The Riviera Maya is home to the exotic and the beautiful and is an area of contrasts. Made up of luxury resorts, and with a fabulous reputation for opulence, Riviera Maya – on Mexico’s Yucutan Penninsula – is always popular. If you’re in search of a little spirituality, then the yoga retreats and Mayan ruins in Tulum, a 40-minute drive away from Playacar may be more your scene, but Riviera Maya holidays offers something for all, especially for those keen about the waters.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are all popular in the idyllic waters of the Caribbean sea. Marine lovers can spend a fascinating day at the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve where you’ll see dolphins, manta rays and many other exotic species, or pack up your snorkel and see what you can spot in the shallows. Staying on the sands of Riviera Maya can be just as fun, for the plam tree lined white sands are the perfect spot for that much needed R&R.

What’s more, there are also numerous golf courses for those who love to be surrounded by green – the gorgeous Playacar golf resort is just one of many.  If you’re looking for an All Inclusive Riviera Maya holiday then there are plenty to choose from, as well as a variety of affordable hotels for those looking for cheap holidays to Riviera Maya too. A quick tip to maximise your savings – the rainy season is between July and October, and between these months you can find some incredible deals, but still plenty of hot sunshine.

Stay in luxury

The Riviera Maya region is full of luxury resorts where you’ll find exquisite hotels, many equipped with their own shopping malls, activity centres and even private beaches.

The palm tree lined resort of Playa del Carmen is always popular, mainly for its incredible coral reef, as well as its nightlife and expansive shopping opportunities. Known as Riviera Maya’s hidden gem, Playacar is a gated community with an 18-hole golf course, a stylish shopping mall, and more, and it’s just a 12-minute drive away from Playa del Carmen, so it’s a low cost day out. Playacar is another luxurious resort, offering private beaches and glamorous hotels, including the Riu Playacar and the Sandos Playacar Beach Resort.

Underwater adventures

Riviera Maya has the world’s second largest barrier reef and is one of the world’s most popular locations for scuba diving and snorkeling. It’s not all about the coral reef though, as you can also cave dive here or swim through cenotes – hidden passageways that lead to underground rivers. A cenote is formed when the limestone roof of a cavern collapses, which then creates a sinkhole that fills with pure, translucent water. In freshwater cenotes the water is a little cooler so it’s refreshing on a hot day. Plus, it just makes for an incredible photo setting!

The huge Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, off Riviera Maya’s shore, contains over 500 species of fish and over 100 types of coral. They include spadefish, eagle rays, lobsters, angelfish, parrotfish, moray eels, trumpet fish and more.

You may even come across rarer species of sea life such as lemon sharks, nurse sharks, and manatees. Aside from the sea creatures, the vibrant colours of the natural reef itself are simply enchanting.

If you prefer to be on the surface of the water, there’s tons of boat trips and booze cruises that you can enjoy. Often, you’ll be able to book these in advance which can be a great way to fill your itinerary while sticking to your cheap Riviera Maya holiday budget.

Island tours

A popular destination for visitors exploring the wonders of Riviera Maya is Cozumel Island. Due to the island’s enormity, it is far from overcrowded and makes for the perfect holiday destination with plenty to do. The perfect, thrill seeking way to explore what the island has to offer is certainly by 4×4. Book a private tour to take you around the island and get beautiful scenic views of the Caribbean coast.

For a dreamy day on the beach, head to the El Cielo Cozumel, a section of shallow translucent blue water only accessible by boat, known as ‘heaven’. Here you can feel the powdery white sand between your toes as you paddle through the warm shallow water. The crystal clear water makes it the ideal place to spot colourful marine life – you don’t even need your snorkel.

Impressive Mayan ruins

South of Playa del Carmen lies Tulum, home to the preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city. The historic city of Tulum was built during the 13th century and is the only Mayan city that was built on the coast.

You can clamber up the steeps steps of the castle which resides on the cliff top just above a stunning white sand beach. Be sure to visit the Temple of Frescoes which is the most preserved building on the historic site. A fascinating mural painted by the ancient Mayan community confronts you as you take your first step into the extraordinary chamber.

Exploring the remarkable Mayan city can be tiring work, so take advantage of the ruins’ ideal location and cool off from the sweltering heat by plunging into the translucent water of the Caribbean Sea.

Of course, while on holiday in Mexico a visit to Chichen Itza, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also a must. These ruins include Mayan temples and El Castillo – also known as the Pyramid of Kukulkan, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. While you’re there, you can take in the area’s stunning natural flora and fauna with a bus tour or night walk.