The most instagrammable places in the Riviera Maya

Cenote Azul is perhaps the Riviera Maya’s most picturesque cenote. But first: what’s a cenote? These natural swimming pools are found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, offering otherworldly beauty and Instagram-worthy colors. As its name suggests, the waters of Cenote Azul are brilliantly blue – almost unbelievably so. Located right near the all inclusive Riviera Maya resort Barceló Maya Grand Resort, it’s the perfect place to take a dip and get some perfect ‘grams.

• Sweet Shot: Cenote Azul’s cliff diving area is not too high, not too low. Go ahead, make a splash and post the video on your Instagram Stories.

An astounding complex of Mayan ruins on the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichén Itzá, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was recently named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. So have no fear – it’s going to look good from any angle and is definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in Riviera Maya. This incredibly preserved historic marvel was once the cultural and economic capital of the Yucatán Peninsula, and as you explore you’ll feel deeply immersed in the visual splendor of its towering pyramids, ornate temples and expansive ballcourts.

• Sweet Shot: Grab a few photos in front of the iconic 80-foot-tall Pyramid of Kukulcan – also known as El Castillo (The Castle).

One of the Riviera Maya’s most unique attractions, the mind-blowing, eye-popping 3D Museum of Wonders in Playa del Carmen is perfect for Instagram. The interactive artwork here is made using high-tech 3-dimensional optical illusions that make you question everything you see. You’re not just looking at art at the 3D Museum of Wonders – you’re a part of in it. One thing’s for sure: the photos you take here will make everyone back home do a double-take as they scroll through Instagram.

• Sweet Shot: One mural on the floor of the 3D Museum of Wonder makes it look as though you’re about to fall several stories into a dreamlike chapel.

Eight miles off the coast of Cancun (just a quick boat ride away from Riviera Maya resorts Occidental Costa Cancún and Occidental Tucancún), Isla Mujeres is the definition of a romantic hidden island paradise, with scenic vistas galore. There are countless Instagram-worthy adventures to be found on Isla Mujeres (which translates to “Bay of Women”), from snorkeling and kayaking in crystal clear waters amidst dazzling tropical fish to ziplining through a canopy of trees.

• Sweet Shot: Isla Mujeres is home to an array of amazing street murals created by local artists to spread awareness about environmental issues – perfect for a pose!

Underwater imagery always looks amazing on social feeds – and one of the most Instagrammable places in Riviera Maya to get some aquatic shots is 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, home of the adults only Riviera Maya resort Royal Hideaway Playacar. Protected from rough seas, Yal-Ku Lagoon is a snorkeler’s dream come true, with calm, clear and shallow waters that are home to dozens of species of tropical fish, manta rays and sea turtles. It’s an absolutely pristine ecosystem that you can spend a full day exploring and taking pics.

• Sweet Shot: Yal-Kul Lagoon’s many inlets are beautiful and very photogenic, with colorful coral shining through the pristine waters.