Written by Coral Leiva

I am also an animal lover, and I like to emphasize the importance of sustainable tourism and strive to create experiences that respect and protect wildlife. With a passion for organization, I meticulously plan unforgettable trips that leave a lasting impact.

But enough about me! Join me on this journey as I unveil best-kept secrets, recommend hidden gems, and share insider tips for exploring the Riviera Maya. Let's embark on a memorable adventure together, embracing the magic and splendor of this stunning destination.

WHERE TO EAT

The Riviera Maya is a gastronomic paradise. Here are my favorite places to enjoy delicious food in the region:

• Aldea Corazon
  5 Av. Nte. 5, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
  If you're craving Mexican cuisine, I recommend Aldea Corazón, located in a cenote. Here, you can savor authentic Mexican flavors in a magical ambiance. I recommend the roasted cauliflower and the esquites, which are a Mexican street food consisting of shelled corn in a cup mixed with lemon, chili powder, and cheese. If you are not a vegetarian, the Cochinita Pibil (a slow roasted pork dish) is most definitely a must. 

• Ostreria Di Roma
  Calle 6 Nte entre avenida 20, Calle 6 Nte y 25, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.

  For lovers of Italian cuisine, Ostreria di Roma is a perfect small place with excellent food. My favorite thing to order is the homemade gnocci! Nothing can beat that.

• Basic Foodie

  25 Avenida Nte entre Calle 26 y calle 28N, Hollywood, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
  If you have a weakness for breakfast, coffee and pastries, I suggest visiting Basic Foodie to satisfy your morning cravings. Great for families and people like me who love good, healthy food that is not heavy and oily.

• La Perla Pixan

  Calle 38 Norte Entre 5ta y la playa, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.

  If you want to try local dishes, you can't miss La Perla Pixan, a restaurant offering authentic Oaxacan cuisine. Here, you can enjoy straightforward and direct flavors. I recommend you try the enmoladas de requeson y quelites with a craft beer on the side!

• Malca
  KM 9.5, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, 77780 Tulum, Q.R

  Additionally, if you're looking for an impressive view while dining, I recommend Malca in Tulum's hotel zone. The decoration is truly breathtaking, and it offers a panoramic view of the beach. The food is so great and omg the coffee is excellent! 

One dish you must try in this region is "al pastor.," which is a pork and pineapple taco with traditional spices. Regular pastor will be easy to find at any “Taquería”, but, if you are a vegetarian, our chefs make an amazing veggie version with eggplants or mushrooms, loaded up in tacos with cilantro, pineapple, and salsa. It’s super fresh and super delicious!

WHERE TO GO

If you're looking to enjoy the nightlife in the Riviera Maya, a getaway to Tulum is an excellent choice. For a relaxed atmosphere, I recommend visiting Nicoletta, an Italian restaurant that is famous for its delicious drinks. 

If you are a cocktail lover, you’ll be happy to learn that the region is filled with many talented mixologists, so you can't go wrong with any place you visit. One of my favorite cocktails is the Carajillo. It consists of a shot of espresso accompanied by ice and Licor 43. I guarantee that once you try it, you'll never go back to ordering an Espresso Martin

WHAT TO DO

You ate, you partied, and now, you are ready to explore. There’s a wide range of activities here for nature lovers, culture and history buffs, and water sports enthusiasts. 

A visit to one of the area’s famous cenotes is a magical and impressive experience. I recommend exploring different cenotes, and either opting for private cenotes or by visiting early in the morning when crowds will be less.

Personally, I love Cenote Calavera in Tulum. What makes this cenote in Tulum so special? Cenote Calavera is so-called because it looks like a skull: there is one main hole and two smaller ones that look like eyes. The best part? It is not one of the most well known cenotes in Yucatan, which means that, if you are lucky, you will be able to swim alone. Be sure to come in the morning to have even more privacy!

I have another exceptional recommendation, but you should know that it is part of Maya Luxe’s private experiences, so if you want to learn more about it, let me know once you book a villa! Trust me, it is incredible.

For those interested in experiencing the region's culture and history, I suggest visiting the Coba archaeological site. In addition to  being closer to the beach towns than Chichén Itzá, Coba also features an impressive pyramid surrounded by jungle, adding a special touch under the sun. During your visit, you might have the opportunity to witness Mayan ritual scenes at some cenotes. These representations are a fascinating glimpse into the local culture and should not be missed.

If you're looking for a place to spend a day with your family, I recommend an adventure tour that includes zip-lining, kayaking, and snorkeling – The Maya Jungle Experience. These activities are incredibly fun and promote teamwork, making them ideal for a family bonding experience.

MY HIDDEN GEMS

Now it’s time for me to tell you about some hidden gems in the Riviera Maya that I personally enjoy as a local. One of them is the 38th Avenue Beach in Playa del Carmen. This beach is accessible, beautiful, and the surrounding street is filled with charming restaurants; so basically is a spot that has it all.

The entire area in and around Tulum is awe-inspiring, but if you want to avoid any inconveniences caused by sargassum, I recommend planning a visit to Cozumel or Isla Mujeres. If you prefer something closer, you can always enjoy the incredible cenotes found in the area.

If you're looking for insta-worthy locations, Tulum offers a plethora of options. The best part is that many of the most photogenic spots are within walking distance, especially at the entrances of various establishments. However, if you want picturesque spots in other areas, the strip between the 3rd and 10th Avenues on the 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen also provides charming photo opportunities.

My final tip as a local curator is a good one! If you want to buy decorations or souvenirs, I suggest asking your private tour driver (while out on an excursion) to make stops at the stalls you come across along the way. These stalls often offer authentic regional products at more affordable prices than in touristy areas.

I hope these recommendations and secrets of the Riviera Maya will be helpful during your next visit. As a passionate local curator, my aim is to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful region. Remember to respect wildlife and practice sustainable tourism during your stay. 

Don’t forget that I can also be your personal curator during your next vacation if you need some additional insider tips. Just ask for Coral and I'll be happy to help.

Enjoy the flavors, culture, and natural beauty that the Riviera Maya has to offer!
See you on your next vacation!