Set on a white-sand beach on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, the all-inclusive Riu Palace Riviera Maya is part of the Riu family of resorts close to Playa del Carmen. Just minutes away from the downtown area’s shops, restaurants and attractions, and featuring a range of activities on site like water sports and a spa, this destination is popular with families, couples, singles and business travelers.

Surrounding the stately hotel building are elegant courtyards, fountains and landscaped gardens. The theme of palatial grandeur continues in the lobby, with its lofty ceilings illuminated by crystal chandeliers, polished marble floors and sumptuous banquettes upholstered in bold red velvet. Housed in the three-story main building, guest accommodations are contemporary and neutral in design, with cream-colored walls, dark wood furnishings, tile floors and beige bed linens. Each room features one king-size or two double beds, sunken lounge areas, mini bars, satellite televisions, in-room safes and a private terrace or balcony. En suite baths are equipped with hydro massage tubs and hair dryers. A handful of suites boast private Jacuzzis on their upper terrace.

Numerous restaurants at the Riu Palace Riviera Maya provide guests with a variety of cuisine options. Don Manolo offers a buffet spread of international dishes, on-the-spot cooking stations and theme dinners three times a week; guests can dine indoors or alfresco on the terrace. Botafogo is known for its Brazilian fare, Yashima specializes in Japanese favorites and Krystal serves a fusion of flavors. Located by the pool, Chilis serves up hearty grill and steakhouse dishes in a casual setting. Agave offers a taste of traditional Mexican, and the hotel also has several lively bars like the lounge Lirico and poolside swim-up bar Daiquiri.

The resort has two pools for adults and children, lined with sun loungers perfect for tanning. Activities include tennis, table tennis and volleyball, as well as windsurfing, kayaking, body boarding and introductory scuba-diving lessons. Guests can stay active at the gym or relax at the sauna and Jacuzzi or visit Renova Spa for rejuvenating treatments. Day and evening programs are organized for guests of all ages, and an 18-hole golf course and additional water sports are located nearby.