Looking for the perfect getaway but don’t want to be on hours of long flights to get there? Enter Mayakoba, a beautiful eco-complex comprised of 4 luxury resorts located in a jungle preserve on the coast of Riviera Maya.
I recently visited Mayakoba on a trip to Mexico and fell in love with this special place comprised of winding mangrove lagoons, nature trails, and a beautiful beach – all 40 minutes from the easy-access Cancun airport.
Once inside Mayakoba you feel like you have escaped to a private sanctuary – you can take a complimentary lagoon boat ride, dine in one of the many restaurants, explore on your own bike, and so much more. Being open to guests only, another great advantage is that it is also incredibly safe.
Excessive seaweed has been one of the biggest concerns for travelers to Riviera Maya, and Mayakoba does a phenomenal job addressing it. They employ a staff of over 50 each morning to clear the seaweed and are monitoring it throughout the day, so the beach is far superior to beaches nearby.
With four distinct resorts, how do you choose the right one for you? Read on for my two cents on each of these fantastic properties…
If you are looking for the ultimate in service, relaxation and luxury – the Rosewood is for you.
If you are familiar with the Rosewood brand, you know they specialize in impeccable service, exceeding what is typical for a 5-star property. From butler service to complimentary treats by the pool, you will be truly pampered by the attentive staff.
With some of the best fine dining in the area, you will want to have enough time to wine and dine your way across the property. Also, Sense, the Rosewood spa is not to be missed (I can even get you a $100 spa credit to use for a treatment of your choice!).
The Rosewood is currently undergoing a renovation of all of its rooms, so even more beautiful rooms and suites to come.
Andaz Mayakoba is perfect for those looking for a more casual, hip vibe without sacrificing great service. The Andaz brand is all about boutique lifestyle luxury, focused on laid-back genuine service and a true connection to the destination. Only two years old, the Andaz is the newest addition to Mayakoba, and definitely offers something unique.
As you ride your bike through the Andaz, you will see vibrant murals painted by local Mexican artists, and as you enter your room you will find modern white and grey décor with colorful local accents. There is an easy-breezy vibe, perfect for a beach vacation.
A dinner at Casa Amate, the Andaz’ specialty restaurant, is a must – designed to feel like an authentic Latin American home and specializing in South American cuisine. Also the breakfast buffet (which is complimentary through Jessica White Travel’s partnership) is both extensive and delicious.
For those who love social media, the Andaz is Instagram-ready with a breathtaking lobby inspired by local cenotes, flamingo floats in the pool, and a chic beach bar with a comfy couch with your name on it.
The Banyan Tree is for anyone looking for the space to truly relax, rejuvenate and reconnect. For one, the villas are huge, with the smallest villa starting at over 3,000 square feet, complete with a pool and tons of indoor and outdoor living space. Perfect for honeymoons and couples’ getaways, you will be transported to a sanctuary in the jungle with everything you need right there in your private villa – you may never want to leave!
Banyan Tree hotels are infused with Asian influences and are wellness-focused, which adds to the tranquility of the property. Banyan Tree’s signature restaurant, Saffron, features award-winning Thai food in a gorgeous setting. The spa offers many unique treatments, as well as a really neat Rainforest Walk, a hydrothermal experience.
For romance, privacy and relaxation – you cannot get much better than Banyan Tree Mayakoba.
Traveling with the whole family? The Fairmont is just perfect for a family getaway, with lots of kids-focused activities, many different combinations of connecting rooms and suites, and plenty of pool and beach space to keep everyone occupied. While still absolutely a luxury five-star property, the Fairmont offers great rates and even has a wonderful all-inclusive package to make things even easier when on property.
To make it even better, Fairmont recently invested millions to expand its beach, so it boasts one of the best beaches along Riviera Maya. With lots of dining options, an extensive spa, a great kids club, a beautiful golf course, and plenty of activities for all ages, you are sure to never be bored here at the Fairmont!
Not sure which to choose? Or maybe just want to get some extra perks during your Mayakoba stay? Feel free to reach out at jessica@jessicawhitetravel.com and I will make sure to line you up with the best Caribbean vacation for you!