The Mayan ruins at Tulum get full marks for scenic locations: they're the only Mayan ruins right by the sea. Take a tour, to learn about history and architecture from one of the knowledgable trained Guides; then, after you've walked the extensive grounds in the hot sun, head to the beach and cool down with a swim. Try to visit early, before the tour buses from Cancun arrive!
Visitors who want to stay near Tulum, in the south end of the Riviera Maya, can choose the all-inclusive Dreams Tulum.
Dreams Tulum Resort
This all-inclusive -- part of the same company as the Sunscape brand-- has two miles of beach, a natural cenote, and 23 acres; colonial-style architecture, 24-hr. room service; "Explorers Club" for kids age 3 to 12. Guests can take a bike tour of the Tulum ruins.
More Exploration
Near Tulum, a road heads inland; travelers with a car can explore the Aktun Chen caves, and the vast ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Coba. Meanwhile, on the coast further south from Tulum is the Si'an Kaan Biosphere Reserve.
Bottom line: the Riviera Maya is an amazing area for family vacations, thanks to its natural wonders and Mayan ruins; and its array of all-inclusive resorts provide all the infrastructure -- meals, drinks, kids' club, activities, watersports, spa-- so many families want on their getaways.
*photo © Teresa Plowright
