November is one of the most welcome months of the year on the Riviera Maya. The rains ease, the water clears and the high season is just around the corner. Here is our roundup of the good news from the coast.

1. The sea is clear again

The sargassum season has wound down, alerts are at their lowest level and the turquoise water is back. Read the full sargassum update.

2. Xcaret’s Festival of Life and Death turned 20

From October 30 to November 2, 2026, Xcaret Park in Playa del Carmen held the 20th edition of its Festival of Life and Death, celebrating Day of the Dead traditions with Guanajuato as the guest state. The Riviera Maya remains one of the best places in Mexico to see these traditions up close. See our guide to the best theme parks in the Riviera Maya.

3. Record cleanup and new funding

Between April and August, Quintana Roo removed nearly 125,000 tonnes of sargassum from its coast. Local reports also say that Fonatur will return to Quintana Roo in 2027 with 500 million pesos earmarked for sargassum management.

4. The best season to visit begins

November to March is traditionally the most reliable window for clear water and calm beaches, and December to March is high season. If you are planning a winter trip, book early.

Things to do right now

• Snorkel the Puerto Morelos reef.
• Spend a night at Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ.
• Swim in a cenote.
• Plan a day trip to Tulum, Cobá or Cozumel.

Sources: Mexico News Daily, Por Esto and The Rio Times.