Mexico 101: Riviera Maya
LT Globetrotter
Riviera Maya blends history, relaxation, and trendy excitement into one amazing beach resort destination, where perfect weather, powder-white sand, and crystal blue seas provide a stunning backdrop to your dream getaway.
In Riviera Maya, get ready to vacation any way you want, whether that’s having a Mayan adventure, family fun in the sand, romantic walks along the water’s edge, or exploring underground rivers.
If you’re into Mayan ruins, you’ll have all you can handle in Riviera Maya. Swim along a small beach beside the main temple of Tulum, and see over 60 other well-preserved Mayan structures while you’re there. Stop by the eco-archaeological park, Xcaret, once a Mayan port, and learn about Mayan history and the area’s ecology (and stick around for the “Mexico Spectacular” show). Explore Mayan caves at Aktun Chen. See the highest pyramid on the Yucatan Peninsula, Ixmoja, which sits in the Nohoch Mul group of structures.
Venture to Xel-Ha, the world’s largest aquarium, with Snuba®, Sea Trek® and swimming with dolphins. Experience nature along underground rivers and in dramatic caves. Dive into the largest coral reef in the northern hemisphere, home to more than 500 species of marine life. Or discover unique animals and gardens at Sian Ka’an, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Shoppers, get ready to explore La Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue) at Playa del Carmen, where you’ll wander a cobblestone street surrounded by artisan boutiques, cantinas and nightclubs, and extraordinary restaurants.
And don’t forget Riviera Maya’s gorgeous white-sand beaches along the crystal blue Caribbean Sea!
Riviera Maya Vital Stats
Average temp: 80ºF
Official language: Spanish (English widely spoken)
Official currency: Mexican Peso (U.S. dollar widely accepted)
Approximate Flight Times
New York/Newark: 4 1/2 hours
Philadelphia: 4 hours
Boston: 4 1/2 hours
Miami: 2 hours
Los Angeles: 4 1/2 hours
Interested in Riviera Maya but not sure where to start? Liberty Travel can unlock Riviera Maya’s must-see attractions, wonders, and off-the-beaten-path hidden gems.