A vast stretch of prime coastal land south of Cancun in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Riviera Maya is a more low-key alternative to Cancun’s unbridled exuberance and dense crowds.
Here you’ll find the gay-friendly beach paradises of Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Puerto Morelos, among others.
Properties in this stretch tend to cater to discerning travelers looking for the best of the best in terms of amenities, and most incorporate the region’s exotic landscape, including lush tropical foliage, striking white sand, and the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
LGBT travelers looking for the quintessential tropical beach experience won’t go wrong by zeroing in on this destination, which boasts ancient ruins, secluded beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving spots, awe-inspiring cenotes, and to-die-for spas.
Ready to jet off to Cancun, but need somewhere to stay?
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The 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. It has now come into its own as a worthy destination.
The stunning Playa del Carmen has all the brilliance of its neighbor 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.
Gay-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Since the Riviera Maya hosts many European travelers, the vibe is much 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.
The Yucatan Times Newsroom with information from https://www.gaytravel.com
