Costa Maya & Mahahual

Mahahual, in southern Quintana Roo, lies just 400 m from the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef — the second largest in the world and one of the best preserved. Diving and snorkeling here are excellent.

Puerto Costa Maya is a large cruise pier with shops, pools and shows. A sandy road through the jungle leads to the fishing village of Mahahual, with beach bars and small dive hotels.

Farther south, Xcalak is the last town before Belize: a stunning coastline, friendly people and access by boat to the Chinchorro reef.