Xel-Há

Much like its fellow theme park Xcaret, this vast water wonderland is perfect for families, thanks to a network of cenotes, mangroves and lagoons to play in. Included in the admittedly steep admission price of around $80US is snorkel equipment, life jackets, inner tubes, towels and unlimited food and drink (yes, even alcohol). Kids and adults alike can spend the day snorkeling the magical mangrove-lined lagoons, exploring underground caves and waterways or strolling the jungle while keeping an eye out wildlife, or opt for a more organized adventure by swimming with dolphins or manatees in their enclosures. (These activities involve an extra fee and need to be booked ahead.) When I visited I was expecting something hyper-commercial, but the jungle/lagoon setting is surprisingly natural and the park is large enough that the crowds never reach Disneyland levels. As in all water parks on the Riviera Maya, be sure to wear only biodegradable sunblock to ensure the waterways remain pristine.