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The Riviera Maya, or Mayan Riviera, is a resort district on the eastern portion of the Mexican Yucatán Peninsula, along the warm blue-green waters of the Caribbean sea. Family friendly accommodations range from elegant boutique resorts to mega properties designed to keep the whole family entertained. With so many great family friendly resorts, it’s one of SerafinaTravel’s favourite destinations and here are just a few reasons why:
1. Beautiful Beaches
With over 320 km of beach you’re sure to find a stretch of soft white sand to wiggle your toes in and relax. Most beaches are protected ecological reserves as they are home to loggerhead and green sea turtles who graze on the seagrass April – August. Be sure to take a trip to the fishing village of Puerto Morelos, the beautiful stretch of beach here rarely has rough surf and there are few rocks and shells.
2. Water sports
This region of the Caribbean sea is home to the world’s second largest barrier reef. The snorkelling directly from most resort beaches is great, making it easy for your family to experience the aquatic life of these warm Caribbean waters. Many resorts offer a beginner’s SCUBA dive lesson where you're able to dive down approximately 9 m and experience the amazing underwater world.
If you prefer to be above the water, why not try kayaking under the stars through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere reserve. Windsurfing, parasailing, or sport fishing are other exciting water activities for families to enjoy.
3. Mayan culture and architecture
Introduce your children to an ancient culture with a visit to the Coba archaeological site. Here you can experience a Mayan village as well as explore the Nohoch Muul temple, the second highest Mayan temple in the world. Or explore the ruins of Chichen Itza, one of the new 7 wonders of the world or Tulum’s spectacular cliffside location along the Caribbean sea. Plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day heat.
4. Eco-parks and Cenotes
There are two environmentally-friendly water theme parks in the area; Xcaret and Xel-Ha . Each park offers different opportunities to get close to nature in the Riviera Maya; snorkelling in freshwater rivers, spotting a manatee, visiting a butterfly pavilion or even trying SNUBA for an unforgettable underwater experience. Another natural attraction unique to the Yucatan peninsula are Cenotes. These hidden freshwater caves offer unique snorkelling opportunities and the chance to explore a rainforest.
5. Direct flights
Most larger cities in Canada offer direct flights to Cancun; always a bonus when travelling with kids! From the Cancun airport, your resort along the Caribbean sea is only 30 – 60 minutes away. If you are headed further south to the quiet area of Tulum, you can expect a ride of 90 minutes.
With so much to see and do, it’s easy to see why the Riviera Maya is a great destination for your next family adventure.