Riviera Maya hotels

Pocket Guide to Riviera Maya

Accommodation on the Riviera Maya ranges from simple guesthouses to all-inclusive luxury resorts and caters for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re seeking a high-end hotel, a family-friendly property or a selection of budget guesthouses as you explore the coastline, Expedia has a huge variety of Riviera Maya places to stay to choose from.

And with the region offering ancient sites, white sand beaches, amazing natural swimming holes and great snorkelling and scuba diving, there’s a reason to visit all year round.

Where to Stay in Riviera Maya

On the north-eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean coastline of Quintana Roo state, Riviera Maya is a major Mexican tourist area defined by its laid-back beach towns and intense turquoise sea. Originally known as the Tulum–Cancun corridor, the area now encompasses a stretch of coastline even further south than Tulum, though the resorts of Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Akumal, Puerto Morelos and the island of Cozumel remain the major draws.

When it comes to both sea- and land-based activities, you’ll certainly never be bored. To begin with, this is one of North America’s best snorkelling destinations, with the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System running the entire length of the coastline towards Guatemala. Not only can you see marine life up close, you might even watch sea turtles on the beaches, especially if you visit during the nesting season between May and October.

Alternatively, spend some time exploring the Mayan sites of Chichen Itza and Tulum and learn why the Yucatan’s present-day Maya population still consider these places sacred. Or head to the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve just south of Tulum, the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its lagoons, tropical forests and more than 300 species of birds.

Rest and Relaxation in Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya’s natural and historic attractions are many, but you can also just kick back and relax here. Try a hibiscus and salt exfoliation or an ancient stones massage at one of the coastline’s many spa resort hotels. Or book a stay in a chic boutique hotel for a restorative break in stylish surroundings. You can even get married here, so search Expedia’s selection of wedding hotels in Riviera Maya’s to make your nuptial dreams come true.

Shopping and Dining on the Riviera Maya

Whether you’re looking for folk crafts from local markets or designer goods at a bargain price, there’s no shortage of shopping on the Riviera Maya. Head to Playa del Carmen’s Quinta Avenida for everything from big US chain stores and shopping malls to flea-market stalls stacked with ceramics, leather goods and textiles. There’s also an inexhaustible selection of bars, restaurants and coffee shops.

Alternatively, head to Akumel or Tulum for authentic Mexican cuisine and the best selection of handmade souvenirs from artisan workshops selling intricate wood carvings, semi-precious gemstone jewellery and colourful Mayan masks.