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The Best Shopping Spots in Riviera Maya
August 27, 2024 ， 11 Min. Read
Riviera Maya is not just a prime destination for its beautiful beaches and cultural sites; it’s also a great place for shopping. Whether you’re hunting for unique jewelry, seeking out handwoven textiles, or eyeing the latest in high-end fashion, this Mexican Caribbean coast has treasures waiting at every corner.
Shopping in Playa del Carmen: 5th Avenue and Beyond
Playa del Carmen’s shopping scene is as vibrant and diverse as the town itself. This coastal paradise caters to every taste and budget, from busy street markets to boutiques and malls.
5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen, also known as La Quinta Avenida, is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist-centric shopping scenes. This lively pedestrian street stretches for about 5 miles and consists of local artisans, international brands, and everything in between.
Shoppers can explore shops offering handmade textiles, unique crafts, and high-end fashion labels. The atmosphere is festive, with shops generally open from 10 am until late evening, offering a magical shopping experience under the starlit sky.
Beyond the appeal of 5th Avenue, Playa del Carmen also hosts many unique local markets and boutiques a bit away from the main strip. These spots are great places for those looking to find handmade textiles and crafts, providing a more authentic glimpse into the local culture and artisanal talent.
Best Places to Shop in Playa Del Carmen
Some of the best locations for shopping in the Riviera Maya, Playa Del Carmen are:
Paseo del Carmen: Located near the Cozumel ferry, this open-air shopping mall marks the beginning of Fifth Avenue. It has a collection of the best women’s clothing stores, including Zara, Pull & Bear, etc. The mall also features a variety of cute home and beauty products and offers a selection of food options.
Quinta Alegria Shopping Mall: Quinta Alegria is a three-story shopping mall that hosts major retailers such as Forever 21 and American Eagle. There are various popular brand stores of beauty products, fragrances, as well as food and beverage options.
Plaza Las Americas Mall: More popular with locals and situated a few miles from the beachfront area, this mall features a Sears department store, a Chedraui supermarket, a cinema, and a large food court. It’s a good alternative for those looking to escape the tourist crowds or needing a break from the beach.
Calle Corazon: This newer shopping center, located at 5th Avenue and Calle 12, houses high-end retailers like H&M, Steve Madden, Sephora, and Bath & Body Works. It offers a mix of fashion, beauty products, and dining options, including Starbucks and Sushi Roll.
Cancun: A Shopper’s Paradise for Luxury and Brands
Well-recognized for stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Cancun is also a haven for shoppers seeking luxury and brand-name goods. With high-end shopping centers like La Isla Shopping Village and Luxury Avenue, Cancun caters to those with a taste for international luxury and designer stores.
These malls offer an upscale shopping experience, featuring various shops parallel to the beach, ranging from international brands to exclusive showrooms.
For those interested in authentic Mexican souvenirs, Cancun doesn’t disappoint. Mercado 28 and Coral Negro Flea Market are bustling with vendors selling Mayan handicrafts, from intricately designed pottery to colorful textiles. These markets are the perfect places to find keepsakes and gifts that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Best Places to Shop in Cancun
Some of the best locations best places to go shopping in Cancun include:
La Isla Shopping Village: This open-air mall is beautifully set around a series of canals and bridges, offering a unique shopping experience with over 150 shops, including big-name brands like Zara and luxury homes of international fashion. La Isla also features a variety of eateries, a cinema with VIP sections, and attractions like the Interactive Aquarium Cancun, making it a full-day destination for the whole family.
Luxury Avenue: Exclusive and sophisticated, Luxury Avenue is home to many luxury international high-fashion brands. Located in the hotel zone, this mall provides a premium shopping experience with personalized service, catering to those looking for high-end fashion and accessories in Cancun.
Mercado 28: For a more traditional shopping experience, Mercado 28 offers a variety of stalls selling everything from handmade Mayan crafts to local spices and tequilas. It’s an ideal spot for haggling over prices and finding unique souvenirs.
Coral Negro Flea Market: Located in the bustling hotel zone, this flea market is an outstanding spot for local handicrafts, silver jewelry, and Mexican apparel. It’s a more laid-back shopping experience where you can enjoy the thrill of bargaining with the vendors.
Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Akumal holds a special place in Riviera Maya for those who love art. This small beachfront town is not just about serene beaches and snorkeling with turtles; it’s a treasure trove of local art, offering a unique shopping experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike.
In Akumal, you’ll find a community of local artists and artisans who take pride in their craft. The town’s shops and galleries are filled with indigenous art, pottery, and textiles, each piece telling a story of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Shopping here means taking home a piece of Riviera Maya and supporting the local art scene.
One of the highlights of Akumal’s shopping scene is the focus on eco-friendly and sustainable goods. Many shops in the area are dedicated to conservation efforts, selling products that reflect the community’s commitment to protecting their natural paradise.
Whether you’re looking for a unique piece of art to hang on your wall, a handcrafted souvenir to remember your trip, or eco-conscious gifts for friends and family, Akumal has something special for you. The warmth of the local community and the genuine craftsmanship make shopping in Akumal a memorable experience.
Best Places to Shop in Akumal
When visiting Akumal, there are a few standout spots that should be on every shopper’s list. These include:
Akumal Farmers Market: A vibrant community gathering place, the Akumal Farmers Market is much more than a place to buy groceries. Held multiple times a week in the Pueblo of Akumal, it offers a chance to immerse yourself in local life.
MexicArte: A great shop known for its cute and unique selections. For those interested in traditional Mexican crafts and contemporary art, MexicArte is a must-visit. This shop offers beautiful paintings, models, and more, all crafted by skilled artisans nationwide.
Turtle Bay Cafe & Bakery: While primarily known for its delicious baked goods and cozy dining atmosphere, Turtle Bay Cafe & Bakery also sells a selection of local crafts and products, making it a delightful place to shop for gifts and enjoy a tasty treat.
Galeria Lamanai: For art enthusiasts, Galeria Lamanai is a must-visit. This gallery specializes in authentic Mexican folk art, offering various handcrafted items from across the country.
Tulum: Bohemian and Eco-Chic Shopping
Tulum is known for its bohemian vibe and strong commitment to sustainability. This scenic town is a hotspot for shoppers looking for unique, eco-chic fashion, home decor, and natural beauty products. The boutiques in Tulum are renowned for their selection of bohemian-style clothing and accessories, perfect for those seeking to capture the relaxed yet sophisticated beach lifestyle.
Local workshops and markets are integral to Tulum’s shopping scene, allowing visitors to engage directly with artisans. These interactions provide a glimpse into the creative process and offer the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces that carry the essence of Tulum.
From handmade jewelry to custom-designed clothing and intricate home goods, these artisanal products showcase the talent and Mayan cultural heritage of the area.
Best Places to Shop in Tulum
For those looking to explore Tulum’s unique shopping offerings, here are some must-visit spots:
Mercado Maya Tulum: Mercado Maya Tulum is the perfect spot to immerse yourself in local culture and find that special souvenir to remember your journey. This outdoor market is filled with textiles, handcrafted artwork, and fresh organic produce from local farmers. It celebrates the region’s Mayan roots, offering a deep dive into its gastronomic traditions and artistic legacy.
Mixik: Celebrated for its vibrant collection of Mexican folk art and handicrafts, Mixik is the perfect place to find colorful and meaningful gifts and souvenirs that support local artisans. The shop is located in Tulum Centro.
Tulum Bazaar: Situated in Tulum Centro, Tulum Bazaar offers a relaxing ambiance for shoppers. Just a few streets from Parque Nacional Tulum, this shopping center boasts a variety of vendors, from boutique shops selling souvenirs and handcrafted items to local eateries with authentic regional dishes. Remember to carry cash, as most vendors here prefer it.
La Troupe: La Troupe is a top shopping destination for those looking to make mindful purchases that support local communities. This boutique is renowned for its boho-chic women’s clothing, including everything from flowy kimonos to stylish jumpsuits, all ethically sourced and made by local artisans.
Shopping Tips for Travelers in Riviera Maya
Here are tips to make your shopping in Riviera Maya enjoyable and fruitful:
Explore Beyond the Shopping Malls: While Riviera Maya has many upscale shopping centers like Quinta Alegría, don’t miss out on the unique finds at local flea markets and artisanal shops.
Experience the Local Culture at Flea Markets: Flea markets, or “tianguis,” are great places for Mexican crafts, souvenirs, and unique keepsakes. Haggling is part of the experience, so be prepared to negotiate prices for the best deals.
Savor the Flavors of Mexico: No shopping trip in Riviera Maya is complete without exploring the local gastronomy. From tasting different types of tequila at Hacienda Tequila to discovering the gourmet offerings at food courts and upscale eateries, there’s something for every palate.
Luxury Shopping in Mexico: For those looking for an upscale shopping experience, the luxury international brands found in the hotel zone and along the avenues of Cancún and Playa del Carmen offer everything from high fashion to exquisite jewelry.
Transportation and Payment Methods: Most shopping destinations are accessible by taxi or colectivos (shared minibusses), especially in tourist areas. While credit cards are widely accepted in larger stores and malls, carrying cash is advisable for flea markets and smaller boutiques, where cash transactions can also help in bargaining for better prices.
Shop Responsibly: Supporting local artisans and eco-friendly products not only gives you a unique shopping experience but also contributes to the local economy and environmental conservation. Look for stores that promote sustainable and ethical shopping practices.
The Riviera Maya’s diverse shopping options cater to every style and budget, whether you’re seeking handcrafted mementos or high-end fashion. From the bustling markets of Playa del Carmen to the unique finds in Tulum, each location offers its charm and treasures.
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Yes, Riviera Maya is a hub for Mexican art, hosting numerous galleries and spaces where local artists display their work. Places like Frida Kahlo Museum in Playa del Carmen or Tulum Art Club offer visitors a chance to explore contemporary Mexican art and even purchase pieces directly from the artists.
Riviera Maya is home to several eco-friendly shops that offer sustainable and locally sourced products. In particular, many shops in Tulum specialize in eco-chic fashion and other goods. These shops support local artisans and minimize environmental impact, reflecting Riviera Maya’s commitment to sustainability.
Yes, many shopping centers in Riviera Maya also feature an upscale food court or restaurant row, providing a comprehensive experience where you can shop and dine in style. The outdoor malls often include eateries ranging from casual cafés like Starbucks to gourmet options, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
When shopping in Puerto Morelos, look for kitschy Mexican crafts and souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and local art. The town’s markets and boutiques offer goods that reflect the rich culture of Quintana Roo, from brightly colored textiles to unique pottery and sculptures by Mexican artists.
