Mexico’s Riviera Maya borders the Caribbean and stretches 86 miles south of Cancun, comprising the towns of Puerto Morelos, Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, as well as the island of Cozumel, six miles offshore. It’s the perfect sun-drenched place to chill out. And when we do, here’s where we like to check in. These are the Best Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resorts and some of the best all-inclusive Mexico resorts.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya This Playa Del Carmen resort is actually three discrete hotels in one. Our pick: the adults-only Grand Class, which boasts sleek ocean-facing suites with party-sized showers; butler service, a two-story spa; and a complimentary tequila service in every suite.
Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita There are only 90 suites at this wellness-focused retreat so we don’t have to share the four restaurants (including the AAA Four-Diamond award-winning Canoa); spacious suites; and thalassotherapy spa with too many others. We’re selfish that way.
Hard Rock Riviera Maya Nothing against kids but it’s adults-only Heaven, the resort-within-a-resort at this music-themed Puerto Aventuras all-inc that really makes our hearts sing. The premium section features exclusive restaurants; plush suites (one’s a whopping 9,000 square-feet!); three pools and a private beach. Can you blame us?
Excellence Riviera Cancun Secluded in Puerto Morelos but within easy reach of Playa and Cancun, Excellence delivers amenities we appreciate, including nine restaurants; six pools with waiter service; 11 bars; and 24-hour room service.
Cozumel Palace We like the combination of a small island and a small(ish) all-inclusive, and this pairing fits the bill. The resort has 175 rooms, four restaurants, and all the usual all-inclusive amenities. And Cozumel, just 33 miles long by 9 miles wide, has the laidback, small-island feel we love.
Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun Here’s to an all-inc the entire family can enjoy. Kids’ and teens’ clubs keep the small people in our party happy and out of our hair while we relax on the beach; dine a deux in five restaurants; or sit back and sip top-shelf liquor.
Desire Resort & Spa If you like your Caribbean vacay clothing optional, you might like this adults-only, couples-only getaway in Puerto Morelos. Theme nights and a “fantasy menu” of private experiences encourage disrobing, but “bare” in mind that you’ll still have to dress for meals.
Dreams Tulum Contestants on ABC’s “The Bachelor In Paradise” experienced the perks of this resort near the boho beach town of Tulum, and so should you. ‘Round-the-clock room service; free WI-FI and international phone calls; and a Preferred Club premium section complete with concierge service will make it worth your while. That’s why it’s one of the All Inclusive Resorts in the Riviera Maya.
Privilege Aluxes Only eight miles from Cancun but a world apart, sleepy Isla Mujeres is a must-visit when you’re in these parts. Ferry over for the day or, better yet, spend a couple of nights at this resort, which pairs big-city perks with a boho vibe.
Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun Set on 71 beachfront acres, this is a 291-room, AAA Four-Diamond resort offers a spa; five restaurants; unlimited premium drinks; and comp WI-FI and international phone calls. What more do you need to know?