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Splashing in the Sea: A Phish Mexico Travel Guide

January 4, 2024

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"In a minute I'll be free, and we'll be splashing in the sea." Imagine singing that iconic line from "Free" while actually splashing in the sea. Then imagine grabbing some tacos and margaritas at setbreak without needing to reach for your wallet. It feels like a life beyond a dream at Phish Mexico.

Now in its 7th year, Phish Riviera Maya returns to the Moon Palace in Cancun from February 21-24. This destination festival on the beach in Mexico is on many a Phish fan's bucket list, and for good reason. We've got some collective experience here at CashorTrade, so here's a guide to help you make the most of your Phish Mexico adventure.


Phish Mexico Photo by Rene Heumer

Stay a Few Extra Days

First of all, Phish Mexico is unlike any other experience seeing the band. Your ticket to this event is a 4-day, all-inclusive vacation at one of the premiere resorts in Cancun. If you fancy a few extra days to enjoy the amenities, it can even be a 5, 6, or 7-day trip.

Here's a pro tip for getting the most out of Phish Riviera Maya - tack on those extra days if you can. It can be stressful dealing with international travel and checking into your room before the first set of the weekend starts. Those who show up a day or two early are enjoying drinks by the pool while others are just arriving and are tired from a day of travel.

Just look at how much fun these pool parties are and you'll be searching for flights in no time...

See Available Tickets for Phish Mexico

Since Phish plays one long set on Thursday, it's definitely possible to make it there on time if you have an early flight down to Cancun. It can be risky, though, especially if you're flying from a place prone to winter storms like NYC, Chicago, or Detroit. Flying in the day before gives you more peace of mind and makes for a more relaxing trip.

After four days of seeing Phish on the beach, it's also really nice to get an extra day to relax. Sleep in, make a reservation at one of the restaurants, get a massage, and then you'll have a much more enjoyable trip back home.

Even if you don't feel like splurging for the extra nights at Moon Palace, it's worth it to tack on an extra day or two before and/or after the shows. There are tons of options for accommodation in this part of Mexico, from budget hostels to 5-star hotels and everything in between.

Phish Mexico pool party

On or Off-Site?

Fans traveling to Phish Riviera Maya have a big choice to make - whether to stay on-site at Moon Palace or off-site. A vast majority of people choose to stay on-site and be able to walk in and out of the concert venue.

For those who stay on site, there are a few things to consider. The Moon Palace is a huge resort, and the venue itself is in the Sunrise section. This part of the resort includes some rooms that look out onto the stage, which is prime real estate.

The Nizuc section is in the center of the sprawling complex and is a short walk away. Meanwhile, guests staying down at the Grand have access to elevated amenities and top-shelf food and beverages, but have a longer trip in and out of the shows.

There are all kinds of options available on CashorTrade at the moment, so check them out and see what might work best for you.

See Available Tickets for Phish Mexico

Some fans aren't really into the all-inclusive resort aspect and just want to catch the shows. It's possible to do that, as you can find fans selling an extra wristband for a discounted price that doesn't include the room.

Basically, you get access to the resort and all the pools, restaurants, bars, etc. You can also get into the concert venue for all of the shows. You'll just need to arrange your accommodation and transportation to Moon Palace, which is doable.

Whichever route you choose, you're seeing Phish in Mexico on the beach in February. You'll be south of the border and over the moon!

Phish Riviera Maya stage

Tips for the Show

It's not that often you get to see a full two-set Phish show on the beach. Those who have been to Atlantic City for the recent runs will have some experience, but for ma y fans, this is a whole new world.

Dancing in the sand to Phish is great. It can also be tiring. This is a workout, so get some stretching in before the shows! Lots of people love splashing in the ocean during the shows and it's a wet & wild dance party there all weekend long.

Just don't try to go swimming as it can be dangerous at night, especially if you've been taking advantage of the open bar. Thankfully there are guards on the beach to make sure no one floats off during the show.

Wherever you take in the music from, be sure to take some time to wander around the venue. You're on a beach full of palm trees that are illuminated like a CK5 light show with intricate sand sculptures and much more, so go explore!

Phish Riviera Maya beach

General Advice for the Event

While this is an all-inclusive event, it's common practice to bring some cash for tips for the bartenders, restaurant staff, and room cleaners. Some fans like to stock up on $1 and even $2 bills to leave as tips. You can also just take out some Mexican pesos from an ATM.

They are used to tourists here, so it's easy to get by without Spanish. That being said, a little bit goes a long way! The staff at Moon Palace love it when fans put forth the effort to speak a little Spanish.

You'll also want to check the hours of the restaurants in your area of the resort and make dinner reservations early on during the event. Nobody likes rushing to get ready for the show or even worse - missing the opener!

Churros

Outside the Resort

Speaking of exploring, there's lots to see and do in the Riviera Maya. You can sign up for excursions with other phans to visit Mayan ruins, swim in cenotes, hit the links, go scuba diving, and so much more.

If you prefer a more DIY approach, you can always rent a car or call a taxi to explore on your own. The Riviera Maya also has an extensive network of colectivos (shared vans) that ply the main road stopping in towns and resorts along the way.

For those who decide to spend some extra time in Mexico before or after the shows, some of the best places to stay include Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Chances are you'll see some donut logos wherever you end up as plenty of Phish fans decide to extend their trip.

Cenotes in Mexico

Tips from the Phans

Last but certainly not least, we asked the phans in the Phish Mexico 2024 Facebook group for their best tips. Many of these folks have been to Phish Riviera Maya several times and they have some great insights to help make it the best trip ever.

Huge thanks to these phans and everyone else who shared their advice on how to have the best time at Phish Mexico!

Whether you're looking for your own room, a cool roommate, or just a show wristband for Phish Riviera Maya, you can find it on CashorTrade. Check out the options and start planning your trip to live music paradise this winter!

See Available Tickets for Phish Mexico