Before I elaborate on one of the most beautiful corners of Mexico, let me dispel three misconceptions. First: The only places to vacation in Mexico start with a c: Cabo, Cancún, and Cozumel. If those have been your destinations, it’s no wonder you have fallen victim to the second fallacy: Mexico is only suitable only for college kids on spring break looking to drink themselves into a stupor.
Now, picture an expanse of fine white sand with rolling pale-blue waves under a clear sky. You’re sitting on a cushioned chaise with a mojito in hand and fresh ceviche on the way. The scenery sounds like the Caribbean, but you took only a two-hour flight to this slice of paradise on the Riviera Maya. The Europeans have been traveling more than five times the distance for years; where have you been?
Like most places in Mexico, the Riviera Maya offers tourist accommodations at every price point, but what makes the destination most appealing is the wealth of experiences available. Of course, you can seclude yourself in a beautiful all-inclusive resort and sip margaritas, but to truly enjoy the region, you need a local guide that outlines how to make the most of your vacation. As a visitor who went for a week and stayed for four months, let me offer recommendations of the region’s notable hotels, beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and dining choices.
Rest and Relaxation
Taking a week to relax is an indulgence one can’t always afford, but with warm weather year-round, it’s worth it to carve out a full five days.
Most of the hotels on the Riviera Maya are all-inclusive, which is pretty pricey. For an intimate hotel, try Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita. It is recognized by Small Leading Hotels of the World and offers some of the only single-room beachfront accommodations. It has only ninety rooms, but its amenities and private beach are stellar. Expect to pay $700 or more per couple per night, all-inclusive.
The true gem of the Riviera Maya is the sprawling Mayakoba property, housing three small and unique resorts that use ecology and tranquility as their foundation. Upon arrival, you are escorted to your private suite on a boat down the mangrove-lined canals filled with wildlife. The Fairmont, Rosewood, and Banyan Tree then seek to satisfy weary city dwellers in distinct ways. But all three offer the breathtaking indigenous environment that’s home to more than three hundred species of animals and birds.
The Asian-Mexican fusion décor of The Banyan Tree is the most serene and unbelievably quiet. As since even a one-bedroom suite has a private plunge pool, a dock to the lagoon, and a patio for outdoor dining or spa treatments, there is no reason to leave your private residence. Make sure to take advantage of the resident romance manager who can accommodate any heart’s desire. Rates start at $820 per night.
The Mayakoba’s other two hotels are a little bigger, yet also offer peace and privacy. The Rosewood (akin to Las Ventanas in Cabo) boasts a modern, trendy ambiance; rates start at $700 per night.
With three hundred suites, the Fairmont is the largest of the three and most amenable for families. Rates start at $259 a night.
Actual beachfront property is limited in Mayakoba due to the mangroves.
If you do not care for the resort experience, rest your head at a hotel in Playa del Carmen close to the restaurants and public beaches. The modern Mosquito Beach is üuber-chic and affordable; rates start at $185 per night. Other notable mentions are Hotel Deseo ($135 per night) and Hotel Basico ($144 per night) for the trendy twenty-something looking for a hip hangout and fun in the sun.
Food and Drink
All of the resorts above have excellent dining options that anyone can enjoy. Saffron in the Banyan Tree is its signature Thai restaurant, but I fell in love with the sushi and tequila concept café in the Rosewood.
