Tropical Adventure

Bursting with scenic and natural wonders, the Riviera Maya is taking shape as Mexico's most unique vacation area. The pace is relaxed and perfect for the escapist looking for a bit of adventure. This region is made up of small independent communities providing infinite possibilities for exploration and enjoyment. The second largest reef system in the world, the Great Maya Reef, runs along the coastline and a jungle surrounds the towns and beaches. A unique and complex underground river system flows beneath the surface and surprises visitors with magical caverns, caves, and cenotes (caverns that open to the sky). There are also hundreds of archaelogical sites, remnants of the incredible and timeless Mayan civilization, and a spectacular and plentiful marine life.

What to Do

Playa del Carmen is the largest town in the Riviera Maya. While it still has the atmosphere of a small fishing village, there are also elegant hotels, restaurants, and open-air shops along the waterfront. In Puerto Aventuras, the first resort town built in the Riviera Maya, visit the shipwreck museum which houses interesting colonial artifacts that have been found along the area's reefs. In Xcaret (ish-karet), you can swim with the dolphins and snorkel through an underground river. Xel-Ha is a wonderful eco-park in which to spend time swimming, snorkeling, or discovering one of the world's largest natural aquariums. The ancient Mayan city of Tulum, built on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean, is one of the prettiest archaelogical sites in Mexico.

Dining and Entertainment

After a day of leisure or full of adventure, fresh lobster and fine wine, homemade pasta, or a taco at a small Mexican restaurant will satisfy every palate. Coffee in the Riviera Maya, be it espresso or regular, is the very best in Mexico and easy to find. Nightlife in Playa del Carmen can be either quiet or exciting, depending on one's tastes. Enjoy all kinds of music from reggae, rock, and jazz to salsa and African drums.