Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Puerto Morelos Beach

Beach #11 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Puerto Morelos Beach

The Riviera Maya is a stretch of 80 miles of pristine beaches located just a few miles south of the hustle and bustle of Cancun. This area attracts around 10 million visitors each year and offers luxurious hotels and resorts, as well as a number of theme parks, clubs, shopping malls, and other attractions.

Puerto Morelos is located about 10 miles south of Cancun and about 20 miles north of the beautiful Playa del Carmen and it is one of the best kept secrets and one of the top 25 beaches in the Riviera Maya. Walking on its square and around the town will let you feel the vibe of this small fishing village.

Puerto Morelos: General Information

If you want to stay away from the Cancun crowds, do not forget to visit Puerto Morelos! You can not only enjoy the quiet atmosphere, but also visit the Mesoamerican Reef; which is located only a few meters from the beach.

The main roads have a wide offering on small restaurants, cafes and boutiques; no huge chains or massive hotels. The locals and hotels in the area want to keep it that way, by having strict building restrictions and working together to preserve the little town feeling.

 photo Puerto Morelos 1_zpsxqkw23va.jpg

Puerto Morelos: Getting There

By Car:
From Cancun: Get the 307 Federal highway southbound (towards Tulum) and stay on this road for about 10 miles. Once you get to Puerto Morelos you need to take the exit and turn left under the overpass.

By Bus:
You can take the bus straight from the Cancun International Airport; the cost is around $6 USD for a one way ticket. This bus does not go to the town center, but it does go to the highway turnoff into town just 2 kilometers away from the square. From there you can grab a 20 peso taxi or a collectivo to the downtown beach area.

Puerto Morelos: Things To Do

Snorkeling:
Enjoy the beautiful Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest reef in the world. There is plenty of local providers offering tours just off the main plaza, for only $25 USD your get the boat ride and all the needed equipment.

Diving:
Enjoy all sorts of diving adventures: there is the reef, caverns and cenotes in the area; ideal for every level and age. Dive Shops are available directly in Puerto Morelos.

Sport Fishing:
The waters off the Puerto Morelos coast have a wide variety of marine species: Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Barracuda, Grouper, Snapper, Snook, Pompano, and more…

 photo Puerto Morelos 2_zpsdyenbqgk.jpg

Ruta de los Cenotes:
This is a wonderful way to visit many cenotes in a day for a reasonable price. Local run cenotes are open for visitors; enjoy the cool transparent water and the amazing caves, a life changing experience!

Alma Libre Bookstore:
Alma Libre is the Riviera Maya’s best English language new and used bookstore. In this book store you can find regional guide books and maps, as well as books about the indigenous culture, flora and fauna of the region.

Crococun:
This is ideal for families, a guided tour to learn more about crocodiles and other native species. Seeing the spider monkeys in the wild is amazing, the kids will love it!

We hope you enjoy your visit to Puerto Morelos and the beautiful beach. Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out our options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate is a local American-Owned company that specializes in helping foreigners become homeowners in Mexico. If you are looking for a second home or to retire in paradise, please feel free to contact any of our Top Buyers’ Representatives! Browse our beautiful properties; we are sure you will find your dream home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate

We make it happen!

The Fourth Annual Riviera Maya Film Festival

The fourth edition of the Riviera Maya Film Festival just wrapped up their event in Playa del Carmen, which was the host to the opening and closing ceremonies as well as several galas. The Riviera Maya Film Festival brings art, glamour and movie stars to this tropical paradise. This year Anton Yelchin, Ashley Green and Aaron Paul were in attendance. Over a hundred screening of national and International films were showed in the movie theaters, at the parks and on the gorgeous beaches in Playa del Carmen.

 photo RMFF Unico Beach_zps1qj5ycyq.png

The Riviera Maya Film Festival will continue its special touring program at in select city throughout the Riviera Maya from May 13th – June 6th. Here is a list of the venues and screens where you can enjoy the Film Festival.

Puerto Morelos May 13th -17th May

Location: Unico Beach Club
Address: Av. Javier Rojo Gomez SM2, Mz2, Lote 2 cp 77580

Wednesday May 13th
19:30   “Incomprendida” / “Misunderstood”  Dir. Asia Argento Time: 1hr. 43min.
21:30    “Los días no vuelven” / “Missed days” Dir. Raúl Cuesta (1hr. 14min.)

Thursday May 14th
19:30    “Ícaros” Dir. Pedro González Rubio (55min.)
21:00    “La Maldad” / “Evilness” Dir. Joshua Gil (1hr. 25 min.)

Friday May 15th
21:00    “Los muertos” / “The dead” Dir. Santiago Mohar Volkov (1hr. 28min.)

Saturday May 16th
19:30    “Alexfilm” Dir. Pablo Chavarría (1hr.)
21:00    “El regreso del muerto” / “The return of the dead man” Dir. Gustavo Gamou (1hr. 30min.)

Sunday May 17th
19:30    “La princesa de Francia” / “The princess of France” Dir. Matías Piñeiro (1hr. 7min.)
21:00    “Resultados” / “Results” Dir. Andrew Bujalski (1hr. 45min.)

Cancun May 20th -24th

Location: Park Los Palapas
Address: Calle Margaritas on the corner of Tulipanes in Centro

Wednesday May 20th
19:30    “Incomprendida” / “Misunderstood” Dir. Asia Argento (1hr. 43min.)
21:30    “Los días no vuelven” / “Missed days”  Dir Raúl Cuesta (1hr. 14min.)

Thursday May 21st
19:30    “Juanicas” Dir. Karina García Casanova (1hr. 18min.)
21:00    “Plan Sexenal” / “Sexennial plan” Dir Santiago Cendejas (1hr. 26min.)

Friday May 22nd
19:30    “Muchachas” Dir. Juliana Fanjul (1hr. 4min.)
21:00    “Memoria oculta” / “Hidden memory” Dir. Eva Villaseñor (1hr.)

Saturday May 23rd
19:30    “El señor de las tres caídas” / “Lord of the three falls” Dir. Roberto Olivares Ruiz (55min.)
21:00    “Noche de resurrecciones” / “Night of the resurrection” Dir Raúl Rico (1hr. 12min.)

Sunday May 24th
19:30    “A las escondidas” / “Hide and seek” Dir. Joanna Coates (1hr. 22min.)
21:10    “Resultados” / “Results” Dir. Andrew Bujalski (1hr. 45min.)

Isla Mujeres May 28th -30th

Location: Playa Posada del Mar
Address: Av Rueda Medina 15, Centro – Supmza. 001, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R.

Thursday May 28th
19:30    ***TBD***

Friday May 29th
19:30     “El silencio de la princesa” / “The silence of the princess” Dir. Manuel Caribe (1hr. 24min.)

Saturday May 30th
19:30    “Elvira, te daría mi vida pero la estoy usando” / “Elvira, I would give you my life but I’m using it” Dir. Manolo Caro (1hr. 34min.)

Tulum June 4th – 6th

Location: Papaya Playa Project
Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila km. 4.5

Thursday June 4th
19:30     “Incomprendida” / “Misunderstood” Dir. Asia Argento (1hr. 43min.)

Friday June 5th
19:30    “Resultados” / “Results” Dir. Andrew Bujalski (1hr. 45min.)

Saturday June 6th
19:30    “Elvira, te daría mi vida pero la estoy usando” / “Elvira, I would give you my life but I’m using it” Dir. Manolo Caro (1hr. 34min.)

 photo RMFF 2_zpsnjtrk8zz.jpg

Screenings on the beach, and especially on the beaches of the Riviera Maya, have a special charm and a magic to them. Great artistic films, soft white sandy beaches filled with colorful beach chairs, the Caribbean breeze and a star filled sky makes for one unforgettable night.

The Riviera Maya Film Festival wants their guests to enjoy the best films from around the world, as well as the welcoming tropical landscape, creating an unforgettable experience.

For more information about the Riviera Maya Film Festival please click here.

Shopping in Cancun & the Riviera Maya

If you are traveling to Cancun or the Riviera Maya, shopping might not cross your mind. However, this area has a wide variety of shopping centers and stores. As a rule of thumb the price for designer’s clothes and electronics are somewhat higher than in the United States, but you might find a great deal or some unique articles that cannot be found in America; liquors, cigars, etc.

Here at Top Mexico Real Estate we have made ​​a list of our favorite malls in Cancun and throughout the Riviera Maya. If you are looking for a souvenir, sporting goods or clothing; we are sure you will find it in the nearest mall.

Shopping in Cancun

There are several shopping malls in Cancun, offering everything one could possibly need. Some of them have movie theaters, casinos and supermarkets; however we are focusing in the ones closest to the beach, hotel and tourist area. Get a little shopping therapy in Cancun.

La Isla

Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 12.5, Cancun, Quintana Roo

This mall is located within the hotel zone, so it is pretty easy to find. This beautiful shopping center has a view of the Nichupte lagoon, waterways and open areas that allow you to enjoy the Caribbean breeze.

This is one of the most popular malls for visitors and locals alike, it is always packed on the weekends. Some of the stores that you can find here are: Liverpool, La Boutique Palacio, Ultrafemme, Zara, Benetton, Thai, Starbucks, Italianni’s, Massimo Dutti, among many others.

 photo Cancun Shopping 2_zpshpewx1yo.jpg

Luxury Avenue

Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13 Mza 53 Lote 8, Cancun, Quintana Roo

Bring your wallet and your credit cards, this shopping mall specializes in luxury brands and offers specialized services such as a concierge or shopping assistant. Luxury Avenue is located in the hotel zone, it offers a wide variety of luxury shops and elegant restaurants and offers Tax Free or Tax Back options, if you’re visiting from abroad.

This mall is for those who want the very best, it boasts shops by international designers such as: Fendi, Burberry, Coach, Tous, Mont Blanc, Cartier and Swarovski.  Visit their page to receive more information about their fashion shows and special offers.

 photo Cancun Shopping 3_zps1lagjgly.jpg

Shopping In Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has many shops offering everything from A to Z. In Playa you will find beautiful outdoor malls, shopping centers and the famous 5th avenue a pedestrian only street lined with shops, restaurants and bars.

Quinta Alegria

Location: 5th Ave. and Constituyentes Ave., Downtown, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

This mall is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of prestigious shops and restaurants. Located on 5th Avenue and Constituyentes avenue is easily accessible and its open plan lets you enjoy the Caribbean weather and the sea breeze.

Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at great shops like Nike, Levi’s, Bebe or Forever 21 or enjoy a delicious Starbucks coffee or a glass of wine with some tapas in La Europea Deli and Wine store.

La Quinta Alegria is the place to shop in Playa del Carmen!

Paseo del Carmen

10 & 1st Ave. south between 36 and 37, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

Conveniently located at the end of the 5th avenue near the ferry station, Paseo del Carmen is a traditional shopping place for locals and visitors alike. It is ideal to have alfresco meals and margaritas, stroll under the native trees and relax to the sound of the fountains.

Some of the shops that you’ll find in this mall are Zara, Pull and Bear, Oakley, Starbucks and many others. We are sure you will love this location!

 photo Cancun Shopping 1_zpsyjxkzvlt.png

Enjoy the Riviera Maya and Cancun real estate. Relax on the beach, take in some sights, eat at amazing cafes and restaurants, and go shopping. This area provides a plethora of luxury, souvenir, specialty and unique shops… sure to empty you wallet and fill your suitcases.

Laughs Had by All, the Akumal Comedy Festival

For the fourth consecutive year Akumal hosted the Akumal Comedy Festival. The event was started by Dan Schlissel founder of Stand Up! Records and Grammy award winning producer and the late Gus Lynch a former celebrity comedian and actor. They started the festival to showcase rising stand-up comedy stars outside of the U.S. as well as the people, restaurants, and businesses of the area.

The Akumal Comedy Festival, 10 show, 7 venues in three city’s over 5 days. All for a good cause.

 photo Comedy festival 1_zpsgt7chvsl.jpg

The Akumal Comedy Festival supports the Red Cross of Mexico. The Red Cross in Mexico different than in other countries, they operate without any financial assistance from the government. Each chapter is responsible for its own fundraising, and relies entirely on the generosity of donors and the dedication of their volunteers. They operate without charge, offering lifesaving medical treatment to anyone who needs it, and are a lifeline to many of the local poor communities.  All of the proceeds from the festival go to the Red Cross Playa del Carmen and Tulum chapters.

I happen to attend the Friday night show in Akumal Center at the Grateful Dead Stage. At the beginning of the show the host announced that they had already surpassed their fundraisers goal of 150,000 MXN, which was double last year’s efforts. He stated that before tonight show started the Akumal Comedy Festival had already raised 165,000 MXN and that they were only halfway through the festivals events.

The beautiful evening started out with a musical comedy duo. The couple set the stage for the evenings event, singing funny songs about their significant others, work and the area.

 photo Akumal Comedy Festival_zpsh99yapxj.jpg

The night was hosted by local Craig Norton. Craig was one of the founding members of Comedy Below Sea Level, a local comedy troop that keeps the community laughing year round. Craig, an expat from Canada joked about what it was like to live in Mexico and how different it is from Canada.

Next to take the stage was Colleen Doyle Justice. Colleen has a unique perspective on the ordinary. This was her first debut at the Akumal Comedy Festival. Colleen was a riot telling somewhat inappropriate jokes about her family. Justice also shared with the audience that her mother was worried about her traveling to “lawless Mexico” alone, making her text every day that she hadn’t been murdered yet. The other day she text her mother that she had been murdered. I know that you are thinking but don’t worry, later that day she text that she was only kidding.

The evening ended with headliner Tommy Ryman. Tommy was a semifinalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing and was very funny. Tommy a some-what needy gentlemen, told jokes about how he brought 19 bottle of 3oz. sunscreen (legal allowed by airport security) and how Mexico doesn’t need to sell oil, they have high priced sunscreen for sale. He also told the audience that he knows everything about being married because he has been married for two years now and if you need any advice he’s here to help.

 photo Comedy Festival_zpsiik7qppi.jpg

I evening was enjoyed by all. Everybody who attended had some laughs for a good cause.

If you missed the comedy festival this year don’t worry there is always next year. But if you are look for something to do this month remember the Riviera Maya film Festival starts this week April 23rd – 29th in Playa del Carmen. The Riviera Maya Film Festival is completely free, showing films in English and Spanish on gorgeous locations like the white sandy beaches, and in the movie theaters. Additional, there are several awards ceremonies during the week with Hollywood celebrity’s in attendance.

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Reef Beach

Beach #14 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: The Reef Beach

Many of the amazing resorts along the Riviera Maya have beautiful and breathtaking beaches. Unfortunately, although the beaches are public, accesses tend to be private, so it is hard to reach them unless you are a guest of the hotel. However, many of these big resorts want to give everyone – not just their guests – the beach resort experience they can offer.

That is why you will find day passes and night passes at most big resorts down the coast of the beautiful Mexican Caribbean. And The Reef Playacar is no exception. The Playacar neighborhood is located in the south end of Playa del Carmen and hosts some of the most beautiful beaches you can find in the Riviera Maya.

Because Playacar is a private community, you need to address that you are visiting The Reef Resort and that you are going for a Day Pass so they let you through. The Day Pass has a cost of $53 USD per person and gives you full access to the hotel’s facilities – including, but not limited to – the pool and beach club. Meals and drinks are included throughout the day (9am to 6pm). If you are looking to enjoy an experience worth hundreds of dollars for a much lower price, then The Reef Playacar Day Pass is the resort to go to.

 photo Reef Beach 1_zpsj4ula0sf.jpg

The Reef Beach: Getting There

As mentioned above, the Reef Beach is located within the private community of Playacar, which is located in the south end of Playa del Carmen. There are two entrances to Playacar; one on the Federal Highway 309, the other one is on 10th Avenue.

Driving: To reach the 10th Avenue entrance from Cancun, you need to take the Federal Highway 309 towards Playa del Carmen. Upon arriving in Playa del Carmen, you will pass the overpass bridge until reaching a stoplight where you will see Centro Maya to the right, and Sam’s Club to the left. At the stoplight make a U-turn and drive to the outside lanes. Take a right at the Holiday Inn hotel (Diagonal Aeropuerto Street) and drive down that road all the way until the end, where you will reach 10th Avenue South. Take a right; that is the entrance to Playacar. Once you have gone through security, drive straight for about 4 minutes and find The Reef Resort on your left.

If you want to reach the entrance on Federal Highway, drive past the stoplight and take the next U-turn. Incorporate into the outside lanes. You will find the entrance right before the Hospiten hospital.

Taking a Taxi: A taxi from Cancun will charge you around $800 mxn to drive you to Playacar, but there are other options to reaching the Reef Resort. If you are staying in another hotel in Playa del Carmen, they will charge you between $30 and $80 mxn – depending where you are at.

Public transportation:

Colectivos: If you are coming from the north, you need to take a colectivo heading to Tulum and have it drop you off at Centro Maya. Carefully cross the federal highway to the entrance of Playacar. If you are coming from the south, a colectivo towards Playa del Carmen will drop you right near Hospiten. There is no public transport within Playacar, so if you are taking a colectivo you will need to either walk, or take a taxi to reach your destination.

Buses:  There are no buses that drive you to Playacar, so this time, taking a bus will not be an option. The easiest way to reach is by taxi.

The Reef Beach: Things To Do

As with every big resort, The Reef Playacar, has an array of family-fun activities to offer. With your day pass you are allowed to make use of all the hotel’s facilities and activities (some with extra cost).

  • Swim in their amazing pools and enjoy the meals and drinks included the wonderful service.
  • Lay on the beach beds with a beer in hand enjoying the wonderful blue ocean.
  • Rent one of the activities offered such as kayaking, snorkeling, and more.
  • Walk around the hotel looking for their many activities: restaurants, aquatic sports, entertainment, pools, relaxing, and so on.
  • Enjoy a wonderful meal on the beach, or by the pool, already included in your day pass.
  • Once it is 6pm and you are ready to leave the hotel, you can enjoy Playacar’s shopping malls with souvenirs and cafés.

 photo Reef Beach 2_zpslzbdz1si.jpg

The Reef Beach: Recommendations

You will be in one of the high-end tourist destinations of Playa del Carmen. Things within Playacar (specially the resorts) are expensive. There isn’t a lack of services; you will find everything you need both inside and outside the resort. However, here are some recommendations:

  • Everywhere you go, always take money. Whether you are inside the hotel wanting to rent out an extra activity, or walking around Playacar wanting to take home a souvenir, you will need the extra cash.
  • Bring sunscreen! If you forget to bring sunscreen you will find yourself needing to purchase one within the hotel. That will not be cheap.
  • Although there are many activities to do within the hotel, bring a book, iPod, kindle, or whatnot. Laying by the pool for a couple of hours may result boring if you don’t have anything to entertain you.
  • Enjoy the food and drinks included in your day pass. You are paying $53 USD per person, make the most of it.

The most important thing, like we always say, is having fun and enjoying your day at the beach. The Riviera Maya is bathed with many beautiful white sand beaches, each special on its own – so go ahead and make the most of your day at the Reef Beach! And if you love it so much, you can always come back and make a reservation for a romantic dinner on the beach!

Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out our options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate is the number one website in real estate in the Riviera Maya and throughout Mexico. We help foreigners find the home of their dreams in the Mexican Caribbean. If you are looking to invest in a vacation, retirement, or full-time property, check out the options we have for you by browsing through our website or contacting one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. They will gladly walk you through the purchasing process and help you become a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen

Experiencias Xcaret: 6 Experiences, 6 Times the Fun

If you’ve ever been to or heard of the Riviera Maya, you have probably heard about Xcaret. It is one of the biggest ecofriendly touristic and natural parks in the area, attracting thousands upon thousands of tourists per year. Although some may consider it pricy, it is worth every penny you invest. The Xcaret family has expanded over the past 20 years and now has a total of six parks ranging from eco-natural parks, to adventure parks, to culture parks. There is something for everyone! Check out the list of Xcaret parks and their highlights:

  • Xcaret

Priced at approximately $129 USD (for the full package, including transportation), Xcaret is one of the most popular destinations in the Riviera Maya. The park offers a full days’ worth of fun water activities, learning opportunities, culinary experiences, and much more. You can swim down the underground rivers, visit the butterfly pavilion, visit the newborn macaws, the jaguar island (where you can spot jaguars and panthers), or just walk around the park exploring every corner of it. Churches, haciendas, restaurants, observation towers, archeological sites, and much more, make up the 200 acre space. Don’t forget to stay until the end to enjoy the amazing Mexico Espectacular show featuring live music, traditional folkloric dances and a journey through Mexico’s history.

 photo Xcaret_zps8xxfnwcf.jpg

  • Xel Ha

The aquatic-themed park is located approximately 120km south of Cancun. Also priced at $129 USD, this park offers less activities than Xcaret, but more food and drinks! With an unlimited buffet, beverages, and national open bar, you will enjoy a – literally- full day. You can swim down the river and into the cove while snorkeling and observing the beautiful life. Xel Ha, after all, claims being the biggest natural aquarium in the Riviera Maya. Amongst the many activities, you can also purchase swimming with dolphins, Sea Trek, amongst other fun extra activities.

  • Xplor

Although the park uses the natural surroundings, caves, underground rivers, and jungle, it is much more focused on adrenaline and adventure. The $149 USD per person entry fee includes an unlimited buffet, zip line circuits, river rafting circuits, circuits for amphibious vehicles, and two river circuits to snorkel in. The four activities take all day to go through, so it is recommended to bring comfortable shoes and be ready for a lot of walking and, especially, fun! They have recently opened Xplor Fuego, which is essentially the same thing except at night. Everything is illuminated with fire, making it a whole different experience for only $99 USD.

 photo Xplor_zpso0vyi4vd.jpg

  • Xichen

Chichen Itza isn’t a park, under the strict description or general idea of what a park is; however, Experiencias Xcaret now offers tours to Chichen Itza as part of the many activities tourists can do while visiting the Riviera Maya. The archeological site tour is 12 hours long, but is as luxurious as it gets. Besides having an experienced – and bilingual – guide with you throughout the tour, and having the opportunity to visit the beautiful ancient Mayan civilization, the luxury tour includes a light gourmet breakfast, drinks, a visit to the wonderful Valladolid City, a cenote, lunch buffet, and a unique experience that will leave you longing to visit all the other archeological sites in the region.

  • Xenotes

Everyone tells you that you must visit at least one cenote when visiting paradise. But it’s so hard to choose just one from all the many options out there, and even more, what type of cenote should you visit? The Xenotes tour offers a nature-filled day at four cenotes (of different types). The price is $119 USD and you get snacks, coffee, breakfast breads, a glam picnic, rappel, kayak, zip lining, and snorkel. Just like Chichen Itza, it isn’t a park in itself, but rather an adventure offered by the same company that has given millions of people memories for life.

  • Xoximilco

This glammed up version of the original Xochimilco is located just a few minutes south of Cancún. Trajineras (traditional Aztec boats) are pushed with long sticks by experts down beautifully landscaped canals while guests enjoy a night to remember. Each trajinera can carry up to 22 people; whether you are here with many friends, or about to make new friends, you will have an experience of a lifetime. The $119 ticket includes a cruise through the canals at night, a three-course Mexican meal with an open bar of tequila, beer, fresh water and soft drink, all while being accompanied by different traditional ensembles playing music through the cruise.

 photo Xoximilco_zpszfdtsetc.jpg

We recommend that you visit Experiencias Xcaret website for further information about each amazing adventure that will leave you wanting more. Whichever park you choose to visit – or if you choose to visit more – you will find yourself diving into a world of adventure, nature, adrenaline, and excitement. These parks are made to be enjoyed with friends and family. Start booking your holidays and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Now, if you have any questions about any of the Xcaret experiences, about living in Mexico, buying property, or are interested in one of the many real estate options we have listed on our website, feel free to contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives who will gladly assist you on your journey to becoming a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

New Year’s Eve, Playa del Carmen 2015

It is hard to believe we are already making plans for the end of the year! 2014 has gone by so fast and it has been a great year for us at Top Mexico Real Estate. Throughout the year many new and exciting projects were born, happy customers lived their dream of owning a home in paradise and our sales team grew, becoming greater than ever!

If you are visiting or live near the Playa del Carmen area, we have compiled a list of places that are offering New Year’s dinners to say goodbye to the old year and welcome 2015. Remember that good places get booked quite quickly, make your reservations as soon as possible!

I M P R E V I S T · Resto & Wine

1 Avenida Norte Entre Calle 14 Norte y 16 Norte Bis SN

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

+52 984 168 7025

reservations@imprevist.mx

 photo happy-new-year_zps838834e7.jpg

For only $130 USD you will enjoy a delicious gourmet dinner in a nice and romantic setting. Your dinner includes admission to a night full of live music and dancing at the 1st Annual Plank New Year’s Eve Bash!

Alux

Av. Juárez Mza. 217 Lote. 2 Col. Ejidal entre diagonal 65 y 70.

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

52 01 (984) 2062 589 / (984) 1471 563

info@aluxrestaurant.com

 photo cena_zpsbe92d3f4.jpg

If you want to experience a unique gastronomic experience in an amazing place, you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy your New Year’s dinner at Alux. This beautiful restaurant offers not only the best food and wine in town, but also a mesmerizing ambience: located in a subterranean palace adorned by stalagmites and stalactites and special lighting to create a magical atmosphere.

Enjoy this natural attraction unlike any other; do not forget to bring your camera. Their excellent selection of menus and extensive wine selection combined with a unique setting make for memorable destination dining.

Kool Beach Club

Calle 28 y Playa

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

01 (984) 803 19 61

eventos@koolbeachclub.com.mx

 photo kool-beach_zps86694158.jpg

Kool Beach Club is offering a full night of fun on the beach for @ $140 USD. This gourmet 4 course steak and lobster dinner includes a premium open bar from 9pm – 1am, New Year’s Eve party kit, DJ and other entertainment. Ring in the New Year at a Kool, hip location on the beach.

Wah Wah Beach Bar

Calle 2 Nte y Playa

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

52 984 143 6009

wahwahbeach.com

 photo beach_zpsfbd78a12.jpg

Wah Wah offers the best party in paradise! No cover, no expensive meal, and no reservations needed! Just come as you are and have FUN! Wah Wah’s will be offering their full menu. Renato and The Jam Session Combo will be rocking the stage all night long and at midnight they will have their annual Balloon Drop.

It’s better on the beach!

Wah Wah Annual Hangover Haven

Just when you thought the party was over, celebrate the First Sunrise of 2015, at Wah Wah’s 1st Annual Hangover Haven! Wah Wah will be serving an all you can eat breakfast buffet with unlimited bloody mary’s and live music for only $220 Pesos. Wah Wah Annual Hangover Haven is from 6am – 11am on January 1st.

Rise and shine into the New Year!

Top Mexico Real Estate wishes you a Happy New Year!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…We Make it Happen!

November, Things To Do In the Riviera Maya

Finally the fall is here, we notice a drop in the temperature, the cool breeze; this is our favorite time of the year!  It also marks the return of tourists and snowbirds escaping the cold weather, so we have prepared a list of things to do during your stay in the Riviera Maya during November, 2014.

November, things to do in the Riviera Maya: OHL Classic at Mayakoba

The OHL Classic at Mayakoba made ​​history in the world of golf by becoming the first PGA TOUR event to be played outside the United States and Canada. Today, the OHL Classic remains the only PGA TOUR event in Mexico and Latin America, with a total purse of $ 6.1 million dollars. The participants can also get 500 points for the FedEx Cup and an invitation to the Masters, it is the most important golf tournament in Latin America.

The tournament is held annually in November and will feature 132 professional golfers. The tournament is held in El Camaleon Golf Club at Mayakoba, designed by Greg Norman. The rising star, Harris English, is the current defending champion of Mayakoba. Past champions include: John Huh (2012), Johnson Wagner (2011), Cameron Beckman (2010), Mark Wilson (2009), Brian Gay (2008) and Fred Funk (2007).

The best golfer in the country, Carlos Ortiz, three times winner of the Web.com Tour, and defending champion, Harris English, head the list of players who are planning to compete in the only PGA TOUR event in Mexico. There will be also five “Major” winners amongst the 132 participants: Ángel Cabrera, Padraig Harrington, Retief Goosen, Justin Leonard and Mike Weir, as well as the Spanish player Gonzalo Fernández-Castaño.

 photo OHL_zps678d52ff.jpg

When:

November 13th-16th

Where:

El Camaleon Golf Club

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

https://www.ohlclassic.com

Schedule:

Thursday 13th at 6:20a.m.-First Round of Professional Competition

Friday 14th at 6:20a.m.-Second Round of Professional Competition

Saturday 15th at 9:00a.m.-Third Round of Professional Competition

Sunday 16th at 9:00a.m.-Final Round of Professional Competition

November, things to do in the Riviera Maya: The Cancun Challenge

Live the Cancun Challenge, an exciting event with NCAA college basketball. Every year, thousands of fans gather in the Convention Center at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya to enjoy some of the best college basketball teams fight it out for the championship.

Support your favorite basketball team during the game while enjoying the Riviera Maya.

 photo CancunChallenge_zps068267fd.jpg

When:

November 25th-26th: Men’s tournament

November 27th-29th: Women’s tournament

Where:

Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya

Km 72, Carretera Cancun-Chetumal

Puerto Aventuras, Mexico, 77710

Reservations: +52-984-875-1130

Schedule:

Thursday, Nov. 27, 2014Riviera Tournament

Hartford (A) vs. Furman (H)

Noon CT

Florida State (A) vs. Washington(H)

2:30 p.m. CT

Mayan Tournament

Charlotte (A) vs. Montana (H)

5 p.m. CT

Princeton (A) vs. Wake Forest (H)

7:30 p.m. CT

A (Away)

H (Home)

Friday, Nov. 28, 2014Riviera Tournament

Furman (A) vs. Florida State(H)

Noon CT

Washington (A) vs. Hartford (H)

2:30 p.m. CT

Mayan Tournament

Montana (A) vs. Princeton (H)

5 p.m. CT

Wake Forest (A)vs. Charlotte(H)

7:30 p.m. CT

Saturday, Nov. 29, 2014Riviera Tournament

Washington (A) vs. Furman (H)

Noon CT

 

Florida State (A) vs. Hartford (H)

2:30 p.m. CT

Mayan Tournament

Montana (A) vs. Wake Forest (H)

5 p.m. CT

Charlotte (A) vs. Princeton (H)

7:30 p.m. CT

November, things to do in the Riviera Maya: Riviera Maya Jazz Festival

Have you ever dreamed of listening to great jazz music under the stars on the beach, well now you can. Mark your calendar, the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival is almost here! Remember this is a free event, but you need to arrive early to get a good spot on the beach and you may want to bring chairs, blankets, snacks and some beer or wine to enjoy during the event.

 photo RivieraMayaJazz_zpsd75c117b.jpg

When:

November 27th-29th

Where:

Mamita’s Beach Club

Playa del Carmen

+52 (984) 803 2868

Schedule:

Thursday 27th

Colin Hunter

Pato Machete

TAKE 6

Jorge Vercillo

Friday 28th

Hiram Gomez

Pat Metheny Unity Group (Chris Potter, Antonio Sanchez, Ben Williams)

Saturday 29th

Kenny Garrett

Virgil Donati

Chick Corea & The Vigil

Welcome Back Beautiful Playa del Carmen Sunshine!

Hello Playa del Carmen and welcome to this sunny beautiful day on the most beautiful beaches of the Caribbean!  Some of us have been a little down with the rainy cold days in Playa, but now those days are just a far away memory!

The sun is out and Playa del Carmen beaches are back in action!

Here are a few things to do in Playa del Carmen to take advantage of a full beautiful sunny day!

Have your morning coffee or breakfast outside!  If you have a backyard or terrace at your home in Playa del Carmen, start your day relaxing and reading the morning paper with the natural sunlight.  If you don’t have a space to relax at your home, go to Starbucks or Ah Cacao and enjoy your outdoor brew while you watch the people roam the 5th Avenue!

Take a walk! Maybe it can be on the 5th Avenue, in your neighborhood, on the beach or at a local park! If you have own a pet in Playa del Carmen, this is the perfect time to take your dog for a good long walk!  Remember, they too have been stuck indoors waiting for the rain to go away!

Go to the beach!  The sun is inviting us to come and play!  We have all been waiting for the perfect beach day to come along! So go ahead!  The local Playa del Carmen beach clubs are sure to be offering drink and food specials all day long!

Enjoy lunch outside! Whether you pack yourself a picnic for the beach, or hit up your favorite restaurant, eating outdoors can fill your tummy while boosting your endorphins, making you a little bit more likely to smile today!

Grab an afternoon fresh fruit refreshment!  Since the temperatures are rising, our bodies are asking us for a little extra hydration and nutrients.  You can always find all natural juices, smoothies and fresh fruits wherever you go!

Do a little outdoor shopping!  In the late afternoon, while it’s still light out, take a leisurely stroll down the 5th Avenue! Even if you won’t buy, it’s still ok to look!

As the sun is going down you can head back to the beach!  While the sun does not set on the ocean in Playa del Carmen, it still creates a beautiful colorful affect in the sky over the incredible turquoise sea.

Talk about perfect day outdoors in Playa del Carmen!  Enjoy the sunshine and beautiful temperatures everyone!

The Island of Women – Experience the Treasure of Isla Mujeres!

In light of this glorious travel Tuesday I would like to highlight a day trip destination worth putting on your to do list this coming season!  If you have never been to the quaint charming Island just out of Cancun, called Isla Mujeres, then you are going to want to give this a shot! You will not be disappointed!

Travelers from all over will be arriving to the Riviera Maya right around Christmas time.  Some will stay a week and others will stay months! In any case, if you are a frequent traveler to Playa del Carmen or other areas of the Rivera Maya then you may want to take advantage of day trip or weekend getaway ideas…after all, there is so much beauty to see all over Mexico!

The Island of Women!

Isla Mujeres (The Island of Woman) is known for its amazing turquoise and crystal waters perfect, for anyone that loves to swim, snorkel, dive or even just stare!  The town is quite small but is very sweet and has an attractive, beachy, laid back Mexican feel.  You can walk around to shop or visit some delicious restaurants or bars.  If you like to be more of a site seer then renting a golf cart for a couple of hours is fairly inexpensive and a great way to explore the Island quickly!

The beaches on Isla Mujeres are some of my favorite in the whole Yucatan Peninsula; mainly because the water is just incredible.  There is no doubt that all of the Riviera Maya has beautiful turquoise water but each area still holds its own “special something”!

How to get to Isla Mujeres!

Find the most convenient transportation to Cancun either by bus, taxi or collective, and then hop on the Ferry which will get you to the Island in about 15 minutes.  If you want something a little bit more organized and fun, book a catamaran party boat during the day. The Catamaran ride will send you off with a lot of fun and music, and includes snorkeling, time in the town for shopping and site seeing, then relaxation and lunch on one the Islands exclusive beach clubs.

Night time dinner cruises and Party Boats

If you had enough sun you can certainly enjoy Isla Mujeres even under the stars. There are various dinner and party cruises for night owls. Enjoy a nice ride with fun and dancing before you arrive to the private beach club, where you can enjoy a fantastic buffet along with a steak or lobster dinner. You can book a tour with a local tour agent which will include transportation to Cancun. If you are already staying or living in Cancun you can provide your own transportation.  Make sure to book ahead as there is a high demand in prime season.

I always recommend exploring other areas outside your ultimate destination.  It gives you the chance to appreciate different kinds of beauty that you would never otherwise know.  This beautiful country of Mexico is way more than just beach and sand. It is filled with history, charm and nature!

We would love to hear from you!  Share with us your favorite destination or excursion in the Riviera Maya and we will feature your story.  Like our facebook page and feel free to send us a message at https://www.facebook.com/topmexicorealestate.