From the beaches of Playa del Carmen to the jungle-fringed shores of Tulum, the Riviera Maya offers a relaxed blend of Caribbean beauty, culture and adventure.
The Riviera Maya is one of Mexico's most fascinating regions, where ancient Maya cities, dense jungle and crystal-clear cenotes sit alongside a Caribbean coastline that has drawn travellers for generations. Stretching south from Cancun towards the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, it is a destination shaped as much by history and nature as it is by its beaches.
While the Caribbean provides an undeniably beautiful backdrop, much of the Riviera Maya's character lies inland amongst tropical forests, hidden swimming holes and archaeological sites that reveal the legacy of one of the Americas' greatest civilisations. From the clifftop ruins of Tulum to the vast temples of Coba, reminders of the region's past remain woven into the landscape.
The coastline itself is remarkably varied, encompassing laid-back beach communities, protected nature reserves and some of Mexico's finest luxury resorts. Days can be spent exploring cenotes, snorkelling coral reefs, sailing offshore waters or simply enjoying the slower rhythm of life that has helped make the Riviera Maya one of the country's most enduringly popular destinations.
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
Be Tulum, a radiant five-star boutique haven in Tulum, Mexico, weaves a harmonious marriage of jungle and sea, offering an exquisite adults-only retreat (guests over 15 welcome) where world travellers surrender to total relaxation amidst the Caribbean's mesmerizing spectacle. The 64 elegantly designed suites, crafted for serene sophistication, pulse with air-conditioned elegance, featuring iPod docking stations, flat-screen TVs, and plush bathrooms with premium toiletries. Each suite boasts a private balcony with breathtaking views of the turquoise sea or lush jungle, while select suites elevate indulgence with private pools or hot tubs, creating an intimate sanctuary for couples or adventurers. Complimentary Wi-Fi weaves seamless connectivity into this tropical escape. Three onsite restaurants—Maresias, Nomade, and Ocumare—ignite the senses with vibrant coastal and international cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients, complemented by a chic bar serving artisanal cocktails. Guests can unwind by two sparkling outdoor pools, immerse in the Caribbean Sea steps away, or dive into adventures like swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, or fishing. Nearby theme parks, Xcaret and Xel-Ha, add thrilling exploration, while attentive concierge services curate bespoke Tulum experiences, amplifying the region's wild, cultural allure. Perched along Tulum's pristine coastline, 7 km from Tulum Archaeological Site and 120 km from Cancún International Airport, Be Tulum offers parking and effortless access to the Riviera Maya's natural wonders and cultural treasures. This luminous haven ignites an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant pulse of Tulum's jungle-meets-sea heart.
From £165 per night
On Riviera Cancun's vibrant beachfront, Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa unveils an adults-only all-inclusive haven with chic accommodations and endless entertainment. Each of the 362 ultra-modern suites radiates contemporary elegance, featuring private balconies or terraces with stunning ocean or garden views, daily-refreshed minibars, and luxurious bathrooms with premium amenities. Guests enjoy 24-hour room service, pool and beach waiter service, and flat-screen televisions, ensuring a refined retreat tailored for discerning travellers. Culinary artistry flourishes across international restaurants, offering gourmet dishes from global cuisines with no reservations needed. Nine vibrant bars serve expertly crafted cocktails without limits, while 24-hour dining at Spoon provides late-night bites, complemented by the convenience of in-suite room service available day or night. Guests can unwind in the exclusive Xhale Club section, join lively volleyball games at the energetic pool, or immerse themselves in the Xcelerate zone, where renowned DJs spin electrifying beats for dancing under the stars. The resort's private beach and sparkling pools invite relaxation, with water sports and daily activities adding dynamic excitement. Perfectly positioned 18 kilometres from Cancún International Airport, the resort offers complimentary private parking for seamless arrivals, with Playa del Carmen's vibrant pulse just 25 kilometres away. Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa harmonises vibrant coastal energy with opulent serenity in Mexico's radiant Caribbean heart.
From £200 per night
In Riviera Maya, 10 km from Playa del Carmen, Banyan Tree Mayakoba unveils a five-star sanctuary with luxurious villas featuring private pools and gardens. Each expansive villa radiates modern elegance, boasting a private sun terrace, a spacious living room with a 42-inch flat-screen television, and a large bathroom with a walk-in closet. Equipped with iPod docking stations and complimentary toiletries, these retreats blend tropical allure with opulent comfort for discerning travellers. Culinary artistry flourishes across 11 specialty restaurants, offering a vibrant array of international cuisines, with Thai specialties at Saffron stealing the spotlight. Reflections Bar, nestled by the communal outdoor pool, serves expertly crafted cocktails and light snacks, enhancing every dining experience with Riviera Maya's serene coastal ambiance. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating massages and body treatments at the full-service Banyan Tree Spa or maintain their fitness routine in the state-of-the-art gym. Scenic mangrove boat tours depart from the lobby, while the nearby El Camaleón Golf Club, opposite the resort, offers lessons through the prestigious Jim McLean Golf School for enthusiasts seeking to refine their swing. Perfectly positioned 45 minutes from Cancun International Airport, the resort provides complimentary private parking for seamless arrivals, with Playa del Carmen's vibrant downtown just a short drive away. Banyan Tree Mayakoba harmonises serene elegance with dynamic coastal pursuits in Mexico's radiant Riviera Maya.
From £330 per night
Paraiso de la Bonita, a radiant five-star, adults-only boutique sanctuary on Riviera study, offering a tranquil escape enveloped by mangroves and the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The 100 opulent suites pulse with refined elegance, featuring flat-screen cable TVs, well-stocked minibars, and luxurious bathrooms with premium toiletries. Private balconies or terraces unveil breathtaking ocean vistas, crafting an intimate haven for couples or discerning travellers. The Impressions Club elevates exclusivity with villa suites, dedicated butlers, private chefs, an infinity pool, and a secluded beach area. Complimentary Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity in this AAA Five Diamond retreat, honored for 15 consecutive years. Three gourmet restaurants ignite the senses with organic, local, and gluten-free cuisine, from vibrant Mexican to international flavours, paired with top-shelf cocktails and 24-hour dining. The Thalasso spa pampers with rejuvenating treatments, yoga, and a complimentary 20-minute experience, complemented by a fitness centre. Endless Privileges include private chauffeured airport transfers, unlimited worldwide calls, sunset catamaran sails, Isla Mujeres excursions, and free greens fees at Grand Coral Riviera Maya Golf Course. Activities like snorkeling, kayaking, cooking classes, and wine tastings spark adventure, with attentive concierge services curating bespoke Riviera Maya experiences. Perched 20 km from Cancún International Airport, 7 minutes from a snorkeling reef, and 100 km from Tulum, Paraiso de la Bonita offers complimentary parking and effortless access to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere and Riviera Maya's cultural treasures. This luminous haven ignites an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant pulse of Mexico's Caribbean heart.
From £185 per night
Viceroy Riviera Maya, a radiant five-star, adults-only sanctuary on Xcalacoco Beach, enchants with serene luxury amidst a tropical rainforest, weaving Riviera Maya's vibrant coastal allure and Mayan mysticism just 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen. The 41 standalone villas pulse with modern elegance, featuring flat-screen TVs with DVD players, well-stocked minibars, and luxurious bathrooms with rainfall showers and Natura Bissé toiletries. Private terraces or thatched-roof palapas, each with a kidney-shaped plunge pool, unveil tranquil jungle or Caribbean Sea views, crafting an intimate haven for couples or discerning travellers. Complimentary Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service ensure seamless indulgence in this pet-friendly, Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards-honored retreat. La Marea restaurant captivates with refined Mexican cuisine accented by international flair, while Coral Restaurant + Bar serves oceanfront dishes and artisanal cocktails, infusing every bite with Riviera Maya's coastal charm. The award-winning WAYAK Spa, inspired by Mayan healing traditions, pampers with massages, a hot tub, steam room, and temazcal ceremonies, complemented by beachfront yoga. A shimmering outdoor pool, state-of-the-art gym, snorkeling, kayaking, and curated excursions to Mayan ruins spark adventure. A Mayan Blessing welcomes guests, with attentive concierge services curating bespoke experiences. Perched 15 minutes from the Cozumel ferry, 20 minutes from Xcaret Eco Park, and 35 minutes from Cancún International Airport, Viceroy Riviera Maya offers complimentary parking and effortless access to Riviera Maya's cultural and coastal treasures. This luminous haven ignites an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant pulse of Mexico's Caribbean heart.
From £260 per night
Hotel Mi Amor, a radiant five-star, adults-only boutique haven perched on a rocky cliff overlooking Tulum's Caribbean Sea, enchants with the golden era of Acapulco-inspired elegance, weaving sensual serenity and vibrant coastal allure into an unforgettable escape for couples. The 20 unique love nests, thoughtfully designed with playful décor, pulse with air-conditioned sophistication, featuring flat-screen TVs, plush bedding, and luxurious bathrooms with premium toiletries. Many cabanas, nestled among lush gardens, boast private plunge pools or terraces with breathtaking sea or jungle views, crafting an intimate sanctuary for romantics. Complimentary Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity in this eco-conscious retreat, set within a protected coastal area. The onsite restaurant captivates with a contemporary menu highlighting Mexican seafood, vibrant regional flavours, and a spectacular daily brunch, paired with masterful cocktails crafted from fresh seasonal fruits at the chic bar by the infinity pool. Guests can bask in hammock chairs, unwind with the soothing sound of crashing waves, or indulge in curated experiences like yoga or spa treatments. Attentive concierge services curate bespoke adventures, from exploring the iconic Mayan ruins five minutes away to immersing in Tulum's jungle-clad wonders, amplifying the region's vibrant allure. Perched five minutes from Tulum Archaeological Site, 4 km from Tulum National Park, and 65 km from Tulum International Airport, Hotel Mi Amor offers parking and effortless access to Riviera Maya's cultural and natural treasures. This luminous haven ignites an exquisite fusion of opulent luxury and the vibrant pulse of Tulum's Caribbean heart.
From £115 per night