Introduction

Quintana Roo state’s 100 miles of Caribbean coastline heading south from Cancun to the archaeological site of Tulum is the state’s fastest growing region. Tropical theme parks, snorkeling havens, and rustic to luxurious hotels dot this corridor called the Riviera Maya. Buses regularly shuttle back and forth between downtown Cancun and the corridor’s favorite resort town, Playa del Carmen, making stops along the way to leave or pick up sightseers at various points of interest.

Perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing or simply enjoying the Caribbean scenery, the area is peppered with nature parks and hotels, most of which are set on the beach about a half mile from the road, and hidden behind dense tropical vegetation. You can choose from facilities that range from a hammock strung between two palms to a luxurious beachside villa.

Quintana Roo hopes to replicate the success of the Riviera Maya with a southern counterpart called Gran Costa Maya. Comprising the coastline that stretches south from the Sian Ka’an nature reserve, it includes such destinations as Chetumal (the state capital), Bacalar, Mahahual and archaeological sites in the state’s southern region. The Costa Maya cruise ship port has been designed to accommodate the industry’s newest and largest mega ships, which are scheduled to debut in 2009.