The eighty-one mile stretch, known as the Maya Riviera is situated in the Mexican Caribbean on the coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. Beginning eleven miles south of the Cancun International Airport in Puerto Morelos, the Riviera Maya extends to Felipe Carrillo Puerto, a small town near the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. The region features the tranquility of uncrowded beaches, a vast network of underground rivers, over 100 cenotes, the action of eco-adventure sports including kayaking, mountain biking, scuba diving, snorkeling, trekking, bird watching and deep sea fishing, proximity to many of Mexico’s most significant Mayan archeological sites, the varied activities of the eco-archeological parks, plus golf courses, shopping, gourmet dining and a range of accommodations to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Xel-Ha National Park in the maya riviera
A natural aquarium with interconnected lagoons, home to rare and countless species of tropical fish. In the bays and coves, vast numbers of parrotfish group together and on the far side of the lagoon, stingrays and nurse sharks are seen through the glass-bottom on boat tours. Snorkel gear can be rented to swim out and to explore the underwater caves. Reservations can be made to Swim with the Dolphins. There are lockers and dressing rooms for swimmers as well as a souvenir shop, food stands, a restaurant, and, a museum.
Tulum
Is the most visited Maya ruin and is the biggest attraction on the coast of the maya riviera. It was the only Maya city built on the coast, possibly having housed 2000 people and once functioned as a trade center. Tulum was used by the city of Coba to connect to the sea and to control the commerce of Central America. This port city was never conquered by the Spaniards and was one of the last Maya outposts left standing during their revolt against Mexican rule in the War of the Castes during the 1840’s.
Akumal
Located on Akumal Bay and Half Moon Bay, the beaches and water are protected by a barrier reef that runs parallel to the coastline. Hotels, condos and villas line the beaches but high rises and mega resorts are not found here. Akumal is a quiet place, known for it’s beautiful beaches, snorkeling and diving. It attracts visitors looking for a peaceful place but with all the comforts. This is an ideal spot on the maya riviera where beautiful beaches are found, great snorkeling and diving exist, and adventure into the Yucatan Peninsula begins..
Sian Ka’an Biosphere A World Heritage Site of UNESCO, located 25 km. south of Tulum. It covers 100 km of coast and 10% of Quintana Roo, including a number of natural habitats. Over 300 species of birds, and a great diversity of flora and fauna are found here. For visitors wishing to stay overnight, there is camping on the beach and a small number of simple accommodations available in the maya riviera as well as fishing lodges catering to sport fishermen.