Tag: stays

Dreaming of a luxurious escape to Cancun? I’ve got you covered. Thanks to my past work in the travel industry, I’ve had the chance to get to know all the incredible hotel brands featured in this post—up close and personal.

My goal is to give you an honest review to help you find the perfect luxury stay in Cancun.

Picture this: 21 kilometers of powdery white sand, turquoise water on one side, and stunning upscale resorts on the other—plus great restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and a touch of culture. That’s the Cancun Hotel Zone.

Here’s the catch—Cancun has around 300 hotels in total, and well over 200 of them are along the beach. So, choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming.

The key is figuring out what kind of experience you’re after—and what your budget looks like. Once you’ve got that clear, it’s much easier to narrow things down. Here I have included my top favorites. I hope it helps.

Cancun Luxury Hotels | Over-the-Top Beach Hotels in Cancun

1. NIZUC Resort & Spa

NIZUC Resort & Spa opened its doors in September 2013, it has been nominated by different prestigious travel magazines such as Condè Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Fodor’s, as one of the best new hotels of 2014.

And I certainly second that. NIZUC Resort and Spa is for me among the best hotels in Cancun. It belongs to the already popular Mexican chain, Brisas, and is their first luxury property.

I have to say, as their first baby, they have really done an amazing job. I hope they continue to spread beauty like this!

With some 250 suites of many different types (according to location and size), 5 restaurants, and a lounge bar, the property is spread out along the coast at the very tip of the beautiful beach of Cancun, an oasis of peace and tranquillity.

What I love the most is the Balinese architecture in both the outdoor and indoor design, where the dominant colors are black and grey, and the preferred material is wood, graciously combined with the finest Mexican art.

The result is a superb, elegant, and modern style, inspiring and soothing.

I love that they have a separate beach and a suite area for adults only, so as to guarantee tranquillity. And as much as I love kids, I find this is a very intelligent and thoughtful touch.

The restaurants offer a variety of cuisine from all over the world: Italian, Peruvian, Thai, and of course the local Mexican cuisine in a particularly gourmet style; not to mention the elegant ambiance and great authentic dishes. 

The restaurants are also open to the public, so if you are staying somewhere else and wish to have a special dinner or Sunday brunch, for which the hotel is also popular, I suggest you try this experience (reservation required).

On the beach, there are no motorized sports (a fact which I love), guaranteeing peace and quiet. They offer paddle-boarding, guided snorkeling trips, and kayaking to enjoy the beautiful beach and reefs along the coast.

It was such a beautiful day when I went to visit the hotel; the colors were just stunning and you just wanted to jump into the turquoise water.

When I left, I was literally in love and decided I really wanted to spend a couple of days there. In fact, with my birthday coming up a few weeks later I had the best excuse to exceed my usual monthly budget.

And so I did. I wasn’t lucky with the weather, but my friends and I surely made the most of our time there, taking advantage of the stunning spa. 

NIZUC Resort and Spa is certainly one of a kind, in Cancun and the entire Riviera Maya, as far as the eye can tell.

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

2. Atelier Playa Mujeres All Inclusive Resort

Not to be mixed up with Isla Mujeres, the beautiful island right off the coast of Cancun, Playa Mujeres is a new resort destination on the way to Isla Blanca. Here you will find some of the top luxury hotels in Cancun, and all of them offer an all-inclusive luxury service.

I choose to include the Atelier Playa Mujeres all-inclusive resort in this post for the excellent reviews it has gathered since its opening. The spectacular luxury facilities and the top-notch cuisine and service are what the guests love the most.

The hotel features include free WiFi, a private beach area, and a 24-hour front desk. Also, guests have access to a hot tub and an exceptional fitness center.

The restaurants offer a variety of culinary delights from the buffet breakfast to a choice between Italian and Asian cuisine, all with gluten-free options.

The spacious suites are equipped with the most modern facilities, including flat-screen TVs, WIFI, and views of the pool or the beach, and they all offer room service.

Atelier Playa Mujeres is also one of the best hotels in Cancun with suites with private pools, one of my favorite features in a luxury hotel.

Overall Atelier Playa Mujeres resort offers an exceptional luxury experience.

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

Cancun All-Inclusive Properties

3. Hotel Paradisus by Melia

Paradisus is a spectacular resort located just 15 minutes from the Cancun airport and on an amazing stretch of the world-famous Cancun beach.

The hotel offers luxurious, spacious, and elegantly decorated guestrooms, four lagoon-style swimming pools, 9 restaurants with international fine cuisine, tennis fields, a nine-hole golf course, and the exclusive YHI Spa.

If you wish to enjoy the perks of extra luxury, you might want to upgrade to the Royal service, the adult-only section of the resorts that includes ultra-luxury suites and exceptional service, the best option for travelers who want to get pampered by exceptional service.

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

4. Hyatt Ziva Cancun

I have to admit that although I am not a big fan of all-inclusive, I reckon that there are brands that can make the all-inclusive experience very exclusive (pun intended). HYATT Resorts is one of them.

I know the brand as I stayed in one of their resorts in Jamaica when it first opened, and it was impeccable in terms of service, culinary choices, and the quality of the rooms and amenities.

I know they keep their standard throughout their resorts, especially the new ones in Cancun.

Another thing I like about Hyatt is that they keep the family resort separate from the adults’ resort, making it suitable for kids and couples alike in search of peace and tranquility.

In this way, they can differentiate the services they offer and specifically aim to satisfy their audience in a more personalized way, almost tailoring the service.

Therefore, if you have kids, you can choose the Hyatt Ziva Cancun, which is actually located in Punta Cancun, a 5-minute walk to the night entertainment, but still repaired from the noise, so you can enjoy peace and tranquillity on one of the best stretches of beaches of Cancun.

This is why if you wish to enjoy the nightlife in Cancun, you should choose HYATT ZIVA.

Another great perk at Ziva is that it is located on a strategic point on Cancun Beach, where the beach makes a turn, which makes the hotel essentially surrounded by water – that turquoise water we all imagine when we think about the Caribbean Sea, exactly that one.

And on top of that, the huge pool located right in the middle of the resort makes it even more fascinating… and fun!

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

5. Hyatt Zilara Cancun

If you are planning a romantic getaway far from the crowd and the city lights, Hyatt Zilara will be your perfect choice. Located far from the hustle and bustle of the nightlife and on a beautiful stretch of beach, the hotel offers romantic rooms all with a hot tub in each room and rose petals on the bed (at additional cost, by request).

You can also ask the concierge to set up in-room dining and draw you a bubble bath with candlelight. It’s definitely the perfect getaway designed to pamper you and your special one.

Zilara also offers a full-day schedule for watersports and fitness activities to keep you fit and entertained. 

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

6. Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun | Adults Only All-Inclusive

If you are up for an extra luxury getaway in an adult-only all-inclusive hotel, Le Blanc Spa Resort is for you. It is one of the most exclusive hotels in Cancun with all-inclusive properties.

The hotel stands out for its world-class cuisine, which is a rare find in all-inclusive resorts normally.

The spa is also one of the best in Cancun, after NIZUC spa, and the overall service is outstanding.

The facilities and the elegant suites guarantee a premier experience for your stay in Cancun.

It is a really one-of-a-kind adult-only all-inclusive resort.

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

7. Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun

Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun belongs to the Posada Hotel Group together with other world-class hotel resorts of the Fiesta Americana popular brand.

It is indeed a guarantee of a high standard and outstanding service.

The Live Aqua brand is one of the high-class resorts in the group and it lives up to expectations.

The trendy resort is located in Cancún’s Hotel Zone, right in front of the popular La Isla shopping center where you can enjoy some shopping and stunning sunset views over the Lagoon Nichupte.

Live Aqua Cancun Beach Resort, situated directly on the beach, boasts spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea from its expansive swimming pool and elegant rooms with private balconies.

Each room and suite at Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun boasts a stylish décor with tiled floors and includes a minibar, aromatherapy amenities, and a TV, among other facilities.

The hotel also features nine restaurants, among which you will especially love the trendy Siete Restaurant, which serves a range of Mexican cuisine.

The Aqua’s ample spa offers a variety of treatments including hydrotherapy, an extensive massage menu, and aromatherapy.

If you don’t want to skip your exercise routine, you will love the fully equipped gym and the yoga classes.

👉 Check rates and availability on Booking.com | Expedia | Hotels.com

BONUS – Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma is a rare gem in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. As the only overwater bungalow resort in the region with direct Caribbean Sea views, it delivers an ultra-luxurious, adults-only experience that rivals the best in the world.

Each of the 30 bungalows sits above the turquoise waters of Maroma Beach, offering private infinity pools, glass-bottom floors, outdoor showers, and direct ocean access. The design blends modern comfort with tropical elegance, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere.​

Guests enjoy 24-hour butler service, gourmet dining, and personalized experiences like beach picnics and in-room spa treatments. The resort’s Overwater Grill & Wine Bar provides panoramic sea views and exquisite cuisine. With its unique overwater setting and exceptional amenities, Palafitos offers an unforgettable escape for couples seeking romance and relaxation.​

For travelers seeking a unique and luxurious escape, Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma offers an unparalleled experience in the heart of the Riviera Maya.

Luxury Hotels in Cancun – final thoughts

I know the title of the post is 5 top luxury hotels, but I wanted to add some new additions to offer you more options of luxury hotels in Cancun for the sake of information.

I always love to update my post and give the most complete information. I hope you have found what you are looking for and you are now ready to enjoy your Cancun vacation.

If you are flying into Cancun International Airport make sure you check my post where I share useful tips on how to go through it for a smooth arrival.

First Time in Cancun? Here Are My Top Travel Tips for a Quick Overview

If you are looking for an overwater bungalow resort near Cancun you must know that there are only three overwater bungalow hotels in the area. And Palafitos El Dorado Maroma offers the best overwater experience by far. Here is why.

Hello! I am Isabella and I have lived in Cancun since 2010 and explored every inch of this spectacular region of Mexico. What you find on this site comes from my own experience and my local friends and collaborators.

Cancun and the Riviera Maya are blessed by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean sea and spectacular beachfront resorts with breathtaking views of the ocean.

However, overwater bungalows are not very common in Mexico and you can only find 3 Overwater Bungalow resorts in the area.

But the only one that offers views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea is the stunning Palafitos Overwater Bungalows El Dorado Maroma – Adults Only by Karisma Group. And in this post, I will tell you why this hotel offers a one-in-a-lifetime experience in Mexico.

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows El Dorado Maroma – Adults Only An Overview

Located in one of the best stretches of beach on the Riviera Maya, at only 40-minute drive from Cancun Airport the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows offers an all-inclusive sanctuary where luxury meets the serene beauty of one of the world’s top beaches. Here, every moment is crafted to offer you an experience of unparalleled tropical bliss.

The Essence of Palafitos-Overwater Bungalows

A Unique Stay Above the Waves

Nestled on the iconic Maroma Beach, the Palafitos-Overwater Bungalows represent a secluded enclave of 30 exclusive bungalows sitting above the crystalline turquoise waters. Designed with an eye for elegance and a heart for the breathtaking surroundings, these suites provide a front-row seat to breathtaking ocean views, private infinity pools, and direct ocean access.

You will experience the ultimate in serenity and exclusivity, with every detail crafted for your utmost relaxation and enjoyment in luxury and comfort.

Exclusive Features for an Unforgettable Experience At Palafitos El Dorado Maroma

• Butler Service: Your personal Majordomo ensures every detail of your stay is perfect.
• Glass-Bottom Floors: Witness the vibrant underwater world below without leaving your suite.
• Private Infinity Pool: Merge with the horizon in your own infinity pool, overlooking the sea.
• Direct Ocean Access: A ladder from your deck takes you straight into the warm ocean waters.
• Outdoor Aguas del Amor™ Shower: Experience romance under the open sky with a private outdoor shower.
• Indoor Relaxing Hot Tub for Two: Unwind in a hot tub designed for relaxation and intimacy.
• Exclusive Dining and Relaxation: From customized beach picnics to pre-dinner drinks and gourmet bites served right in your bungalow.

Culinary Delights and Premier Libations

Karisma award-winning Gourmet Inclusive® Experience invites you to indulge in culinary masterpieces across a variety of dining venues, from the spectacular Overwater Grill & Wine Bar to authentic flavors at our specialty restaurants.

Explore the richness of Mexican Caribbean cuisine, Asian delights, and Italian classics with a Caribbean twist. Our restaurants offer an immersive dining experience, where the beauty of Maroma Beach complements the exquisite flavors of each dish.

Embrace the art of fine dining with a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, and savor every bite as our chefs blend creativity with the freshest ingredients.

Setting a New Standard in Service

A dedicated team, from pool butlers to concierges and majordomos, ensures that no request is too far-fetched. Whether you crave a cocktail by the pool or seek a unique adventure in the Riviera Maya, we are here to fulfill your every wish with a smile.

Activities and Amenities

El Dorado Spa Resorts is a haven for those seeking excitement or relaxation. With exclusive access to luxurious amenities, an array of activities, and nightly entertainment, there’s always something new to discover. From non-motorized water sports to culinary lessons and wellness experiences, every moment is an opportunity for adventure.

All-Inclusive Details

At El Dorado Maroma, everything is designed for your complete satisfaction. From all gourmet meals and premium-brand beverages to daytime activities, concierge services, and live entertainment, every aspect of your stay is included. With free Wi-Fi, non-motorized watersports, and 24-hour room service, your all-inclusive experience promises absolute bliss.

Embark on a journey where luxury, beauty, and personalized service create un unforgettable experience where your dream vacation becomes a reality.

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows El Dorado Maroma – All Inclusive

Staying at Palafitos Overwater Bungalows is one of the top things to do in Cancun for couples, for a romantic getaway.

If you are looking for a serene and relaxing vacation on one of the most spectacular beaches of the Riviera Maya near Cancun, this is the perfect place for a unique luxury vacation in an overwater bungalow.
Ps. This is an adult-only resort! NO kids allowed. – Book your Overwater bungalow now!

Nestled on the picturesque coast of the Mexican Caribbean, Nizuc Resort & Spa stands as a beacon of luxury, seamlessly blending the rich heritage of Mayan culture with the opulence of modern hospitality. This unique resort offers its guests a harmonious balance between Mayan heritage and contemporary sophistication.

I had the privilege to spend an entire weekend at the exquisite NIZUC Resort & Spa to celebrate my birthday. Among the numerous luxury hotels I have visited, NIZUC Resort and Spa distinguishes itself with its architectural elegance, exceptional dining experiences, and unparalleled service, not to mention its magnificent location.

In this post, I will share a brief overview of what to expect when you stay in this award-winning resort and why you should book right now if you want to experience one of the finest luxury hotels in Cancun.

Location

NIZUC is conveniently located a 10-minute ride from the Cancun International Airport. A private transfer will take you there in no time.

Sitting on Punta Nizuc, hence the name, the hotel offers two beautiful beaches both with easy access to the sea.

One beach is in the adult-only area, offering more peace and tranquility while on the other side of the property, a family-friendly beach offers a more lively environment with activities for kids and adults alike, including yoga classes, paddle boarding, guided snorkeling tours, and more.

Unparalleled Accommodations

Nizuc Resort & Spa boasts 274 luxurious suites and private villas, each offering an exclusive escape into comfort and elegance. Guests can choose from Signature Suites with private pools, Ocean Suites with breathtaking views, or the expansive Presidential Villa for the ultimate in luxury living.

With floor-to-ceiling windows, contemporary outdoor furniture, and amenities that cater to every desire, the accommodations at Nizuc provide a sanctuary of serene luxury.

A Unique Spa Experience

The ESPA spa at Nizuc is a 30,000 sq. ft. oasis dedicated to rejuvenation and relaxation. It offers Mayan-inspired treatments, including the signature Mayan Cacao massage and Nizuc Renewal treatment, combining traditional Mayan practices with modern wellness techniques.

The spa’s serene environment, complemented by its comprehensive services, ensures a transformative experience for body and soul.

Exceptional Service

At Nizuc Resort & Spa, service goes beyond expectations. From the moment guests arrive, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of exclusive attention and care. Whether it’s the personalized concierge service, the attentive spa staff, or the gourmet dining experience, every detail is meticulously crafted to provide an unparalleled guest experience.

You will notice that when the staff greets you or great each other they put their right hand on their heart as a sign which feels like a warm embrace, for some reason.

Architectural Marvel

The design and architecture of Nizuc Resort & Spa pay homage to its Mayan heritage while incorporating modern aesthetics.

The resort is a masterpiece of open spaces, lush landscaping, and tranquil water features, all harmoniously blending with the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Its design philosophy emphasizes the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living, creating a space that is both majestic and delicate.

Culinary Delights

With six world-class restaurants, Nizuc Resort & Spa offers a culinary journey through global cuisines, all in one exquisite location. From the contemporary Mexican flavors at Ramona to the Mediterranean delights at Terra Nostra and the Asian fusion at Indochine, each dining venue presents a unique experience, led by master chefs and crafted with the freshest ingredients.

During our stay, we tried almost every restaurant. First we opted to head over to the Peruvian restaurant for our late lunch. It was supposed to be a small lunch, just to cope with our hunger until dinner, but it ended up to be a full meal, soothing not only our grumbling stomach, but literally sweeping on to all our senses.

The presentation of the dishes, starting from the entry snacks to entertain us while choosing our main course, was just a work of art, the menu choice was suitable for any tipe of foodist, even the more “challenging” one, the service was impeccable and the taste was even better than our now high demanding palates expected.

At the end of the meal the surprises were not finished. Our friendly waiter  was walking over us with a “now watch” look which we had deciphered only when he kindly pose the very well decorated plate on the table… it was holding cute little chocolate truffles … and the decoration lasted very little, I must confess. 

Besides the fact that it was courtesy of the house, which already makes everything taste better for some reason, those pieces of guilty pleasure were so delicious that made you forget the diet cheating. We later found out that this courtesy gesture was going to become a constant habit  for all our meals at Nizuc

Our late dinner was at the fine Thai restaurant, elegant and beautiful located by a water garden where the plants and surrounding buildings were mirroring and a fire was lit up in the middle.

A tranquil zen atmosphere was around us while we chatted the night away. Eventually, we moved on to the popular Havana bar, which has a comfortable square-shaped lounge in the middle of the water garden, where we tasted a delicious Mojito.

The ambiance was quiet and soothing.

Breakfast the following morning was held in the main restaurant, a bit less formal than the other locations but with a scrumptious buffet for all sorts of diets in addition to an optional a la carte menu.

There is a reason why almost all the restaurants at NIZUC have made it to my list of the best restaurants in the Cancun Hotel Zone.

Brisas Group: The Visionaries Behind Nizuc

Nizuc Resort & Spa is a proud member of the Brisas Group, a renowned hospitality company that embodies the spirit of Mexican hospitality. The group’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of Nizuc, from its design and service to its dedication to providing an unforgettable luxury experience.

Redefining Luxury

Nizuc Resort & Spa transcends the traditional concept of luxury, offering a unique blend of Mayan culture and modern refinement. It’s not just a resort but an experience that touches the soul, inviting guests to explore a world where tradition meets luxury. At Nizuc, paradise is indeed personal, and luxury is redefined at every turn.

Awards

• Condé Nast Traveler selected NIZUC Resort & Spa as Best New Beach Hotel in the World in 2014
• Reader’s Choice by Condé Nast Traveler named NIZUC Resort & Spa One of the Top Mexico Resort’s in 2015 and One of the Top Mexico Resort’s in 2017
• TRAVEL and LEISURE named NIZUC Resort & Spa One of the Top 10 Resorts in Mexico in 2017
• World Spa and Wellness named NIZUC Spa by ESPA, Hotel and Spa of the Year, North and South America 2018.
• TRAVEL and LEISURE named NIZUC Resort & Spa One of the Top 10 Resorts in Mexico in 2017
• Mexico’s Leading Luxury Resort 2017
• Mexico & Central America’s Leading Beach Resort 2022

Also nominated for the following categories

World’s Leading Beach Resort 2023
Mexico & Central America’s Leading Beach Resort 2023
Mexico & Central America’s Leading Resort 2023
Mexico’s Leading Luxury Resort 2023
World’s Leading Beach Resort 2022
Mexico & Central America’s Leading Resort 2022
See all

NIZUC Resort & Spa: Conclusion

I am sure by now you would have already booked your stay at the NIXUC Resort and Spa, definitely one of the top luxury hotels in Cancun.