Are you thinking about a Riviera Maya honeymoon to celebrate a once-in-a-lifetime occasion? You’ve come to the right guide! Whether you want to relax or are seeking adventure, you and your partner will have the ultimate escape in Mexico.

This post is by Allison Sicking, the blogger behind Viva La Travelista. She moved to Playa del Carmen in 2018 and empowers others to travel safely and confidently in Spanish-speaking countries. This post also contains affiliate links.

Is a Rivera Maya honeymoon right for you?

Riviera Maya, Mexico, is a tropical paradise with white-sand beaches and everything you can dream of for a romantic vacation. You’ll find incredible all-inclusive honeymoon resorts with deluxe suites, world-class spas, and beachfront dining. But is the right destination for your honeymoon?

In this Riviera Maya honeymoon planning guide, you’ll find details on why the Riviera Maya is a great destination for your honeymoon. You’ll plan for expected costs, the best seasons to visit, the best resorts for your honeymoon, and other tips and essential information.

Ready to find out if Riviera Maya is right for your upcoming honeymoon? Let’s get started!

Why visit Riviera Maya for your honeymoon?

Mexico’s Riviera Maya is one of the best destinations for a beach honeymoon, especially if you’re coming from the United States or Canada. Here’s why!

• First, the Riviera Maya is just a short flight from most places in the United States. You can fly directly into Cancun, the second-largest airport in Mexico.
• Second, the Riviera Maya is encompassed by beautiful beaches and everything you can dream of in a beach getaway. You’ll find infinity pools with stunning ocean views, rows of swaying palm trees, and all-inclusive resorts.
• Third, the Riviera Maya has something for everyone, from relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun to exploring the jungle and ancient Mayan ruins.
• Finally, the Riviera Maya is much more affordable than other popular honeymoon destinations worldwide. Mexico has competitive prices while boasting high-quality resorts, boutique hotels, and luxury amenities.

How much does a Riviera Maya honeymoon cost?

The great thing about a Riviera Maya honeymoon is that it can meet all budgets. Here’s a simple breakdown of estimated costs for one week in the Riviera Maya for each budget, including accommodation, food, and some activities:

• Budget: <$1,000 USD per person
• Mid-Range: $2,500 USD per person
• Luxury: $7,500 USD per person

It’s really easy to save money in Riviera Maya, so spending an entire week there with $1,000 USD per person (excluding flights) is possible. With this budget, you’ll stick to local foods and stay in lower-end accommodations.

It’s also really easy to spend a lot of money on the Riviera Maya. Spread out between Cancun and Tulum. Plus, you’ll find dreamy hotels and bungalows with excellent spa services, private plunge pools, high-end restaurants, and all-inclusive perks.

Total expenses will also come down to the activities you do. You’ll want to budget more if you’re interested in guided tours or spa services. 

 

What is the best time to visit Riviera Maya for a honeymoon?

December through April is the best time to visit the Riviera Maya because of the great weather. It’s much less humid during these months. Plus, it’s still hot and sunny, making it ideal for enjoying the beach and water activities.

However, if your wedding date falls outside those months, you can visit any time of the year. During the summer, it’s hotter and wetter but rarely unbearable.

How to get to Riviera Maya?

Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the largest airport in the Riviera Maya and the easiest to fly into. There are many direct flights from major cities in the US and Canada.

Cancun International Airport is about:

• 15 minutes from downtown Cancun
• 30 minutes from Puerto Morelos
• 1 hour from Playa del Carmen
• 2 hours from Tulum

The easiest way to get from Cancun Airport to your destination is with a private transfer. 

You need to organize this ahead of time. That way, they’ll be waiting for you right at the terminal, usually with your name on a sign.

Add beach activities to your Riviera Maya honeymoon itinerary.

5 Best Riviera Maya Honeymoon Resorts

Here are the top Riviera Maya honeymoon resorts that will make this memorable trip even better:

1. Hotel UNICO 20°87° Riviera Maya

Hotel UNICO 20°87° Riviera Maya is a luxury, adults-only, all-inclusive resort in the Riviera Maya. The resort is located near Akumal, about 1.5 hours south of Cancun International Airport.

This is the perfect place for a honeymoon. Because of the adults-only policy, there are no families or children. Therefore, it’s much quieter than crowded family resorts. 

However, it still has a young and hip vibe if you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere with unique resort activities like mixology classes, salsa dance lessons, wine and astronomy, and more.

Almost all of the hotel rooms at Hotel UNICO have ocean views, large balconies with jacuzzi tubs, four-poster beds with pillows, and an aromatherapy menu.

Also, you’ll be taken care of by friendly, attentive staff. Each room is assigned a local host who will handle everything for you, from dinner reservations to other guest requests.

Choose one of the Riviera Maya honeymoon hotels that are by the beach or have lovely pools for swimming and lounging.

2. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort located on the stunning Maroma Beach. Consequently, it’s one of the most beautiful and exclusive beaches in the Riviera Maya.

Secrets is a well-known adults-only luxury brand, and this property is one of the best you’ll find. It has a relaxing atmosphere, a private beach area, great snorkeling spots, and incredible food.

This resort is perfect for couples and honeymooners because of its privacy and romantic setting, along with its incredible swim-up rooms.

3. Hotel Xcaret Arte

Hotel Xcaret Arte is another adults-only, all-inclusive resort near Playa del Carmen, just over an hour from Cancun Airport. The luxury hotel is known for its unique art theme. Additionally, you’ll find art installations, paintings, and sculptures crafted by Mexican artists all over the resort. 

It also has a private beach area, a main pool with a swim-up bar, rooftop pools, and 10 gourmet restaurants for a romantic dinner every night. Plus, one of the best things about Hotel Xcaret Arte is the unlimited access to all Xcaret theme parks and attractions. 

These parks are different from any amusement park you’ve visited. They offer freshwater cenotes, zipline adventures, Mayan culture shows, massive water slides, and so much more.

Because of this little perk, Hotel Xcaret is especially recommended for honeymooners looking for more action and to experience a tiny piece of Mexico’s rich culture alongside lots of fun.

If you’re looking for a Riviera Maya honeymoon resort, the Xcaret properties are perfect.

4. La Casa de la Playa

La Casa de la Playa is a new, trendy resort near Playa del Carmen, just over an hour from Cancun. This is another adults-only, all-inclusive luxury resort operated by Grupo Xcaret, which means you also get unlimited access to the Xcaret parks and tours. 

But instead of being a large, overwhelming property, it has more of an intimate atmosphere with only 63 suites. You can dine at the resort’s gourmet on-site restaurants, swim in the stunning infinity pool, or simply hide away with your partner in an incredibly beautiful setting.

The entire resort exudes exclusivity with its amazing rooms with private pools, a relaxing atmosphere, and a very romantic vibe. 

5. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma are made for those who dream of the famous Maldives ocean bungalows but don’t want to make such a long trip. This resort is one of Mexico’s only overwater bungalows and is very convenient. This beautiful resort is on the exclusive Maroma Beach, only about 30 minutes from Cancun.

There are only 30 private bungalows and other suites, and the property is never too crowded, making it the best romantic getaway. Each overwater bungalow has a private infinity pool, direct ladder access to the ocean, a private butler, and endless luxury amenities.

Many resorts offer all-inclusive honeymoon packages in Riviera Maya for couples to enjoy.

5 Best Things to Do on a Riviera Maya Honeymoon

From enjoying the clear blue water of the Caribbean to venturing into the jungle to explore ancient Mayan ruins, your Mexico honeymoon can be full of first-time, unforgettable memories.

1. Go on a snorkeling excursion.

The Riviera Maya is located near the Mesoamerican Reef, one of the largest coral reefs in the world. So, it should be no surprise that there are some great snorkeling and scuba diving excursions where you can swim with sea turtles, tropical fish, and other sea creatures.

Cozumel is a popular spot for scuba diving and deep sea snorkeling, with a lively ecosystem and beautiful, vibrant underwater colors.  There’s also an underwater museum off the coast of Cancun near the island of Isla Mujeres, known as MUSA, that’s great for snorkeling or scuba diving.

And Akumal is another great snorkeling spot, where you’re guaranteed to find sea turtles munching on seagrass in the shallow waters.

2. Visit freshwater cenotes.

This part of Mexico is the only place in the entire world with freshwater cenotes, and they are a must-see when visiting.

Cenotes are freshwater sinkholes fed by an intricate system of underwater caves and caverns. You can spend a day swimming, snorkeling, or just enjoying the natural beauty.

There are different types of cenotes, including open cenotes, which are refreshing swimming pools deep in the lush jungle, and closed cenotes, which feel more like underground caves.

Thousands of cenotes are scattered around the Riviera Maya, and several good ones are on the highway between Cancun and Tulum.

The best Riviera Maya honeymoon resorts can book activities like visiting cenotes and snorkeling.

3. Get a couple’s massage.

A couple’s massage is definitely one of the most relaxing and intimate activities for couples on a honeymoon. And fortunately, there are plenty of these all around the Riviera Maya.

Luxury spa treatments are much more affordable in Mexico than in the United States or Canada. So, splurging on the activity is easier. Be sure to check out your resort’s onsite spa if you want a couple’s massage. Almost all resorts and boutique hotels have one, so consider this activity when booking.

4. Tour ancient Mayan ruins.

Several notable Mayan ruins in the area may be fascinating to couples interested in history and ancient civilization. Chichen Itza, the Tulum Ruins, and the Cobá Ruins are three of the most famous Mayan Ruins in the area. 

These archaeological sites are very easy to visit on your own or by booking a guided tour, which often includes snorkeling or cenote visits.

Look for Riviera Maya honeymoon packages that include off-site activities or have a concierge that can book them.

5. Go on a private yacht charter

What better way to explore the Caribbean Sea than on a private yacht charter? Private yacht rentals in Riviera Maya are perfect for couples as you can escape the crowds and customize your itinerary out at sea.

You’ll also be able to enjoy unlimited drinks, a private chef, and your own captain and crew to cater to your every need. While pricey, they are definitely worth the splurge! You can even choose to do a sunset sailing on a yacht or catamaran for something even more romantic.

10 Tips for Riviera Maya Honeymoon Planning

Here are a few travel tips to plan the perfect honeymoon in Riviera Maya, Mexico:

Tips Before You Go

• Search for Riviera Maya honeymoon packages: Most resorts in Riviera Maya have special honeymoon packages that might include a honeymoon suite, champagne, spa treatments, and other amenities. Be sure to look for special honeymoon promotions before booking. 
• Book as far in advance as possible: Riviera Maya is a popular destination, and resorts fill up quickly, especially during the high season (December–April).  If you’re wanting to splurge on an upgraded suite, there will likely be limited availability. Therefore, book as far in advance as possible.
• Learn basic Spanish: You don’t need to know much Spanish, especially if you’re staying at a luxury resort. But it can go a long way and help you connect better with locals. 
• Visit in the off-season for lower prices: If you’re looking to save on your Riviera Maya all-inclusive honeymoon, consider visiting during the off-season (June–September).  While chances of rain will be higher, there will still be plenty of sun and fewer crowds.
• Consider airport transportation costs:  Resorts in Riviera Maya can be anywhere from 30 minutes-2 hours away from the Cancun Airport. Therefore, factor in transportation costs in the honeymoon budget.  Arranging private transfers in advance is the safest and most reliable way to get to your resort, and on average, they cost around $200 USD for a round-trip service.
• Plan your activities in advance: There’s so much to do in the Riviera Maya that it can be overwhelming. Try to narrow down your interests and plan activities ahead of time to make sure you hit the important attractions.
• Pack biodegradable sunscreen: Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most tours and excursions, as it can contain chemicals that are harmful to coral reefs. Pack reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen to wear anytime you are going to be swimming in the ocean. 

Tips While in Mexico

• Keep some Mexican pesos on hand: Most hotels and honeymoon locations will accept a credit card, but keep some Mexican pesos for tipping, taxis, and smaller purchases.
• Leave the resort a bit: If you’re honeymooning at a luxury, all-inclusive resort, it can be so appealing to stay put and be taken care of. But the surrounding Yucatan Peninsula is a beautiful region, so try to get out and explore at least one afternoon.
• Don’t drink the water: Some people might forget, but this is very important. The tap water in Mexico is unsafe for drinking, and if you try to do so, it might ruin your whole honeymoon. Make sure to stick to bottled or purified water when visiting.

Many of the Riviera Maya honeymoon all-inclusive resorts can book excursions on your behalf.

Honeymoon in Riviera Maya Mexico: FAQs

Let’s look at a few frequently asked questions about a honeymoon in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

Is Riviera Maya good for a honeymoon?

Absolutely! The Riviera Maya is a premium honeymoon destination. It has beautiful beaches, endless activities, and adults-only all-inclusive resorts with luxury amenities.

Can you go off resort in Riviera Maya?

Yes, you can leave the resort grounds in the Riviera Maya. Your resort will likely offer a taxi or shuttle service to nearby destinations like Playa del Carmen, Cancun, or Tulum.

Is Riviera Maya safe?

Yes, the Riviera Maya is safe, especially if you stay at an all-inclusive resort. Safety in the Riviera Maya is somewhat controversial, as warnings about Mexico always appear in the news. However, thousands of people flock to the Riviera Maya daily, and incidents involving tourists are rare.

Is the ocean swimmable in Riviera Maya?

Yes, the ocean is swimmable in the Riviera Maya. The water is warm year-round, the waves and currents are usually mild, and the beach is beautiful. Seaweed levels have risen in recent years, but you can still easily enjoy the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Consider these activities for a Riviera Maya honeymoon:

Save this for planning a Riviera Maya Mexico honeymoon!

Mexico’s Riviera Maya is one of the best honeymoon destinations in North America. It’s affordable and convenient, especially for couples coming from the United States and Canada. Plus, it has some of the best luxury resorts in Mexico, beautiful white sandy beaches, and many unique activities. 

No matter which Riviera Maya resort you choose, try to make room for exciting activities like visiting cenotes, ancient Mayan ruins, and other adventure excursions. But even if you choose to stay at the resort, you can’t go wrong with the on-site amenities, plenty of time for the beach, and your partner at your side.