Mexico's Caribbean Coast
Riviera Maya
Just south of Cancun (and an easy distance from the Cancun airport) sits Mexico’s Caribbean coastal resort destination known as Riviera Maya. This includes Playa del Carmen and Tulum, spanning a total of 74 miles of coastline. Riviera Maya's properties are different from Cancun's in that they are built more as self-contained resorts, most of which are all-inclusive. Many are set within the verdant jungle. Some have long beach expanses, while others have small beaches but larger, more elaborate pools. Some properties specialize in family vacations, while others are romantic and for adults only. Several Mayan ruins and eco-parks are nearby for an easy excursion.
If you prefer to do without the all-inclusive feature, there are several boutique and mid-sized hotels without meal plans in the areas of Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.
Just off the coast lies an extensive coral reef, making Riviera Maya an excellent destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. A catamaran tour will take you to the reef to snorkel, combined with a sail along the coastline. Or swim in a cenote, an underground river. There are cultural and eco-oriented parks to visit, including Xcaret and Xel-Ha. And for the active traveler, there’s tours by ATV, horseback, and even camelback. While Riviera Maya is quieter than Cancun, there’s still shopping, restaurants, and nightlife in downtown Playa del Carmen's pedestrian area.
There are resorts to fit every budget and style, including top luxury spa resorts for the ultimate indulgences.
What to do
- Snorkel
- Eco-parks
- Mayan ruins
- Scuba dive
- Catamaran cruise
- ATV ride
- Horseback ride
- Camel safari
- Swim in a cenote underground river
- Golf
- Parasail
- Shop
How to get there: Riviera Maya is a coastal region in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, situated on the Caribbean Sea just south of Cancun.
By air: Cancun International Airport CUN handles the second largest volume of traffic in Mexico but receives the highest score for its modern facilities and equipment. Multiple flights daily from major airports in the US, Canada, Europe, South America, and Mexico. The drive time to your resort can be anywhere from 20 minutes to 90 minutes, depending on its location.
By sea: Costa Maya is a popular cruise port located in the southern end of Riviera Maya.
Ideal for
- Families
- Couples
- Destination weddings
- Groups of all ages and interests
- Business incentives
- Conventions and meetings
Contact Information
Phone:
Email:
Address:
Dallas-Fort Worth Metro
The Colony Texas 75056
Cindy Grant
I am a travel consultant with a passion for my work and over 22 years of experience in the travel industry. I am a mother of three wonderful kids who have all now flown the nest. I take every opportunity to visit the destinations and resorts and have firsthand knowledge and experience. I sell a variety of destinations that I love—including Tahiti, Hawaii, Fiji, Mexico (the Caribbean and Pacific resort areas), the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Disney World, Western Europe, and a selection of cruises. I work with clients to identify what will fit their needs and sell only those resorts that meet the standards of my clientele.