← Back to The Leaf Playacar

Day trips & experiences

More day activities to consider.

Beyond golf, ruins, and Fifth Avenue — the Riviera Maya offers cenotes, islands, biosphere reserves, and unhurried coastal rituals worth planning into your stay.

Cenote Azul

~25 min drive

An open-air cenote of turquoise pools and limestone cliffs — swim, cliff-jump, and picnic in the jungle south of Playa.

Rio Secreto

Half day

An underground river of stalactites and turquoise pools — guided swims through a hidden cave system.

Xel-Há

Full day

A natural aquarium where river meets sea — snorkel, float, and explore trails through lagoon and jungle.

Isla Mujeres

Full day

A slower island pace north of Cancún — golf carts, white sand, and reef snorkeling from the ferry.

Bacalar

~3 hr drive · overnight optional

The Lagoon of Seven Colors — kayak, swim, and unwind on one of Mexico's most breathtaking freshwater lakes.

Puerto Aventuras Boat Tours & Fishing

~15 min drive

Charter a boat from the marina next door — reef snorkeling, coastal cruises, and deep-sea fishing on the Caribbean.

Akumal & Turtle Bay

~30 min drive

Snorkel beside sea turtles in calm bay waters — a gentle half-day escape south along the coast.

Sian Ka'an Biosphere

Full day recommended

UNESCO-protected lagoon, mangrove channels, and wildlife — one of the Yucatán's most pristine natural reserves.

Cobá Archaeological Site

~1.5 hr drive

Climb Nohoch Mul among jungle-shrouded temples — a quieter alternative to the busier ruin sites.

Beach Club Day Passes

Flexible timing

Reserve a lounger, lunch, and Caribbean water at Playa's celebrated beach clubs — effortless coastal luxury.

Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Evening · ~3 hrs

Sail the coast at golden hour with open bar and snorkel stops — a classic Riviera Maya evening ritual.

Mexican Cooking Class

Half day

Learn regional techniques and market-fresh ingredients — a hands-on taste of Yucatecan and coastal cuisine.

Spa & Wellness Rituals

On request

Temazcal ceremonies, massage, and hydrotherapy at Playacar's resort spas — restoration between adventures.