The Riviera Maya reaches mid-October with good news for beach-and-culture travelers: international recognition, festivals on the way and a calm low season.

What's making news this week

According to the Readers' Choice Awards 2026, Tulum placed second among the best beaches in the Americas, with Playa del Carmen at 11th and Akumal at 13th. Ahead of Day of the Dead, Xcaret celebrates the 20th edition of its Festival of Life and Death from October 30 to November 2; in Playa del Carmen Janal Pixán opens October 31 at Plaza 28 de Julio, and in Tulum there's a parade, an altar contest and the Paseo de las Ánimas. Mayakoba is also preparing a Day of the Dead night with music and food on October 30. (It's worth confirming dates with each organizer.)

Must-do activities

  • Kaan Luum Lagoon — a lagoon in shades of turquoise and deep blue near Tulum, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
  • Cenote Cristalino — a clear-water cenote between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Aventuras, perfect for snorkeling.
  • Chemuyil Beach — a quiet white-sand cove near Akumal that rarely gets crowded.
  • Janal Pixán in Playa del Carmen — an opening ceremony on October 31 with Papantla flyers, folk dance and mariachi.
  • Paseo de las Ánimas, Tulum — a Day of the Dead walk with altars and a theater piece during the festive weekend.

Best spots to visit

With Tulum on the podium of the Americas' best beaches, it's worth visiting its seaside ruins early in the morning, when it's cooler and quieter, and then heading down to the beach beside the archaeological site for a swim in turquoise water.

Where to stay: the top-rated hotels

  • Viceroy Riviera Maya — adults-only luxury in the jungle by the sea, with villas and private pools.
  • Bahia Principe Grand Tulum — family all-inclusive near Akumal, with access to turtle bay.
  • Iberostar Selection Paraíso Maya — all-inclusive with tropical gardens and several pools.
  • Kimpton Aluma Tulum Resort — modern design and a boutique feel on the Riviera Maya.
  • Esencia Hotel & Villas — an exclusive retreat in Xpu-Ha, hacienda style by the sea.

Where to eat

In Tulum, Posada Margherita is a well-loved seaside Italian spot and Kitchen Table serves creative cooking with local ingredients; in Playa del Carmen, Fifth Avenue and its side streets are full of taquerías and cafés for every budget.