Best Spa Hotels in Maya Riviera & The Yucatan

Rosewood Mayakoba fully immerses guests in the Riviera Maya's beauty through its architecture and design. Not only is it flanked by the region's famed crystalline sands and lush jungle, the resort is also constructed from local materials, such as Yucatan limestone and regional wood. Visitors especially praise the private outdoor deck and heated plunge pool attached to each of the property's 129 suites. And the welcome tequila, daily restocked fruit bowl and personal butler services exemplify an above-par level of hospitality. The culinary offerings at Rosewood Mayakoba's three restaurants are another point of praise among recent guests. And, despite their high price tags, visitors say the unique treatments at Sense, A Rosewood Spa are well worth the indulgence. Once you're feeling relaxed, perfect your swing at the adjacent El Camaleon golf course or soak up your surroundings with a kayaking or snorkeling adventure. You'll find this Rosewood outpost just north of downtown Playa del Carmen in the Mayakoba resort complex.

Consistently lauded by publications like Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler, this stylish member of the Viceroy Resorts clan has a long-standing reputation to uphold. And aside from a few complaints about high room rates, Viceroy Riviera Maya also wins the hearts of its guests. Surrounded by white sands and verdant jungle – just north of downtown Playa del Carmen – this intimate resort encompasses 41 villa-style accommodations designed to mirror the Riviera Maya's impressive landscape. Rooms are appointed with private plunge pools and outdoor rain showers and hammocks, plus creature comforts like Bose radios and satellite TVs. Recent guests recommend dining alfresco at Coral Grill & Bar, which pairs seaside scenery with enticing dishes like traditional tortilla soup and homemade paella. But past patrons assure you won't be disappointed with a meal at La Marea Restaurant, which offers a sophisticated setting and flavorful seafood dishes. And though the therapeutic massages and revitalizing body treatments at the Spa at Viceroy Riviera Maya come attached to steep price tags, past guests assure the services are well worth the extra cost.

At NIZUC Resort & Spa guests can expect seclusion and luxury on all of this property's 29 acres. Situated on the south end of Cancun's Hotel Zone in Punta Nizuc, this resort offers spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea and prime snorkeling along the Mesoamerican Reef. The 274 villas and suites all feature Nespresso coffee makers, along with minibars and private balconies or terraces with garden or ocean views. Private Pool Villas even feature infinity pools with waterfalls. Sun-seekers can drop the children off at Winik's Kids Club for activities like cooking lessons and ceramic painting before heading to the resort's two private beaches or one of the three infinity pools. The relaxing vibes continue at the NIZUC Spa by ESPA, which offers Mayan-influenced treatments. But what really stands out at NIZUC Resort & Spa is the food. You can choose from six restaurants that serve gourmet cuisine, but if you're looking for a memorable experience, consider reserving a night at the chef's table or arranging a private dinner on the beach. From the delectable cuisine to the private atmosphere, recent visitors couldn't be more complimentary of the hotel, describing the overall experience as simply incredible. If you're a member of the I Prefer rewards program, you can cash in or accrue points for choosing to stay here.

Most lodgers at The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun are wowed by the hotel's upscale atmosphere, especially in its common areas and 365 guest rooms. Decorated in tasteful neutral tones, the guest rooms come equipped with iPod docking stations, deep soaking tubs and furnished balconies or terraces overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The Ritz's signature elegance is also evident in the property's six dining establishments: Whether it's a grand dining room or a private canopied casita on the beach, guests are in for a decadent experience. And though some guests bemoan the steep price tags served with their meals, many say you should splurge for at least one meal here because the food is worth it. But The Ritz really shows its worth on the pool deck, with two pools, an oceanfront whirlpool and pool valet services. More active guests can strap on some scuba gear and take to the Caribbean Sea or practice their backhand with a pro at the Tennis Center. Located in Cancun's Hotel Zone, this Ritz-Carlton outpost is also part of the Marriott Bonvoy program.

Sandwiched between the Asian-influenced Banyan Tree Mayakoba and the sensual Rosewood Mayakoba, this member of the AccorHotels family upholds its brand's standards along this luxurious stretch of sand just north of Playa del Carmen. The property houses 401 guest rooms and suites, all of which come outfitted in tropical-inspired decor, spacious soaking tubs, LCD televisions and Le Labo toiletries. The resort, which is nestled within 240 acres of tropical forest, also sits next to the PGA Championship El Camaleón golf course. Additionally, the property features the 37,000-square-foot Willow Stream Spa and three on-site restaurants (not including the two grab-and-go cafes, the two pool bars and the lobby lounge). And if you're traveling with children, take them to the Kids Club (for ages 4 to 12), where they can spend their days making piñatas or origami souvenirs. To make the most of your stay at the Fairmont Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, consider booking one of the resort's promotional packages. But be careful: Some guests warn that the property's high food and drink prices can quickly raise your final bill.

This 85-acre all-inclusive property approximately 6 miles northeast of central Playa del Carmen garners rave reviews from its guests. The accommodations impress with whirlpool tubs, 42-inch plasma-screen TVs and more than 1,100 square feet of space. Meanwhile, guests consistently praise the resort's excellent customer service, its gourmet cuisine, and its revitalizing spa services. During your stay, you can sign up for invigorating treatments like the Mayan Jade Facial or the Coffee & Cocoa Experience. For extra pampering, consider splurging for the Riviera Maya Spa Package, which includes spa credits and ecotours, among other perks. If you're more interested in hitting the links or a scuba expedition, consider one of the resorts other popular packages, all of which include meals at the property's eight restaurants and other privileges, such as 24-hour concierge services, snokeling tours and even mixology classes. And if you're traveling with kids in tow, send them over to the Grand Velas Kids' or Teens' Club – they'll have plenty of opportunities to meet new friends while you're catching up on some R&R. Plus, since the hotel is under the Preferred umbrella, members of the I Prefer program can earn or redeem points here.

Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancún invites you to "Be Yourself" at its adults-only resort situated in the middle of Cancun's Hotel Zone. And it certainly does not lack personalized touches. For sensitive swimmers, Live Aqua's seven pools, including infinity and lap pools, come in varying temperatures, so one of them is sure to be just right. You'll also have access to the beach, where you can post up in a private cabana. And as far as dining goes, you'll have your pick of 12 restaurants and bars, which serve everything from Mediterranean fare to traditional Mexican cuisine. When you're ready to turn in for the evening, you'll find an aromatherapy kit, along with a flat-screen TV and a spacious bathtub and shower in your room or suite. Another bonus: Previous guests said the vistas overlooking the Caribbean Sea from the ocean-facing rooms are impressive. Past visitors also praised the gracious resort staff, who they said went above and beyond to cater to guests' needs.

Situated less than 5 miles north of its sister property, Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun, this resort boasts all of the alluring amenities of its southern sibling with an extra touch of luxury. It may look like an older property from the outside, but each of this resort's 602 suites offers expansive views overlooking the Caribbean Sea, as well as terraces and private sitting areas. The relaxing atmosphere extends into the 40,000-square-foot Gem Spa, where you can enjoy a hydrotherapy treatment or a soak in the Sensations Pool. If it's sunshine you seek, head to the resort's lagoon-inspired pool or its palapa-studded beach, which hugs Caribbean waters and offers vistas of Isla Mujeras. Even dining at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun is an elegant affair; guests are consistently wowed by the French-Mediterranean cuisine served at Le Basilic, as well as the hand-rolled cigars and Mexican fare found at La Joya (along with the resort's four other restaurants and bars). Kids can also join in the fun with supervised activities at the Coral KidZ Club. What's more, because of the hotel's Preferred ties, it allows members of the I Prefer program to earn or redeem points for stays here.

Thanks to its downtown Playa del Carmen location, this hotel grants guests easy access to both the beach and area bars. Travelers can walk to the Riviera Maya's soft sands for some sun and then stroll over to Playa del Carmen's Fifth Avenue, home to the city's most-loved shops, restaurants and nightlife venues. But that's not the only reason why travelers rave about this adults-only resort: Past guests compliment the hospitable staff, the quality of the food served at the resort's seven restaurants and the variety of amenities available in property's all-inclusive room rates. When nighttime rolls around, you'll bed down in spacious accommodations outfitted with two-person Jacuzzis, LCD satellite TVs, Wi-Fi access and private terraces, balconies or patios. Some suites also boast direct beach or swim-up pool access. To save some coin, members of the Hilton Honors rewards program can cash in points here.

If you've come to Cancun to party, then you'll probably want to find another property. Hyatt Zilara Cancun is all about relaxation and tranquility, which can make this adults-only resort a little too quiet for some travelers. But if quiet is what you're looking for, then book one of the Hyatt's premium suites, which feature ocean views (even in the bathrooms), spacious two-person in-suite whirlpool tubs and handcrafted wood furnishings. Included in the price of your room is access to two pools, including an Olympic-size pool, the hydrotherapy circuit at the spa, the resort's bicycle center and daily and nightly entertainment. The all-inclusive package also covers meals at six eateries and unlimited alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages at the property's five bars. You'll also enjoy room service delivery into your room's "Magic Box" – a compartment that goes from your room to the hallway, allowing resort employees to deliver room service 24 hours without disturbing you. If you're a World of Hyatt member, you can earn or redeem points here for stay perks.

Secrets The Vine Cancun, an adults-only property, entices visitors with its impeccable grounds and stylish decor. Each of its 497 guest rooms and suites feature 42-inch satellite TVs, teak-furnished balconies and minibars. And when you're ready to step outside your digs, you can grab a bite at one of the seven gourmet eateries (or the 24-hour coffee shop), all of which are covered by the brand's Unlimited-Luxury all-inclusive room packages. Travelers especially praise the resort's versatile culinary offerings and entertainment options, which include everything from yoga and dance lessons to mixology classes. Plus, Unlimited-Luxury also grants guests access to top-shelf liquor (served chairside on the beach or at the pool if you wish), as well as other amenities like free wireless internet access and complimentary green fees at the nearby Playa Mujeres Golf Club and El Tinto Golf Course. Secrets The Vine Cancun is located in the mid-section of Cancun's Hotel Zone, about an 11-mile drive northeast of Cancun International Airport.

Located in the upscale Playacar neighborhood of southern Playa del Carmen, Playacar Palace earns rave reviews from past guests for its quality customer service. Many travelers credit the resort's friendly employees with making Playacar Palace feel truly palatial. The 201 guest rooms and suites feature smart TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, liquor dispensers, and, in some cases, personal Jacuzzi tubs and private balconies. But travelers don't need to spend much time in their rooms: Playacar Palace cozies up to an expansive stretch of Riviera Maya shoreline, tempting guests out of their abode with a large pool, three restaurants and soothing spa treatments at the Awe Spa. Playacar Palace guests can also take advantage of the nearby Hard Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya. 

Generations Riviera Maya by Karisma is an all-suite, all-inclusive resort that sits about halfway between Playa del Carmen and Cancun on the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. The beachfront resort offers 162 suites, all with large balconies or terraces. Some larger suites are equipped with swim-up balconies that connect to the infinity pool. Guests are complimentary of the spacious accommodations and also praise the customer service and variety of food found at the restaurants. Generations Riviera Maya boasts five dining spots that serve Mexican, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine, as well as several bars – one of which is a swim-up bar. The resort welcomes children, and the hotel's Eko Kids Club offers supervised games and enrichment activities for guests ages 4 to 12. Both kids and adults will enjoy the hotel's infinity pool that stretches along the length of the resort, as well as the Jacuzzis available in every suite. Although guests were overwhelmingly positive of the resort's pools and restaurants, some were critical of the property's small, rocky beach. Next to the resort are two of Karisma's other Riviera Maya properties, El Dorado Casitas Royale and El Dorado Royale, and guests ages 18 and older can use the facilities at both of these locations.

A member of the IHG Hotels family, this sprawling resort on Cozumel, Mexico's west coast promises island visitors a stylish, yet casual getaway. And according to previous guests, this InterContinental property delivers. Flanked by half a mile of sugary shoreline, swaying palm trees and the gargantuan Palancar Reef, the InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort & Spa houses 220 spacious guest rooms complete with eye-catching blue or red and orange accents, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi access and private balconies or terraces. Out on the grounds, visitors can swim in the outdoor pools, practice their backhand on the tennis courts or unwind at the Spa. (If you're traveling with kids in tow, you should spend some looking for iguanas around the property.) Guests also praise the cuisine served at the resort's four dining venues, but most visitors credit their positive experiences at this resort to the Presidente Cozumel's employees. Previous travelers said that the staff here is nothing short of friendly and helpful. And keep in mind, if you're an IHG Rewards Club member, you can use or earn points at this brand's outpost.

Catching up on some quality rest and relaxation comes naturally to guests staying at the Blue Diamond Riviera Maya. This relatively small adults-only resort – which has just 128 rooms and suites – sprawls across beige sands and sits roughly 6 miles north of central Playa del Carmen. Blue Diamond Riviera Maya keeps things simple and classy – guest suites come outfitted in crisp, white decor with rich wood accents, floor-to-ceiling windows and a terrace or garden, not to mention high-end amenities like outdoor bathtubs, 42-inch flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, and in some rooms, private plunge pools. Guests love the look and feel of Blue Diamond Riviera Maya, but they're even more impressed by all that's included in the room rate. A stay at this all-inclusive resort covers not only access to three pools, three restaurants and beachfront concierge services, but also includes access to an 18-hole golf course, yoga classes and a fitness center. What's more, the property features the Spa by Blue Diamond, which offers unique therapies like seaweed wraps and hot stone massages.

Sitting just 4 miles northeast of Tulum's Mayan ruins, Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa makes a great home base for sightseers. And thanks to its Unlimited-Luxury privileges, travelers can enjoy limitless meals, beverages at seven different bars and lounges, and daily activities. Golfers can start their day by hitting the links at the Riviera Maya Golf Club, a Robert Trent Jones II-designed course, while budding adventurists (ages 3 to 12) can enjoy the great outdoors with the resort's Explorer's Club. Meanwhile, R&R-seekers can head to the Dreams Spa by Pevonia before sprawling along white sands. Once you're ready to step out of the sun, you can escape to your guest room, appointed with a fully stocked minibar, a cable TV, an iPod docking station, complimentary Wi-Fi access and a private balcony or terrace. Travelers are impressed by this Dreams' digs, but even more so by its excellent customer service. Previous visitors say that everyone – from the concierge to the bell hops – works hard to ensure guests feel welcome. The eight on-site restaurants also win over patrons with their globally inspired offerings, from traditional Mexican fare to Asian, French and Italian cuisine.

Hyatt Ziva Cancun is an all-inclusive resort located on the white-sand beaches of Cancun. Guests who stay here receive complimentary meals at nine eateries and free drinks at seven lounges and bars, including a local microbrewery. There is also a KidZ club, three infinity pools that overlook the Caribbean Sea, snorkeling gear, beach and pool cabanas, beach volleyball courts, a tennis court, live entertainment, a spa and a fitness center with Pilates classes. The 547 rooms and suites start at 483 square feet and feature terraces or balconies, complimentary minibars, free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms with separate showers, king-sized beds and an additional queen-sized sofa bed. Recent guests said this Hyatt is an excellent choice for vacationing families, given all of the kid-friendly amenities, but couples also said this is a great place to reconnect over cocktails, salsa dancing and couples massages. Plus, many recent vacationers described the service throughout the property as stellar, though several mentioned check-in was slow. Another perk, though, is that this resort is under the Hyatt brand, meaning members of the loyalty program can accrue or redeem points while staying here.

Stretched across northern Playa del Carmen's sands alongside its sister resort, Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla, Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda earns high praise from guests for its prime beach access, family-friendly atmosphere and elegant appearance. The resort's 488 suites each feature separate bedroom and living areas, as well as 40-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars, 24-hour room service and complimentary Wi-Fi access. If you're traveling with kids, stay in a Family Concierge suite, which comes appointed with extras like children's bed and bath amenities and video game consoles (upon request) – not to mention a private Jacuzzi. The kids club is also a hit with previous visitors: While adults relax at the YHI Spa or indulge in a poolside cocktail at the swim-up bar, kids can enjoy some fun on the beach or make new friends in the Kids Zone. Introduced in December 2018, the Splash Water Park is another diversion your young ones will love. And at the end of the day, 14 restaurants and plethora of bars and lounges will satisfy a wide variety of cravings.

Encompassing 71 acres of seafront property a few miles north of Playa del Carmen, Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun provides a serene environment for a couple's escape. At this adults-only member of the AMResorts family, guests are treated to Secrets' Unlimited-Luxury privileges, which include 24-hour private concierge services and limitless drinks and meals at the resort's six restaurants, four bars and lounges and in-house cafe. Past guests especially rave about the hospitable and helpful hotel staff, claiming staff members go above and beyond to cater to guests' needs. Each room is appointed with an elegant four-poster bed, a Mediterranean-inspired color scheme and a private balcony or terrace. Secrets Capri's nightly rates also include access to on-site recreation facilities, such as the 16,000-square-foot swimming pool, a wide swath of Riviera Maya beachfront and a variety of activities like yoga, tequila tastings and Spanish lessons. Plus, guests of Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun can enjoy complimentary use of the nearby Grand Coral Riviera Maya golf course. You can also indulge in a massage at the 14,000-square-foot Secrets Spa by Pevonia, but treatments are not covered in the all-inclusive package.

The pool complex is the real standout at the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa. Guests are consistently wowed by this resort's two outdoor free-form pools, the 14-foot dive pool (with an artificial reef) and the smattering of whirlpools around the property. And previous visitors give the on-site eateries – some of which are shared with the adjacent CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort – a nod of approval for their quality service and varied menu options. Past guests also raved about the property's guest rooms and suites, which feature private balconies that boast ocean views, spacious bathrooms, Wi-Fi access (for a fee) and 49-inch flat-panel TVs. Upgrade to a Club 91 accommodation for views from the resort's top floor, access to the Club 91 Lounge and other exclusive amenities, such as Club lounge access. Even if you don't spring for a Club 91 room, Marriott Bonvoy members will be able to earn or cash in points for perks at this JW Marriott resort.

If you're looking to take advantage of Riviera Maya's party-hard reputation, this probably isn't the right resort for you. But if you're craving a relaxing escape, the atmosphere at Hacienda Tres Ríos Resort will suit you well. Surrounded by 326 acres of parkland (150 acres of which is a nature preserve) just about 8 miles north of Playa del Carmen, this resort boasts guest rooms outfitted in modern Mexican decor. In fact, Hacienda Tres Ríos's mahogany furnishings and marble floors are just one of the reasons behind the resort's eco-friendly status. Plus, the property's sustainable air conditioning and water filtering systems help protect the 131 animal species and 120 types of flora that call this area home. Accommodations feature flat-screen satellite TVs, and most are appointed with a Jacuzzi. What's more, the all-inclusive resort grants access to two swimming pools, a private beach, fitness classes and unlimited food at the seven on-site restaurants at no additional fee. And though it will cost you extra, the Ya’ax Che Spa offers traveler-approved body treatments and massages. Keep in mind, though, that recent travelers thought the sales presentation and staff were a bit aggressive, and many were disappointed with the on-site beach.

Easily recognized by its bright yellow exterior, The Royal Haciendas all-inclusive resort overlooks the Caribbean Sea from its seat on the north end of Playa del Carmen. Guests are consistently impressed by the accommodations here; visitors have their choice of a junior, one-bedroom or two-bedroom suite, although previous guests recommend opting for more space in order to have access to a private whirlpool tub and full kitchen. All suites feature a private balcony overlooking the ocean, ample living space and TVs with DVD players. Meanwhile, The Royal Haciendas all-inclusive package grants unlimited access to the resort's two restaurants, bars and ample on-site facilities (like six pools, whirlpools, three tennis courts and nonmotorized water sports equipment). However, the customer service receives mixed reviews from past visitors; some say the customer service was not on par with other resorts in the area, while others describe the staff as pleasant and accommodating.

The Royal Sands features single rooms, along with one- and two-bedroom suites. All accommodations offer minifridges, coffee makers and balconies, but if you're traveling with the entire family in tow, spring for a two-bedroom suite, which comes with a fully equipped kitchen, living area and dining room. This property is located in the middle of the coveted Hotel Zone, Cancun's popular nightlife and dining area. But you should be able to find some suitable grub at the on-site eateries that serve everything from seafood to traditional Mexican fare – meals at these restaurants are covered by the resort's all-inclusive package rate. Also included in your room fee: 24-hour room service, access to the hotel's pools (including a children's pool), tennis courts, a fitness center and use of leisure equipment like snorkeling gear and bicycles. While many recent visitors enjoyed the resort's amenities, many say the property's enviable location and first-rate service are the key selling points for choosing to stay here.

Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort's culinary offerings stand out among Cancun's versatile dining options. Guests heartily approve of this all-inclusive resort's five restaurants, pointing to Gaijin as especially memorable for its inventive sushi creations. After you eat, hit the hotel's white sand beach or its three oceanfront infinity pools. But take note: Previous guests said that after 2 p.m., the pool area is cast into shadow by the neighboring Secrets The Vine Cancun. While guests say that there is some entertainment offered on the pool deck, they add that Sandos is not the place for glitzy evening productions or loud nightlife. However, seekers of a quieter stay will enjoy these guest rooms and suites, which feature marble bathrooms, coffee makers, minibars, Wi-Fi access, 32-inch flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service. What's more, during your stay, you can take advantage of the 15,000-square-foot Spa del Mar, which offers soothing treatments such as hot stone massages and mineral spa therapy body wraps. And should you crave more activity, enjoy windsurfing, kayaking or a deep sea fishing expedition (for an additional fee). 

The Westin Resort & Spa's location in the southern stretches of Cancun's Hotel Zone will put you close to Cancun International Airport, though somewhat removed from the city's vibrant nightlife. Guests who came looking to party were disappointed with this Westin's lack of nighttime entertainment, but most found it to be an overall relaxing retreat. Travelers revel in the picturesque private beaches flanking the Caribbean and the Nichupte Lagoon – which are lined with thatched palapas and beach chairs (get there early to reserve one) – and luxuriate in The Spa. Meanwhile, active types can enjoy adventurous pursuits, such as snorkeling, parasailing and water skiing before taking a dip in one of four pools. The signature Westin Heavenly Beds, satellite TVs and Heavenly Bath products in each of the guest rooms and suites also complement the resort's relaxed atmosphere. As for dining, you can pick between six eating establishments, including the Brisa/Breeze pool bar and inventive Sea & Stones restaurant, where dishes are prepared on hot stones and savored beneath palapas along the beach. And because Westin is part of the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.