Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a destination filled with vibrant culture, beautiful beaches and pure luxury. It’s the kind of place that offers the best of the best: luxury resorts, unforgettable adventures, gourmet cuisine and personalized services. If you’re in the mood for an upscale escape in a spectacular setting, we’ve got a few suggestions for an over-the-top Riviera Maya vacation. And even better — by booking with RedWeek, your accommodations won’t come with an excessive price tag. Discover travel’s best-kept secret.
Get Refreshed At The Grand Luxxe Spa Suites
If you’re in the mood for something that goes above and beyond the usual resort experience, try the palatial Spa Suites at Grand Luxxe Riviera Maya. Each Spa Suite features its own private massage cabin, a wooden terrace with plunge pool and a dedicated concierge who guarantees that your stay will be relaxing and rejuvenating. And when you’re ready to leave your suite, the rest of this luxury Riviera Maya resort won’t disappoint, with a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach, a Jack Niklaus-designed golf course and several excellent dining options.
Have An Unforgettable Eco-Adventure On Isla Mujeres
There’s no place quite like Isla Mujeres. Located about eight miles off the coast off Cancun (easily accessible via ferry), it’s the definition of an island paradise, with pristine beaches, lush rainforests and fascinating culture. A daytrip here might include snorkeling in crystal-clear waters along a colorful coral reef, visiting romantic lighthouses, sunbathing on secluded sands and discovering artisanal goods in a charming village. Want to take things to an even more luxurious level? Sail out to Isla Mujeres aboard a glamorous catamaran.
Explore A Cenote
For another elevated Riviera Maya eco-adventure, discover the incredible world of Riviera Maya cenotes (pronounced say-NO-tays). Throughout Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, there are thousands of these natural swimming holes, which are formed when limestone bedrock is eroded caves in, creating an otherworldly pool that fills in with water over the decades. One of Riviera Maya’s most family friendly cenotes, Cenote Azul is located a short drive from Playa del Carmen. Its turquoise waters and evocative cliffs are positively dazzling. Another option is Tulum’s Gran Cenote, with calm waters and easy-to-use walkways. Wherever you end up, exploring a Riviera Maya cenote is bound to be one of the highlights of your vacation.
Experience The Magic of Cirque du Soleil: JOYÀ
Cirque du Soleil has been enchanting audiences for decades with its unique blend of music, dance, acrobatics, puppetry and pure magic. At the Grand Mayan at Vidanta Riviera Maya, you can experience Cirque du Soleil: JOYÀ, a multimedia extravaganza that takes you on a journey through the jungle, under the sea, and across the pages of history. For an even more exclusive night out, try the JOYÀ dinner table offering, which offers a three-course culinary masterpiece right next to Cirque stage. Servers aren’t just bringing out your meals when you sit down at the JOYÀ table — they’re part of the show!
Go On A 5th Avenue Shopping Spree
For an upscale retail experience in Playa del Carmen, spend an afternoon browsing the offerings on the famed 5th Avenue (AKA La Quinta Avenida). The Mediterranean-style Paseo del Carmen is an open-air shopping mall with several luxury brand outposts, including Tommy Hilfiger, Armani Exchange, Ultrajewels, Lacoste and many more. Want to find something a little more local? Check out Sol Jaguar, an expansive boutique that specializes in handcrafted items gathered from artisans throughout the Riviera Maya region.
Enjoy An Unforgettable Meal At NÜ Tulum
Riviera Maya cuisine is diverse and delicious, whether you’re enjoying street tacos or indulging in fine dining. NÜ Tulum falls into the latter category, offering an elevated culinary experience in a gorgeous open-air setting illuminated by candlelight. Here, acclaimed chef Benjamin Coe has created a menu that takes advantage of fresh and organic local ingredients while maintaining a sustainable approach throughout the process. Bold flavors tie everything together, from innovative seafood dishes to delectable Caribbean cabbage. And don’t miss NÜ Tulum’s artful selection of craft cocktails, which take mixology to the level of an artform.