Mexico Caribbean coast: Riviera Maya and Holbox

When is the best time to visit the Caribbean coast?

It’s hot and fairly humid all year round, with a risk of tropical storms and hurricanes Sep-Nov.

For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.

What language is spoken on the Caribbean coast?

The main language spoken on the Caribbean coast is Spanish.

What currency do I need on the Caribbean coast?

The Mexican peso is the main currency used on the Caribbean coast. Notes can be withdrawn from the ATMs in Cancún, Playa using a UK credit or debit card. You may have ask your bank to authorise withdrawals before you leave the UK, and amounts are limited to about £100. There are also banks and money exchanges (casas de cambio) here, and money exchanges in Tulum. Holbox has just one ATM, best not to rely on that.

What is the time difference between the Caribbean coast and the UK?

The time difference between the Caribbean coast and the UK is GMT -6 hours.

What does a visit to the Caribbean coast combine well with?

A visit to almost anywhere else in Mexico: the domestic flight network is comprehensive and roads are good.  Mexico City is less than 2hrs’ flying time away. Havana, Cuba, is also just 2hrs away from Cancún by air.

How do I get to the Caribbean coast?

There are direct flights from London to Cancún (10.5 hours) and routes via hubs in Europe and the USA. Holbox is a 2-2.5hr drive from Cancún to Chiquila followed by a 20 minute ferry ride. It's just 1-1.5hrs by the new toll motorway 305 from Playa del Carmen to Chiquila (1.5-2hrs from Tulum).

What key events are there on the Caribbean coast?

Riviera Maya Jazz Festival: Mamitas beach, Playa del Carmen, late Nov annually.