Image courtesy of Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Dazzling beaches, lush lagoons, mesmerizing culture and a direct flight? There’s a reason I can't get enough of Riviera Maya, Mexico — specifically, the stretch of coastline known as Mayakoba.
This coveted resort enclave, located on 500+ acres of beachfront jungle, was once an untouched stretch of land dotted with mangroves and lagoons. In the 80s, investors acquired the land, eventually using it to build an environmentally conscious resort hot spot. The development's design prioritized preserving the native mangroves and jungle, and a biologist-ecologist oversaw much of the project.
But, with several standout resorts concentrated in one single complex, deciding where to stay is a challenge. Each hotel is spread out among the area's unique combination of lagoons and beachfront. But regardless of where your room sits — lagoon-side or on the beach — the vibe is serene, the views are unmatched and the experience is extra special, akin to an untapped secret.
Below, I break down the differences between the area's best resorts. Read on to decide which one is right for you.
Rosewood Mayakoba
Image courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba
Who it’s right for: The luxury traveler who appreciates exceptional service, and families looking to for a top-notch getaway
The Rosewood sets itself apart with its over-the-top service and amenities. You get the royal treatment from start to finish — think luxury meet-and-greets at the airport, rosé-infused ice cubes and private boat decks. Accommodations are expectedly lovely, and even the entry-level suites are equipped with spacious living rooms and private plunge pools. And while adults will be perfectly entertained here (there is a separate adults-only pool), the family offerings take the cake. Beyond family activities like cenote tours, pizza-making and scavenger hunts, the kid’s and teen’s clubs are especially top-notch.
Fora Perks:
$125 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Banyan Group Mayakoba
Image courtesy of Banyan Group Mayakoba
Who it’s right for: Couples and honeymooners looking for romance, and families seeking a fun getaway
Barefoot luxury is the name of the game at Banyan Group, which offers a blissfully private, five-star experience at a convenient price point. You'll stay in freestanding villas, each boasting its own private pool and sexy, understated design (wood-paneled walls, stone surfaces, minimalist furniture). The resort prides itself on its fusion of Mexico and Asian influences, from its spa — offering Chinese- , Indian- and Balinese-inspired treatments — to its Thai restaurant, Saffron. Another plus: the resort offers one of the only Kosher restaurants around. Kids, too, will be happy here: immersive activities (treasure hunts, beach sports, movie nights, archery) abound.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya
Image courtesy of Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya
Who it’s right for: Couples, families and groups seeking an elevated and intimate all-inclusive experience.
The Andaz feels like a breath of fresh air, with its colorful guest rooms, energetic atmosphere and variety of amenities. While the resort is all-inclusive, thoughtful details — like murals painted by local artists and a Mayan-inspired spa — make it a standout in the area. Guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants: choose from various outlets serving locally sourced cuisine in stylish settings. There's beachfront dining, an all-vegan restaurant, traditional (and expertly executed) Mexican fare and more. You really can't go wrong. Another reason I love the Andaz: it’s a pet-friendly hotel.
Fora Perks:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fairmont Mayakoba
Who it's right for: Families looking for a crowd-pleasing resort with plenty of amenities.
On the heels of a several-million-dollar renovation, the Fairmont is another sophisticated all-inclusive option. Its pièce de résistance is its standout beach — arguably the largest and the nicest in the area — making it a boon for swimming and water sports. Another reason I love it: the rooms are sophisticated, spacious and light-filled, with outdoor living spaces in every category. They’re also well equipped with amenities like mini-fridges (which can be stocked upon request), large flat-screen TVs with cable channels, Nespresso machines and Le Labo bath products. With five pools, a waterslide and whirlpool, plus culinary delights in partnership with a celebrity chef, you can’t go wrong here.
Fora Perks:
$50 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.