Stretching nearly 100 miles along pristine Caribbean coastline on the Yucatan Peninsula, you’ll find Mexico’s premier tourism and resort district, Riviera Maya.

This region takes in exciting destinations from Puerto Morelos to Punta Allen, including the archaeological wonders of Tulum and resort mecca of Playa del Carmen. It is a place of natural beauty mixed with exceptional service all which add up to an incredible getaway.

The area is home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world’s second largest barrier reef at nearly 600 miles long. It is home to several sea turtle species, crocodiles, manatees, and an incredible variety of fish. But the reef is just one of many reasons why tourists continue to flock here every year.

Guide to Mexico in a Riviera Maya Resort

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Attractions (What to Do in Riviera Maya)

Riviera Maya Vacations are filled with adventure, culture, and beauty. There are so many activities and attractions to keep you busy throughout your visit.

You’ll find thousands of magical cenotes (revered by ancient Mayans) hidden throughout the Yucatan peninsula. These natural swimming holes caused by the collapse of limestone bedrock allow you to literally dive into another world. Be sure to check out LabnaHa Cenotes Eco Park or Grand Cenote in Tulum

Xplor Park offers an incredible array of adventurous activities including zip lining though jungles, driving amphibious vehicles, or rafting though underground caverns of stalagmites. Pay the park a visit at night for a more dramatic experience filled with fire.

Xcaret offers something for the whole family and centers on eco-tourism. You can swim with dolphins, sharks and rays as well as visit aviaries and butterfly pavilions. Experience Mayan and Mexican culture as you visit archaeological sites, chapels, cemeteries, and cultural shows.

You’ll find staying in the Riviera Maya also gives you the perfect base to see three of Mexico’s top archaeological wonders including Chichen Itza, Coba, and Tulum whether it be by tour or private drive.

Beaches and Water Recreation

The beaches are one of the main draw cards for visitors as Riviera Maya boasts some of the world’s best with their pure white sand and seemingly photoshopped turquoise waters.

Nearly all of the hotels in Riviera Maya offer exceptional beaches and whether you are into jet skiing, snorkeling, sailing, or scuba diving, Riviera Maya’s beaches have it all.

Besides water sports, you’ll also discover incredible wildlife. Akumal Beach which means “place of the turtles” is a favorite of sea turtles who come ashore to lay their eggs. Its incredibly clear waters makes it perfect for snorkeling.

And just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean you have to let your beach fun end. Head to Mamita’s Beach Club where the party is just beginning. The venue hosts the Jazz and BPM festivals as well as hosting acts like David Guetta. It’s nightlife at its best.

Gastronomy (Where to Eat)

You’ll definitely work up an appetite with the above incredible activities, and Riviera Maya’s food scene will definitely not disappoint.

For an all out exceptional dining experience head to Oh lala offering 5 star service and incredible atmosphere. You’ll be hard pressed deciding between their filet mignon, sea bass, tuna, or rack of lamb. For lunch head to Kaxapa Factory for some incredible Argentinean cuisine and natural juices.

Hartwood Tulum goes eco-friendly using solar panels and wood burning stoves, going deep into the interior of the Yucatan peninsula to seek out the freshest ingredients from local farmers for its daily changing menu.

Riviera Maya Resort (Where to Stay)

You’ll find your Riviera Maya Resort to be an attraction in its own right. World class service is just the beginning.

You’ll find resorts offering nearly anything you could ask for and including all inclusive options, amazing on-site restaurants, in room hot tubs, water parks, kids clubs, and babysitting services.

Whether you are looking for a romantic adults only getaway or want to spend some time with the whole family, Riviera Maya has you covered. You could not ask for a better base to explore the best of the Yucatan Peninsula.

PRODUCTS WE RECOMMEND FOR RIVIERA MAYA ↓

Walant Women’s Halter Bikini

Seaview 180° GoPro Compatible Snorkel Mask

GoPro Hero4 Black (Underwater Camera)

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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; a website dedicated to opening your eyes to the wild & natural world.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

If you enjoy getting social, you can follow their journey on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram.

Photo credits: Yucatan’s cenotes & diving with Turtles by James Kelly.