The beautiful coastline of Playa del Carmen shines brightest when explored by paddle. The best tours combine kayaking with cenote adventures and cultural experiences.
I’m especially fond of the private cenote tours that pair jungle paddling with zip-lining – they offer great value and avoid the tourist crowds. The sunrise paddle along Riviera Maya ranks as another favorite, letting you experience the coastline at its most peaceful hour.
For families and first-timers, the Holbox Island lagoon excursion provides calm waters and expert guides. The Mayan village combination tour, complete with authentic local lunch, offers the richest culture while still enjoying time on the water.
Check out these outstanding paddle tours around Playa del Carmen:
Key Points
- Holbox Island day trip featuring a kayak tour to explore lagoons and mangrove forests, with diverse wildlife observation and a delicious lunch.
- Sunrise paddle surf experience offering scenic paddling along the coast with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and personalized instruction.
- Paddle and snorkel in a cenote (natural sinkhole) in Riviera Maya, including paddleboarding, snorkeling, equipment, lunch, and transportation.
- Private Tulum-area tour with customizable itinerary for snorkeling, canoeing, zip-lining, and cenote swimming, with professional guide and homemade buffet lunch.
- Eco-friendly kayak and canoe experiences in Playa Del Carmen, suitable for nature enthusiasts and providing opportunities to observe diverse wildlife.
4 Private Cenotes, Zip-Lines, Canoes & Mayan Village With Delicious Lunch
On this private excursion in the Riviera Maya, travelers can enjoy a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. The tour offers a customizable itinerary that features a range of activities, including snorkeling, canoeing, zip-lining, and swimming in secluded cenotes.
The excursion takes place in the Tulum area, and with 609 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, it’s clear that this is a top-notch experience.
Guests will enjoy private transportation to and from various locations, as well as a homemade buffet lunch in a Mayan village. All activities, snorkeling equipment, and the services of a professional guide and driver are included.
Plus, the tour covers local taxes, national park fees, and gratuities. With a starting price of $275 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this excursion offers excellent value and flexibility.
Reviewers have consistently praised the knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful guides, as well as the unique and delicious lunch experience.
Read our full review: 4 Private Cenotes, Zip-Lines, Canoes & Mayan Village With Delicious Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Holbox Island: Day Trip With Kayak Tour
Travelers visiting Playa del Carmen can embark on a captivating day trip to the picturesque Holbox Island, which features a serene kayak tour as a highlight.
The experience lasts 12 hours or more, with pickup service available. Priced at $112.62 per person, or $67.57 per person for groups, the tour allows visitors to explore Holbox’s stunning natural landscapes, including its tranquil lagoons and mangrove forests, by kayak.
With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 188 reviews, the tour provides an opportunity to observe the island’s diverse wildlife, such as birds and marine life, in their natural habitat.
The full-day tour also includes a delicious lunch, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for participants.
For those seeking an immersive and eco-friendly way to experience the Riviera Maya, the Holbox Island day trip with a kayak tour is a top-rated activity worth considering.
Read our full review: Holbox Island: Day Trip With Kayak Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunrise Paddle Surf
Commencing at the crack of dawn, the Sunrise Paddle Surf experience in Playa del Carmen promises an exhilarating start to the day.
Rated 5.0 by 36 travelers, this top-rated activity takes participants on a scenic paddle along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the sun rising over the Caribbean Sea.
The experience includes a paddle board lesson and guidance from a knowledgeable instructor.
With a maximum group size of 5 travelers, the activity ensures personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere.
Although not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant guests, the majority of travelers can participate in this adventure.
Priced at $39 per person, the Sunrise Paddle Surf is a non-refundable activity, with no cancellations allowed.
However, the confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the activity’s meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation in Playa del Carmen.
Read our full review: Sunrise Paddle Surf Review
Book now: Check availability
Paddle and Snorkel in Cenote – Riviera Maya
After the invigorating Sunrise Paddle Surf experience, travelers can embark on another captivating water adventure in the Riviera Maya – the Paddle and Snorkel in Cenote activity.
Offered by the Water Humans Project, this 4.4/5 rated excursion allows visitors to explore the stunning Cenote, a natural sinkhole filled with crystal-clear waters. Participants will enjoy paddleboarding and snorkeling while taking in the lush, tropical surroundings.
The experience includes all necessary equipment, a tasty lunch, and bottled water. Private transportation to the Cenote is provided, along with a knowledgeable guide.
With a maximum of 4 travelers, this intimate activity isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant individuals. Booking this Paddle and Snorkel in Cenote excursion is easy, with a confirmation received upon reservation and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
Travelers can even opt for a pickup service for an additional $5. This is an excellent opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya.
Read our full review: Paddle and Snorkel in Cenote – Riviera Maya Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
Playa del Carmen offers a variety of exhilarating water adventures. Visitors can explore private cenotes, glide through mangroves, and snorkel in tranquil cenotes. Whether seeking a thrilling zip-line experience or a peaceful sunrise paddle, there are options to satisfy every adventurer’s desires. With delicious local cuisine and immersive Mayan cultural experiences, these water-based activities provide a well-rounded visit to this picturesque coastal destination.