Do I need to pack beach towels?

No. All-inclusive resorts provide beach and pool towels. Some charge deposits but return them when you check out.

Can I buy reef-safe sunscreen there?

Yes, but it's expensive ($30-40 per bottle). Pack your own mineral-based SPF 30+ sunscreen to save money.

What shoes do I need for cenotes?

Water shoes with good grip. Cenote floors are slippery limestone with sharp edges. Regular flip-flops aren't safe for swimming.

How formal is resort evening wear?

Business casual. Men need long pants and collared shirts for dinner restaurants. Women need covered shoulders and no beachwear. Sandals are usually okay.

How to Pack for a Riviera Maya Resort Vacation

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing for hot humid weather, reef-safe sunscreen, and resort-appropriate evening wear. Bring water shoes for rocky beaches and a packable day bag for excursions. Most resorts provide towels and basic toiletries.

Check your resort's amenities list. Call or check online for what's provided. Most all-inclusives supply beach towels, hair dryers, and basic soap/shampoo. Some provide snorkel gear. This saves packing space and weight.
Pack for hot, humid weather. Bring lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking synthetics. Pack 2-3 swimsuits so one is always dry. Include a light cover-up for walking between beach and resort areas.
Include reef-safe sun protection. Pack mineral-based sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) - chemical sunscreens are banned in many marine parks. Bring SPF 30+ and reapply every 2 hours. Add a wide-brimmed hat and UV shirt for extra protection.
Pack water shoes and sandals. Rocky coastlines and cenotes have sharp limestone. Pack closed-toe water shoes for swimming and reef walking. Bring flip-flops for resort walking and dressier sandals for evening dining.
Prepare for evening dress codes. Many resorts require long pants and closed shoes for dinner restaurants. Pack one nice outfit per person - khakis and a collared shirt for men, sundress or nice top and pants for women.
Pack a day excursion bag. Bring a small waterproof backpack for cenote visits, ruins tours, or beach days. Pack snacks, water bottle, waterproof phone case, and small towel for day trips outside the resort.

Do I need to pack beach towels?: No. All-inclusive resorts provide beach and pool towels. Some charge deposits but return them when you check out.
Can I buy reef-safe sunscreen there?: Yes, but it's expensive ($30-40 per bottle). Pack your own mineral-based SPF 30+ sunscreen to save money.
What shoes do I need for cenotes?: Water shoes with good grip. Cenote floors are slippery limestone with sharp edges. Regular flip-flops aren't safe for swimming.
How formal is resort evening wear?: Business casual. Men need long pants and collared shirts for dinner restaurants. Women need covered shoulders and no beachwear. Sandals are usually okay.