The beach opens onto the world's second-largest barrier reef. There's a dive and water sports center offering guided snorkel trips out to the reef and its coral restoration nursery, plus diving instruction for every level. Kayaks, paddleboards, snorkel gear, and boogie boards are available at the beach, and you can add catamaran sails, windsurfing, or jet skis.

There are 2.5 miles of nature trails for walking or biking, winding through the mangroves and around El Camaleón, the Greg Norman–designed course that hosts a PGA Tour event. There's also an archery range, and courts for tennis, pickleball, and padel.

The Fairmont Spa runs Maya-inspired treatments alongside the usual menu, including a traditional Temazcal ceremony. There's yoga, a 24-hour fitness center, and ten pools if your ambitions are more horizontal.

El Pueblito, the little village square at the heart of Mayakoba, has boutique shopping, live music, farmers' markets, and cooking classes. The resort also runs complimentary daily activities — tequila and mezcal tastings, mixology demos, hat and alebrije painting — and there's a cenote on the grounds you can visit with a guide.