There is a stretch of land along the Yucatan Peninsula that is defined by its pristine beaches and clear, warm Caribbean waters. Known as the Riviera Maya, you’ll find a host of Mayan Resorts offering a variety of vacation packages that will appeal to just about everyone.
This stretch of beach remained a vacation secret for many years and stretches from Cancun in the north to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum in the south. Over the past decade this area has seen a surge in tourism activity as more and more people discover what it has to offer.
There is a wide variety of attractions to see and experience here; from modern conveniences to untamed rainforests and everything in between. You can stay at the modern Mayan Resorts that offer beach activities, spas, snorkeling, gourmet restaurants, exciting nightlife, world-class golf courses, and just about anything else you can think of to do.
For those interested in exploring the jungle, culture, and history of the area, there is plenty to choose from. You can visit a multitude of ancient Mayan cities or take eco tours in the Sian Kaan Ecological Reserve. There are also the ecological parks at Xcaret and Xel-Ha that have water park type attractions.
The main attraction for snorkeling and diving along the Riviera Maya is the Mesoamerican Reef System that stretches from Cancun south towards Guatemala. It is the second longest barrier reef system in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
If you are thinking of vacationing in the Riviera Maya, we recommend that you consider doing so at one of the many all-inclusive Mayan Resorts. It’s hard to beat an all-inclusive vacation for the simple fact that everything you want and need at the resort is paid for before you leave home.
These are just a few of the best-known all-inclusive Mayan Resorts you’ll find throughout the Yucatan Peninsula.
Riu Palace Riviera Maya Resort – This beautiful resort is located in the Playacar area of the Riviera Maya and is only a mile away from Playa del Carmen. It has lush landscaped gardens set back from a pristine white sand beach. It has six international themed restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. It is also ideal for families and offers daily activities for children.
Hacienda Tres Rios Resort – After a short 45-minute drive from the Cancun International Airport, you will find yourself in a luxurious Mayan Resort surrounded by a 326-acre nature reserve. This world-class resort provides its guests with all the benefits of an all-inclusive vacation in a natural setting that gives them the opportunity to experience all that the rainforest has to offer.
Grand Palladium White Sand & Riviera Resort and Spa – This resort is actually part of a larger Mayan Resorts complex consisting of four 5-star hotels. Built to preserve the natural environment, this resort blends in with its surroundings. It includes six restaurants and 12 bars and all guests have access to the facilities of the other hotels on the property.
Akumal Beach Resort – Akumal is a Mayan word meaning “Place of Turtles” and for good reason. With more than a mile of white sand beach, this destination offers snorkeling in the pristine waters of the Caribbean with sea turtles. Akumal is smaller than other Mayan Resorts and offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
The Riviera Maya is truly a world class vacation destination without the world class price tag. It can be cheaper than many domestic destinations and much more affordable than other Caribbean islands like Jamaica or Barbados. Even visitors from Europe find that their dollars go further when they vacation at one of the many Mayan Resorts.