Your Guide to Playa del Carmen

Mareazul sits on a seaweed-free stretch of Mexican Caribbean beach in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto private decks with hammocks, and the resort's Zen garden and jungle-like grounds give the whole place a quieter pace than the hotel zone further north.

Quinta Avenida, Playa del Carmen's main pedestrian street, runs parallel to the beach and is lined with restaurants, shops and bars. Most of what you'll want is within walking distance. For day trips, Xcaret, Xel Ha and the ruins at Chichen Itza are all reachable by tour or rental car.

Check each venue's official website for current opening dates, admission requirements, reservations and accessibility information before heading out.