There are a few world reknown Mayan ruins within reach from Barcelo Maya. They each offer something different and are all worth seeing for different reasons.
The admission to the ruins range from US$3 to US$10. If you are taking in a video camera, there is an additional charge of US$4.
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is world famous. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and just named one of the new wonders of the world. This is a day trip. You can rent a car and get there on your own, take an organized bus tour or an organized tour by airplane. There is a small museum, restaurant and other tourism facilities. If you are not part of a tour, you can hire a guide to provide insight. You used to be able to climb the main pyramid but climbing is no longer permitted. The grounds are large and well excavated, wear comfortable shoes.
More information about Chichen Itza
Tulum
Tulum is about 20 minutes south of Barcelo Maya. It is perched on the edge of a cliff and you have an incredible view of the ocean and surrounding beach. You can take a guided tour, bus, collectivo or taxi to the ruins. If you take a bus or colectivo, you will need to take the train that runs from the highway to the ruins. It isn't a far walk but it can be very hot and exhausting. You can hire a guide if you're not part of the guided tour. You cannot climb the main pyramid.
There is a gorgeous beach at the bottom of the cliff. After an hour of being in the hot sun, head down for a dip in the ocean.
Coba
Coba is about an hour south of the resort but west off of the main highway. The best way to get there is by tour, rental car or taxi. Guided tours are available and you can also rent a bicycle as the walk in can be far. It may be worth getting a guide as the paths are through the jungle and are not clearly marked, so it is easy to get lost. You can climb the main pyramid, from the top you can see for miles above the jungle. The main pyramid is the tallest in the Yucatan. There are some souvenir stands and food carts at the entrance.
