Dine on a waterfront terrace in Rio Lagartos, then glide by boat to a private island for guided stargazing through a telescope. Low light pollution and expert interpretation make this a family-friendly intro to the Yucatán sky.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the hotel terrace as dusk softens the Ría Lagartos flats; the town’s low lights wink and the estuary breathes salt and mangrove air. Dinner arrives—simple, warm—the live band threads through the last glow while guides point out where tonight’s constellations will climb. After plates are cleared, a short boat ride across glassy water carries the group to a small, quiet island. The boat’s motor dies and the sky takes the lead.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short flat walks and a brief boat transfer
Wildlife
History
Ría Lagartos has long been a seasonal fishing and salt-harvesting area; its dark skies and coastal channels were used by local communities for navigation and seasonal activities.
Conservation
The area is part of a Biosphere Reserve, where tourism is managed to limit disturbance to birds and mangroves—follow guides’ instructions to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Stargazing, with Dinner Included today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a warm layer
Night temperatures on the estuary fall quickly; a windproof jacket keeps you comfortable during telescope viewing.
Use a red-light headlamp
Board and move around safely without ruining dark-adapted vision by using a red filter on lights.
Protect against insects
Apply DEET or picaridin before leaving the terrace—mangrove areas can have mosquitoes after sunset.
Charge your camera
Long-exposure shots require a charged battery and a steady hand or small tripod for night photos from the island.
Windproof jacket
Blocks the estuary breeze and retains warmth during night viewing.
fall
Red-light headlamp
Preserves night vision when boarding and moving around the dock and island.
Insect repellent
Helps prevent mosquito bites in mangrove and estuary environments after dusk.
summer
Compact tripod or smartphone adapter
Stabilizes long-exposure photos of the sky using the provided telescope or your own camera.