Best Weekend Getaways: Riviera Maya, Mexico

For a sunny, indulgent weekend.

By Christine Speer Lejeune· 2/22/2012, 6:39 a.m.

The Strategy

Lush green jungle, white sand beaches, azure waters and plenty of margaritas. What else do you need to know?

The Travel Time

Roughly 4 hours by plane into Cancún, followed by a 45-minute shuttle ride.

The Lodging

The natural beauty of Rosewood’s luxury resort Mayakoba can’t be overstated: This world is a perfect mix of wild (mangrove jungles bordering the property; crocodiles swimming in the lagoons around your suite) and extreme luxury (private plunge pools on your deck; indoor/outdoor showers in your room). The private beach has everything: volleyball, snorkeling, paddleboats, and waiters who cheerfully keep the Coronas coming. $$$

The Food

Mayakoba is the kind of resort that you won’t really want or need to leave, so don’t: Order the guacamole for a poolside snack (one of the many highlights of your trip), and cold, fresh ceviches from the tequila bar. For proper meals, you’ll feast at the never-ending breakfast buffet at Casa Del Lago, situated next to the infinity pool; and you have your choices of Casa or Punta Bonita, the more casual beachfront restaurant, for lunch or dinner. You’ll remember the tortilla soup in your dreams.

The Sights and Diversions

You won’t run out of resort activities in the three or four days you’re there. (Just watching the exotic birds and wildlife on the lagoon from your private deck is surprisingly and endlessly fascinating.) But should you want a break from the golf and spa and tequila tastings, have the concierge set you up with a trip to nearby Punta Venado, where you can ride horses along the ocean, then hop off into the briny for snorkeling, with a guide who’ll take you to a place where the sea turtles swim right up to you. You’re also near the famous Mayan ruins at Tulum, and Playa del Carmen shopping.