The Riviera Maya is one of Mexico’s most sought-after vacation destinations, home to the bustling beach towns of Tulum and Cancun. Both cities offer very different experiences for travelers, so deciding which is suitable for you depends on your personal preferences. Cancun appeals to vacationers looking for an energetic resort setting, while Tulum appeals to the more laid-back traveler who wants to stay closer to nature. 

We are here to give you a breakdown of Tulum vs. Cancun so that you can find the right destination for you! Regardless of your choice, Riviera Maya Haciendas has you covered with our luxury vacation rentals in both locations.

The Basics Tulum vs. Cancun

Deciding between Tulum vs. Cancun all depends on you! Both locations offer stunning white-sand beaches, sparkling water, and easy access to Mayan ruins. And if you want to experience both of these incredible destinations, they are only 80 miles apart!

What is Cancun Like for Visitors?

• Beaches are picturesque but are usually busy.
• Cancun has a more extensive selection of chain hotels and restaurants, known as the Hotel Zone.
• As one of Mexico’s most popular spring break and party destinations, it should be no surprise that Cancun is bustling with nightlife, clubs, and bars.
• As the most visited city in Mexico, the entire town is very tourist oriented
• Cancun is easily accessible, with flights from most major cities to the Cancun Airport.
• If you are looking for a destination where you can walk to most attractions, then Cancun is for you!

Notable Attractions & Activities in Cancun

There are endless possibilities for your Cancun vacation. Playa Delfines is the largest beach in the city and the only stretch that doesn’t backdrop the Hotel Zone. The main boulevard at Avenida Kukulkan is the hub for resorts, shopping malls, and restaurants. Discover an underwater adventure of a lifetime at MUSA Underwater Museum or learn about Mayan history at the Mayan Museum of Cancun or El Rey Maya Ruins.

What is Tulum Like for Visitors?

• Tulum is known for offering quieter and less developed beaches
• The city is known for its boutique hotels and restaurants
• Tulum offers a more authentic experience of Mexico, away from the tourist attractions of Cancun.
• Tulum is a paradise for nature lovers, with cenotes, jungles, abundant wildlife, and biodiversity.

Notable Attractions in Tulum

The most popular attraction is the Tulum Archaeological Site, known as one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya people. Tulum is also known for its cenotes, popular spots for swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling. You can also find access to Xcaret adventure parks and wildlife preserves here.

Tulum & Cancun Vacation Rentals

Now that you know more about Tulum vs. Cancun, you can start planning your Mexico vacation with Riviera Maya Haciendas. We offer three beautiful six-bedroom villas in Cancun and 30 vacation rentals in Tulum. Our Tulum properties range from one to fourteen bedrooms to accommodate groups of all sizes. Discover the perfect home base for any vacation along the Riviera Maya with us today!

Mexico is an ideal destination for honeymooners looking to combine adventure with romantic relaxation. With incredible white sand beaches, crystal clear Caribbean waters, fascinating historic sites, enchanting cenotes, and diverse eco-parks, there is no better place to plan your honeymoon than the Riviera Maya! Make your honeymoon dreams a reality by staying in a luxury vacation rental with Riviera Maya Haciendas. Our team makes it easy to tailor your special occasion with our five-star service and fantastic amenities that help you create memories to last a lifetime. 

Choose from our rentals in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Cancun, Akumal, or Tulum, and start planning your Riviera Maya honeymoon today!

Riviera Maya Honeymoon Activities

Explore Riviera Maya Cenotes

One of the unique attractions in the Riviera Maya is cenotes, offering a one-of-a-kind exploration for your honeymoon! Explore these freshwater pools by diving, snorkeling, or swimming.

Step Into the Past at Historic Sites

The Riviera Maya is a wonderful honeymoon destination for history lovers! Gain a deep understanding of Mexico’s history at archaeological sites like Chichen Itza, Tulum Archaeological Zone, and Coba Ruins.

Embark on a Romantic Sunset Dinner Cruise

Nothing is more romantic than embarking on a cruise into the Caribbean at sunset. Riviera Maya Catamarans offers a luxury private dinner sail, where you will enjoy cocktails, coastline views at sunset, bay exploration, and an exquisite surf and turf meal! If you are looking for a romantic tour in Cancun, we recommend Columbus Cruise.

Discover Endless Adventures at Eco-Parks

Eco-parks allow adventurous couples to participate in fun activities in the most naturally beautiful areas of the Riviera Maya. Discover more than 50 natural and cultural attractions at Xcaret. Or choose one of the parks like Xplor or Xavage and discover zip lines, whitewater rafting, jungle exploration, and paddling canals.

Where to Stay for Your Riviera Maya Honeymoon

We offer a variety of beautiful accommodations for your Riviera Maya honeymoon. Start by browsing our cozy condos in Puerto Aventuras and stay in the heart of the action near beaches, shops, restaurants, and water activities.

We have a property for everyone; start planning your honeymoon with Riviera Maya Haciendas today! 
Learn more about planning your wedding with us on our events page and by reading our blog, Plan a Beautiful Destination Wedding in Mexico.

Located between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, you will discover Puerto Aventuras, a laidback beach town that offers the perfect gateway to endless Mexico adventures. If you are interested in visiting Puerto Aventuras, you’ve come to the right place because Riviera Maya Haciendas is here to guide you every step of the way! This post will cover the best ways to get here, what to do, and where to stay in Puerto Aventuras.

Where is Puerto Aventuras?

Puerto Aventuras is a small beach town in the state of Quintana Roo along the beautiful Riviera Maya. It is located approximately 20 minutes from Playa del Carmen, 40 minutes from Tulum, and just over an hour from Cancun. Keep in mind that Puerto Aventuras is split into two sections, a residential area and the tourist area east of Highway 307. The latter is where you will find most of our local bars, restaurants, and accommodations. 

How do I Get to Puerto Aventuras?

The most accessible and affordable way to Puerto Aventuras is by flying into Cancun International Airport and making your way south. There are no direct buses to Puerto Aventuras, so you must rent a car or take private or shared transportation to your destination.

• Rent a car in Cancun and get to Puerto Aventuras on your own time. 
• Private transportation can be arranged by your concierge or host.
• Sign up for a shared ride with Cancun Shuttles for more affordable transportation.
• Once you are in Puerto Aventuras, you can walk or bike to most of the attractions in town.

What is There to Do in the Riviera Maya?

Puerto Aventuras is best known for its marina and abundant water activities such as sport fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. Read our blog, Visit the Riviera Maya: Things to Do in Puerto Aventuras, for an introduction to local attractions.

In addition to the wealth of activities available, we also offer convenient access to the top attractions in Mexico, such as Xcaret, Kantun-Chi, Tulum Archaeological Zone, Cenotes, and Chichen Itza.

Where to Stay in Puerto Aventuras

Riviera Maya Haciendas offers our most comprehensive vacation rentals in Puerto Aventuras, with a variety of options to fit every budget! Our luxury haciendas are the largest properties in our collection, ideal for family reunions, weddings, and corporate retreats. We also offer nine villas in Puerto Aventuras and 13 condos, perfect for couples or small families. 

Visiting Puerto Aventuras is made easy with the world-class amenities available with RMH. Book your getaway in the Riviera Maya today!

Remote work has become the new normal, leaving many employees isolated and unmotivated. One of the best ways to combat these challenges is by bringing your team together for a corporate retreat. Planning a retreat is an excellent way to build trust, improve communication, increase productivity, and strengthen company culture. Take your company to the pristine beaches of Mexico’s Riviera Maya and let Riviera Maya Haciendas take care of the details. From your lodging to meals and team-building activities, we have everything you need to plan the perfect corporate retreat in Mexico!

Haciendas Estate Corporate Retreat Amenties

Meeting Venues

There are several spaces available for your team meetings. The Haciendas Estate features inner courtyards, patios, spacious garden areas, and beachside areas ideal for meetings. Keep in mind that these facilities can be designed and adapted to suit your group’s individual needs. 

If the Estate doesn’t meet your needs, we recommend browsing the haciendas individually: Hacienda Corazon, Hacienda Del Mar, & Hacienda Magica.

Team-Bonding Activities

There are endless team-bonding activities available with Riviera Maya Haciendas, including:

• Set out for a group adventure into the Caribbean with our complimentary kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. 
• Host a private yoga class in the courtyard
• Play games of tennis together on our on-site tennis courts.
• Let us arrange cooking classes or tequila tastings with our gourmet chefs
• Discover nearby activities such as golfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sport fishing, and exploring historical sites.

Staff Service

Our impeccable staff service makes planning your corporate retreat with us more manageable than ever. Take advantage of our exclusive concierge, gourmet chefs, butler services, bartenders, wait staff, daily housekeeping, pool staff, and on-site event coordinator. 

Plan Your Corporate Retreat in Mexico Today!

Are you ready to start planning your corporate retreat in Mexico? Fill out your information on our corporate retreat page, and we will reach out to you about our products and services. Or contact us directly at rentals@rivieramayahaciendas.com and start organizing your retreat today!

The holiday season is upon us, and if you are still figuring out your travel plans, you’ve come to the right place! Riviera Maya Haciendas invites you to spend the holidays in Mexico’s most popular vacation destinations. Our slice of paradise is the perfect place to spend the holidays enjoying pristine beaches, abundant activities, learning fascinating history, and sampling delicious restaurants. 

Spend your holidays on our beautiful Mexico beaches with our collection of luxury villas in the Riviera Maya, and let our team create the perfect vacation for you! Discover our favorite properties available in Akumal, Cancun, Carmen Beach, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum below:

Cancun Villas

Cancun is one of the most visited areas of Mexico, offering gorgeous beaches, luxury amenities, Mayan ruins, world-class restaurants, and exciting nightlife. Riviera Maya Haciendas offers three luxury properties in Cancun, including Villa Punta Sam. This Cancun Villa offers six bedrooms for up to 21 guests with amenities like a jacuzzi pool, spacious kitchen with bar, game room, and rooftop terrace.

Akumal Villas

Akumal is a charming beach town along the Riviera Maya, perfect for visitors who want a laidback getaway while still being close to the area’s top attractions. Our Villa Alma Rosa offers four bedrooms for up to twelve guests located in an exclusive area of Jade Beach. The property offers direct beach access with complimentary snorkeling and kayak equipment for guests who want to spend their holidays exploring the water!

Playa del Carmen Beach Villas

Carmen Beach, or Playa Del Carmen, is centrally located to everything the Riviera Maya offers, providing a destination where relaxation, culture, and nature meet. Experience the ultimate luxury at Casa Sirenus, a seven-bedroom rental for fourteen guests. This enchanting property offers a tropical indoor garden, gourmet kitchen, swimming pool, jacuzzi, and a beautiful beachfront palapa. 

Puerto Aventuras Villas

Our most comprehensive selection of villas in the Riviera Maya can be found in Puerto Aventuras, tucked away from the more touristy areas of Mexico. Our Hacienda del Mar is a spectacular 15-bedroom property in an exclusive gated community, fantastic for large groups visiting us during the holidays. And smaller groups who want to stay in Puerto Aventuras can select our four-bedroom Casa Sanara or Casa del Agua properties. 

Tulum Villas

Tulum is best known for being the last city constructed and inhabited by the Mayan people. Today, Tulum is a thriving vacation destination, offering fascinating history, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife. Our Casa Priakos villa is a five-bedroom property that combines the style of a traditional Mexican hacienda with Mediterranean influences. This beachfront Tulum villa is located in a beautiful private Bay, delivering the perfect private oasis for the holidays!

Let Riviera Maya Haciendas Tailor Your Holiday in Mexico!

Riviera Maya Haciendas is excited to assist you in planning your perfect holiday on the beach. The properties listed above are just a few of our listings; you can find our complete list of luxury villas in Riviera Maya here. Or reach out to us by filling out the form on our winter getaway page, and let us help you find the best property for your group. Escape to the Riviera Maya and create memories that will last a lifetime this holiday season!

Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a one-of-a-kind destination home to stunning white sand beaches, ancient Mayan cities, and lush natural parks. As you are exploring, you may be surprised to learn about the natural wonders hiding right below your feet. These natural wonders are called cenotes, magical attractions that are natural sinkholes containing permanent water. With over 6,000 cenotes to choose from, Riviera Maya Haciendas is here to help you narrow the list to five must-visit cenotes in Riviera Maya. 

A Few Quick Facts About Cenotes in Riviera Maya 

The cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula were created by eroded limestone holes that formed caverns and underground rivers over thousands of years. As you visit our cenotes, we ask that you be respectful of the heritage and significance of these special places.

• The Riviera Maya has three main cenote types: cave, semi-open, and open cenotes. 
• Cenotes have served as sacred spaces to the Maya for thousands of years, serving as their primary water source and the gateway to the underworld. 
• The word cenote comes from the Mayan word “dzonot,” meaning cavern with water. 

Visit These 5 Cenotes in the Riviera Maya

1. Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos is one of the most visited cenotes in Riviera Maya and one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world. The two connected cenotes offer crystal clear water, popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

2. Gran Cenote

This cenote is a famous swimming hole and diving spot in Mexico. Here you can explore a collection of caves on the wooden boardwalks that wind through verdant jungle paths. Grab your snorkel gear and discover the underwater world of this magical cenote full of marine life and unique columns. 

3. Cenote Sac Actun

Cenote Sac Actun is home to the longest underground river in the world and an extensive cave system. Sign up for a guided tour and witness the turquoise waters, stalactites, and archaeological sites.

4. Cenotes Casa Tortuga

Experience a wonderful tour of four cenotes in Riviera Maya at this natural park. Visit the bats at Wisho Cenote, learn about Mayan culture at Cenote Jaguar, and jump into the crystal clear waters of Cenote Tres Zapotecs.

5. Cenotes Kantun-Chi

Discover five magical cenotes at Ecopark Kantun Chi. Learn about the cenotes with a local guide, or create your own tour through the lush jungle trails. The magical waters can be discovered by swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or diving.

Plan Your Riviera Maya Getaway Today!

Discover the unique environment of Mexico during your getaway by visiting the cenotes in the Riviera Maya. Come and experience the magic and bliss our villas and homes offer with Riviera Maya Haciendas. From Puerto Aventuras to Tulum and Cancun, we have the perfect property waiting for you. Make sure to browse our specials to learn more about how you can save on your Riviera Maya vacation!

Chichen Itza is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico today. This number dramatically increases in September, when thousands of tourists make their way to see a glimpse of the Chichen Itza Equinox. During the fall equinox, the sunlight is perfectly aligned to create shadows that resemble a snake descending the pyramid. And this is no accident; this phenomenon was purposefully designed by the Mayans thousands of years ago, showcasing their knowledge surrounding astronomy, architecture, and geometry. Also known as the “Descent of Kukulcan,” the fall equinox will happen between the 22nd and 23rd of September. Mark your calendars and let our team at Riviera Maya Haciendas introduce you to the fascinating history of this Mexico archaeological site.

How was the Pyramid of Kukulcan Built?

The Chichen Itza Pyramid, also known as The Castle or Pyramid Kukulcan, was built between 800 and 900 CE. The building is 55 meters wide and 24 meters high. There are also 91 steps per side that function as a calendar representing every day of the year. The base of the north staircase includes two feather serpent heads placed as effigies to the God Kukulcan. It is in these stairways that seven reversed isosceles triangles create the shadow effect. 

The Descent of Kukulcan

The story of Kukulcan began when the Toltecs invaded the Mayan Peninsula following their God, Quetzalcoatl. It wasn’t long before the Mayan people adopted their God and renamed him Kukulcan. To showcase the power of their God, the Toltecs gathered citizens throughout the peninsula to witness the descent of their God to Earth. Thousands of years later, Kukulcan continues to make his annual descent during the spring and fall equinoxes. This unique show will occur on the 21st of September at around 3:00 o’clock. After about an hour of descent, Kulkulcan will have arrived for another year. 

How Can I See the Chichen Itza Equinox?

In order to see the Chichen Itza Equinox for yourself, you will need to purchase admission tickets for the day of your visit. Enhance your experience with one of the guided tours where you can learn more about the fascinating history and Mayan life. If you want to explore the archaeological sites on your own, use the Chichen Itza self-guided walking tour available with Action Tour Guides. 

What Else Can I See During My Visit?

In addition to the impressive Kukulcan Pyramid, you will also have access to several other heritage sites such as:

• Temple of the Warriors
• Hall of the Thousand Columns
• The Sacred Cenote
• The Ball Game
• The Observatory

Discover Fascinating History in the Yucatan

The Chichen Itza equinox is a bucket-list experience for anyone interested in history, astronomy, or architecture. Even if you can’t make it for the upcoming Equinox, we recommend marking your calendars so you can plan your vacation around this spectacular event in the future. Riviera Maya Haciendas offers beautiful vacation homes along the Riviera Maya from Cancun to Tulum. Discover your dream vacation today!

A Brief History of Mexico’s Independence Day

Mexico Independence Day is celebrated on September 16th, commemorating the freedom of Mexico from Spanish rule. After being under Spanish control for over 300 years, citizens were motivated to revolt by a Catholic priest named Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. The priest rang the church bells and delivered an impassioned speech known as the Cry of Dolores (Grito de Dolores) that started the Mexican War of Independence. A decade later, Mexico would win its independence from Spain.

Is Cinco De Mayo the Same as Independence Day?

No! Many Americans mistakenly believe that Cinco de Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day. Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s victory against the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The holiday is also more popular in the United States to honor and celebrate Mexican culture and heritage. 

How Does Mexico Celebrate Independence Day?

Independence Day kicks off the evening before September 16th. The celebration always begins at the National Palace when the president emerges to recite the famous speech from Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. This event is broadcasted around Mexico and ends with passionate chants from the crowd saying, “Viva Mexico!” The festivities officially begin after this event, and you can expect other Mexico Independence Day traditions such as:

• September 16th is celebrated around Mexico with fireworks, parades, fiestas, traditional music, food, and folk dancing.
• Food is essential to the celebration, with street vendors serving dishes like pozole, pancita, and enchiladas. 
  • Chiles en Nogada is the most popular dish of the day since the poblano chiles, parsley, cream sauce, and garnished with pomegranate seeds to reflect the colors of the Mexican flag.
• What’s food without drinks? Tequila is a popular drink to celebrate the holiday
• Many families organize house parties and cookouts for Independence Day, while others head to local restaurants or gather for fireworks in town.
  • Playa Del Carmen hosts Mexico’s most patriotic party in front of City Hall, with food, music, drinks, and fireworks to end the celebration.

How to Celebrate Independence Day on Your Own

How does Mexico celebrate Independence Day? In short, it’s a festive gathering that includes parades, fireworks, delicious food, folk dancing, and spending time with loved ones. If you want to celebrate in Mexico, Riviera Maya Haciendas has you covered with our luxury vacation rentals along the magnificent Riviera Maya. And if you are curious about how to celebrate in your state, search for events around September 16th and join a local fiesta nearby!

The warm Caribbean waters that surround Cancun attract visitors of all kinds. From tourists looking for the perfect beach vacation to marine life looking for a meal in our seas. This includes whale sharks, who return to our waters every summer to feast on our nutrient-rich waters. And travelers have a unique opportunity to swim with these gentle giants during whale shark season in Cancun. Visit us from May-September and embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure in Mexico!

A Few Facts About Whale Sharks in Mexico

First, you should know that they are not whales but filter-feeding sharks. They spend most of their time searching for plankton since they consume around 16 tons of these microscopic organisms daily. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean, measuring almost 40 feet long and weighing approximately 40,000 pounds! Don’t let their size fool you; whale sharks are harmless to humans, making them perfect swimming partners.  

Whale Shark Tours

Cancun offers one of the best destinations for snorkeling with whale sharks worldwide! Several tour companies take advantage of whale shark season in Cancun by offering guided trips in the surrounding waters. Even if you don’t stay in Cancun, many tour operators pick you up from Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Akumal, and Cozumel. All tours include transportation, snorkel gear, life jackets, food, and beverages. Additionally, all guides provide instructions on snorkeling and how to swim with these gentle giants before departure. 

Your personal concierge at Riviera Maya Haciendas will help tailor the best whale shark watching experience for you! Your concierge will reach out via email to prepare your tour and everything you need before your arrival.

Luxury Cancun Villas with RMH

Plan your Mexico getaway around whale shark season in Cancun and swim with these gentle giants. We offer luxury villas in Cancun along with spacious haciendas in Puerto Aventuras. Discover your perfect home away from home when you choose Riviera Maya Haciendas to host your Mexico vacation.

The Riviera Maya offers one of the top vacation spots in Mexico. From the ancient ruins in Tulum to the white-sand beaches of Playa del Carmen, there are endless destinations to visit in the Riviera Maya region. For travelers looking for the quiet charm of a small town, we recommend staying in the beautiful Puerto Aventuras! This Mexico resort town is best known for the wealth of water activities and nature experiences available in the crystal clear marinas. Whether you are interested in fishing, snorkeling, wildlife, local history, or hiking, there are plenty of things to do in Puerto Aventuras. Choose Riviera Maya Haciendas to host your getaway and spend your time on the soft white sands of Fatima Bay Beach.

Discover Caves and Cenotes: Ecopark Kantun Chi

Located just two kilometers south of Puerto Aventuras is one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya. Kantun Chi is an ecological park with five cenotes and a beautiful underground river. Sign up for a guided tour of the underground river and learn about the significance of this natural area to the Mayan people. You can also hike through jungle paths to reach cenotes perfect for snorkeling. This eco-park is not to be missed during your Mexico getaway!

Explore the Water: Fishing, Sailing, Snorkeling, & Dolphins!

There are endless ways to get on the water and explore the beauty of our surrounding waters. Puerto Aventuras Marina offers the best way to sail through the Riviera Maya, where you can access fantastic diving and fishing spots. If you want to fish with a guide, sign up for a charter with Captain Rick’s Sportfishing Center. Choose one of the trolling, bottom fishing, or fly fishing charters with Captain Rick and embark on an exciting day on the water!

If you are interested in marine life, there are several tours and experiences that will give you an up-close look at this underwater world. Sign up for a guided snorkel with Dressel Divers and see corral and tropical fish, including butterfly, angel, and parrot fish. Finally, if you’ve ever dreamt of swimming with dolphins, you can make that dream a reality in Puerto Aventuras. Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras offers a unique experience to swim and socialize with their friendly dolphins! 

Spend Time at the Beach: Fatima Bay Beach

It wouldn’t be a trip to Mexico without some much-needed beach time. Luckily, Riviera Maya Haciendas offers beachfront homes right on beautiful Fatima Bay Beach. This small beach offers a wealth of attractions, from swimming to snorkeling and sport fishing. Many of our haciendas include complimentary kayaks and paddle boards so you can easily access fun at the beach. 

Puerto Aventuras Luxury Vacation Homes

Start planning your Mexico vacation and discover the wealth of things to do in Puerto Aventuras. Stay with Riviera Maya Haciendas and choose one of our spacious haciendas on Fatima Bay Beach or browse our complete collection of Puerto Aventuras properties. Our personalized concierge services ensure you have everything you need for a wonderful vacation in Mexico. If you have any questions about our services or properties, don’t hesitate to reach out at 917-338-7256.