Featured Gay Friendly Hotels in Riviera Maya

Gay Riviera Maya

The area of Riviera Maya, also known as the Mayan Riviera, lies in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. The official Riviera Maya area starts 10 miles south of Cancun and includes the beach towns of Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal and Tulum. Tulum was an original resort town for Mayan kings, where they rested and seriously worshiped the sun. The town is dotted with Mayan ruins, many right on the beach, which provides a unique contrast from the ruins further inland.

This 75-mile strip of the Yucatan Peninsula is often lauded as the most beautiful part of Mexico, and with perfect weather, soft white sand beaches, and sparkling clear water, it’s easy to get lost in this Mexican paradise. It's also easier to swim here: the island of Cozumel blocks much of the pounding Gulf surf, calming things down nicely!

Most visitors fly into the international airport in Cancun to come to the Riviera. From there, it’s about a 45-minute drive to Playa. That translates to a roughly $40 taxi ride or an adventure on the much cheaper public bus system. In the small towns like Tulum and Playa, there’s no need for a car, as it’s much easier to walk than drive.

Gay Scene in Riviera Maya

Many gays and lesbians in Mexico have started seeing Playa del Carmen as a sophisticated alternative to super-gay Puerto Vallarta and tourist-filled Cancun. Only a one-hour ferry ride from Cozumel, the town used to be seen as a stop along the way back to Cancun, but has now come into its own as a worthy destination. Playa del Carmen has a thriving community of LGBTQ locals and the frequent visitors from Europe and North America have made the town a happening spot that's both welcoming and fun.

A Playa del Carmen Pride festival is held each year in June, and features pride parties, parades, and events attracting tourists from around the world. There are occasional circuit parties and special events hosted irregularly by some of the more welcoming hotels and resorts in Riviera Maya.

When to Visit

Peak tourist season is the end-of-year holidays in December through March as tourists flock to warmer weather and sunny beaches. June through November brings warm afternoon rains and occasional hurricanes. 

Gay-Friendly Activities & Attractions

Since the Riviera Maya hosts many European travelers, the vibe is much more different than Cancun. Most beaches are top-optional, and English is not the only other language you will hear. There is a lot to do in the Riviera Maya for travelers interested in exploring the local environment and culture.

Mamitas Beach

Mamitas Beach is the most popular beach among the LGBTQ crowd in Playa del Carmen. Just past the Mamitas Beach Club, you’ll find a sandy stretch popular among both locals and tourists. Sundays tend to be the busiest, so plan accordingly.

Chichén Itzá

This world-famous site of Mayan ruins is one the main reasons people visit the Yucatan Peninsula, but it can take some planning to make the trip from the Riviera. Book a tour ahead of time, rent a car to drive on your own or fly into the Chichén Itzá International Airport to save time. There are plenty of other smaller ruins nearby for travelers looking to go off the beaten path.

Eco Parks

The Riviera Maya has a number of popular eco parks for visitors looking for a nature escape. Kantun-Chi features breathtaking views, underground swimming opportunities and a tasty menu at their on-site restaurant. Just north of Kantun-Chi, Xcaret is a waterfront eco-tourism resort with caves to explore, fantastic snorkeling, nighttime shows and plenty of quiet places to relax.

Gay-Friendly Dining

The stunning Playa del Carmen has all the brilliance of its neighbor Cancun up north, but without the hordes of tourists. The main drag in Playa de Carmen is Quinta Avenida, which is a colorful, mostly pedestrian zone that fills every evening with people patronizing the many venues that line the avenue. 

La Cueva del Chango

This unique restaurant bar serves Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh, natural ingredients. Al fresco dining in a natural setting makes this a great place for groups, singles and casual couples. Grab a healthy and delicious Mexican breakfast with fresh fruit juice, or start out your evening with dinner and drinks at this affordable spot.

Aldea Corazón

Aldea Corazón is a hidden Playa del Carmen gem serving mouth-watering Mexican cuisine. Enjoy a margarita in their jungle garden atmosphere or start out your day with a Mexican coffee and huevos rancheros.

Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife in Riviera Maya

Playa del Carmen is considered one of the most welcoming towns in Mexico thanks to a highly developed, international tourism industry. Most bars and clubs you'll find are friendly to gay, lesbian and straight crowds alike.

Club 69

The most well-known gay club in the Riviera, Club 69 is located right off of 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen. Pay a small cover charge for entry to a club with live DJs, dancers and affordable drinks. The place doesn’t get busy until after midnight, so warm up with a late dinner or cocktails at one of the venues nearby.

Coco Bongo

This Las Vegas-style show and nightclub performs in Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Punta Cana. This venue tends to host significantly more tourists than locals, and can be a great place for gay travelers to meet people.

Coralina Daylight Club

This day-club becomes an all-day, Ibiza-style party complete with DJs, private tents with champagne buckets, and beach lounging. This crowd tends to be in the 20s to 40s range and dons their hottest beach attire.

Safety

Playa del Carmen is considered to be a very safe destination for tourists. Just be alert and aware, keep your belongings on you if lounging by the pool, and don't wander around late at night if you're drunk. LGBTQ travelers appreciate the welcoming attitude at the many hotels and resorts in the Riviera Maya.

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