The 9 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Riviera Maya of 2023 (2023)

The Summary

Best Overall: Grand Velas Riviera Maya

With three distinct zones - including sophisticated adults-only retreats, family-friendly beachfront areas and tranquil jungle sections - Grand Velas Riviera Maya offers a unique tropical retreat that suits every type of visitor. In Grand Class, elegant suites feature modern furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto private balconies with pools and ocean views. Three restaurants serve contemporary French cuisine amidst opulent decor. The Ambassador offers beachfront family accommodations around the large free-form infinity pool, with casual restaurants serving Italian, Mexican and international dishes accompanied by stunning ocean views. Grand Zen is nestled in an oasis of lush mangrove forest, peaceful koi ponds and colorful tropical flowers. Wooden decks around the stone pools are lined with relaxing cabanas and loungers, and two restaurants offer fresh local seafood and exciting Asian cuisine in cozy dining rooms and laid-back outdoor terraces.

Best Budget: Grand Oasis Tulum

For visitors looking to enjoy all the benefits of an all-inclusive resort without the accompanying price tag, the Grand Oasis Tulum offers a first-class experience for less. Sleek, modern rooms are brightened by a welcome addition of fresh tropical flowers and feature large TVs, coffee machines, and iPod docks. At the infinity pool, guests enjoy waterfalls and a swim-up bar where fresh sushi snacks are available. The adjacent children's zone is filled with pirate ships, slides and children's loungers. For parents, there are tennis courts and Temescal treatments at the spa. A variety of restaurants serve varied cuisine, from traditional Italian food to a Mediterranean gastro-pub and Mexican/Japanese fusion cuisine. While guests can stay without purchasing the Grand experience, an extra $5/day gets access to exclusive pools, restaurants and bars, including a new wine bar and popular rooftop terrace.

Melhor Boutique: Zoëtry Paradise of the Beautiful Riviera Maya

Situated on a secluded stretch of private beach and surrounded by pristine rainforest, Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita is an exclusive property of oceanfront suites, each uniquely decorated with indigenous elements from around the world. The traditional theme is apparent throughout the hotel, with wooden pillars with a natural finish, terracotta adobe walls and rough stonework throughout the complex. The spa and wellness center features the first Thalasso seawater treatments in North America, as well as Mayan massages and body therapies. Three on-site restaurants offer charcoal grills, gourmet fusion, sushi and ceviche dishes. No matter where you dine, be sure to make the most of the beautiful natural setting, with alfresco dining terraces offering picturesque beach scenes. Guests who benefit from the Endless Privileges program enjoy a host of extra benefits, including sunset catamaran cruises, airport transfers with a private driver, spa therapies and access to a nearby golf course.

Best for Families: Grand Residences Riviera Cancun

Just a 15-minute drive from Cancun International Airport and 10 minutes from Puerto Morelos, the Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is an easily accessible property that nevertheless retains a peaceful, secluded feel. At this family-friendly resort, children under 12 stay for free, and a myriad of activities and amenities ensure a great stay for the whole family. Three hotel pools include a kiddy pool, a large infinity pool with amazing ocean views, and an adults-only pool with a swim-up bar. There are countless outdoor activities available, from snorkeling and beach activities to tennis and biking. The kids' club shows movies and organizes a busy schedule of activities to keep them busy while parents relax in the spa center, join yoga classes on the beach or work out in the well-equipped gym. Light snacks and drinks are offered at Heaven Beach Bar & Grill, while El Fargo offers a varied menu of international and Mexican dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Best for Romance: El Dorado Casitas Royale

Couples looking for a quiet, private, and indulgent escape should look no further than the El Dorado Casitas Royale. Situated on the grounds of the El Dorado Royale - and with full access to all hotel amenities - the luxury villas offer the highest level of comfort and tropical elegance. Polished wood furniture and natural-finish ceiling beams lend a soft, traditional feel to the modern rooms, and the oversized bathrooms feature stone tile, double vanities and a relaxing double spa tub with a romantic outdoor shower attached. The two-story villas offer pools and bars with a private veranda overlooking the land and beaches, plus a large wooden veranda with a thatched roof, white cotton curtains and a plush double bed for stargazing at night hot. Meanwhile, swim-up suites allow private access to the lazy river and swim-up bar in the palm tree-lined pool courtyard.

Best for luxury: Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

Located on a stunning stretch of white sands, Secrets Maroma Beach takes full advantage of its enviable location. A huge infinity pool overlooks a sandy courtyard lined with palm trees and tropical shrubbery that leads to the private beach. There, guests can receive massage treatments while relaxing in shaded loungers and luxurious cabanas. Spacious suites are elegantly decorated with carved wood furniture, orange and red color schemes, and private terraces with plunge pools. The luxurious Secrets Spa offers massage and hydrotherapy treatments, as well as a full-service salon in a serene setting. Dining options range from Italian cuisine in a marble fountain restaurant, hibachi-style Japanese culinary experiences, and fresh seafood and grill options on a casual outdoor terrace. As far as drinks are concerned, there are several poolside social bars, the sophisticated lobby bar, and a popular nightclub offering daily entertainment, including live music and dance displays.

Best for Singles: Paradise at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya

Visitors looking to party like a rock star invariably flock to Heaven at the Hard Rock Hotel, the adults-only corner of the massive resort. With rock-inspired decor and a lively atmosphere, the Riviera Maya outpost lives up to the image the brand has long cultivated. The massive pool -- with its bridges, waterfalls, hot tubs, and swim-up bar -- is the centerpiece of social activities, with regular foam parties thrown by fun and enthusiastic staff. The small but tastefully decorated rooms are full of modern amenities. In addition to the restaurants and bars in the all-ages section of the resort, Heaven offers four signature restaurants, specializing in dishes from steakhouse dinners to elegant French and hearty Italian cuisine. Numerous bars throughout the resort keep guests drinking throughout the day, and the cavernous nightclub features dazzling lights, hot tubs, and live DJ events.

Best for business: Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso

A short drive from Cancun International Airport, the Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso is well equipped to cater for business travelers, conferences and team building events. The hotel's striking effect of Renaissance style is accentuated by an impressive lobby with a striking rooftop mural, green marble pillars and lush foliage. Inside the hotel, the convention center is home to nine venues ranging from intimate meeting rooms to spacious conference spaces accommodating up to 1,500 guests. More relaxed business can be conducted on the on-site 18-hole golf course, on the beach bar's outdoor terrace or in the refined cigar bar. At the end of the day's business, guests can unwind with a relaxing spa treatment, work out in the modern gym or relax on the loungers and cabanas around the large courtyard pool. A diverse array of Italian, Japanese, French and American steakhouse dishes are served at the hotel's six restaurants.

Best Hostel: Hostel Humanidade

A short walk from the beach in the village of Puerto Morelos, Hostel Humanity offers cozy and friendly accommodation for social travelers and fun-lovers alike. The simple but cheerful color scheme of bright primary tones reflects the hostel's relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Guests can mingle in the common area, relax in outdoor hammocks or soak up the sun at the hostel's pool. Dorms and a private double room are available, all with private bathroom and air conditioning. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hostel, and hot drinks and fruit are provided each morning in the small but useful communal kitchen. The knowledgeable staff are happy to help guests organize activities and excursions, and can often be found enjoying evening drinks with guests on the rooftop terrace before heading out to the local nightlife spots.