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For an indulgent beach escape, turn to this gem of a destination on
the Caribbean Sea. From fresh Mexican cuisine to inviting turquoise
waters, everything you need to truly unwind is easily within reach.
What to do: Don a snorkel mask and get up close with marine
life; more than 500 species abound, from sea turtles and manta
rays to whale sharks and tropical fish. Onshore, explore an ancient
Mayan walled fortress city, perfectly situated for sweeping ocean
views and a walk along the beach.
Where to do it: For sea turtle encounters, snorkel off the
beaches of Akumal. It’s also a great spot to set out in search of
whale sharks, the largest fish in the sea: tours departing from
Akumal whisk visitors to the waters north of Isla Mujeres, offering a
chance to swim beside these distinctive creatures. To walk amid a
onetime Mayan stronghold, tour the waterfront ruins at Tulum. Its
oft-photographed Castillo, a temple pyramid, is perched on a cliff,
overlooking the Caribbean.
Why go now: The summer months are the best time to inter-
mingle with whale sharks, which congregate in a 7-mile space at
the intersection of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, to
feast on plankton. It’s also nesting season for resident turtles, best
experienced on a tour of a turtle camp during which you can spy
them laying eggs, or release a hatchling yourself.
Insider’s tip: Head to Playa del Carmen’s La Coronela for fresh-
cooked Mexican cuisine, from fajitas and burritos to guacamole.
The coconut shrimp garners rave
reviews.
IntervalWorld.com INTERVAL WORLD Summer 2015 65
June – August
Average High: 91°F
Average Low: 79°F 
ADDITIONAL
ANTICIPATED
international
destinations
Jeff Greenberg/age fotostock; Bernd Bieder/Glow Images