Fodor's Expert Review Reserva de la Biósfera Ría Lagartos

This national park, which encompasses a long estuary, was developed with ecotourism in mind—although most of the alligators for which it and the village were named have long since been hunted into extinction. The real spectacle these days is the birds. More than 380 species nest and feed in the area, including flocks of flamingos, snowy and red egrets, white ibis, great white herons, cormorants, pelicans, and peregrine falcons. Fishing is good, too, and the protected leatherback, hawksbill, and green turtles lay their eggs on the beach at night.

Booking an excursion is the easiest way to visit the 149,000-acre park and Río Lagartos Adventures ( 986/100–8390 www.riolagartosaventuras.com) is an excellent and experienced operation. Boat trips will take you through mangrove forests to flamingo feeding grounds. Tours are priced per boat, not person, and include one-hour tours for MX$1,000 to longer tours of up to four hours for around MX$4500. Whether you are interested in a nocturnal crocodile adventure, a fishing expedition, or an expedition with plenty of time to stop on beaches accessible only to private boats, Rio Lagartos Aventuras likely has one that is the right fit for your group. 

Mosquitoes can gather at dusk in unpleasantly large swarms in May, June, and July. Bring repellent to fend them off.