Curator’s statement
Rosewood Mayakoba strikes a nice balance between nature and comfort. It’s the kind of place where you can completely unplug. They are known for their service, but they surpassed even my fussy expectations. The celebrations team went above and beyond to make our stay truly unforgettable, including a surprise mariachi performance — you could hear the festive music trailing down the lagoon as the band arrived by boat. Special little touches, abundant water sports and an overall celebratory atmosphere made this our daughter’s favorite vacation to date.
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Celebrations
Watermelon birthday "cake."
I’ve never quite experienced a celebrations team of this caliber. They were genuinely excited to make wishes come true. That surprise mariachi moment is something I’ll always remember. They also worked with the pastry chef to create a birthday “cake” carved out of watermelon and decorated with fresh fruit. My husband loved “champagne o’clock,” when staff visited guests poolside with complimentary champagne — and sparkling apple cider for the kids. Kevin, our butler, was warm, attentive and truly thoughtful. He organized special surprises for our daughter, including a chocolate piñata and a custom-embroidered dog pillow for her doodle back home.
Thoughtful gift from our butler — a custom-embroidered pillow.
Thanking the mariachi for an incredible performance in our backyard.
Piñata made from chocolate by Rosewood's in-house pastry team.
Getting around
Though the grounds are expansive, getting around wasn’t a problem due to the resort’s bicycle culture. Upon arrival, each guest is given a personal bike. The bikes are exclusively yours for the length of your stay — including kid-sized versions and attachments for younger children. Golf carts are available, but biking just felt right here, and we genuinely missed it once we left.
Beach & water activities
One of my vacation goals is to not leave the resort. Thankfully, Mayakoba offers a wide range of water activities on-site. At Rosewood’s beach, we enjoyed complimentary kayaking, paddleboarding and Hobie Cat sailing. For paid activities like jet-skiing and seabobs, we took a walk down the beach to the Mayakoba Dive Center. My husband and daughter explored the coral reef by seabobs — the absolute highlight for them.
The Caribbean Sea was warm and gentle during our stay — perfect for floating, chatting and unwinding. While this region is known for seaweed washing ashore, Rosewood manages it with a dedicated team clearing the beach each morning.
Suite: Lagoon Studio
We stayed in a Lagoon Studio Suite that felt private, peaceful and luxurious. It featured a spacious bedroom, open living area and a grassy yard with a plunge pool and private dock right on the lagoon.
Pools
Aquí Me Quedo pools.
Punta Bonita Pool – Family-friendly and just steps from the beach, with easy access to the Rosewood Explorers kids' club.
Casa del Lago Pool – Multi-level pool set among lush greenery, near the hotel’s entrance and Casa del Lago restaurant.
Aquí Me Quedo – Adults-only beach club during the day, with three plunge pools perfect for lounging with a piña colada. This oasis was my personal favorite — I wanted to live here.
Spa Serenity Pool – Nestled inside the spa, this oval hydrotherapy pool is surrounded by daybeds and hammocks. Quiet, calming and perfect after a treatment.
Complimentary beach cabana.
Dining
Dinner at Aquí Me Quedo.
Casa del Lago – Our daily complimentary breakfast with a view. Options from the buffet or ordering off the menu.
La Fondita (located within Mayakoba’s El Pueblito) – Casual and flavorful. My husband and daughter loved the tostadas.
Aquí Me Quedo – A family-friendly spot in the evenings, we had dinner here most nights — sand between our toes and a relaxed, beachy vibe. Their special “Mexican Grill” dinner (usually Thursday night) was our favorite meal of the trip.
Zapote Bar – Lively, with tropical drinks made with real fruit that were absolutely delicious.
Boat ride through Mayakoba's mangroves.
Need to know
Rosewood Mayakoba is that rare mix of luxury, nature and ease. With plenty of activities, thoughtful service and a beautiful setting, it’s no wonder our daughter still calls it her favorite vacation.
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Travel Advisor
Marlan Willardson
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