Your Guide For Things to Do in Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya

Are you looking for things to do in Puerto Aventuras? This guide takes you through some of the best daytime activities in and around Puerto Aventuras, with a focus on relaxed adventures, nature-based outings, and places that give you space to truly enjoy your time together.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple looking for quiet moments or a family seeking outdoor adventures, Puerto Aventuras serves as an ideal base. Within minutes, you can reach calm beaches, protected lagoons, hidden cenotes, and eco-parks that offer activities for all ages. The beauty of staying here is that you can explore during the day, then return to a peaceful evening by the marina.

Where Is Puerto Aventuras?

Puerto Aventuras can be found along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, a peaceful region that blends coastal vibes with easy access to some of the area's most incredible natural wonders. Unlike busier spots in Mexico, this marina town has a slower pace, making it perfect for travelers who want to unwind while still having plenty to see and do. From swimming with sea turtles to exploring lush jungles, you’ll find a mix of experiences here that bring you closer to nature without the nightlife crowds.

Explore the Beaches & Bays of Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras’ shoreline is more than just a spot to lay your towel. Each beach has its own pace, personality, and scenery. From calm stretches perfect for a morning swim to lively spots where you can snorkel straight from the shore, there's a beach for every kind of day. If you'd like to find which ones are worth adding to your itinerary, check out our guide to the best beaches in Puerto Aventuras.

Fatima Bay in Puerto Aventuras

This long, gentle curve of beach is the heart of Puerto Aventuras. The water stays relatively calm, making it a good spot for families with children who want to splash around without strong waves. The sand is soft enough for barefoot walks, and you’ll find shaded areas for when the midday sun gets strong. Mornings are especially peaceful here, perfect for couples looking to start the day with a stroll along the shoreline or families who want to enjoy a peaceful day in the sun.

Chan Yu Yum Beach

Do you prefer a quieter stretch of sand? You can head north to Chan Yu Yum. It’s less developed, with fewer people and a more natural feel. You won’t find a row of beach bars here, but you will get a sense of seclusion that’s rare in popular coastal towns. This is a great spot for reading, a light picnic, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves while you connect with the vibrant Riviera Maya region.

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Visit Akumal Nature Rescue

If you don’t mind a short drive from Puerto Aventuras, Akumal Natura Rescue is a rewarding stop where you can see rescued wildlife being cared for in a natural setting. This non-profit sanctuary provides a safe home for animals that have been injured, orphaned, or taken from the illegal pet trade. Here, monkeys, macaws, snakes, and other native species are given a second chance to live healthy lives.

Guided tours take you through the lush jungle reserve, where you’ll learn about each animal’s story and how the team works to rehabilitate and, when possible, release them back into the wild. Many visitors appreciate that this is not a zoo, so interactions are respectful and focused on education.

Cool Off in the Cenote at Akumal Natura Rescue

The Akumal Natura Rescue also features a beautiful natural cenote where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim after the tour. It’s a peaceful spot surrounded by trees and wildlife, making it a perfect way to end your visit. The experience here feels authentic and personaland far less commercial than other animal attractions in the area. It’s also more affordable and focused on genuine rescue and rehabilitation work.

Quick tips for visiting:

  • Bring a reusable water bottle; shaded rest stops are available.
  • Wear comfortable shoes — the tour involves walking on uneven ground.
  • Book your tickets ahead of time online, especially in peak travel months.

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Snorkeling in Akumal

Akumal, which means “Place of the Turtles” in Mayan, is famous for its resident sea turtles that graze on the seagrass just offshore. The town’s main beach, Akumal Bay, is one of the most reliable places along the Riviera Maya to see them in their natural environment.

For first-time visitors, joining a guided snorkeling tour is the simplest way to make the most of your time. Guides know the best spots to see turtles, rays, and colorful reef fish, and they can help you navigate the swimming areas safely. If you prefer to go at your own pace, you can rent equipment from one of the local shops, just be sure to stay within designated swimming zones to protect the seagrass beds.

What to bring for snorkeling:

  • Water shoes or fins to make swimming easier.
  • A rash guard or swim shirt for extra sun protection.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen is often banned to protect marine life).

Day Trips to Eco & Adventure Parks

Puerto Aventuras is perfectly placed for quick access to some of the Riviera Maya’s best eco-parks. Each offers a different mix of nature, activities, and cultural experiences, so you can choose based on your group’s energy level and interests.

Xplor Park

Xplor is built for active days. It features the region’s tallest zip lines, underground river swims, and amphibious vehicles that drive through jungle trails and flooded caves. It’s ideal for couples or families with older kids who can handle a full day of physical activity. Most attractions are included in the ticket price, and buffet-style dining is available on-site.

Xcaret Park

Xcaret blends eco-adventures with cultural experiences. You can float through underground rivers, visit a coral reef aquarium, and walk through a butterfly pavilion. In the afternoon, there are live performances highlighting traditional music, dance, and history. It’s a good all-round choice for groups who want both nature and cultural elements in one place.

Xel-Há

Xel-Há is a natural water park centered around a large, open lagoon. It’s known for its snorkeling, cliff jumps, and nature trails. The current from the river into the lagoon makes for a gentle drift-snorkeling experience that’s fun for most ages. It’s a slower-paced alternative to Xplor, but still active enough to keep adventurous travelers happy.

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Paddleboarding & Kayaking

Puerto Aventuras’ calm marina and sheltered coastline make it a natural spot for paddleboarding and kayaking. You don’t need to be an expert, rental shops will set you up with equipment and give you a quick safety rundown before you head out.

Early mornings are best for glassy water and a quieter atmosphere. You can paddle through the marina’s winding channels, spotting fish and seabirds along the way, or head out toward the open bay for a more scenic route. Couples often enjoy sharing a tandem kayak, while families might rent multiple boards so everyone can explore at their own pace.

Quick tips for paddling:

  • Keep valuables in a dry bag or leave them at your hotel.
  • Wear a hat and bring water because there’s little shade on the water.
  • If you’re new to paddleboarding, kneel for the first few minutes until you find your balance.

Cenote Adventures Near Puerto Aventuras

The Riviera Maya’s cenotes — natural freshwater sinkholes — are some of the most memorable swimming spots in the region. Within a short drive of Puerto Aventuras, you’ll find several that are easy to visit in a single morning or afternoon. If you want a more detailed look at the cenotes near Puerto Aventuras, you can check out our guide to the best cenotes in the Riviera Maya.

Cenote Azul

A favorite for families, Cenote Azul has shallow pools for younger swimmers and deeper areas for those who want to jump in. The water is crystal clear, and there are shaded rocks along the edges where you can relax between swims.

Cenote Cristalino

Just down the road from Azul, Cenote Cristalino offers calm, open water surrounded by greenery. It’s smaller and less busy than some other cenotes, which makes it a peaceful choice for couples.

Jardin del Eden

Known for its larger swimming area and dramatic rock formations, Jardin del Eden feels more like a natural swimming pool than a cave. There’s plenty of space to snorkel, float, or just take in the view.

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Tips for a Relaxing Stay in Puerto Aventuras

Puerto Aventuras is small, walkable, and easy to find your way around, making it a great place to explore without feeling rushed. The best time to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are cooler and humidity is low, though May to September brings warmer weather and fewer crowds.

How to Get Around Puerto Aventuras Safely

Moving around is super reasy, you can rent bikes for quick trips to the marina or nearby beaches, stroll between most attractions in under 15 minutes, or hop on a colectivo to reach spots like Akumal, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum at a fraction of taxi prices. Don't forget, most taxis in Puerto Aventuras don't have a fixed price, so be sure to check with the driver before you get in the car.

Where to Eat in Puerto Aventuras

When it comes to daytime dining, the marina is dotted with small cafés that serve fresh breakfasts and light lunches. Many restaurants have shaded outdoor seating, perfect for lingering over a meal while watching boats drift in and out. Whether you’re heading out for an excursion or returning from a morning swim, these casual spots make it easy to enjoy good food without straying far from the water.

3-Day Nature-Focused Itinerary

Start your trip with a day dedicated to the ocean. Spend the morning snorkeling in Akumal Bay, where sea turtles and tropical fish are often just a few meters from shore. In the afternoon, cool off at Yal-Ku Lagoon, a calm, sheltered spot ideal for drifting between colorful fish schools. Wrap up the day back in Puerto Aventuras with a relaxed dinner at one of the marina’s waterfront restaurants, letting the slower pace set the tone for your stay.

On day two, explore the natural parks that make this region so unique. Xplor offers underground rivers, lush jungle trails, and gentle zip lines that balance adventure with nature immersion. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit the Akumal Nature Rescue to learn about wildlife rescue efforts and get up close to its furry residents. On your final day, head to Cenote Azul or Cenote Cristalino for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear water before strolling the marina for last-minute souvenirs. This mix of ocean, jungle, and fresh water leaves you with a well-rounded taste of Puerto Aventuras’ natural side.

Final Takeaway

Puerto Aventuras is one of those rare destinations where you can fill your days with outdoor experiences without feeling like you’re in a rush. From quiet beaches to wildlife encounters and natural swimming spots, there’s plenty here for couples and families who want a softer pace to their time in the Riviera.

Are You Ready to Arrive In Puerto Aventuras?

If you’re unsure where to stay, how to book activities in Puerto Aventuras, or just want someone else to handle the planning, get in touch with us. We can arrange your accommodation, experiences, and even private charters before you arrive. We can start with one or two activities from this list and build your days around them, or find you something completely different. The beauty of Puerto Aventuras is that no matter what you choose, you’re never far from nature, water, and a little bit of Riviera Maya magic.

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Plan Your Trip Today

Looking for the perfect place to stay right here in Puerto Aventuras? Maybe you want to organize a day on the ocean but don’t know where to start. You can message Puerto Aventuras Resort, and we’ll happily arrange your accommodation, activities, and even private charters before you arrive. Send us an email today.

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