Riviera Maya Mexico Resorts

Stretching along the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, the Riviera Maya is renowned for its stunning Caribbean coastline, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Historically, the region was home to ancient Mayan civilizations, with archaeological sites such as Tulum and Coba offering glimpses into this rich cultural heritage. Today, the Riviera Maya is a popular tourist destination, offering a blend of luxury resorts, eco-adventures, and cultural experiences, all set against the backdrop of lush tropical jungles and crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. When visiting this area, allow me to help you find the right resort for your travel vibe. Here are my favorite Riviera Maya Mexico Resorts!

All-Inclusives:

1. Grand Velas Riviera Maya: This classic, five-star, all-inclusive resort is great for anybody wanting to get straight to vacation mode. With eight restaurants, multiple bars throughout the property, and their Se Spa, you really never have to leave. Choose from the private Zen Grand ambiance surrounded by pristine jungle or opt for ocean breezes in the Ambassador and Grand Class ambiance. All-inclusive vacationers love this property!

2. Palmaïa - Playa del Carmen: For wellness lifestyle travelers, this is an excellent option. The property is right on the beach, nestled into the green jungle of the Riviera Maya. Enjoy their excellent plant-based food options, meditation sessions, yoga classes, and energy healing. Families with children feel very welcomed at Palmaïa; they have bunk beds in the family rooms for children and an impressive kids club with child care.

3. Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya (Adults Only): This is a perfect place for a couple's getaway or a friends group trip. Relax in this breathtaking oceanside property, enjoying a calm and tranquil environment. The white sand beaches and lush green jungle are gorgeous in this 70-acre property. There are four fabulous restaurants and five bars on property, so you'll have everything you need here.

Boutique and Chic:

1. Our Habitas Bacalar: For those wanting an off-the-beaten-path experience in this region, consider visiting Bacalar far from the bustling resort scene of the coast. This boutique jungle oasis is set on the freshwater Bacalar Lagoon where you can enjoy crystal clear calm waters and avoid the crowds. Their spa offers excellent treatments including cacao ceremonies and temazcales. The on-site restaurant Siete offers a farm-to-table crafted menu, highlighting local ingredients and cuisine.

2. Nômade Tulum: Nestled in the green jungle, Nomade Tulum blends eco-luxury and bohemian allure. Situated against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea, this boutique gem offers a captivating stay where rustic-chic meets modern comfort. Discover a unique experience in their enchanting treehouse accommodations, perched amidst swaying palms and verdant foliage, offering unparalleled views and a sense of serenity.

3. El Nido Boutique Hotel - Holbox (Adults Only): This small boutique hotel, with only 12 available rooms, will truly feel like an exclusive getaway at a great price. If you're looking for a nice place to stay in a quaint relaxing atmosphere, this is it. Holbox Island is a pristine and eco-friendly paradise, renowned for its stunning beaches with bioluminescent activity.

Super Lux:

1. Rosewood Mayakoba: Located within the exclusive Mayakoba development, this Rosewood property delivers a true five-star experience. Surrounded by mangroves and pristine beaches, the resort offers a private and intimate atmosphere. Guests can choose from a range of luxurious accommodations, including spacious suites, private villas, and enchanting overwater lagoon residences.

2. Banyan Tree Mayakoba: Also in the private Mayakoba complex, Banyan Tree appeals to a variety of travelers, particularly those seeking a luxurious and immersive escape in a stunning natural setting. It caters to discerning travelers who appreciate upscale amenities, personalized service, and attention to detail. Eco-conscious travelers are drawn to the resort's commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

3. Maroma - A Belmond Hotel: A personal favorite, Maroma has recently renovated this gorgeous property. This resort has great character and thoughtful design. This is perfect for travelers wanting a 5-star experience but with a special, unique, and intimate experience. This property has a selection of luxurious accommodations to choose from, including guest rooms, suites, and private villas.

Day Trips:

Visit a Cenote - A cenote is a natural sinkhole or underground cavern filled with freshwater, formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. This is a unique geological feature to this area, so it is worth a visit. Tourists can swim in many of these cenotes and enjoy a cool dip in freshwater, or scuba enthusiasts can explore underground cave systems. Near Tulum, check out Gran Cenote or Cenote Dos Ojos. Another great option is Cenote Azul - a large, open-air cenote that you can jump into from a cliff.

Bioluminescent Beaches - Seeing this glow-in-the-dark phenomenon in on many peoples' bucket lists. The best bioluminescent activity in the Riviera Maya can typically be experienced in the waters surrounding Holbox Island and Bacalar Lagoon. These areas are known for their vibrant displays of bioluminescence, created by the presence of microscopic organisms in the water that emit light when disturbed, creating a mesmerizing glow at night. Visitors can embark on guided tours or kayaking excursions to witness this natural phenomenon firsthand and marvel at the magical glow illuminating the dark waters.

Visit Mayan Ruins of Tulum: Perched atop seaside cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the ancient Mayan city of Tulum is one of the most iconic and picturesque ruin sites in the Riviera Maya. Visitors can explore well-preserved temples, palaces, and ceremonial structures while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.

Xcaret Park: Xcaret Park is a sprawling eco-archaeological park located on the Riviera Maya in Mexico, offering a unique blend of natural attractions, cultural exhibits, and thrilling activities. Visitors to Xcaret can explore underground rivers, swim in cenotes, observe wildlife, learn about Mayan culture through live performances and archaeological sites, and enjoy a variety of water-based activities such as snorkeling and swimming with dolphins. Ideal for families, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike, Xcaret Park provides a comprehensive and immersive experience that showcases the beauty and cultural richness of the Yucatan Peninsula.

The Yucatan Peninsula has very distinct cuisine compared to the rest of Mexico due to the strong Mayan roots of the area and unique ingredients. If you wish to sample some authentic Comida Yucateca in your trip here, look for these dishes at local restaurants:

Cochinita Pibil: A traditional Mayan dish, cochinita pibil consists of slow-roasted marinated pork wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground in a pit oven. It is typically served with pickled onions and habanero salsa.

Poc Chuc: Poc Chuc is a popular Yucatecan dish made with marinated and grilled pork loin, usually served with refried beans, pickled onions, and warm tortillas.

Salbutes: Salbutes are a type of fried corn tortilla topped with shredded turkey or chicken, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and pickled onions. They are a beloved street food in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Panuchos: Similar to salbutes, panuchos are made with fried corn tortillas that are stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded turkey or chicken, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and pickled onions.

Sopa de Lima: Sopa de Lima is a traditional Yucatecan soup made with chicken, lime, tomatoes, onions, and spices, garnished with fried tortilla strips and served with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish that's perfect for hot weather.