9 Best Bars in The Riviera Maya, Mexico

Like its successful sister properties in Cancún, Coco Bongo has things like flying acrobats, bar-top conga lines, live bands, and DJs mixing everything from rock to hip-hop. The cover charge includes unlimited drinks.

Although Papaya Playa Project is a hotel, many folks simply patronize its beachfront club, where they can kick off their flip-flops and dance among the trees. Party people, in particular, appreciate the DJs spinning electronic and house music on Saturday night or the monthly full-moon events.

Inside a cavern, Alux has a bar, disco, wine cellar, and restaurant. There's a MX$100 drink minimum.

Attached to the Rana Cansada Hotel, Bar Ranita is a favorite among rowdy expats. The prices are unbeatable, and the margaritas pack a powerful punch.

Part of the Gitano brand that also has venues in New York City and Miami Beach, this atmospheric jungle bar—with bulbs hanging from the trees and flickering candles at every table blinking like fireflies in the night—is known for its handcrafted mezcal cocktails. Cool beats come compliments of a DJ Friday nights and live bands on Wednesday and Sunday in high season. Mezcal tastings are also available. Come early (this place shuts down around 11), and bring a loaded wallet as drinks are powerful but pricey.

Graffiti-styled La Bodeguita del Medio, a franchise of the famous Havana outpost, features live Cuban music every day.

Enjoy masterful mixology at this beachfront hot spot, where you can hear live music and enjoy creative cocktails featuring local flavors and ingredients. On Tuesday, when drinks are two for one, this is the place to be. 

The biggest, loudest, and most expensive party spot on Calle 12, trendy Mandala is divided into a street-level bar, a rooftop terrace, and a dance club. Each has its own DJ spinning anything from house and hip-hop to disco and techno.

With more than 30 varieties of mezcal from different regions of the country, this cantina is the perfect place to discover Mexico's second most popular agave-based drink (tequila is first). Come for the cocktails, but stay for the live music and friendly vibes.