Riviera Maya, beach plus adventure.
The 80-mile stretch south of Cancun is where I send families who want a great all-inclusive and something to actually do. Cenotes, Mayan ruins, the second-largest reef in the world, and a jungle backdrop — all within an hour of your resort.
Best For
Families · Adventure · Repeat visitors
Best Time to Go
Nov – Apr (dry season); Sep – Oct for lowest rates
Typical Budget
$3,800 – $6,000 per family / week, all in
Our top picks in Riviera Maya
01
Iberostar Paraíso Maya Suites
My personal benchmark for a first all-inclusive: Mayan-inspired architecture, an enormous pool, and a kid club that genuinely runs all day.
02
Barceló Maya Grand Resort
Five connected hotels on one wristband — the most space and choice per dollar on the coast. Great for teens.
03
Playa del Carmen & Fifth Avenue
A walkable town with real restaurants and shopping, twenty minutes from most resorts. The easiest evening off property.
04
Tulum ruins
Mayan ruins on a cliff above the Caribbean. Go at opening, bring water, and swim at the beach below afterward.
05
Cenote Dos Ojos
The best beginner cenote — clear, shallow in places, and gorgeous. Life jackets provided, suitable for kids six and up.
06
Xcaret Park
Underground rivers, wildlife, and a two-hour evening show. Expensive, but a full day of everything for mixed ages.
07
Akumal Bay
Snorkel with sea turtles in shallow water. Go with a licensed guide early in the morning before the crowds.
08
Puerto Aventuras
A gated marina town with a dolphin lagoon and calm swimming — a quieter base if you'd rather rent a condo than book a resort.
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