Xcaret
When it comes to excursions, choosing one is very difficult because most of them offer similar activities. But we chose Xcaret, mainly because of the night show our friend highly recommended. And honestly, we’re so glad we did. There’s no way to truly describe this park and the joy it gives you except by being there yourself. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after.
We arrived just before lunch, picked one of the beachside restaurants, and had a slow, delicious meal. Then we claimed a hammock and napped to the sound of the waves like professional vacationers. But after that, Time for adventure.
Walking into Xcaret felt like stepping into paradise. For swimming, there are underground rivers where you start at one point and the current carries you somewhere completely different, magical and refreshing. There are also lagoons, natural pools, and even swimming with dolphins or other water shows if you want to level up your day. And that spa under the waterfalls? Straight out of heaven.
What I loved most was how unpredictable the park felt. As you walk from one spot to another, you never know what you’re about to see: parrots, flamingos, iguanas, butterflies, exotic birds, they all roam freely, creating a living postcard everywhere you turn.
The dangerous animals, like the black panther, lions, and tigers, are kept far away on a rock-like mountain surrounded by a deep empty moat and fences. So you get to see them safely while still feeling that wild jungle energy.
But my favorite moment was the butterfly pavilion. It’s home to countless species, with a net stretched high above so they stay inside. They fly all around you, sometimes landing gently on your head or your hand. Soft piano music plays in the background, and for a moment, it feels like you’re floating in a dream, far from this world. It was so beautiful and surreal that I actually cried.
More to see
Meanwhile, as you walk around the park, you’re constantly bumping into mini shows and surprises. One minute you’re watching a Mariachi band performing live in traditional outfits, the next you stumble upon a horse-riding show with mexican cowboys doing tricks . And don’t be surprised if someone in a giant feathered costume appears next to you, fully committed to ancient Mayan fashion.
And just when you think you’ve seen it all, Xcaret surprises you again. The park has a church, a folk art museum, an aquarium, and of course, souvenir shops everywhere
Honestly, they’ve thought of everything for everyone. Whether you want culture, nature, thrills, food, relaxation, or retail therapy, you’ll find it there. You can spend the whole day discovering new things and still feel like you missed a few.
The Night Show
Finally, the moment we were really excited about: the night show.
And let me tell you, it didn’t just meet our expectations, it completely blew them away.
You might think it’s just a typical tourist show, something light to end the day. Oh no. This was art. Emotion. History. Beauty.
It was done with so much passion and precision, you could feel it in your chest.
They took us on a powerful journey through Mexico’s history, from the ancient Mayan civilization, including the famous ball game (yes, we finally saw how they actually play with their hips!), all the way through the Spanish conquest, colonial times, and the fight for freedom.
It wasn’t just a performance, it was a tribute.
A celebration.
A cultural hug with lights, music, fire, and heart.
Made to perfection. I honestly can’t say more. You just have to be there to feel it.
Xcaret is not just a park, it’s a whole world packed into one magical place.
Believe me, when it’s time to leave, you feel a little sad, like you’re saying goodbye to a dream.
But at the same time, you feel grateful, fulfilled, and lucky to have experienced something so special.
Activities
Our hotel wasn’t just about lounging by the pool and dodging crocodiles, it actually had a great list of activities to keep you busy.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving in Cozumel
Scuba diving was also available for the brave ones, like my husband (yes, they have sharks). Not only do you get access to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, but this region is also famous for its underwater cenotes: crystal-clear freshwater caves and tunnels you can actually dive through.
We went snorkeling right off the beach during a trip to Cozumel, and it was unforgettable. The reef was vibrant, full of colorful fish, and the water was so clear you could see everything. There was just enough current to keep you aware that nature is in charge. Cozumel, being part of the reef system, offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the region, places like Palancar and Columbia reefs are world-renowned for a reason.
The Riviera Maya is home to part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, also known as the Great Mayan Reef , the second-largest coral reef system in the world, right after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It stretches over 1,000 kilometers, offering endless underwater adventures for both beginners and experienced divers.
Catamaran
One of our nice daytime adventures was the catamaran cruise, no sharks, no stress, just pure Caribbean vibes.
We spent a few sunny hours out on the water, gliding across the turquoise sea with music playing, drinks flowing, and nothing to do but relax. There was music, dancing and laughter.
Romantic Dinner on a Boat
I was over the moon, finally, a romantic sunset dinner on a boat. We departed from La Destilería in Cancun,a beautiful restaurant known for its Mexican food, and apparently, for throwing women like me into emotional chaos.
The dock looked like half-broken wooden planks wobbling under my heels. A lady greeted us with a bright smile and walked us to our yacht. She pointed down and said, “Look under your feet, crocodile!” And there it was. A real, living crocodile, chilling like it booked the yacht before we did. My soul left my body.
I stared at her, frozen. “But, isn’t this the sea?” I asked. And she just, smiled like we were talking about the weather: “Yes, but there are crocodiles in salty water too.”I looked at my husband and thought, Maybe he’s taking me on a romantic dinner on a marécage or some crocodile river, because he’s never done anything properly, the man is a killer of romance, I swear.
After a while, I started to relax. I let myself sink into the views and the fresh air. Then came the moment of pure happiness, when I saw the table I forgot about everything. It’s true what they say: food can make you happy. And that lobster absolutely did. Oh my God. The best I’ve ever had. Every time I eat lobster now, I say, “Hmm… this isn’t like the one in Mexico.” I think it’s the water temperature, the warm Caribbean sea must’ve made that lobster live its best life before becoming mine. Not like the stiff ones we get in Canada.
When we arrived, I was carefully watching my step, making sure I didn’t slip and become the crocodile’s idea of a romantic dinner, me and my delicious lobster. I’ll always remember that romantic dinner, with a crocodile, and a killer of romance.
Night Show
When it came to evening entertainment, you had two options: either stay at the hotel for the “night show” or head into Cancun for a livelier nightlife scene. Honestly, our hotel didn’t offer too much excitement. One night, we had karaoke, which was fun if you were brave (or had enough tequila). Another evening was a “Mexican Night,” with traditional food and live music, which was nice but nothing spectacular.
Crash a Wedding
One night, there was a wedding on the beach in our hotel. We weren’t guests, but the music was amazing, and we ended up dancing under a beach umbrella, not too far from the celebration. It was dark, the air was warm, and the vibe was just too good to resist. My husband went to get us some drinks, and suddenly Mambo No. 5 came on. I lost all control, I was dancing like a crazy person, totally in the moment.
Then out of nowhere, someone pulled my hand. It was a woman in a gorgeous dress, clearly part of the wedding party. She smiled and invited me to come join them. I was so shy! I smiled back and said, “I’ll wait for my husband” and never moved. Deep down, we were both a little scared we’d end up on the news the next day: “Random Couple Crashes Beach Wedding in Cancun, Seen Dancing Near Umbrellas.”
Best Tips For Your Visit to Riviera Maya
Look for Vacation Packages
We booked with WestJet Vacations, which included flights, hotel, shuttle, and even local tours, all in one.
Packages can save money and simplify planning. You can visit Westjet packages here. You can also check our hotel here.Choose Your Location Wisely
Cancun for nightlife and action; Riviera Maya for relaxation and nature.Choose the Right Season: Watch Out for Storms
Hurricane and storm season runs roughly from June to November.
We woke up on our first night to a terrifying storm with palm trees bending like they’d uproot and waves so high I feared a tsunami. Plan your visit during the dry season (December to April) for calmer, sunnier days.Beach Cleanliness Varies. Don’t Expect Perfect Everywhere
Some hotel beaches and marinas may not be very clean (water).
We only enjoyed swimming at Tulum, where the water and beaches were cleaner and more inviting.Bring Cash for Tips
Tips are expected everywhere; small bills are your best friend.Avoid Timeshare Presentations
They waste time, stress you out, and can pressure you into spending money.Eat the Lobster
The warm Caribbean lobster tastes way better than cold-water ones. Don’t miss it!Try Real Mexican Food
Go beyond tacos: try cochinita pibil, mole, ceviche, and more delicatesse.Nightlife: Hotel vs Town
Hotel events are often slow; for real fun, head into Cancun or Playa del Carmen.Visit Xcaret
A must-do for nature, culture, and an unforgettable night show.Try the Red Beans at Breakfast
Don’t judge by looks, they’re delicious!Rent a Car and Explore Yourself
Discover cenotes, Tulum, and more at your own pace. Tours aren’t always necessary.Compare Tour vs DIY Costs
Sometimes tours with food and transport are worth it; other times, saving money by going solo is better.Book Tours and Rentals Through Your Hotel
It’s safer, more reliable, and offers peace of mind.Pack Smart
Sunscreen, bug spray, hat, flip-flops, and light layers for cooler evenings.Don’t Drink Tap Water
Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid tummy trouble.
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