Located in the state of Quintana Roo in southeast Mexico, Xpu Ha (pronounced ‘Ish-poo-ha’) is one of the best-kept secrets of the ‘Mayan Riviera’ on the Yucatan Peninsula. Located between the major hubs of Tulum and Playa del Carmen, Xpu Ha is home to the same gorgeous white sands and deep turquoise waters, but with a more relaxed atmosphere and far fewer crowds. The feeling of isolation offered by the main beach (simply called Le Playa) is interrupted by the resort of Royal Catalonia Tulum and some laid-back bars and restaurants, but there is always ample space to find your own piece of sand and indulge in some snorkelling beneath the crystal-clear waters of Xpu Ha Bay. Swimming in Cenote Manati, a large natural sinkhole, should also be at the top of your itinerary - it is truly captivating.