From the Caribbean charisma of Cancun and the Riviera Maya to the east, to the mountains and golden sands of Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos and Huatulco to the west, Mexico’s diverse charms are as legendary as the pyramids that dot its lush landscape.  

Indeed, you could visit Mexico every year for the next five years and never have the same vacation twice. But for visitors, no matter which coast you choose, you can count on a magical mix of ancient history and modern luxury.
On the Caribbean coast, Cancun and the Riviera Maya’s bone-white sands and turquoise water are legendary – so too is Cancun’s thrilling around-the-clock action, from wow-worthy water sports to the hip and edgy nightlife scene.

Not sure where to start? Here are just three of our top recommendations, from budget friendly to high-end luxe.

Mayan Riviera—Barcelo Maya Beach Resort - Family friendly
Recommended for you by Joann Williams, Labrador City

Newly renovated, this resort offers more choices of restaurants and bars, plus a brand-new water park, all within an amenity-packed four-hotel complex.

“You’ll love the beach! The whole Barcelo complex of four hotels has undergone an immense renovation and the results are awesome! Great location, too!”

Ask Joann 

Cancun—Crown Paradise Cancun
Recommended for you by Laura Woolfrey, Lewisporte

Crown Paradise Club offers loads of variety in terms of dining and activities and it’s a top choice for families. The kids club is an actual water park (the adults find it hard to tear themselves away) and there’s a great teen disco that goes on until well after midnight.

I’ve sent many families to this resort and have received nothing but positive feedback. The kids program, with its actual pirate ship, is a huge hit. There’s lots of adult-oriented programming, too.” 

Ask Laura 


Mayan Riviera—Dreams Tulum
Recommended for you by Lori Pike, Bay Roberts

Sink your toes into the soft white sands of Tulum Beach – likely the only place in the world where you can gaze at ancient Mayan ruins while enjoying a dip in the crystalline blue waters of the Mexican Caribbean. The beachside site of Tulum dates back to AD 250.

“This beautiful Spanish/Mexicanstyle resort delivers a vacation experience that’s second to none. Although it has lots of family friendly amenities, it also has a very romantic feel to it – not surprising given its wonderful secluded location on a stunning white-sand beach.”

Ask Lori