Best of Riviera Maya
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Best Rooms & Beach Club
The pool villas are magical and so spacious. It was nice having the option to relax by your own in-room pool or at the main pool and beach club. Their Thai restaurant, Saffron, is unique concept and the perfect change of pace if you get tired of tacos. Each villa comes with two complimentary bikes that make it easy to get around — we loved riding to breakfast and the beach!
Rosewood Mayakoba
Best All-Around
If you love the amenities of a big resort, but the feeling of a boutique hotel, this is for you. Rosewood has a beautiful beach and pool setting, a farm-to-table dining experience, and the newly-opened Zapote Bar offers custom, artisan cocktails snacks, perfect for a pre-dinner drink.
Grand Velas
Best Dining
All-inclusive resorts can be tricky, there’s usually something lacking in one aspect, but not at Grand Velas. The same applies to their Los Cabos location. This is a great option for families or groups and their restaurants are amazing. Whether you want a 10-course tasting experience or poolside tacos, they ace every category. My favorite was the poolside room service breakfast!
NIZUC
Best Pool (and vibes!)
I can’t say enough good things about NIZUC, this is a great choice for younger travelers and couples. It’s only 10 minutes from the airport and Cancun nightlife. There are multiple pools with a more secluded adult-only section and a family-friendly pool with a swim-up bar. They also offer free paddleboards and fitness classes throughout the day.
Thompson Playa del Carmen
Best Location for Nightlife
You’re right in the action when you stay at The Thompson, they have two properties within a block of each other — the Main House and Beach House, both adult-only making it a good choice for bachelor/bachelorette parties and couples. When you book, you have access to the pool and beach club at both properties, which is nice for budget-conscious travelers. Even if you’ve been to Catch NYC, I’d suggest visiting the one at the Main House, it’s wonderful!
