It’s no wonder that Mexico is one of America’s top vacation destinations — endless sunshine, sublime beaches, and it’s nearby. Mexico’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts have amazing scenery, archeological sites and exciting activities, but how do you choose the right spot to spend those precious vacation days? When you think of dreamy beach destinations south of the border, the brilliant white sands of Tulum may come to mind. But over on the west coast, the laid-back shores of Riviera Nayarit have been making waves as the up-and-coming hotpot for intrepid travelers.
So which beach destination is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at Tulum vs. Riviera Nayarit.
Tulum: Mayan ruins, crystal clear waters and lush jungle
Location: East Coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, overlooking the Caribbean Sea
Getting There: No flights to Tulum; fly into the Cancun International Airport, which is a 2-hour drive
Beaches: The white sand beaches of Tulum are Instagram worthy, and the seas are typically calm and safe for swimming
Accommodations: This area is renowned for its all-inclusive beach resorts, luxury condo rentals and lodging with family-friendly amenities. You’ll find accommodations to fit just about every budget.
Primary Attraction: The ancient Maya city of Tulum, one of the best-preserved sites and most beautiful. The ruins are easy to navigate and present numerous photo-ops thanks to its unique setting atop limestone cliffs looking out over crashing surf.
Coolest Activity: Swimming, diving or snorkeling in the cenotes – natural sink holes that are either open like lakes or completely underground, and some even boast ziplines!
Popular things to do: Swimming, stand up paddle boarding, relaxing on the beach, shopping for artisanal goods, catamaran rides, snorkeling, riding bicycles or visiting the Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, one of the area’s top eco-tourism destinations, home to monkeys, crocodiles, pumas and coatimundi
Atmosphere: Tulum is very family-friendly and has a relaxed vibe. Some describe this Mexican hotspot as a “hippie haven.” There are health retreats, yoga and meditation classes and other holistic offerings.
Riviera Nayarit: Rugged backdrops, juicy waves and fewer crowds
Location: West Coast of Mexico, a 200-mile swath that stretches from San Blas to Nuevo Vallarta
Getting There: Fly into the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, which has many options for direct flights from U.S. hubs
Beaches: You’ll find both white and golden sands, warm waters and rugged backdrops depending on which hamlet you visit. Some towns like Sayulita are known for wilder waves, making this a popular surfer destination. Within the blue curves of Banderas Bay, there are family beaches, great swimming beaches and others flanked with chic bars and eateries.
Accommodations: There are nearly two dozen towns in the state of Riviera Nayarit. Some feature world-class hotels, luxury all-inclusive resorts and lavish rental properties while others have a handful of modest lodging options.
Primary Attraction: Nayarit is a multicultural and multiethnic state that attracts surfers, golfers, beach lovers, history buffs and nature aficionados. Many visitors praise the Old World charms of San Blas — a sleepy town that is packed with colonial architecture, lush palms, and extensive mangrove forests.
Coolest Activity: Take a boat trip to Hidden Beach (also known as Lover’s Beach) on the beautiful Marietas Islands where you can snorkel in clear aqua waters.
Popular things to do: Surfing and paddle boarding are the main draws of Sayulita. Recreational activities abound in this vast state. There are wellness spas and championship golf courses. You can go whale watching, sea kayaking, learn about sea turtle conservation or take a wine tasting tour.
Atmosphere: Whether you’re visiting San Pancho, Punta de Mita or Bucerias, you’ll find the ambiance of Riviera Nayarit to be laid-back and friendly. This destination is still under the tourist radar (for the most part) and is recommended if you want to avoid heavy crowds.
More Resources on Tulum & Riviera Nayarit Travel Highlights:
- BeMyTravelMuse, 7 Amazing Things to do in Tulum, Mexico https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/things-to-do-in-tulum/
- GQ, Go to Riviera Nayarit, Mexico’s Lesser-Known Beach Haven https://www.gq.com/story/riviera-nayarit-travel-guide
- AnnaEverywhere, Ultimate Guide to Tulum Mexico http://annaeverywhere.com/tulum-mexico-travel-guide/#09
- Barefoot Nomad, What To Do In The Riviera Nayarit – 23 Reasons You’ll Love It Here http://www.thebarefootnomad.com/mexico/what-to-do-in-the-riviera-nayarit-23-reasons-youll-love-it-here/
