The waters around Playa del Carmen provide excellent paddling opportunities for both novice and experienced kayakers and canoeists. The most rewarding excursions combine paddling with cultural experiences – notably the private cenote tours that include traditional Mayan village visits. Small-group tours work best, especially the sunrise and sunset paddles along the Caribbean coast where you’ll spot diverse wildlife while avoiding midday heat.
The standout trip is the cenote combination tour – it smartly pairs paddling with snorkeling and includes an authentic lunch in a local village. We love the early morning paddleboard tours for their calm waters and excellent photo opportunities.
Check out these carefully selected water adventures that give you the best bang for your peso:
Good To Know
- The Private Cenote Excursion offers a customizable itinerary with snorkeling, canoeing, zip-lining, and swimming in a 5-star rated activity.
- The Sunrise Guided Paddleboard Experience provides a 2-hour paddleboarding activity in Playa del Carmen at dawn with a 99% recommendation rate.
- The Sunset Paddle Board Group Tour offers a guided paddleboarding experience to watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea with 100% recommendation rate.
- The Sunrise Paddle Surf Experience starts the day with paddleboarding in calm Caribbean waters and includes a paddle board lesson and instructor.
- The Paddle and Snorkel in Cenote experience combines paddleboarding and snorkeling in Riviera Maya with private transportation and lunch included.
4 Private Cenotes, Zip-Lines, Canoes & Mayan Village With Delicious Lunch
Exhilaration awaits travelers who embark on this private excursion in the Riviera Maya.
The customizable itinerary includes snorkeling, canoeing, zip-lining, and swimming in secluded cenotes, all amid the lush Mayan landscape. Guests will savor a homemade lunch in a Mayan village, seeing the local culture.
With a 5-star rating from 617 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Inclusive of taxes, fees, beverages, lunch, and all activities, the price starts at $275 per person, depending on group size.
Private transportation ensures convenience, and flexibility allows for pickup from various Riviera Maya locations.
Read our full review: 4 Private Cenotes, Zip-Lines, Canoes & Mayan Village With Delicious Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Playa Del Carmen Paddleboard: Sunrise Guided Paddle
Paddleboarders can enjoy Playa del Carmen’s serene beauty at dawn with the Sunrise Guided Paddle experience. This 2-hour activity boasts a 99% recommendation rate from 176 reviews and a 5.0 rating.
Guides provide all necessary equipment, including paddleboards, and offer basic technique tips for beginners. Participants can expect to spot wildlife and capture stunning photos during the golden hour.
The group size is limited to 20 travelers, and the experience is accessible to most, though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Priced at $75 per person, the sunrise paddle offers a 15% discount at a nearby beach bar.
Read our full review: Playa Del Carmen Paddleboard: Sunrise Guided Paddle Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Paddle Board Group Tour in Playa Del Carmen
Travelers can embark on a captivating Sunset Paddle Board Group Tour in Playa Del Carmen, which boasts a 5.0 rating from 65 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate.
This guided tour allows participants to watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea while receiving instruction and support from professional guides.
Suitable for all skill levels, the experience includes the use of paddleboards, leashes, paddles, lockers, and showers.
Photos taken by the instructors are also available.
After the tour, guests can unwind with sunset margaritas and ceviche at the nearby Fusion Beach Bar.
Read our full review: Sunset Paddle Board Group Tour in Playa Del Carmen Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunrise Paddle Surf
A captivating Sunrise Paddle Surf experience in Playa del Carmen allows travelers to start their day with an invigorating session on the calm Caribbean waters.
Recommended by 100% of previous participants, this tour includes a paddle board lesson, an experienced instructor, and photo opportunities.
Beginning at 6:00 am, the tour meets at a convenient location and returns to the same point.
Suitable for most travelers, the activity accommodates a maximum of 5 participants.
At €37.52 per person, this sunrise adventure offers the best value with a lowest price guarantee.
With a perfect 5.0 average rating from 36 reviews, this is a must-try experience for those seeking an active start to their day in Playa del Carmen.
Read our full review: Sunrise Paddle Surf Review
Book now: Check availability
Paddle and Snorkel in Cenote – Riviera Maya
Set out on a captivating journey through the Riviera Maya’s enchanting Cenote, where paddleboarding and snorkeling converge for an unforgettable experience.
Rated 4.4 out of 7 reviews, this activity takes you to Playa del Carmen, Mexico, where you’ll paddle and snorkel in the stunning Cenote.
For $150 per person, you’ll enjoy private transportation, lunch, bottled water, and a guide to lead you through this natural wonder.
The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible but most travelers can participate.
With a maximum of 4 travelers, you’ll have a personalized and immersive encounter.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, and you can reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Paddle and Snorkel in Cenote – Riviera Maya Review
Book now: Check availability
Cenote Tankah and Mayan Village Tour With Zipline, Canoes & Lunch
For those seeking to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Riviera Maya, the Cenote Tankah and Mayan Village Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Rated 5.0 by 12 travelers, this tour combines activities like ziplining, canoeing, and a delicious brunch. Guests can explore a stunning cenote and a traditional Mayan village, all with private transportation and a certified guide.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Pregnant travelers or those with medical conditions should exercise caution.
With a moderate fitness level required, this experience is perfect for adventurous visitors looking to enjoy the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
Read our full review: Cenote Tankah and Mayan Village Tour With Zipline, Canoes & Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
The Playa del Carmen area offers a variety of exciting water-based activities. From paddling in cenotes and along the coast to ziplining and exploring Mayan villages, there’s something for every adventure seeker. With guided tours and package deals, visitors can easily enjoy the best canoe, kayak, and paddleboard experiences the region has to offer. Whether seeking a peaceful sunrise or exhilarating sunset, these tours provide unforgettable memories in the heart of the Riviera Maya.