Catalonia runs two resorts on this stretch, Catalonia Riviera Maya near Puerto Aventuras and the adults-only Catalonia Royal Tulum at Xpu-Ha. For a session, the hour before sunset at the water's edge, or sunrise. Sessions start at 245 USD.
Here is how we plan a photoshoot at Catalonia Riviera Maya, from the first frame to the last light.
The Session at a Glance
- ResortCatalonia runs two resorts on this stretch, Catalonia Riviera Maya near Puerto Aventuras and the adults-only Catalonia Royal Tulum at Xpu-Ha.
- Beach facesEast, onto the open Caribbean
Where We Shoot
The water's edge. Away from loungers, with only sea and sky behind you.
The grounds. Shade, jungle or gardens while the sun is high.
Sunrise or Sunset
Times for this beach on the 15th of each month in 2027.
| Month | Sunrise | Golden | Sunset |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 7:28 am | 5:57 pm | 6:29 pm |
| March | 6:58 am | 6:29 pm | 6:58 pm |
| May | 6:12 am | 6:48 pm | 7:19 pm |
| June | 6:08 am | 6:59 pm | 7:31 pm |
| July | 6:17 am | 7:01 pm | 7:33 pm |
| September | 6:36 am | 6:23 pm | 6:52 pm |
| November | 6:58 am | 5:37 pm | 6:08 pm |
| December | 7:17 am | 5:39 pm | 6:11 pm |
The beach faces east: sunrise lifts out of the sea, and the hour before sunset is soft and even. If you can face an early start, from roughly September through April the sunrise appears from behind Cozumel.
How the Photographer Gets In
For staying guests, there is no complicated paperwork: you register the photographer as your guest with the front desk a day or two before, and we check in on arrival. The vendor fee you may read about applies to weddings; for a private session, Catalonia Riviera Maya guests are very seldom asked for it, and we confirm the policy in writing before your date. If you are staying at another hotel, a day pass usually applies. More in our guide to outside photographers at resorts.
Sessions in the Riviera Maya, Through Our Lens
Real IVAE Studios sessions along the Riviera Maya. They show our work in the area, not necessarily at Catalonia Riviera Maya.
Collections and Prices
All collections include full editing and a private 4K gallery, delivered within one to three business days.
| Collection | Time | Photos | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spark | 35 min | 15 | 245 USD |
| Glow Hour | 45 min | 25 | 325 USD |
| Essential Flow | 60 min | 35 | 395 USD |
| Creative Runway | 75 min | 50 | 475 USD |
| Visual Story | 90 min | 70 | 575 USD |
| Full Experience | 90 min | Full gallery | 725 USD |