Paraíso Tranquilo
For those looking for culture…
The ancient Mayan Civilization began around 1800 BC, reached its peak of power and influence around 600 AD and were gone by 900 AD. The Maya excelled in agriculture, pottery, hieroglyph writing, calendar making and mathematics and left behind impressive architecture and symbolic artwork. If you want to experience some of this culture, you must visit the ancient Mayan ruins. Four of the most popular ruins in the area include Chechen Itza, Tulum, Ek Balam and Coba.
Chichen Itza
This is by far the most popular Mayan ruin in the Yucatan Penninsula, named one of the Wonders of the World. The main pyramid continues to be well preserved and is on a large site.
Tulum
These ruins are just 40 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and the only ruins on the coast, offering a beautiful beach.
Ek Balam
A newer ruin to visit in the area offers the experience of a cenote in the area with one of the pyramids that you can still climb.
Coba
The ruins of Coba are in the shade of the jungle with the ability to rent a bike to take from ruin to ruin, although you can walk as well. Here you can climb the tallest pyramid and look over the jungle canopy.