Puerto Aventuras is a fantastic spot for exploring the Riviera Maya beyond just lounging on the beach. Its location offers easy access to some of the most memorable experiences in the region, whether you’re into snorkeling, exploring ancient ruins, or swimming with marine animals.
We particularly love the Share Catamaran Tour for its combination of luxury, snorkeling, and great food, and the Tulum: Ruins, Turtles & Cenotes Adventure for a full day of cultural and natural highlights.
With options ranging from relaxing boat cruises to active jungle adventures, there’s something for every type of traveler.
This list covers four of the best tours and things to do in Puerto Aventuras, carefully chosen for their unique appeal and value. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious boat trip, a self-paced cenote exploration, or a day with friendly marine mammals, you’ll find something to match your interest and energy level. Let’s dive into each one, so you can pick the perfect experience for your trip.
1. From Puerto Aventuras: Share Catamaran Tour
For around $125 per person, the Share Catamaran Tour offers a luxurious way to experience the Caribbean. The 4-hour cruise takes you aboard a 65-foot catamaran—big enough to feel spacious but intimate enough to feel special. The boat departs from Puerto Aventuras and glides along the coast, offering stunning views of the Riviera Maya.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of snorkeling at the INAH reef, the second largest in the world, and the onboard amenities. You’ll get to snorkel in clear waters teeming with colorful fish, and then relax with a full BBQ lunch, featuring four options, plus exotic drinks from the open bar.
Music and socializing round out the experience, making it perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation.
The high rating of 4.5 stars from 40 reviews reflects its popularity among those who appreciate quality food, a beautiful setting, and a well-organized trip.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a well-rounded day on the water—snorkeling, good eats, and scenic views. It’s a bit more expensive but delivers a memorable Caribbean experience with no fuss.
2. Riviera Maya: Kantun-Chi Cenotes
At just $41 per person, the Kantun-Chi Cenotes tour is a fantastic choice for those who want flexibility and a self-paced adventure. For a full day, you can create your own itinerary through four different cenotes, each with crystalline waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking (bring your own gear).
What makes this experience appealing is the freedom it offers. You can explore the lush Mayan jungle pathways, take your time swimming in the cool waters, and observe the local flora and fauna. It’s a relaxed way to spend a day, especially for travelers who enjoy nature and outdoor activity without a rigid schedule.
Reviews note how refreshing it is to discover these natural pools at your own pace, making it a great fit for families or adventurous solo travelers.
Bottom line: If you appreciate outdoor exploration and want to avoid crowded tour buses, this cenote trip offers an authentic way to experience the region’s natural beauty at your own speed.
3. Isla Mujeres: Sea Lion & Manatee Interaction with Buffet
For $103 per person, the Sea Lion & Manatee Interaction tour provides a compact, enriching experience—just about an hour long, but packed with unforgettable encounters. It includes a round-trip ferry from Cancún, making logistics straightforward.
The main draw here is the chance to interact with playful sea lions in a natural setting, where you can feed and swim with them. Plus, you’ll have the chance to discover gentle manatees in their habitat—an experience that often leaves visitors with a new appreciation for these creatures and their environment.
The tour also includes a buffet lunch and access to island facilities, making it a comfortable day trip. Educational components highlight the importance of habitat protection, adding an informative touch to the fun.
Although there aren’t reviews listed, the focus on close, safe interactions with marine mammals makes this ideal for families and animal lovers. The combo of fun, education, and ease of access makes it a worthwhile choice.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a short yet meaningful wildlife experience combined with the convenience of a ferry ride. It’s a good pick for a memorable, family-friendly day.
4. Tulum: Ruins, Turtles & Cenotes Adventure
At $146 per person, this full-day tour Tulum: Ruins, Turtles & Cenotes Adventure combines history, wildlife, and natural swimming spots into one seamless experience. You’ll start with a visit to the iconic Tulum ruins, perched above the Caribbean, where you can imagine the ancient Mayan traders and warriors.
Next, the tour takes you to Akumal, where swimming with turtles is a highlight—an activity that’s become a favorite among travelers. The tour continues with explorations of mystical cenotes, natural sinkholes where you can snorkel and admire the stalactites and clear waters.
This combination of cultural, marine, and geological wonders is especially suited for active travelers who want a deeper understanding of the region’s history and natural beauty.
The reviews mention a well-organized itinerary and how the mix of activities keeps the day lively and engaging. The trip is best suited for those with moderate fitness levels and a curiosity for Mayan culture and marine life.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive day combining archaeology, marine encounters, and extraordinary swimming spots, this tour hits all the right notes.
How to Choose
When choosing between these tours, consider your priorities: For a relaxing, all-inclusive experience, the Share Catamaran Tour offers boat luxury and snorkeling. If you prefer self-guided exploration, the Kantun-Chi Cenotes gives you flexibility.
For wildlife lovers, the Sea Lion & Manatee Interaction provides close encounters with marine mammals, while the Tulum Adventure combines cultural sites and natural swimming.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to dedicate, and your interests. For example, families with kids might prefer the wildlife tour, while history buffs will enjoy Tulum. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the catamaran cruise or the wildlife interactions.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Aventuras offers a versatile set of options for exploring the Riviera Maya—whether you want a luxe boat cruise, self-guided cenote visits, wildlife encounters, or a cultural day trip. The Share Catamaran Tour stands out for its combination of comfort, snorkeling, and good food, making it perfect for travelers seeking a balanced day on the water.
The Tulum: Ruins, Turtles & Cenotes Adventure appeals to those eager to combine history and nature into one full day.
For animal lovers, the Sea Lion & Manatee Interaction offers an unforgettable close-up with marine mammals, while the Kantun-Chi Cenotes suit those who prefer a peaceful, nature-focused experience. No matter your choice, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable activities.
Enjoy your adventures in Puerto Aventuras and make the most of all the incredible sights and experiences the region has to offer.