Mexico · Riviera Maya
Bahia Principe Grand Tulum
Bahia Principe Grand Tulum is a big all-inclusive resort between Playa del Carmen and Tulum: jungle gardens, a long beach on Akumal bay, pools, and a dozen restaurants - a practical, good-value base for exploring the ruins, cenotes and parks of the Riviera Maya.
Best season
November to April for dry, breezy weather; May and November are the best value months.
What it costs
All-inclusive packages often run 150-250 USD per night for two - strong value for the Riviera Maya; factor in tips and excursion costs.
Getting there
Fly into Cancun (CUN) or Tulum (TQO); the resort is about 90 minutes from Cancun by pre-booked shuttle.
Getting around
On-site you walk or take the resort train; for excursions, book collectivos or the resort's tours to Tulum ruins, Xel-Ha and the cenotes.
Highlights
- The Akumal bay beach with turtles just offshore
- all-inclusive pools and restaurants
- minutes from Xel-Ha park and Akumal
- a base for Tulum ruins and cenotes
Local tips
- Book a la carte dinners on day one - the best slots go fast
- bring reef-safe sunscreen for Akumal
- seaweed (sargassum) is worst May to September.
What to eat
- Everything is on-site - try the Mexican a la carte night
- off-site, tacos at Akumal's little fish shacks.
Where to stay
- The resort itself - request a renovated block near the beach
- the suites section is quieter.
Sample itinerary
Day 1: pool and beach day to settle in. Day 2: Tulum ruins early, cenote swim on the way back. Day 3: Xel-Ha all-inclusive water park. Day 4: snorkel with turtles at Akumal, farewell dinner.