A few weeks ago we were fortunate to finally take a long-awaited trip to Riviera Maya — a vacation we’d been trying to plan with our closest friends for about seven years. It was worth the wait. We spent five days mostly relaxing, with the occasional adventure and shopping excursion. It was the longest stretch of time we’ve spent together since college, and I received a lot of questions from readers about recommendations (we also did a day trip to Tulum), so I wanted to share highlights and photos from the trip.
We stayed at the Andaz Mayakoba resort and fell in love with it the moment we arrived. Andaz properties are known for embracing local culture, and this one did so beautifully. The lobby was inspired by a cenote, which reflects the region’s natural features. Small touches throughout the resort celebrate local traditions: regional scarves to signal room service, a “do not disturb” sign modeled after native wildlife, and large, stunning bird murals on many buildings painted by a local artist.
The property is expansive, with multiple pools, a lagoon, and beachfront access. Golf carts circulate constantly to move guests around, and bicycles are available to explore the grounds. The drivers were an excellent resource for local recommendations if you’re unsure what to do offsite.
We chose to dine mostly on property so we could spend time together and unwind. The breakfast buffet was outstanding, and OllaTaco made great poolside meals. At dinner, the onion rolls at Cocina Milagro were so good we ordered seconds—multiple times.
One afternoon we took a boat cruise around the resort lagoon, spotting wildlife and viewing the other hotels within the Mayakoba complex. Guests at any Mayakoba property can visit or dine at the other hotels, which adds variety to your stay.
The Riviera Maya sits above a vast underground freshwater system. Over time, limestone collapses have created beautiful open-air cenotes, which the Maya considered sacred portals to the gods. On the Mayakoba grounds there’s a cenote you can explore, and there are several open cenotes nearby where you can swim. We didn’t swim on this trip, but family members who did said it was a highlight. Ask your hotel or a local guide for recommendations on cenotes to visit.
El Pueblito, the heart of Mayakoba, is modeled after a traditional Mexican village square. It hosts cooking classes and houses a shop featuring items by local artists. We bought a pink piece of art there from an artist who now lives in Playa del Carmen.
Afternoons were spent by the pool — I’m a pool person rather than a beach person — and one day we rented the RED Cabana. A portion of the booking supported the RED campaign to fight AIDS, which made the experience even better.
Relaxing and catching up with friends was the highlight of the trip. Though there are many day trips and activities nearby, being able to sit, chat, and enjoy each other’s company felt priceless. We’ll definitely return to explore more of the area.
On the one day we ventured out, we took a day trip to Tulum. We hired a driver for about $225 for eight hours, which was well worth it. Tulum felt different from Riviera Maya, and even within Tulum there are distinct areas. We visited the Mayan ruins perched on the beach — a truly spectacular site with incredible views. If you go, bring bug spray and sunscreen.
My favorite part of Tulum was the shopping. We explored what feels like “old” Tulum first, a great area for unique finds. Start at a popular ice cream shop like Campanella Cremerie and stroll the main street — it’s lined with many small shops selling similar handmade goods. I found a shop close to Calle Jupiter Sur that sold the wool animals I collect — one half of the store was devoted to them. I don’t have the name, but it’s a helpful landmark if you’re searching for similar items.
Just a block off the main street you’ll find colorful buildings and charming spots, including the pink hotel we discovered while wandering.
I wish we had more time in Tulum. For a day trip, leave early so you can see more. After shopping we visited the beach area, which has a trendier, more upscale vibe. We had a lovely lunch at Ana y Jose and passed several highly recommended spots, including El Taboo, Posada Margherita, Taqueria La Eufemia, and Hartwood. The beachfront shops are more upscale and pricier, but visually beautiful — I even tried to buy a light fixture from one shop before learning it wasn’t for sale.
After Tulum we stopped at Avenida 5 in Playa del Carmen. This shopping district is more commercial, with bigger stores mixed with a few charming shops. There are also several striking murals in the area, including work by the same artist whose murals appear at the Andaz.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
Outfit Sources:
Rainbow Stripe Shirt | Short-Sleeve Pink Stripe Shirt | Long Sleeve Pink Stripe Shirt | Hot Pink Cami | Blazer from ASOS (similar)
White Shorts | Jean Shorts | White Jeans (similar)
Blue Stripe Bikini | Blue Stripe Dress (similar)
Pink Sneakers | Orange Heels
Rainbow Stripe Sandals | Silver Mules (similar)
Rainbow Tote | Cactus Clutch | Flower Sunnies | Pom Pom Earrings
We were so sad to leave and can’t wait to return. Thanks to the Andaz for hosting us — now to plan our next BFF trip destination.