> JUST THE FACTS

Fly: You’ll fly to Cancun where taxis are readily available. It’s possible to go to Playa del Carmen and not rent a car. Hotel Cacao can arrange drivers, guides and other activities upon request.

Stay: Rooms at Hotel Cacao, hotelcacao.com, start at $250. Shop: Ah, Cacao for chocolate items, La Sirena for folk art, Ambar for handcrafted jewelry and Hierbabuena Artesania for crafts and clothing.

Cenote: Splash through the Rio Secreto! Riosecreto.com Sail: There are many outfitters, but try Unikgo, which offers a variety of mix and match outings! Unikgo.com

On the beach: The Blue Parrot, an iconic beach club, draws tourists and locals. blueparrot.com