THE RIVIERA MAYA is one of the regions of Mexico, and the world, which offers a rich variety of landscapes and archaeological treasures.  Located on the eastern end of Mexico, the Mexican Riviera, with its white-sand beaches and azure seas, was once home to ancient civilizations. For the modern day visitor, it is these same attractions that have made the area Mexico’s premier resort destination … of course today you will no doubt find much more luxurious accommodations awaiting your arrival.

The area has a number of distinct regions, each with its own appeal and personality. For those desiring to get away from it all, the Riviera Maya is the perfect choice. Stretching some 130 kilometers south from Cancun along Mexico’s eastern shores, Riviera Maya combines two worlds—the culture of ancient Mayan civilization with modern luxury lifestyle.

The accommodations  - The Riviera Maya provides an impressive choice of accommodations, ranging from large, luxurious oceanfront hotel complexes (some on an “all-inclusive” basis), to smaller family-run hotels and rustic cabins. The boutique hotels possess a captivating charm, perfected by the traditional hospitality of the locals. Some feature spectacular ocean views while others resemble intimate nests surrounded by the tropical jungle or the welcoming streets of Playa del Carmen.

The sights - Solidifying its reputation for diversity, Riviera Maya has a roster of archaeological, cultural and recreational experiences that would make Indiana Jones giddy with anticipation. A few favorites include:

• Visiting ancient Mayan architectural sites—Tulum and  Coba, in Riviera Maya, and Chichén Itza (named one of the new seven wonders of the world) further northwest on the Yucatan Peninsula

• Finding Nemo—The underwater world here is equally diverse with the Great Maya Reef and caves to explore

• Enjoying some of the world’s best sailing, kayaking and fishing

• Exploring subterranean rivers and caves at Xcaret and Xel-Ha

The golf phenomenon - The Riviera Maya has certainly changed since the ancient Mayans were in residence, and its most recent metamorphoses is catching the eye of the avid golfer. Though still a relatively new destination on the golf map, the Rivera Maya has experienced a golf boom that has brought worldwide attention of those looking to tee it up. Helping to generate this golf buzz is the Mexican Caribbean Golf Courses Association. Association President, Julio Viscontti says that “with so much activity surrounding area golf, the Association was created three and half years ago to channel collective energy and promotions.” 
    Their efforts have certainly paid off as the number of visitors packing clubs along with their bathing suits has increased dramatically. It is not only the increased number of courses that is drawing them here, it is the quality of the layouts that have quickly made the area a top golf destination.

Following are profiles of five of the Mexican Caribbean’s finest destinations… each of which provides visitors an unforgettable golf experience.

Iberostar Playa Paraiso

iberostar.com

The massive Iberostar Playa Paraiso complex can be described in one word: luxurious. The finest details at every turn make this property shine as brightly as the ocean it borders. With majestic Neo-Renaissance architecture, gourmet dining options, kids’ camps, beachside activities and an array of entertainment options, this resort is a playground for the whole family. Shopping complexes and access to the palatial European-style El Spa complete the package. The resort’s newest adults-only Grand Hotel Paraiso boasts 300 all-suite guest rooms and 10 stunning villa suites that come complete with personal plunge pools and a lush garden patio. As Director of Golf Greg Bond said, “The hotel will surpass the expectations on all levels of even the most discerning clients.”  
    Located 30 minutes outside of Cancun on the Riviera Maya, golfers have been enamored with the P.B. Dye-designed 18-hole, par 72-championship course since it opened in 2005. In fact, the Playa Paraiso course recently hosted the Iberostar Riviera Maya Open in May, part of the Canadian Tour. Narrow fairways and dramatically undulating greens make this an attainable challenge for resort golfers. Playa Paraiso incorporates the native Mayan jungle and dramatic vertical movement to create a layout that is equally as arresting as it is interesting.     
    Fortunately, the all-inclusive service is not lost on the golfers. The pro shop carries the best names in golf equipment, and food and drink during the round is included and can be served at the clubhouse or delivered to the green while playing. Even better, a nearby lighted driving range and putting green gives players extra practice time before they face off with the glorious Playa Paraiso course.

What makes the property so special?  This Iberostar resort has it all. The Playa Paraiso complex consists of five high-end hotels that offer every imaginable amenity and activity needed for a memorable vacation. From The Galaxy Disco to countless restaurants and shopping to the El Spa and golf course, once you check into the Iberostar Playa Paraiso, you never have to leave.

What will visitors be surprised to find when they visit?  In the past, “all-inclusive” hasn’t had the best connotation. Not so at the Iberostar where the concept is brought to a new level. All-inclusive is at its finest at the Grand Hotel Paraiso, where guests are treated to private butler service.

What phrase best describes the property?  Pure indulgence

 

Fairmont Mayakoba

fairmont.com/mayakoba

One of the premier resorts in Playa del Carmen, the heart of the Riviera Maya, Fairmont Mayakoba encompasses 45 acres designed around a series of crystal clear waterways. Opened in 2006, the distinctive nature of this Fairmont resort is evident from the moment of arrival. 
    To maintain the authenticity and delicate ecology, transport throughout the grounds is accomplished via covered boats called lanchas, electric golf carts, bicycles or on foot. Sheltered under the forest canopy, the property’s distinguishing features include the Willow Stream Spa with treetop treatment areas, a secluded beach in front of the world’s second largest reef, marked nature trails and an array of restaurants and bars. 
    Designed as a par-72 championship course, El Camaleón (“The Chameleon”) is rightly named for its diverse layout and ever-changing landscape. The course bends through tropical jungles, dense mangroves and oceanfront stretches of sand with holes bisected by massive limestone canals. Indigenous and environmentally inspired design aspects are evident from the opening fairway, which houses an ancient underground cavern unearthed during the initial stages of the course’s construction.  
    Carefully planned to include unique hazards and challenging greens, the 7,000-yard course has also been developed with all levels of players in mind and includes an extensive practice and learning facility and a minimum of five tee blocks on each hole. However, those looking for a real challenge will not be disappointed, as water hazards will come into play on the majority of the course.
      After a day on the links, golfers can head to the Willow Stream Spa and indulge in a unique “Golf Performance Treatment” endorsed by famed instructor David Leadbetter. The massage is said to improve flexibility by incorporating stretching and acupressure, and the treatment aids rapid recovery, leading to improved balance and swing rotation for distance and accuracy.

What makes the property so special? Architectural diversity. While the main resort is beautifully designed with a tropical flair and select guest rooms built like casitas, El Camaleón’s pro shop is uniquely modern. A shock of yellow adorns the exterior, while sharp angles and a clean aesthetic offer the perfect place to relax and refocus.

What will visitors be surprised to find when they visit?  El Camaleón was home to Mexico’s official PGA TOUR event, the 2007 Mayakoba Classic, where Fred Funk was the inaugural winner. The tournament returns to the Mayakoba February 18-24, 2008.

What phrase best describes the property?  Visually stunning.COZUMEL The most remote experience can be found on Cozumel, an island located off the coast of the Riviera Maya. Accessible via ferry from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is a true exotic getaway. But you don’t need to worry about roughing it as there is an impressive selection of luxury resorts set amongst the flora and fauna.

Cozumel Country Club

cozumelcountryclub.com.mx

Cozumel in ancient Mayan translates to “Island of the Swallow,” so it is only fitting that golfers hit their fair share of birdies here. Since its opening in 2001, the Cozumel Country Club, built by Nicklaus Design Group, has been steadily attracting more travelers to the island. 
    The Nicklaus Design Group has successfully balanced the strict requirements of building a first-class championship golf course with the need to preserve the delicate ecosystem of the area. The golf course features channels built beneath roadways and bridges to provide safe passage for blue crabs, iguanas and other native wildlife.  
     Sculpted from the Mayan jungle and woven through the native mangroves, the 18 holes accommodate golfers of all skill levels with four sets of tees. The country club’s practice area includes a putting green, chipping area with practice bunker and wide, two-tiered practice tee. Cozumel Country Club offers packages and discounted rates through several island hotels and cruise lines.

What makes the property so special?  Because of its strong commitment to the environment, the Cozumel Country Club became the first course in Mexico to earn the prestigious designation of Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary from Audubon International in March 2006.

What will visitors be surprised to find when they visit?  The tranquility and simplicity of the golf course and facilities. With 18 beautiful holes and a smaller pro shop, the focus here is 100 percent golf. Cozumel Country Club is proud to offer golf in an unassuming setting that’s right on point with the island’s relaxed vibe.

What phrase best describes the property? Tropical ambiance and atmosphereCANCUN The largest and most well-known region, Cancun is for those who want a combination of action and relaxation, this is your place. The Zona Hotelera is the heart of the city, where visitors will find a multitude of leading hotels, restaurants and nightlife. The energy is juxtaposed by relaxing beaches with soothing waves—the perfect pairing for those who want it all.

 

Hilton Cancun Golf Club

hiltoncancun.com/golf

With its pyramid-like shape, the Hilton Cancun Golf & Spa Resort strongly resembles the Mayan ruins found throughout the property. Sitting on the largest beach in the area, Hilton Cancun is the only resort on the island with an 18-hole championship golf course alongside other top amenities. A state-of-the-art wellness spa and fitness center, seven spectacular pools, more than 700 yards of exclusive white sand beach and—fitting with the country’s love of fútbol—a regulation soccer field, offer recreational activities for the entire family.    
    The journey begins at the Spa at the Hilton Cancun. A wide range of body and beauty treatments includes relaxing massages, soothing aromatherapies and rejuvenating facials. Many of these treatments are also offered outdoors in a secluded spa garden or at one of the intimate beachside palapas. In the quest for total relaxation and renewal, guests may choose from any of the invigorating paths that fit perfectly among this mystical setting: Harmony, Serenity, Purity or Vitality.
    Guests also enjoy preferential tee times and discounted green fees at the course, conveniently located right across the street on Nichupte Lagoon. A round is an adventure in itself, as a veritable menagerie waits behind every hole. Peacocks, crocodiles, iguanas and untold numbers of pelicans, geese and herons can be found along the Bermuda fairways or perched within the mangrove jungles. 
    Approximately $6 million was recently invested in the Hilton Cancun Golf Club, including brand new Paspallum Sea Isle 1 turf—highly salt resistant thereby insuring optimum course conditions year round, as well as reshaped fairways, bunkers and tee boxes. In addition to other new design features, the golf course boasts a renovated practice facility, including driving range and putting green, deluxe golf carts and a top-quality pro shop offering the latest in golf equipment, fashion and apparel. Guests can also find the acclaimed restaurant, Hoyo 19, at the clubhouse, and enjoy breakfast, lunch or simply a well-deserved cocktail after a round.    
    Manicured fairways and greens, spectacular scenery and an attentive staff await with traditional Mexican hospitality.

What makes the property so special? The 16th hole provides the unusual opportunity to appreciate the El Rey Mayan Ruins. In fact, shots missed right will end up in the middle of them. Dating back to the 10th century, the El Rey ruins were named for a sculpture discovered of a human face with an elaborate ornament on his head that resembled a king.

What will visitors be surprised to find when they visit?  The Hilton Cancun’s location couldn’t be more ideal. Situated in the heart of the Zona Hotelera—the main drag for Cancun’s finest hotels—the Hilton is far enough away from the action to maintain a sense of seclusion, though close enough to enjoy all of the area’s amenities.

What phrase best describes the property?  Challenging but playable

 

Playa Mujeres Golf Club

playamujeresgolf.com

After opening in July 2006, Playa Mujeres (meaning “beach of the women”) is already considered one of the top courses in Mexico. A Greg Norman Signature Course, Playa Mujeres Golf Club measures 7,260 yards over 18 holes and fully integrates golfers into the area’s natural environment. The course meanders alongside carefully crafted water holes, jungles, bunkers and greens that have been conceived and maintained with respect for the indigenous flora and fauna. With several lagoon and oceanfront holes, four of which play from or toward the white-sand beaches and  turquoise waters, views of the Caribbean Sea and Isla Mujeres are always within sight. 
    While the course is accessible to all skill levels, the daily trade winds demand accuracy and challenge even the most practiced of players. “Not only does this course have great vistas, but it also provides strategic challenges for everyone who has the opportunity to play it,” said Norman. “[Playa Mujeres] calls for a golfer’s complete concentration from the first tee shot to the final putt, yet it is an enjoyable experience for players of all abilities.” 
    Guests will find practice facilities including a driving range, two putting greens and a short-game area as well as a well-appointed clubhouse, pro shop and expert staff throughout the resort. Playa Mujeres is operated by Troon Golf.

What makes the property so special?  With the amount of wildlife roaming the grounds of Playa Mujeres, it could be mistaken for a zoo. Foxes, iguanas and tarantulas can be found throughout the property.

What will visitors be surprised to find when they visit?  Coco the alligator, who comes when called and eats out of the cart girl’s hand, may give guests the biggest shock.

What phrase best describes the property?  Awesome tropical location.