Cancun is an affordable fly-in destination with bone-white beaches and impossibly blue water. Problem is, it’s increasingly hard to see beach or water when you drive along the 13-mile corridor that comprises Cancún’s Hotel Zone. High-rise resorts line the sidewalk, and masses of tourists crowd the adjacent malls and entertainment complexes. But you can escape the hordes — and get closer to nature — at eco-style lodgings in the area.

Family Affairs

For a family vaction all inclusive resorts style, go wild at Palace Resorts Xpu-Ha, 50 miles south of the airport. No one would mistake this five-star property for a boutique resort, but with 144 rooms spread over 37 acres of tropical terrain, it’s a far cry from its over-built neighbors. Xpu-Ha originally operated as an eco-park, so aside from enticing pools and lots of sand, it has cool extras like a fish-filled lagoon, an aviary, and pens for wildcats, monkeys, and crocs.

Children get up-close access because its Kids’ Club adds ecological activities to the usual round of crafts and games. Parents can take guided nature walks, kayak excursions, or visit a plant nursery to learn about age-old healing methods from a Mayan doctor.

Lodgings look rustic but are quite upscale. Indeed, beneath the thatched roofing you’ll find satellite TVs, air-conditioners and Jacuzzis. Nightly adult rates start at $173; there’s a $50 charge for kids ages 4-17, while little tykes stay for free. When you reserve three or more nights, the all-inclusive price includes outings to popular attractions such as Palancar’s reef and assorted ruins.