Just south of Cancún, life slows down and the world of luxury and privacy rein supreme. Hidden amongst the mangroves and cenotes are resorts and hotels that move to a slower rhythm than those in other parts of the world. With soft sandy dunes, crystal clear waters and empty beaches, the Riviera Maya is truly heaven on earth.
Like a soft, satin ribbon wrapping the Caribbean coastline of Mexico, the Riviera Maya is a gentle, quiet place that beckons lovers to exhale and embrace some intimate time alone in paradise. Here are a few different options for romantics who want to retreat.
Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya
The Ultimate Sanctuary of Tranquility
Known for its impeccable service and attention to detail, the Mandarin Oriental's property in Mexico has brought high-end luxury to the Mexican Caribbean coastline. Like a love letter, even before your arrival the staff at the resort sends you a kind note welcoming you and asking if there is anything extra that would make your stay special or items you might need during your visit. On arrival, the staff quickly learns your name and when you see them in the reception or on the paths, don't be surprised if you see a smiling person greet you by name. This piece of heaven is set on 36 secluded acres of lush, tropical jungle and the 128-room resort feels like your own private destination because it is very rare that you run into anyone, expect in the restaurants, poolside or on the beach.
Once you set foot into your luxurious guest room, you won't want to leave. And there is no reason to. The bungalows and villas have all the creature comforts you need - great sound system, mini bar filled with champagne and top-shelf liquors, and 24-hour room service. Each guest room includes its own spacious terrace or garden and most have outdoor bathtub that the staff is more than happy to fill with aromatic salts. Get a villa or casita with a roof deck and spend the night star gazing while listening to the soft waves of the Caribbean.
Where: 30 minutes south of the Cancun airport
Price: $325 - $1,495 per night
Amenities: Private beach, three swimming pools, 25,000 square-foot world-class spa, beachfront water activities: snorkeling, kayaking and deep sea fishing.
Restaurants and Bars: Aguamarina, Ambar, Cerviche Cha Cha, Mandarin Bar, Pool & Beach Bar.
Children: Yes, and they have a kid's club.
Contact Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya, Mexico
+52-984-877-3888 or 800-526-6566
Website
El Dorado Casitas Royale
A Private, Adult-Only Playground
Snuggled along the Caribbean coast, you'll find the all-inclusive El Dorado Casitas Royale. It is an adult's only resort designed by people who understand romance and the importance of private time. The best part is there aren't any children to be see (or heard) anywhere near the casitas, just the calm breeze rustling through the palm trees. Unwind in your private, picturesque casita overlooking the clear blue sea and enjoy you super-cozy room with an in-suite Jacuzzi, outdoor shower, and private wading pool.
For couples that want to disappear into a quiet resort with no children, then, this is your place. Although there are over 200 casitas on the property, they are clustered into 20 guest rooms around a private pool, restaurants and beach. So, you truly feel like you are at a small, resort. Each couple can easily have their own draped cabana on the beach and the staff is eager to get you a drink of your choice - all included. You can dine at one of the several different a la carte restaurants on the resort. This is a lovely change to usual all-inclusive resorts where meals are served buffet-style. Another bonus is that all the vegetables are grown in their hydroponic garden and many dishes are created around what is ripe and ready to eat.
Where: 20 minutes south of the Cancun airport
Price: $662 - $1984 per night All-inclusive for 2 guests
Amenities: Private beach, numerous swimming pool, spa and beauty salon, snorkeling, kayaking, nightly entertainment and events.
Restaurants: Cocotal Restaurant, D'Italia, Kampai, La Isla, JoJo's Seaside Grill, Fuentes-Culinary Theatre, La Fondue, La Cabaña Pizzeria, Healthy Corner, Rincon Mexicano.
Bars: Martini Bar, Las Guacamayas, Las Olas Corner, and the twelve Swim-Up Bars.
Children: No kids allowed
Contact El Dorado Casitas Royale
Website
Catalonia Royal Tulum
Slip Away Somewhere Secret
Around three hours south of Cancún is the beautiful Mayan town of Tulum. Proudly built by the Mayans centuries ago, Tulum stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient Indians of Mexico. Believed to be a trading post for sailors and farmers, the site also acted as a resting stop for traders coming in from other parts of the Caribbean. Much like Tulum, The Royal Catalonia Tulum resort is a place to rest for weary lovers who just want to hide away for a while. Here, limestone and coral walkways built amongst the mangroves and palm trees lead lovers to secluded rooms tucked away in the jungle.
Since the resort is adults-only and all-inclusive it gives guests a chance to calm down and not worry about looking at prices or stress out with screaming kids running around the pool. This is a place where you can really let your worries go and just take time to chill. The staff is wonderfully attentive while respecting the privacy of the guests. Here, there is a sense of space, respite, and tranquility.
There are 288 rooms on the property, which include 244 double rooms, 36 junior suites, and 8 honeymoon rooms.
Where: two hours south of the Cancun airport
Price: $560 - $712 per night - all inclusive for 2 people
Amenities: Gym, four outside Jacuzzis with sea views, sports activities, day-long entertainment, boutiques, rent a car service, disco, pharmacy and medical service, spa and beauty salon.
Restaurants & Lounges: They offer 24-hour room service as well as seven different restaurants: Buffet: La Selva and La Palapa
A la carte: Centenario, La Toscana, Royal Grill, Terrace, Deli-Pizzeria Sorrento.
Children: No
Contact Catalonia Royal Tulum
+52- 984-875-1800
Website
JW Marriott - Cancun
Bring the Kids, if You Must
Sometimes that super-romantic week alone is nearly impossible, so instead of just packing up the kids and heading to the relatives, go to Mexico. Since the Marriott is a well-respect American chain, you are sure to be pleased with the service and amenities. The JW Marriott is the high-end resort brand and they have done a great job creating a friendly resort experience in such a large hotel. The hotel has 14 floors with 374 rooms and 74 suites.
What is great about this resort is if you need to bring the kids, you can get a room with a shared door. So, they will have their own entrance and you can still have some privacy. There are two outdoor pool areas and one is adults-only. Because grown up time is very important. The 35,000 square-foot spa includes a beautiful indoor swimming pool and specializes in Mayan treatments. Of course, they have an incredible beach with fabulous beach-side dining options.
Where: 30 minutes north of the Cancun airport
Price: $279 - $507 per night
Amenities: Beachfront massages, two outdoor swimming areas - one adults-only, one indoor swimming pool, 35,000 square-foot spa, tennis courts, room service, and movie rental.
Restaurants & Lounges: Sedona Grill, BeachWalk MarketPlace, Gourmet Deli, La Capilla Argentina Steakhouse, Gustino Italian Grill, Lobby Bar, Mikado, Champion Sport Bar.
Children: Yes, very family-friendly, but there is the adults-only swimming area.
Contact JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa
Phone: +52-998-848-9600
Toll-free: 1-888-813-2776
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