • Snorkeling is a great activity at Halfmoon Bay, make sure to buy or rent your equipment so that you are ready for the adventure.
  • Parking areas are limited, if possible park in the parking lot at the entrance of the town
  • Do not forget to bring your biodegradable suntan lotion and insect repellent, the turtles and fish might be affected by harsh toxics.

Learn about the different beaches throughout the Riviera Maya, and count down with us to the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya every Friday.

If you are looking for the perfect beach, follow our blog and learn about other popular, local hot spots. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Owning a place in Mexico is very easy, if you have the right team by your side! We have the credentials and expertise, let us guide you through the process from daydreaming to holding the keys to your dreams home in Mexico!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Boca Paila Beach

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Beach #23 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Boca Paila

If you love destinations that feels miles away from the super touristy areas of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, please do not leave the Riviera Maya without visiting Boca Paila.

Boca Paila is located near the south tip of Tulum’s hotel zone, within the ecological reserve of Sian Ka’an. Because it is a protected area, the visitor can enjoy unspoiled nature and absolute tranquility.

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Boca Paila Beach: Getting there

If you are coming from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, take Highway 307 southwards towards Tulum. When you reach Tulum itself, you get to the first big intersection with traffic lights and the San Francisco de Asis Super Market, here you will left turn towards the Tulum beach hotel zone (the street sign says Boca Paila).

At the end of this road, follow the road to your right. This is the Tulum coastal road and you will pass lots of small hotels and cabañas until you reach a Mayan Arch, the entrance to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Reserve guards will be there to greet you and to charge you a small entrance fee.

Boca Paila is located within the Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka’an, and it is basically a strip of land between the Caribbean Sea and Laguna Muyil.

Boca Paila Beach: Things to do

Nature lovers will enjoy the tropical vegetation and beautiful sandy beaches, ideal to relax, meditate, and enjoy. It is also a great place for bird watchers, who can view rare specimens. Boca Paila is also an ideal place for a long walk and collecting shells, remains of corals and rocks; if you feel like a break from all that walking you can take a dip in the Caribbean Sea!

This area forms a huge natural marina in which you can go boating, fishing or partake in other water sports. The natural reserve also has a varied marine life such as bonefish, halibut, sea bass and snapper just to name a few, which makes it an ideal spot for those who love fishing.

Another option is to visit the more than 70 km of canals that connect Sian Ka’an with Mayan archaeological sites such as Chun Yanxche. There are many companies that offer tours through the canals, but we particularly love the community tours project, run by local families.

Boca Paila Beach: Recommendations

  • This is a natural reserve, there are not gas stations or convenience stores. If you are planning to visit Boca Paila make sure you have everything you need for the day such as food, beverages, suntan lotion, mosquito repellent, a small first aid kit, etc.
  • The road to Boca Paila is a Sacbe road, a traditional Mayan white road. Depending on the season there might be potholes and puddles, make sure your car is adequate to make this trip and that you have enough gas to make the trip.
  • The cellphone signal in this area is not very good, if you need to make an emergency call try getting close to the shore.

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Learn about the different beaches in the Riviera Maya, and count down with us to the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya every Friday.

Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything regarding the Riviera Maya, we are here to help you find your dream home in paradise.

If you are considering purchasing a home in the Riviera Maya or anywhere throughout Mexico, please feel free to browse our website and contact any of our Top Buyer’s Representatives. We have the credentials and expertise to take you from daydreaming to real life!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Luna Maya Beach

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Beach #24 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Luna Maya Luna Maya Beach has a special charm if you are visiting Tulum, once that you get into the windy road into the hotel area; the first thing you will see will be hotels and restaurants. The jungle covers the roadside and there is not a lot to see, and then after a small curve on the road you will see it: Luna Maya Beach welcoming you into Tulum! photo Luna Maya 1_zps7o6dpoxb.jpg Luna Maya is a small bay, located beside Zamas Hotel & Restaurant, actually you will notice that Zamas Restaurant and palapa with their cool palapa and colorful tables and chairs; inviting the tourist to take a pause and enjoy a cold drink and the magnificent view. Luna Maya Beach: Getting there If you are coming from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, take Highway 307 southwards towards Tulum. When you reach Tulum itself, you get to the first big intersection with traffic lights and the San Francisco de Asis Super Market, here you take a left turn towards the Tulum beach hotel zone (the street sign says Boca Paila). At the end of this road, follow the road to your right, this is the Tulum coastal road and you will pass lots of small hotels and cabañas until you reach a small bay. It will be located between Zamas hotel and the security checkpoint, you cannot miss it!

Luna Maya Beach: Things to do Luna Maya is a public beach, so you can get your gear and enjoy a relaxing day! It is also surrounded by rocks, so there is not a lot of people walking by. If you don’t feel like taking a lot of things with you, you can also visit the Zamas Restaurant; which offers a nice mix of simple Mexican dishes and cold drinks and cocktails. The rocky sides of the beach also seem to attract some fishing aficionados, you might see them early in the morning or in the late afternoons; standing on the rocks hoping to catch dinner.

Luna Maya Beach: Recommendations If possible try to bring some water shoes, the rocks are quite sharp and this will protect your feet from cuts and scratches. These shoes can be bought in any local supermarket or sports shop in the Riviera Maya. Even though most of the beaches in the Riviera Maya have really calm waters, Tulum has wavy beaches with strong drifts. Make sure to check the flags if there is any or stay in shallow waters if you are not a very good swimmer, there are no lifeguards in Tulum. Tulum has a big natural reserve with jungle and mangroves, that means there is going to be lots of mosquitoes; bringing a biodegradable insect repellent is a must. Have Off! or some other DDT based cream or spray to keep insects at bay: after the rainy season there can be gnats and other insects that don’t seem bothered by citronella. photo Luna Maya 2_zpsz43hdyfl.jpg Learn about the different beaches in the Riviera Maya, and count down with us every Friday at the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya. Top Mexico Real Estate is your one and only stop for everything regarding the Riviera Maya, we are here to help people get their dream home in paradise. If you are considering purchasing a home in the Riviera Maya or some other areas of Mexico, feel free to browse our website or contact our certified Real Estate Agents. We have the credentials and expertise to take you from daydreaming to real life! And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate… We make it happen!

Explore the Village of Xcalak!

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Xcalak is one of the most pristine and remote corners of the Mexican Caribbean, as it is nearly four hours from Cancun, almost on the border with Belize. Besides the beauty of the beach and the colors of the ocean, which will take your breath away, Xcalak is an ideal place for diving, as it is close to both the Mesoamerican reef and the Biosphere Reserve of Banco Chinchorro (an hour and a half by boat from Xcalak).

The village of Xcalak is a great lodging choice if you want to spend some time to snorkel or dive the reefs of Banco Chinchorro; a 43 miles long atoll consisting of three keys. This is one of the best preserved Biosphere Reserve and submarine complex in Mexico, offering an abundance of reef life and more than a dozen shipwrecks.

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The population of Xcalak is below the 400 mark, so it is a small town in every sense of the word. However, the area is developing, and in recent years there have been an increased number of restaurants and tourism services available.

Sure, resting on the beach might seem like the perfect plan for your holidays, sipping on some ice cold drinks and indulging in a bowl of freshly made guacamole or ceviche. But if your mindset changes to a more active mode, there are plenty of things to do in Xcalak: taking a bird watching tour, visit San Pedro in Belize, or go fishing; and of course, visit Banco Chinchorro.

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How to Get There:

From Chetumal:

Take the federal highway 307 to Mahahual and take the Xcalak deviation (a little before reaching a town called Limones). The road is paved and marked up with a sign that reads Xcalak; the road is in good condition with a few potholes. It is located approximately 125 miles from Chetumal.

From Cancun:

From the Cancun International Airport, head south on Highway 307. Depending on your speed and how many stops you make, it will take you roughly 4-1/2 to 5 hours. Once you pass the town of Limones, take a left at the “Cafetal” intersection. There are several signs indicating the turn for both Mahahual and Xcalak. After driving about 50 kilometers on the newly paved road, take a right towards Xcalak.

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We hope you enjoy the tranquility and beauty of Xcalak. If you enjoyed the area and would like to purchase a property, feel free to contact one of our Top Buyer’s Representatives. They have helped many clients through the process of becoming homeowners in Mexico.

And remember, here at TOP MEXICO REAL ESTATE…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Sian Ka’an Beach

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Beach #25 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Sian Ka’an

The Sian Ka’an reserve is one of the most fascinating beaches in the Riviera Maya; it is located 86 miles south of Cancun and about 5 minutes away from Tulum. Sian Ka’an has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and it is the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean (approximately 1.3 million acres).

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If you love nature, Sian Ka’an has a lot to offer; there are over one 1,400 species of plants, as well as more than 300 species of resident and migratory birds. There are also pumas, ocelots, jaguars, tapirs, howler and spider monkeys, white tail deer, wild boar white cheeks, manatees, dolphins, crocodiles, and several species of sea turtles that call Sian Ka’an their home.

Additionally, Sian Ka’an faces the Mesoamerican reef, home to hundreds of species of fish and other marine wildlife. If you like diving or snorkeling, you will discover an endless show of sponges, pink conch, starfish, sea urchins, and spiny lobsters, just to name a few. And if your thing is fishing, there are plenty of areas where you can throw out a line and see what bites.

Sian Ka’an Beach: Getting there

If you are coming from Cancun or Playa del Carmen, take Highway 307 South, towards Tulum. When you reach Tulum itself, you get to the first big intersection with traffic lights and the San Francisco de Asis supermarket. Here, you will turn left towards the Tulum beach hotel zone (follow the street sign that says Boca Paila).

At the end of this road, follow the road to your right. This is the Tulum coastal road and you will drive past lots of small hotels and cabins. You will then reach the Mayan Arch, the entrance to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. There will be guards there to greet you and collect the entrance fee.

Sian Ka’an Beach: Things to do

Driving into Sian Ka’an is an adventure itself. The road leading into Sian Ka’an is a dirt road. During the rainy season, it can get quite muddy. If you are renting a car, make sure to rent a Jeep or something similar; a smaller car might have trouble getting in and out.

If you don’t have a lot of time, make sure you visit the old wooden bridge. There are plenty of people around this area camping, fishing or just having a picnic. Also, there are several secluded beaches to visit in the surrounding area.

Another idea is to visit the Chunyaxche / Muyil channel. You can take a boat tour in the sinuous channels that run between the mangroves. In this tour you will be able to admire hundreds of birds, Mayan ruins surrounded by water, coastal lagoons, wetlands, and so much more. Make sure to reserve this tour in advance!

Sian Ka’an Beach: Recommendations

While you’re not traveling to a completely isolated area, it is a good idea to have precaution. Make sure your car is in good conditions, fill your gas tank (it is a 42km one-way drive and there are no gas stations in there). Make sure to bring a spare tire. Since the roads are dirt and rocks, it could come in handy (better be safe, than sorry!).

Even if you plan on just visiting for a few hours, you might find yourself wanting to stay longer. Take supplies with you such as drinking water and snacks or non-perishable food for when you get hungry or thirsty (it can get hot, you’ll be surrounded by jungle).

There are many mangroves in the area, with all sorts of insects who tend to be particularly vicious early in the morning and at dawn. Take biodegradable insect repellent with you. Keep a bottle of OFF! Or DDT based repellent in your car as some insects – such as gnats – are not bothered by the Citrnoella.

If you plan on staying on the beach all day, bring biodegradable sunscreen. Also, don’t forget to pack things for sunburns, scratches and bites…a lot can happen in the wilderness!

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In short, Sian Ka’an is like being in heaven for those who truly love to be in contact and at one with nature. It is a unique paradise!

Learn about the different beaches in the Riviera Maya, and count down with us every Friday at the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya.

If you are looking for a beautiful real estate property surrounded by nature in Sian Ka’an, Top Mexico Real Estate can help you find the house of your dreams!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!