Boca Paila: Get Lost in the Middle of the Sian Ka’an Reserve

As long as you know where you are and have the means to return to civilization, getting lost in the jungle is great, isn’t it?

Where is Boca Paila?

Ever heard of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere? It’s a natural reserve just a few minutes south of Tulum where you’ll find some of the Riviera Maya’s most natural and unpopulated spots, such as Punta Allen and Boca Paila. As it is a protected area, here you won’t see any sign of the usual Riviera Maya tourist infrastructure, like Cancun or Cozumel. This is pure nature.

The beach at Boca Paila

As there are no hotels or beach clubs nearby, this is a great place to enjoy the peace, but you need to plan ahead. Bring everything you need. Protection against the sun, like a hat and long-sleeved shirt, is a must, as you won’t find umbrella rentals here at all. There are no equipment rentals either, so bring your mask and snorkel—it’s worth it.

Things to do

As Boca Paila is a natural marina that offers protection for boats, it is a well-known recreational fishing spot. The Boca Paila Fishing Lodge close by allows visitors to stay overnight surrounded by a natural environment with all the amenities of an eco-hotel.

If fishing is not your thing, you can book a boat tour around the sea and the mangroves. These are much sought-after by those interested in the local wildlife. Birdwatchers in particular have the opportunity to spot several rare species of birds.

One of the most visited spots here is the Boca Paila Bridge, a long, wooden bridge that crosses a large stretch of water. Even those who are just passing by can’t help but stop to admire the view on their way to Punta Allen. This is also a great place to see the local wildlife, as you can see the alligators that populate the mangroves right under your feet.