Traveling the Mayan Riviera

The Ruins In the world of Mayan ruins, Chichen Itza gets all the glory, but Ek Balam is less-touristy and still a stunning example of a community. Visitors marvel that the the excavation and restoration of Ek Balam began in the mid-1990s. (Xcaret Eco-Park)

The Adventure Elaborate stage shows are a small part of activities at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.xcaret.com/">Xcaret</a>, the Riviera Maya's version of Disneyland. You can also swim with dolphins, participate in wine tastings, and learn about Mayan and Mexican history at the park. (Xcaret Eco-Park)

Shopping Galore Fifth Avenue is the main shopping drag in Playa del Carmen, and like its New York counterpart, presents shoppers with oodles of opportunities to bring home a souvenir or two. (Riviera Maya Destination Marketing Office)

The Beauty Of all the Mayan ruins in the region, Tulum is one of the most breathtaking due to its cliffside location overlooking the Caribbean Sea. (Riviera Maya Destination Marketing Office)

The Fun The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.themayanexpress.com/%C2%A0">Mayan Express</a> provides visitors with numerous ways to experience authentic Mayan culture, through dance and athletic performances and by learning to make Mayan pottery alongside young villagers in the town of Coba. (The Mayan Express)

The Food With culinary choices ranging from taco trucks with lines down the block to five-star restaurants with modern twists on authentic Mexican cuisine, the food in Riviera Maya presents a wealth of tasty choices. (Riviera Maya Destination Marketing Office)

Day of the Dead Being in Riviera Maya around Halloween means participating in El Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. Elaborate altars and offerings can be found in villages, cities, and of course, in cemeteries. (Lisa Rogak)

Hotels The view from <a target="_blank" href="www.ceibadelmar.com">Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort</a>, an oceanfront resort near the fishing village of Puerto Morelos. (Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort)

Relaxation The Riviera Maya's location on the western Caribbean Sea means there are countless beaches to choose from whether you want to surf or sun. (Riviera Maya Destination Marketing Office)

Swimming & Snorkeling If Xcaret is the Riviera Mayan Disneyland, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.xelha.com%C2%A0">Xel-ha</a> is its Waterworld equivalent. Perfect for families who want to snorkel, swim, slide, and just explore the vast marine life in the Mexican Caribbean. (Xel-ha)