with inlets and cenotes for swimming and snorkelling, as well as swimming with dolphins in natural aquariums which is a truly unforgettable experience. Xel-Ha is located about 11 km. north of Tulum on the highway to Cancun and Playa del Carmen,  Just about a 10 minute drive south from Akumal and Xcaret is farther north along the same road, just five minutes south from Playa and about 15 - 20 minutes north of Akumal. Entrance fees to the parks do not include swimming with the dolphins, which is available for an extra fee.

Mayan for 'Clear Water,' Xel-Ha (ishel-ha) is aptly named. The park is a series of interconnected clear-water lagoons that form a natural aquarium for angelfish, lobster, barracuda, parrotfish, French grunts and many others.

Wash off your suntan lotion before entering the water, as it harms the marine life. Snorkeling and swimming are the predictable big pastimes here, or you can drop into one of the comfortable Yucatecan hammocks strung in a sandy grove of coconut palms. The park features five restaurants, 11 different shops, lockers, showers and changing rooms. A few hundred feet before the inlet entrance are some small Classic and Post-Classic Maya ruins with painted murals and several cenotes. A good walking path through the jungle offers a close-up of the typical vegetation, including bromeliads, orchids and ferns, while swallows swing by overhead.

The park is a common stop with bus tours heading to Tulum from Cancun so it can become crowded. Still, it's a big place. There is no lodging but some cabins are being planned.