Mahahual, south of the Riviera Maya, combines traditional essence with the appeal of world´s second largest barrier reef
Little known to most, a destination you return to for the few who visit. Mahahual, south of the Riviera Maya in the state of Quintana Roo, is a destination more than special in the Caribbean Sea, teeming with nature and dazzling those who visit for life.
Until the late twentieth century, Mahahual was a small fishing village, fishermen being practically the only ones who could enjoy its wonders. Tourism development was almost nonexistent. Mahahual was a great unknown.
However, in recent years it has become important for hosting the area´s most important cruise dock, a significant dolphinarium and for being a place of worship for lovers of sport fishing. However, it is a zone free of large crowds and it still retains an attractive and very special charm.
But it is undoubtedly the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef one of the main reasons to visit Mahahual. After the famous Great Barrier Reef of Australia, it is the second largest in the world. Off the coast of Quintana Roo and Belize, diving in it it is extremely attractive for its great biodiversity. According to WWF, it has “more than 500 species of fish, populations of manatees and sea turtles, one of the largest aggregations of whale sharks, and valuable areas of mangroves, coastal lagoons, seagrass beds and coral, of which 66 species are stony corals.”
Pertaining to this Barrier Reef stands out Banco Chinchorro, a coral atoll nature reserve where you can swim among fish, turtles and dolphins. Sharks also swim among shipwrecks that already become a lively ecosystem.
If you have time and want more nature, Xcalak is the place to visit. It is one of the last few remaining pristine beaches in the Mexican Caribbean, 60 kilometers from Mahahual, is the last corner of Mexico before coming to Belize. It is considered a paradise for lovers of nature, diving, fishing and snorkeling.
100% Nature. This is Mahahual, a Mexican retreat that fascinates whoever discovers it.
Blue Diamond Riviera Maya*****GL and BlueBay Grand Esmeralda***** are two hotels perfect as headquarters for discovering the Riviera Maya and from which to travel to other key points.
