A Hotel Report: Chablé Maroma, Mexico

Location

Chablé Maroma is located on the Riviera Maya, just 35-minutes north of Playa del Carmen and about 30-minutes south of Cancun International Airport. The resort is situated along a pristine stretch of beach known for its turquoise waters and white sand. The resort provides convenient access to some of the Riviera Maya’s most famous attractions, including Tulum, Cobá and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

The villas

Our villa was a private oasis, complete with a plunge pool, outdoor shower and a spacious terrace overlooking the jungle. The attention to detail was evident in every corner, from the handcrafted furnishings to the luxurious linens. The villa’s design encouraged relaxation and immersion in nature, providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City's everyday life — and yes, we left our kids behind. The resort features 70 luxurious villas, each designed to offer complete privacy and comfort.

Each morning, we woke up to a basket of pastries, though we had to hurry to get them because the local wildlife was looking to indulge.

What to do

Chablé Maroma offers a diverse range of activities that cater to various interests. Here are a few highlights from our stay:

• Private beach: The resort's private beach is a tranquil haven, offering guests a secluded and serene spot to relax. We had the beach to ourselves most of the time. Heaven. The beach is well-maintained, ensuring clean and inviting sand and waters.

• Yoga and meditation: The resort offers yoga and meditation classes, providing a perfect start to the day with relaxation and invigoration.

• Cooking and mixology classes: We enjoyed a private mixology class where we crafted delicious cocktails, and cooking classes that taught us to make traditional Mexican dishes with fresh, local ingredients.

• Tequila and mezcal Tastings: Tasting high-quality Mexican tequilas and mezcals was a fantastic way to learn about these spirits and enjoy some truly exceptional varieties.

• Spa: The award-winning spa at Chablé Maroma is one of its main highlights. The therapists were highly skilled, and the treatment rooms, surrounded by lush greenery, added to the overall sense of peace and relaxation. I absolutely loved the Spiraling Sea Massage and the Temazcal ceremony, a traditional Mayan purification ritual.

Vibe

From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in the serene ambiance of Chablé Maroma. The lush, tropical surroundings and the warm, welcoming staff set the tone for our stay. The resort's architecture is a harmonious blend of modern design and traditional Mayan elements, creating a sense of tranquility and elegance. It pays tribute to Mayan culture and history by putting their traditions at the forefront.

Food & drinks

The resort boasts several dining options, each offering a unique culinary experience. The restaurants focus on using fresh, local ingredients to create both traditional Mexican and international dishes. Chef Jorge Vallejo, a renowned Mexican chef, oversees the culinary program, ensuring an exceptional dining experience.

• Bu’ul: This fine dining restaurant serves contemporary Mexican cuisine with a creative twist. The tasting menu was a culinary journey, with each dish artfully presented and bursting with flavor.

• Kaban: A more casual option, Kaban offers fresh, locally-sourced seafood and other delicious dishes. We dined here with a view of the ocean.

• Raw Bar: Perfect for a light lunch or snack, the Raw Bar features an array of fresh ceviches and sushi. The relaxed beachfront setting makes it an ideal spot to unwind.

For who

I highly recommend Chablé Maroma for a romantic getaway. Also great for wellness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to disconnect. It’s also great for a destination wedding or celebration. Families are welcome but it excels as an adults-only retreat.

Recommended length of stay: To fully appreciate all that Chablé Maroma has to offer, I recommend a stay of at least three nights. This allows ample time to enjoy the activities, indulge in the spa, and explore the surrounding area without feeling rushed.

Sustainability: Chablé Maroma is committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. The resort incorporates sustainable materials in its construction and operates with a focus on reducing environmental impact. Efforts include water conservation, energy efficiency and supporting local wildlife conservation.

Best time to visit: While Chablé Maroma is beautiful year-round, the best weather is typically from November to April. When we were there, there was no sargassum problem. This resort is also very good about clean-up, we have been informed.

Getting there: The resort is a short drive from Cancun International Airport. Transfers can be arranged through the resort for a seamless arrival experience.

Awards and recognition: Chablé Maroma has received numerous accolades for its luxury and service. It has been featured in various prestigious travel publications and lists, including Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.

Sister properties: Chablé Maroma is part of the Chablé Hotels group, which also includes Chablé Yucatán, another luxurious property known for its historic hacienda setting and lush surroundings. A new property, Chablé Sea of Cortez, is set to open soon, expanding the brand's footprint in Mexico.

Mayan heritage: The resort’s design and experiences are deeply influenced by Mayan culture. This includes not just architectural elements but also wellness treatments and rituals, which draw from ancient Mayan practices.

Local community: Chablé Maroma actively supports the local community through various initiatives, including sourcing food and materials locally and supporting local artisans and craftsmen.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Mexico. In need of further inspiration? Check out Sequoia Armstrong’s guide, Visiting Mexico’s Culinary Capital of Oaxaca.