Cancun and the Mayan Riviera
The resort area of Cancun and the Mayan Riviera is situated on the eastern most part of the Yucatan Peninsula. When most traveler’s think of Mexico’s beautiful white sand beaches, they are thinking of this Caribbean coastline. The beach city of Cancun was developed in the 1970s by the Mexican National Tourism Development Fund (Fonatur) with a focus on comfort and convenience for mass tourism. In the 30 years since, boutique and luxury properties have joined the mega resorts that line the almost 100 miles of coast from Cancun down to Tulum. A hot-spot for diving, snorkeling, and swimming, the warm waters of Cancun and the Mayan Riviera encapsulate an underwater mystery waiting to unfold for even the most novice explorer. Whether you are looking for a palapa and hammock or a luxurious beachfront property, the relaxed atmosphere of the Mayan Riveria can be out-shined only by the crystalline waters and pure beauty of the Caribbean.
Highlights:
- Cancun- The sun shines over 240 days a year along the strip of fine, white sand called the hotel zone. With an average daily temperature of 80 degrees, this resort town is one of the most temperate and pleasant Caribbean destinations. The city boasts lively nightlife, high-end shops, and world class restaurants in addition to its pristine beaches and proximity to Mayan ruins.
- Isla Mujeres- This tiny island off the coast of Cancun was an ancient Mayan religious site dedicated to the goddess, Ixchel (the guardian of fertility and childbirth). Today, the island is a small fishing community and a string of small hotels with one town center, El Pueblo. The tourist infrastructure of the island has grown rapidly in recent years but it remains a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of its neighbor, Cancun.
- Cozumel- With world renowned coral reefs, beautiful beaches, and exotic local wildlife, Cozumel has developed a reputation as one of Mexico’s best spots for scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking. Located 12 miles off of the Yucatan Peninsula, the 9 miles wide island also welcomes many cruise ships from around the world to its sandy shores.
- Playa del Carmen- Once a fishing village and pristine deserted beach, Playa del Carmen has turned into one of the hottest holiday destinations in Mexico. Smaller than Cancun, “Playa” offers the nightlife and dining of a city with the charm of a seaside beach town.
- Tulum- Tulum is one of the most visited ruins of the Mayan world, welcoming over $2 million visitors each year. The stunning contrast between the ancient stones of the Mayan ruins and the crystal waters of the Caribbean coast make the site a photographers favorite. The rich history of the site as one of the only cities never conquered by the Spaniards make it even more significant and although you have to brave the crowds, it is well worth the visit.
- Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve- This 1.3 million acre reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site and covers over 62 miles of the Caribbean coast. This stretch of protected coastline houses many endangered species and is a spectacular place for birdwatching, mangrove touring, fishing, and kayaking.
