Planning a trip to Riviera Maya? There are so many all-inclusive hotels just waiting to pamper you. Check out this article for some of our top picks.
What to Expect from All-Inclusive Resorts in Riviera Maya
What if you could have it all? With an all-inclusive resort stay in Riviera Maya, you can. In this article, we'll look at what you can expect from all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Maya. Spoiler alert: It's good.
Overview of All-Inclusive Concept
The all-inclusive concept is a popular choice for many travelers looking for an easy, hassle-free experience. The name says it all: With an all-inclusive trip, you're paying for a package that includes accommodation, meals, drinks, and even some activities. Many of the destination resorts in Riviera Maya offer this option. So, instead of focusing on hidden fees or surprise costs, you can focus on what really matters: relaxing and unwinding.
Key Benefits for Different Travelers (Couples, Families, Groups)
All-inclusive vacations offer many benefits for different travelers.
For couples, all-inclusive resorts are all about indulgence. You can enjoy romantic dinners, lounging peacefully by the pool (or pools), and even couples' spa retreats. Many of these types of resorts cater specifically to adults—just be sure to request “adult only” when booking on a travel site or with your agent.
Though there's a perception that all-inclusive vacations are strictly for couples or adult travelers, that's just a misconception! They're great options for families too. In fact, many all-inclusive resorts—especially those you'd find in Riviera Maya—host plenty of family-friendly amenities and activities, like water parks and organized excursions for the little ones. It's a great way for the whole family to enjoy and spend some heartfelt, quality time together.
It's also a great destination for group parties and events—like a destination wedding, a corporate retreat, a bachelor, or bachelorette party or just a trip with friends. With many group package options, booking a trip at an all-inclusive resort becomes a budget-friendly option.
Understanding the Riviera Maya Region
The Riviera Maya region is located on the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico. The area is known for its historic landmarks, like the Mayan pyramids and temples, along with its pristine, white sand-beaches. It's even home to some lush jungles. Riviera Maya spans from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, and offers something for everyone to appreciate.
Top All-Inclusive Resorts for Couples
What could be more romantic than a trip to one of the most beautiful destinations in North America at an all-inclusive resort?
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun is an award-winning resort on the Yucatán Peninsula. It provides fantastic ocean views, thanks to its beachfront location.
Treat yourself to treatments at The Secrets Spa to refresh and rejuvenate your mind and body. Enjoy activities ranging from dance classes to scuba diving, and visit ancient Mayan ruins to learn about the history of the region.
No matter how you choose to spend your time at Secrets, the unlimited dining and drinks will ensure your mind is worry-free throughout your stay.
UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya
Unico 20° 87° Hotel Riviera Maya is more than just a resort, it's an experience. Staying here is bound to be unforgettable, life-changing. This seaside all-inclusive offers beachfront views, features a wellness spa, and offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to embark on fun adventures.
Zoëtry Paraíso de la Bonita Riviera Maya
Zoëtry combines the Greek words “Zoe” (life) and the word "poetry" to create the name of a resort that prioritizes what’s really important in life.
During your stay at Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya, you’ll gain a sense of connection to the local culture and heritage. You’ll also come away more connected to yourself, thanks to the massages, salon services, and other pampering treatments available at the luxury spa.
Wow-Worthy Circus Acts!
Get ready to be amazed in Riviera Maya! Jaw-dropping Cirque du Soleil performances are just a click away.
Best Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts
Create lifelong memories with a trip to any of these all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Maya.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Kids love playing in the infinity pool at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. It has a Kids’ Club and a Teens’ Club to keep youngsters of all ages entertained. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy some well-deserved pampering at the SE Spa. Select your suite from 195 spacious options designed for families of all sizes.
Paradisus Playa Del Carmen
Kids will beg to visit the aquatic parks at Paradisus Playa Del Carmen. Let them splash and play while you relax among the natural beauty of the mangrove forest. Take a break at the YHI spa, where aromatherapy with essential oils will leave you feeling serene.
Experience a Mayan ritual with a shaman. Round off your day with a yoga class, where you salute the sun and thank it for shining warmly on your stay.
Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in Riviera Maya
Pamper yourself by booking a stay at any of these luxury all-inclusive resorts in Riviera Maya. One thing's for sure, you won't regret it.
Rosewood Mayakoba
Relax in luxury at the Rosewood Mayakoba. It has eight on-site restaurants and bars, so you never have to venture away from the resort, and you can step out of your beachfront suite onto the gorgeous white sand.
Visit Sense, A Rosewood Spa to soothe your body, mind, and soul. Enjoy all this and more in an exclusive location surrounded by lush, green jungle.
El Dorado Maroma
Suites at El Dorado Maroma include Mayan art by local artists. Each has a balcony with gorgeous views and a comfortable king-size bed. Order a cocktail from the swim-up bar and luxuriate in the beautiful pool. When you get hungry, choose from the Caribbean Grill, Peruvian Lima Limon restaurant, or Papitos Gourmet Beach Club.
Hotel Xcaret México
Hoteles Xcaret is devoted to ensuring you have as much fun as possible during your stay in Riviera Maya. When you stay at the resort, you get unlimited access to the Xcaret amusement parks. Speed through the treetops on a zip line, kayak along the rivers, and dive with manatees.
Hoteles Xcaret has 900 suites, all of them beautifully designed and built by local people. Swim-up suites have direct terrace access to the pools, so you can slip out of bed and enjoy a morning swim. All guests have access to the gyms, tennis courts, meditation sessions, and yoga classes.
Budget-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts
On a budget? There are plenty of all-inclusive resort options just waiting for you in Riviera Maya that won't break the bank.
Hotel Riu Playacar
Hotel Riu Playacar has more than 300 rooms, each with air conditioning and all the amenities you would expect. Cool off in the nearby Caribbean Sea or one of the three swimming pools. Outdoor activities include kayaking and snorkeling.
Even the smallest children can find plenty to do here, as the RiuLand Kids’ Club is designed to keep them entertained. Dine on pasta, Asian food, or steak at the many restaurants on-site.
Occidental at Xcaret Destination
Occidental at Xcaret Destination hotel boasts amenities that are nothing short of unbeatable. Here, you'll find seven swimming pools and a private cove, providing plenty of space to swim and relax.
The hotel's 11 bars and restaurants cater to every taste. Venture next door to the Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Park, which has exhibitions about local traditions, art, and culture.
Eco-Friendly and Wellness-Focused Resorts
If sustainability and a low-key trip are your focus, then these eco-friendly and wellness-focused resorts in Riviera Maya will be to your liking.
Sandos Caracol Eco Resort
Sandos Caracol Eco Resort provides a daily program of activities that allow you to explore and learn about the jungle. Swim among the twisted roots of the mangroves or snorkel in a serenely beautiful cenote.
All activities are included in the all-inclusive plan. You can take diving lessons in the hotel pool, play tennis on the courts, or work up a sweat at the gym. It also has a kids’ club to keep little ones entertained.
Palmaïa – The House of AïA
Palmaïa - The House of AïA is the spot for wellness buffs to book a stay. From sunrise yoga classes to sound therapies in a lush jungle setting, this is a place for reconnecting with oneself and rejuvenating the mind, body, and spirit. All dishes served at this inclusive resort are nutritious, while its suites are designed with entirely cruelty-free materials.
Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel
Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel is an ideal destination for unplugging and reconnecting with your inner self. In addition to being an all-inclusive destination, the resort offers several wellness retreat packages, for solo travelers or groups alike.
Dining and Culinary Experiences at Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resorts
When booking your Riviera Maya all-inclusive vacation, expect to enjoy a range of diverse culinary experiences—a dining experience that'll satisfy and delight.
Variety of Cuisines Available at Luxury Resorts
Did you know you can enjoy a variety of cuisines available at luxury resorts? Traditional Mexican cuisine is no doubt everywhere, but so are other International delicacies, like Italian pasta, French pastries, or even Japanese sushi. Best of all, many resorts prize farm-to-table and the use of fresh, local ingredients so you'll get to enjoy the best of the best without even having to leave the resort.
Signature Restaurants at Each Resort
Signature restaurants at each resort in Riviera Maya are becoming an even bigger draw in attracting tourists. In recent years, many of the big resorts in Riviera Maya have begun to open signature restaurants—a big draw for guests seeking an all-out luxurious experience. In fact, many of the region's best restaurants are located on resort grounds.
For example, The Grill at Excellence Riviera Maya, serves up unbelievably tender cuts of meet every night. La Marea Restaurant by Viceroy, located at the Viceroy Riviera Maya is another example of fine Mexican dining. At VidantaWorld Riviera Maya, end your days on a high note at the resort's several spots, including Bistro Bleu or Chiringuito.
Comparing Buffet vs. A-La-Carte Options
For families with picky eaters or who prefer low-key eats, many resorts offer delicious buffet dining experiences too. Buffets let you sample different styles of cuisine on one plate—and be generous with your portion sizes, too. But if a more curated experience is what you crave, be sure to look into your hotel's à-la-carte options, many of which are crafted by renowned chefs.
Proximity to Popular Attractions in Riviera Maya
One of the best parts about a trip to Riviera Maya is that so many exciting attractions and sites to visit lie beyond the resort grounds.
Playa del Carmen and Cancun
Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastline town brimming with shopping, dining, and nightlife options. Veer off the resort and check out La Quinta Avenida to get in some shopping. Cancun, meanwhile, also has a bustling nightlife and is just a short trek from many resorts. You'll also find plenty of upscale shopping malls here, so be sure to bring a spare suitcase along.
Mayan Ruins and Natural Parks (Xcaret, Xel-Há, etc.)
Mayan Ruins and natural parks are among the must-see attractions on your Riviera Maya trip. Ancient ruins like Tulum, Coba, and Chicen Itza are easy day trips to make. If exploring local wildlife is your think, eco-parks like Xcaret and Xel-Há are great opportunities for visitors to swim in cenotes (water holes), get in some snorelling time and become familiar with the region's wildlife.
Distance from Cancun International Airport
Another major benefit of booking a trip in Riviera Maya is its proximity to the Cancun International Airport. Many resorts are closeby, just a short 30-minute to an hour drive from the airport—so you'll be relaxing and unwinding at the beach in no time at all.
How to Choose the Best Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort for Your Needs
When it comes to booking the best Riviera Maya all-inclusive resort based on your needs, you'll need to weigh several factors. Budget, travel style, and your priorities are all necessary to consider. Here's a brief guide to help you find the resort best suited to your needs.
Consider Your Budget and Travel Preferences
First, consider your budget when choosing a resort. Many luxury resorts offer premium amenities—we're talking private beachfront suites, gourmet dining, and unforgettable spa experiences. If you're seeking something a little more mid-range, don't fret: there are plenty of incredible options for every price point.
Adults-Only vs. Family-Friendly Options
Another key factor to consider is if you're looking for an adults-only experience or want a family-friendly resort. Adults-only resorts cater to those seeking a peaceful environment suited for couples on a honeymoon or romantic getaway. Kid-friendly resorts offer plenty of activities, like waterparks and playgrounds, for kids to enjoy. So, it really depends on the kind of vacation you're into.
What Are Your Priorities? (Beach, Activities, Dining, Eco-Friendliness)
What are your priorities in Riviera Maya? Lastly, consider your vacation to-do list. If a gorgeous beach is important, then check out Riviera Maya's many resorts with private access. If you're the type who can't sit still, look out for resorts offering snorkeling, jungle and zipline tours, and other kinds of adventures. Food lovers, there is loads to consider for you here too: Look into dining options, signature restaurants, and International eats.
Splurge on All-Inclusive Journey to Paradise
Riviera Maya truly is a tropical paradise. To make your stay even more enchanting, check out our show JOYÀ at the VidantaWorld resort.
Watch our performers tell the story of the jungle through amazing costumes, expressive movement, and a soundtrack that will make your emotions soar. Book your ticket today to create memories that are sure to last long after you leave this beautiful setting.