
Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya - Hacienda
Riviera Maya, Mexico
- Family-friendly resort
- Choice of rooms with great benefits
- Kids' club
- Home to Rockaway Bay water park
This glorious sweep of swaying palms, dazzling sands and turquoise waters is THE place to combine a blissful beach break with something a bit more. As well as lazy, sun-soaked days by the sea, Riviera Maya holidays could see you snorkelling with sea turtles, zip-lining above bird-filled forest, cycling around Mayan ruins or diving into secret sinkholes hidden in the jungle. This is Caribbean paradise with Mexican zing: hot, hot, hot and super cool.
Fly to Cancun International Airport in Mexico from London Heathrow.
10-11 hour flight time, with 1-2 hour transfer depending on your chosen hotel in Riviera Maya.
Other services available all year round with partner airlines.
Riviera Maya is where ancient worlds meet modern luxury, where you can snorkel a coral reef by breakfast and sip artisanal mezcal by sunset. Whether you're chasing thrills, chill time, or a little of both, here’s your go-anywhere, do-everything guide to the best things to do in Riviera Maya.
Beaches
Local vibes
Culture and adventure
We'll whisk you from the airport to where you're staying. And when its time to go, we'll collect you from your accommodation and get you to the airport.
Riviera Maya, Mexico - which includes popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Akumal - is generally considered safe for tourists, especially in resort areas.
The official currency used in Riviera Maya, Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas, hotels, and resorts though - especially in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.
Here’s your must-see guide to Riviera Maya - curated for wanderlust-driven travellers, Virgin Atlantic style.
Tulum
Tulum is Riviera Maya’s eco-luxe superstar. Think barefoot yoga on the beach, mezcal under the stars, and boutique hotels tucked into the jungle. Explore the iconic Tulum Ruins, perched above the Caribbean Sea, or dive into cenotes (natural sinkholes) like Gran Cenote or Cenote Calavera.
Playa del Carmen
Bustling, vibrant, and packed with energy, Playa del Carmen is your go-to for shopping, nightlife, and beach club vibes. Wander the pedestrian-friendly Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) for artisan markets and al fresco dining.
Akumal
Akumal (meaning "Place of the Turtles" in Mayan) is a hidden gem for snorkellers. Float beside gentle sea turtles in the crystal-clear bay or explore nearby Yal-Ku Lagoon. It’s family-friendly, peaceful, and a welcome break from the buzz.