From its tropical beaches, to its spa resort, Punta Brava's long stretch of coastline is famous for its snorkelling and has become a must-see for visitors from around the world. With tiny villages, extensive beaches and shallow waters that are ideal for family bathing, Punta Brava has become a regular stop-off on longer journeys across this magnificent country. However, there is more to Punta Brava than a day trip can unearth and for many this is now the destination of choice. The weather is typically magnificent, with long, hot summers and warm winters, while flights from the UK take about ten and a half hours to Cancun International airport.
Punta Brava is a romantic getaway for couples with shallow waters and secluded beaches…
The only resort in Punta Brava is El Dorado Royale, and this is adults only with a number of facilities for couples, special offers for honeymooners and deluxe, spacious suites packed with Jacuzzis and hammocks. Primarily, Punta Brava is all about a relaxing, romantic getaway for couples, but with its shallow waters there is plenty for families to enjoy during daytrips, as the beaches are largely safe and secluded. On windy days however, these waters can whip into waves meaning it is better suited for watersports enthusiasts and particularly body surfers.
Those staying in the El Dorado Royale spa resort might not wish to leave the confines of the complex itself with its laid back luxury including gourmet meals, speciality restaurants and one of the most secluded beaches in the area. However, there are other bays that are worth discovering, particularly Parque Nizuc, which is one of the most spectacular in the area and is perfect for snorkelling and undersea discovery.
Playa Tortugas is a long, sandy white beach with calm waters that is well suited to swimmers though strong currents do occur so family bathers should be careful. A walk to the north will take you to the Castillo Real resort, which can be found in the Puerto Morelos area. Though it began life as a fishing village it has developed in recent years with a car ferry available to Cozumel and a superb coral reef about 1,800ft offshore that is excellent for scuba diving and snorkelling.
After a long, relaxing day on the beach you might want to live it up by night, and Punta Brava is packed with hotspots. The El Dorado Royale is filled with excellent pool-side restaurants, offering everything from Mexican to Japanese. Indeed the cuisine in the area is made up of fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, beans and delicious fresh fish caught locally. The Hard Rock Café is popular among both tourists and locals in the Rafael Melgar area, while Coco Bongo on Cozumel is one of the hottest nightspots around. If you're looking for an alternative experience head to Babalu II, a venue that plays mellow jazz until the early hours.
Away from the beaches and the pools there's plenty to keep you occupied during the daytime if you're willing to take a short trip. Cancun, with restaurants, shopping, its own fabulous beaches, and golf courses should be the first place you visit, and it offers spectacular sightseeing with the National Institute of Anthropology and History along with the Ruinas Del Rey - the ruins of the King. There is lots of local artcraft to (artesania) to enjoy and elsewhere, the Parque Punta Sur is home to an array of birds and animals, while families will enjoy heading to Chea Park, situated in the jungle and home to monkeys and deer. Xel-Ha is an aquarium offering snorkelling lessons for children and lots of fascinating underwater fauna.
