Playa del Carmen isn’t just about lounging on the beach or sipping margaritas; it’s also a fantastic place for canoe and kayak adventures that get you into the water and closer to nature. Whether you’re an early riser eager to watch the sunrise from your paddleboard or a thrill-seeker ready to zip-line over cenotes, Playa offers options for every type of water lover. We’re especially fond of the Sunrise Paddle Surf—a peaceful way to start the day with stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.
If you’re craving a full-day experience, the Cenote Tankah and Mayan Village Tour combines cenote swimming, ziplining, and canoeing into one unforgettable day. And for those seeking a more private, eco-friendly outing, the Private Tour Tankah with zip lines and cenotes offers a quiet escape from crowds. For a longer, scenic trip, spend a day at Bacalar Lagoon with kayaking and cenote swimming. For a quick, fun photo session, the Paddle to the Sun in Playa del Carmen with drone photos captures your adventure from above.
1. Sunrise Paddle Surf
At number one, the Sunrise Paddle Surf offers an intimate, 2-hour paddleboarding session right in Playa del Carmen. Meeting in downtown Playa, this tour is perfect for those wanting a peaceful start to their day. You’ll paddle out to one of the best spots in Riviera Maya to catch the sunrise, an experience that’s both calming and visually stunning. The guide stays with you from start to finish, making sure you’re comfortable and capturing memorable photos along the way.
This tour is ideal for first-timers, as the guide provides full support, and the price is quite reasonable at $39 per person. The small group size and scenic location make it a good choice for couples, solo travelers, or small families. The tour ends back at the starting point, so it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy Playa’s early mornings. Bottom line: If you want a relaxing, picture-perfect paddleboard experience with expert guidance, this tour fits the bill.
2. Cenote Tankah and Mayan Village Tour with Zipline, Canoes & Lunch
A full-day adventure, the Cenote Tankah and Mayan Village Tour combines nature, culture, and adrenaline in one trip. For around $199, you’ll explore crystalline cenotes, zip-line over lush jungle, and paddle traditional canoes across turquoise waters. It’s a well-rounded tour that immerses you in the authentic Riviera Maya experience, including a visit to a Mayan village to see local traditions firsthand.
The tour’s highlights are swimming in crystal-clear cenotes, feeling the rush of ziplining, and discovering the flora and fauna from a canoe. The guide, Yuri, is praised for being friendly and knowledgeable, adding personal touches to the adventure. Reviewers mention how the itinerary is thoughtfully curated, with some calling it “authentic” and “worth it.” The included lunch, cooked over wood flames, offers a delicious taste of local cuisine.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want a blend of adventure and culture in a small-group setting. Keep in mind this tour is longer and more intense, so it suits those with a full day to spare.
3. Private Tour Tankah 3 Zip Lines 3 Cenotes Canoe Snorkel Community
For those seeking a personalized, eco-conscious experience, the Private Tour Tankah offers a tailored half-day adventure. This private option allows you to choose your schedule, which makes it flexible for your plans. You’ll enjoy three zip lines, swim or snorkel in three different cenotes, and take a canoe ride to explore local plant and animal life.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on sustainability and exclusivity. The community-based setting means fewer crowds and a more authentic feel. The tour includes a homemade Mayan meal, adding to the sense of culture. Reviews highlight the flexibility and helpfulness of the guide, who makes the experience smooth and enjoyable.
This tour is best suited for small groups, families, or couples who want a private, relaxed experience away from touristy spots. The time commitment is about 5-6 hours, making it a good option for a morning or afternoon outing.
Bottom line: A top pick if you value privacy and personalized attention in a sustainable environment.
4. Bacalar Lagoon! Kayaks & Cenote Azul From Playa Del Carmen
If you’re looking to extend your water adventures beyond Playa del Carmen, Bacalar Lagoon is a fantastic choice. The Bacalar Lagoon tour combines kayaking, swimming at Cenote Azul, and a full day of exploring the “Lake of Seven Colors.” It’s a longer day (about 12 hours), but the stunning scenery and peaceful environment justify the time.
You’ll start with a swim at Cenote Azul, famous for its bright, clear waters, then enjoy a kayak trip across Bacalar’s expansive lagoon. The natural surroundings, with local fish and bird species, create a tranquil escape from the busier parts of the Riviera. Meals are included, adding to the convenience of this all-day trip.
Reviewers note that while the trip is more expensive at $128 per person, it offers excellent value considering the extensive activities and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those who want to experience a different type of water adventure with plenty of time to relax and take photos.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers willing to spend a full day on a scenic, laid-back outing. It’s best suited for nature lovers and those eager to see Bacalar’s famous lagoon.
$128.00 per person
5. Paddle to the Sun in Playa del Carmen with Drone Photos & Videos
For a quick, unique keepsake of your trip, the Paddle to the Sun offers a one-hour and 15-minute paddle session with the bonus of professional drone photos and videos. This experience is about capturing your moment from above while paddling along Playa’s coast.
The session is suitable for paddlers of all levels, and the guide ensures you’re comfortable during your time on the water. The highlight is the high-quality drone footage, which you’ll receive to remember your trip. At $49, it’s a budget-friendly way to add a stunning visual element to your Playa del Carmen adventure.
Though this experience doesn’t include swimming or detailed exploration, it’s perfect for travelers who want a fun, effortless way to document their vacation with professional photos.
Bottom line: Excellent for social media lovers or anyone wanting a professional photoshoot on the water without a lengthy commitment.
$49
How to Choose the Best Canoe & Kayak Experience in Playa del Carmen
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, available time, and interest level. If you prefer a brief, scenic start to your day, the Sunrise Paddle Surf is perfect. For a full immersion in cenote and jungle activities, the Cenote Tankah tour offers a comprehensive experience. If privacy and eco-conscious travel matter most, the Private Tankah tour is a great choice. For those wanting a scenic, leisurely day outside Playa, Bacalar’s lagoon trip is ideal. And for a quick memory, the drone-enabled Paddle to the Sun is hard to beat.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, so you can secure your preferred time slot and avoid missing out.