With lush jungle plant life, powdery soft beaches and abundant marine life along coral reefs, Mexico’s Riviera Maya is truly a nature lover’s paradise. Taking advantage of the outdoor beauty is easy with all the countless outdoor activities available in the seaside town of Playa del Carmen. A former fishing village, “Playa,” as it is affectionately known, is home to many eco-activities and excursions appealing to all types of travelers.

The azure waters of the Caribbean Sea are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Along the coast of Playa del Carmen are several prime dive sites including colorful reefs brimming with marine life. Dive shops in town rent snorkel and scuba gear, and there are also boat and sea kayak rentals. At the north end of Playa del Carmen is Coco Beach, a wide sandy beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

Just inland is the Xaman Ha Aviary, which allows visitors to encounter plant and animal life above ground. This 32-acre jungle park is home to 60 plus species of endemic and migratory birds including colorful flamingos, parrots and toucans. Besides avid bird enthusiasts, this Playacar Aviary is especially popular with families with children and nature photographers looking to hone their craft.

Golfers, meanwhile, can explore some of Playa del Carmen’s other lush “greens.” The Playacar Golf Club, designed by imminent architect Robert Von Hagge is a premier Mexico golf course drawing amateurs and accomplished linksmen alike. This 7,144 yard, par-72 course is cut into the dense jungle mangrove for challenging and stunning play. Clubs can be rented on site, and there is both a driving range and putting greens for perfecting that swing.

Playa del Carmen is a premier spot for nature lovers to experience all the natural beauty and activities that Riviera Maya has to offer, from lounging on the beach, to exploring ecosystems underwater and on land.