Hi Liz, Just wanted to say good luck on your search. We have been to Mexico a few times and we feel the beaches in the Riviera Maya area (Tulum, Akumal, Playa del Carmen) are so much nicer than the Cancun beaches. Bigger beach area, water more of a turquoise blue. They are absolutely gorgeous so you can't go wrong:) Just wanted to throw that out there to give you more options on your search. Happy Planning!!