Experience the captivating allure of Cozumel’s vibrant coral reefs and Playa del Carmen’s bustling streets, where the Caribbean’s natural wonders meet Mexico’s rich cultural tapestry.
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Cozumel is the picturesque image of a Caribbean paradise. The tropical island in Mexico’s Quintana Roo offers divers the chance to encounter a kaleidoscope of marine life amidst the vibrant reefs. Playa del Carmen, a coastal resort town, is a forty-five-minute ferry ride away. The diverse sea life inspire enthusiasts to explore underwater caves and an array of fish in crystal clear water. We’ve listed the five best resorts in the destination for seasoned divers or novices eager to discover the beauty beneath the surface.
CATALONIAN ROYAL TULUM
This five-star, adults-only hotel is the perfect luxury getaway for divers seeking comfort – or cocktails – at the end of a dive day. There are various room types, starting at a standard superior room and going up to a Privileged Romance Deluxe, the perfect option for a dive duo getaway. Located on the gorgeous Xpu-Ha beach and surrounded by lush jungle, the hotel has a dive center for easy access to the encircling mangroves and impressive cenotes – a natural sinkhole filled with translucent fresh water. After too many days spent soaking in the sea, a hike through the ruins of Tulum is just thirty minutes away. From $294 per night
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ROYAL HIDEAWAY PLAYACAR
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Look no further for an extravagant reprieve on the Riviera Maya. The Royal Hideaway Playacar is an all-inclusive, AAA Four Diamond-rated resort whose exceptional service and attention to detail place it at the forefront of Playa del Carmen hotels. The five-star diving operator Pro Dive International oversees the on-site dive center, just a fifteen-minute boat ride from spectacular cenotes and Playa del Carmen bull shark hangouts. That is if you can tear yourself from the soft white sand and gourmet restaurants on land. From $348 per night
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HACIENDA PARADISE
Hacienda Paradise is in the heart of Playa del Carmen, the ultimate stay for divers who enjoy some city hustle and bustle alongside the peace and silence of the underwater world. This affordable boutique hotel partners with Pro Dive International and is a short drive from the premises. With five dive options a day, including night dives, you might plan to spend the whole trip swimming above the colorful coral reefs in the natural park. Hacienda Paradise also promises many wellness activities, such as yoga and aromatherapy, to help reinspire your land legs. From $98 per night
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OCCIDENTAL AT XCARET DESTINATION
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This hotel is located beside the Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Park and provides adventurers and art enthusiasts with a splendid staycation. The Unlimited Xcaret Experience package includes unlimited access to Mexican art exhibitions, Mayan ruins, and other activities. The dive center offers classes for those new to scuba or five planned dives daily to marvel at the Mexican coastline’s wrecks, rays, and reef fish. This tropical utopia even has its own pure and private cove. The sunrise-to-sunset experiences will make your stomach rumble, but 24 hours a day, at least one of the eleven restaurants is open and promises delicious cuisine for hungry divers. From $221 per night
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THE REEF 28
For cosmopolitan divers who enjoy access to shopping and restaurants after a day of sharks and reefs, The Reef 28 is a modern five-star hotel with a sophisticated design and chic atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling with whale sharks, exploring underwater plummeting walls, or diving deep down into caverns, PADI five-star Reef Marina is the connected dive center affording all types of adventures. Walk the streets of Playa del Carmen’s legendary downtown to discover delectable places to drink and dine, or take a wellness route by opting to join in the yoga, tennis, and golf bookable through the hotel. From $293 per night
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