By Robin Thornley
The Riviera Maya, the coastal region south of Cancun, offers world class scuba and snorkeling, jungle adventures among Mayan ruins and ecological explorations. The 112 mile Riviera Maya begins 20 miles south of Cancun at the small fishing port of Puerto Morelos--the town's funky beachside outdoor restaurants capture the flavor of the Riviera.
Ecotourism
Sian Ka'an encompasses 1.3 million acres on the southern edge of the Riviera Maya, about 130 miles south of Cancun. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the preserve contains 23 archaeological zones and pristine natural sites.
Natural Aquarium
Halfway down the Riviera Maya Xel-Ha, a "natural aquarium," is popular with snorkelers--it is easy to combine a day trip to the park with a visit to the nearby beachside Mayan ruins of Tulum.
Underwater Adventures
Akumal has been popular among scuba divers long before the term Riviera Maya was coined--offshore coral reefs create a shallow lagoon bordered by a white beach dotted with palm trees and hammocks.
Xcaret
This eco-archaeological park just 35 miles south of Cancun is a little Disney-like with its "rides"--subterranean rivers, shark tours, swimming with dolphins and even Mayan steam baths--but the whole family can enjoy and learn about the history and ecology of the region.
Playa del Carmen
Gone are the days when Playa del Carmen was a sleepy fishing village. Now cruise ships visit the port and condos line the beach, but it still has maintained that laid back air.
Secret Places
One of the secret places on the Riviera Maya, little visited by many tourists, is Coba, the archaelogical zone deep in the Yucatecan jungle where the ancient roads connecting the Mayan sites can be viewed from atop the crumbling pyramids.
About the Author:
Robin Thornley has been a successful writer for more than 25 years, penning articles for national magazines, newspapers and websites. She specializes in a variety of topics, including business, politics, lifestyle trends, travel and cuisine. She also is the author of two guidebooks.
