Riviera Maya: ATV, Speed Boat or Wave Runner & Beach Club

Summary

Adventure through mangroves rainforest and beach at playa maroma

You’ll start with a quick intro from your guide before heading out by ATV through mangroves and rainforest trails—or out on a speed boat or wave runner along Playa Maroma’s coast. Afterward, relax at Maroma Beach Club with time to swim or just listen to the waves. The whole thing includes hotel pickup and all equipment—just bring dry clothes for after.

What’s the experience like?

“You sure you want to drive?” our guide asked, grinning as he handed me the helmet. I nodded, maybe too confidently—my partner just rolled her eyes. We were at Playa Maroma in the Riviera Maya, and honestly, I’d never been on an ATV before. The engine rumbled under me, and I could smell the salt even before we left the sandy lot. Our guide—Miguel—kept things light, joking about how many tourists get stuck in the mud. (Spoiler: it wasn’t me… this time.)

The trail started off easy but got wild quick—roots under the tires, branches brushing my arms. Mangroves everywhere, that earthy smell mixing with something sweet from the jungle. Miguel pointed out a bird—can’t remember the name now—but it was bright blue and zipped away before I could snap a photo. Then suddenly we broke out of the trees and there was the Caribbean, all that turquoise water right up against white sand. I didn’t expect to feel so… awake? It’s loud on an ATV but somehow you still notice everything—the heat on your neck, grit on your hands.

If you pick the speed boat or wave runner instead (we met a couple who did), it’s a different kind of rush—spray in your face, wind so strong you have to shout to hear each other. They said their guide led them along the coast past bits of reef where you can see shadows moving under the surface. Either way, you end up at Maroma Beach Club with time to just sit back and let your heart rate slow down. There’s food and drinks if you want them; we just lay there listening to waves for a while. I still think about that view sometimes when work gets noisy.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Adventure tour and beach club visit

• Choose ATV or sea adventure
• Drive through mangroves and rainforest
• Follow trail along beach shore
• Or ride Wave Runner or speed boat
• Follow guide along Playa Maroma coast
• Enjoy free time at Maroma Beach Club

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Riviera Maya tour?

Yes, roundtrip transportation is provided from hotels in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya.

Do I need driving experience for the ATV or speed boat?

Basic driving skills are required for both ATV and speed boat activities.

How long is the activity part of this day trip?

The guided activity lasts about 1 hour: 45 minutes riding/driving plus 15 minutes instruction.

What age do you need to be to drive an ATV or speed boat?

The minimum age to drive is 16; participants as young as 6 can join if accompanied by an adult.

Is lunch included at Maroma Beach Club?

No lunch is not included automatically but food and drinks are available for purchase at the beach club.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, recent surgery, pregnancy or poor cardiovascular health.

Can I choose between ATV and water activities?

Yes, you can choose between an ATV adventure or a speed boat/wave runner ride when booking.

Is safety equipment provided during activities?

Yes, all necessary safety equipment is provided for both land and water activities.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip hotel pickup from Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Riviera Maya; all safety gear; a brief orientation; one hour of guided activity by ATV or on water; access to Maroma Beach Club afterward; plus guides available in English or Spanish throughout your experience.