Mexico - Riviera Maya Luxury Travel

Pristine beaches, caressed by calm, turquoise waters and bathed by gentle breezes, Riviera Maya offers stretches of white sand fringed with palm trees and protected by a chain of coral reefs. Miles of untouched powder white sand as far as the eye can see beckon vacationers in search of quiet and relaxation. Known and treasured by locals, but still virtually undiscovered, these unspoiled serene strands of beach, as plentiful as the region’s sunny days, make even the most seasoned traveler feel as if they are on their own deserted island.

Just a few miles from Playa del Carmen, the Riviera Maya’s shopping and dining center, and home to the most popular beach, are Playa del Secreto, Playa Paraiso and Punta Maroma. Long stretches of white sand, popular with sea turtles and crabs, visitors a wealth of peace and tranquility.

Family friendly

The great thing about the Riviera Maya is that it attracts all types of vacationers. Whether you’re traveling with Grandma and Grandpa (because maybe you paid for their airfare if they agreed to babysit the kids while you snuck away to the spa one night), or whether you’re honeymooning newlyweds, the people of the Riviera Maya will welcome you with open arms. Most resorts have English-speaking staff and are incredibly friendly toward American vacationers.

Playa Del Carmen

There’s a good chance you might not ever want to leave your resort, but should you be the more adventurous type, there’s no better place for entertainment and dining than Playa Del Carmen. The historic Fifth Avenue offers some of the best shopping and restaurants in Mexico, without the hectic bustle of more popular tourist destinations. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of nightclubs and discos to check out, they just have a more lounge-y feel than most.

Tulum

If you’re ready to be blown away by some of the most awe-inspiring ruins of the ancient Mayan race, then Tulum is where you ought to go. But it’s not just the impressive buildings and an opportunity to take a step back in time that attracts visitors to this region. The Tulum ruins are have some of the most striking oceans views in Riviera Maya, and are just minutes away from pristine cenotes that begged to be explored.

Xcaret

Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park that offers insane live performances, crazy good dining and some of the warmest and friendliest people this side of the Yucatan Peninsula. You can watch Manatees feed on the bottom of a lagoon, which is actually a lot cooler than it might sound. There are also flamingos, turtles, parrots, monkeys…we could go on and on. And don’t forget to go swimming in the underground river system.

Travel Experiences:

Riviera Maya, Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning coastline along the Caribbean Sea. It offers a wide range of travel experiences for visitors. Here are some types of travel experiences that Riviera Maya is particularly well-suited for:

• Beach and Relaxation: The Riviera Maya boasts pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It is an ideal destination for beach lovers and those seeking a relaxing vacation. Visitors can soak up the sun, swim in the warm waters, and unwind in luxurious beach resorts.
• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, runs along the Riviera Maya. Snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and even encounter marine turtles and rays.
• Archaeological Exploration: The region is home to ancient Mayan ruins and archaeological sites, offering a fascinating glimpse into Mexico's rich history. The most famous site is Tulum, a walled Mayan city perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Other notable sites include Coba and the renowned Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
• Cenote Exploration: Riviera Maya is dotted with cenotes, which are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear freshwater. These cenotes offer a unique opportunity for swimming, snorkeling, and even diving in underground caverns, creating an otherworldly experience.
• Ecotourism and Nature Adventures: The region is blessed with abundant natural beauty, including lush jungles, mangroves, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can partake in eco-tours, explore nature reserves, and embark on activities like zip-lining, ATV rides, and jungle hikes to experience the region's biodiversity up close.
• Water Sports: Riviera Maya provides ample opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. Apart from snorkeling and scuba diving, visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing.
• Spa and Wellness Retreats: Many resorts and hotels in Riviera Maya offer world-class spas and wellness facilities. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, yoga retreats, and wellness programs, taking advantage of the region's tranquil ambiance.
• Cultural Experiences: Riviera Maya offers opportunities to immerse yourself in Mexican culture. Visitors can explore the charming town of Playa del Carmen, visit local markets, try traditional cuisine, and witness cultural events and festivals.

Also See

Acapulco | Cancun | Cozumel | Huatulco | Isla Mujeres | Ixtapa | Los Cabos | Puerto Vallarta

Important Things to Know:

Passport Requirement: Yes
Visa Requirement: None. However, travelers must fill out a Mexico Tourist Card to enter Mexico via air, land, or sea.
Best Time To Travel to This Destination: December to April (Year-Round Destination)
This Destination is Best For: See Above.
Is This a Family-Friendly Destination: Yes
Recommended Vaccinations: Travelers don’t need to present a vaccination record to visit Mexico. However, it is recommended that your vaccines are up-to-date to reduce the risks of infection against endemic diseases. The vaccines recommended by the WHO are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, and influenza.