- Lagoon at the Xcaret theme park in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
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Sean Dockery
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Picture the perfect beach vacation destination. You’ve got the crystal clear blue waters? The ideal warm weather? The relaxed atmosphere? The white sand beaches? Then you’ve got Riviera Maya. The recently named area stretches along the Caribbean coast of Mexico at the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula beginning approximately 10 miles south of Cancun at the village of Puerto Morelos, and encompassing Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal and Tulum, until it finally ends at the town of Carrillo Puerto.
Accommodation options range from rustic thatched cabanas by the beach with few amenities, to luxurious, all-inclusive resorts. Mayan ruins and ecological reserves make excellent day-trips should you grow restless relaxing on the beach.
Destination Facts
- Time Zone: -6 GMT (Central Standard Time)
Feature Article
Feature
Riviera Maya: Playtime at the Playa
Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Riviera Maya, Mexico May 16, 2008 by Cindy RichardsPristine beaches, ancient ruins and eco theme parks—there is something for everyone at this jewel on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.
Articles on Riviera Maya
Feature
Cruising to Mexico
by Debbie K. Hardin June 20, 2008Mexican cruises offer families warm temperatures, native art and culture, and plenty of adventure.
Feature
Top 4 Riviera Maya Resorts for Families
by Cindy Richards May 16, 2008Check out one of these kid-friendly accommodations on your next Mayan vacation.
Feature
Off Track Adventures in the Riviera Maya
by Leslie Long May 16, 2008Alltournative’s tours are geared for the entire family. Our writer’s day-long adventure with her son featured kayaking, swimming in cenotes, a traditional Mayan meal and four-wheel fun.
Editor's Take
Mayan Vacation Expedition
by Donna M. Airoldi May 16, 2008Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a great place to take the family for some fun in the sun and a cultural education.
- Riviera Maya: Playtime at the Playa
- Pristine beaches, ancient ruins and eco theme parks—there is something for everyone at this jewel on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. »
- Treasures of Tulum
- After visiting this Mayan site rich in history, check out the nearby theme park Xel-Há. »
- Cobá: Into the Mayan Jungle
- Outdoor enthusiasts love the Mayan city of Cobá—so do tropical birds, monkeys and alligators. »
