There are plenty of places on this planet where the sea is clear and the sun shines strong. But there aren’t many places where you can also go from downing margaritas at cosmopolitan parties to exploring sacred ruins within just a few miles.
Travel south of the border has practically exploded over the last few years. (Here’s looking at you, COVID restrictions.) And while there’s plenty of Mexico to love, there’s something special about the Riviera Maya.
As its name may suggest, the land is most famous for being the cradle of Mayan civilization — an influence that is still very much felt today. But despite all the history, the destination is 100% modern and vibrant.
Technically, the Riviera Maya is a coastal strip of land along the Yucatan Peninsula that stretches from Puerto Morelos in the north to Punta Allen in the south. And within its 100 miles of coast, there are tons of destinations, each with their own unique vibe. So the first question is obviously: where to book?
Baja Adventure
If you veer even slightly hippie in your sensibilities, opt for a vacation in Tulum. (It’s probably where that wellness influencer you follow hosted their retreat that one time.) Once upon a time, the town used to be a mecca for the backpacker and bohemian sets. Now, travelers are more likely to be of the Instagram wellness or EDM flavor. But if you look just beneath the surface, you’ll find a town rife with seaside taco stands and vibrant history. Be sure to visit the Tulum archaeological zone, one of Mexico’s most unique Mayan ruins where you can explore beachside temples and afterwards cool off in the Caribbean.
If you’re more of an active traveler, book a stay in Cozumel. The island off the Mexican coast is renowned as one of the best diving destinations in the world. You’ll enjoy white sand beaches and thriving reefs where you can snorkel amongst unbelievably bright fish. The island is also a perfect place for travelers who intend on spending all day every day at the beach.
About a 10-minute drive from Playa del Carmen is Xcaret Eco Park. Back in the day, the Maya stopped here to purify their bodies and souls. You can still do the same by swimming in the park’s underground river, trekking lush jungle trails or enjoying the butterfly farm.
And no trip to the Riviera Maya is complete without visiting Chichen Itza, arguably one of Mexico’s most famous landmarks. The archaeological site is home to the sort of spooky, how-the-hell-did-they-do-that architecture that is still jaw-dropping, even thousands of years later. (If you visit, be sure to bring water and a hat. Shade isn’t one of Chichen Itza’s selling points.)
To complete your itinerary, add a stop at a local cenote. Swimming in a cenote — basically a natural pool within a cave — is a magical experience unlike anything else on this planet. You’ll fancy yourself an aquatic Indiana Jones. Each cenote is different. Some are closed and you’ll swim in the dark, others are open and feel like swimming under a sunroof. Try following the “Ruta de Cenotes” in Puerto Morales for a smorgasbord of swimholes.
South of the Border Style
Wherever you book your vacation, we recommend choosing a resort that offers cultural experiences, like the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya. The resort offers a Mayan Hammock Weaving class, where you can weave your own hammock (that you’ll take home as a souvenir) while learning about traditional Mayan techniques and beliefs. (The resort also offers Tenango embroidery workshops for all fashion mavens.) If arts and crafts aren’t your vibe, there’s also guacamole making, tequila tasting, Mexican candy tasting and Mayan meditation.
Before you jet off on your mystical Mayan holiday, bear two things in mind. One: always wear sunscreen. And two: no matter how much you’re drinking the Kool-Aid, don’t drink the water. Montezuma’s Revenge is very real.
