Cobá stands out because unlike some of the more “tour‑bus heavy” Mayan sites, it’s quieter, less built-up, and gives you a chance to combine history, jungle and swimming — all in one day. The site is large, but with a little planning (and a bike or ride), you can see both the ruins and enjoy nearby cenotes.
🗺️ Itinerary: Morning at Cobá Ruins → Lunch → Cenotes Swim
8:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Explore Cobá Ruins
- Google Maps link: Cobá Ruins
- What to see: The main pyramid (Nohoch Mul Pyramid), other structures like “La Iglesia”, the ball courts, observatories, and jungle paths.
- Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, good walking shoes (or rent a bike at the entrance) — Cobá is hot, humid, and large; biking saves time and energy.
- Other tip: Use the restrooms at the entrance before entering — once inside, facilities are limited.
🍽️ 11:00 AM-ish: Lunch at a Local Restaurant
After your morning exploring, head to one of the local spots just outside the ruins entrance. One recommended place is El Cocodrilo.
Why El Cocodrilo:
- It serves traditional Mexican / Yucatán dishes, often at good prices and with vegetarian‑friendly options.
- There’s a lagoon near the restaurant where you might even spot crocodiles swimming — adds a bit of adventure to your meal break.
(Other nearby restaurants sometimes recommended by visitors: El Faisan, or Ki‑Hanal — depending on what you feel like eating.)
💧 Afternoon: Visit the 3 Nearby Cenotes
After lunch, head to the trio of cenotes close to Cobá for a refreshing swim — great way to cool off after the heat and exertion.
🎯 The Cenotes
- Cenote Choo‑Ha — shallow water; good for relaxing, snorkeling, taking photos among stalactites / stalagmites. Great if you want a gentle, calm cenote rather than diving.
- Cenote Tamcach‑Ha — underground cenote with platforms (5 m, 8 m) for jumping in. For an adventurous swim with a bit of thrill.
- Cenote Multum‑Ha — the deepest of the three, with clear water and a deck-like platform; good for snorkeling and enjoying the deep blue water.
Timing & Cost:
- Cenotes typically open ~ 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Entrance fee: ~ 100 MXN per cenote (or sometimes a combined ticket depending on what you ask for) — pay in cash.
- Getting there: If you don’t have a car, many visitors rent a bike at the ruins entrance (fee ~ 50–80 MXN) and ride ~25–30 min on a quiet road to the cenotes. You can also take a taxi, but bikes are cheaper, more flexible, and fun.
✅ Final Thoughts & Practical Tips
- Wear a swimsuit under your clothes if you plan to go right from the ruins to the cenotes — it saves time.
- Bring cash (pesos) — many entrances and small local spots don’t take cards.
- If you have the flexibility — go early to ruins, have lunch, then cenotes mid‑to‑late afternoon — cooler water, fewer crowds.
- Renting a bike is a great option for freedom and time‑efficiency; the roads between Cobá and the cenotes are flat, quiet, and safe.
- Consider staying overnight in the Cobá area if you don’t want to rush — that way you can maybe catch cenotes early morning or revisit ruins without stress.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Matt from Nasplaya, your go-to guide for living, investing, and thriving in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. In 2008 my husband and I quit our jobs in Boston, Massachusetts, sold everything we owned and drove to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to start North American Standards (Nasplaya), our property management, vacation rental and real estate company. Now 17+ years later, I am sharing our experience helping expats and property owners navigate the local market. I share honest insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge to make your move—or your investment—a success.
From finding the best schools and maximizing rental income to understanding local regulations and uncovering hidden gems, my goal is to give you clear, actionable advice you can trust. When I’m not exploring the beaches or scouting the newest rental opportunities, I’m sharing stories, guides, and strategies that help you make the most of life in paradise.
Follow along for expert tips, local updates, and everything you need to live, invest, and enjoy the Riviera Maya to the fullest.
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