Food is a bigger part of a park day than most visitors expect. The major eco-parks sell an all inclusive ticket that bundles unlimited buffet meals and drinks, and once you account for how much you eat across a full day, that upgrade often pays for itself. Outside the parks, the Riviera Maya has some of the best and most varied food in Mexico.
Eating inside the parks
Xcaret, Xel-Ha and Xplor all offer all inclusive food options. At Xel-Ha and Xplor the all inclusive is built in or a simple upgrade, with buffets, snack bars and unlimited drinks. At Xcaret the basic ticket covers entry only, so add the Plus package if you want the buffet and locker included. If you bring your own snacks, check each park’s policy first, as some restrict outside food.
Playa del Carmen
Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) is the dining heart of Playa del Carmen, from cheap taquerias to upscale seafood. Walk a block or two off the avenue for better prices and more local crowds. The town is the easiest place to eat well before or after a park day.
Tulum and the beach clubs
Tulum’s beach road is famous for design driven restaurants and beach clubs that double as lunch spots. Expect higher prices on the beach strip and better value in Tulum town (Tulum Pueblo). Many beach clubs along the coast let you use a food and drink minimum as your tab for the day.
Eating on a budget
The cheapest, most authentic meals are at the taquerias and loncherias in the towns rather than the tourist strips. A few tacos al pastor cost a fraction of a beachfront lunch. Carrying water and a couple of snacks also saves you from the marked up prices at the park gates.