The final stop on your full-day tour is Playa Paraiso (Paradise Beach), one of the most visited beaches of the Riviera Maya. Learn about the Spanish conquest of the city during your walk around. Once a thriving seaport, it housed Maya nobility and merchants within its walls. Meander the groomed paths with your guide who points out noteworthy structures such as a restored temple whose murals reveal ancient red pigments. From there, drive to Tulum, the only archaeological site built on the Caribbean coast. Highlights include limestone stalactites formed over centuries. Then head down to Cho Ha Cenote for a spectacular swim in the emerald waters of this sinkhole. If you'd like, climb the 120 steep steps up Nohoch Mul-the tallest pyramid on the Yucatán Peninsula-and be rewarded with views of the dense jungle from the top. Walk past two ball courts and see the sacbé, or white roads, that once linked Maya cities. At its peak, Coba had a population of about 50,000 inhabitants and an area of 80 square miles (129 sq km). Coba is your first stop, with a tour of the preserved and rebuilt ruins. A buffet lunch and beverages are provided during the day. Get comfortable in your air-conditioned minivan for the drive to each archaeological site.

Start your small-group tour of Coba and Tulum with pickup from your Playa del Carmen or Riviera Maya hotel.

Paradise beach tulum