Authentic Mexican Resorts: My Short List
Día de Muertos has me reminiscing on trips past and my precious memories with family and friends. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite adult-only resorts that are sure to please the whole family.
Here’s my short list of resorts in Cancun and Riviera Maya that not only have beautiful, Mexican decor but are perfect for multiple age groups within the family.
1 - ATELIER Playa Mujeres
ATELIER Playa Mujeres is one of my go-to resorts that I repeatedly send clients to because of its luxury amenities, modern design inspired by Mexican art, and the authentic Mexican cuisine at 20+ restaurants that guests can enjoy. This all-suite, all-inclusive resort offers luxury wellness amenities like sunrise yoga and rejuvenating spa treatments.
This resort is set amid the stunning white sand of Playa Mujeres, just north on Cancun. The beaches here are known to be pristine because they are protected by the barrier island, Isla Mujeres.
For some fun during the day, guests of ATELIER Playa Mujeres can take advantage of the Greg Norman designed 18-hole golf course from the first day of their stay, with an onsite concierge to make the arrangements for you.
Planning a wedding or event? ATELIER has a convention center, generously sized meeting rooms, and multiple wedding location options.
2 - UNICO 20º87º Riviera Maya
UNICO 20º87º is one of my FAVORITE resorts for a girls’ trip because of its glamour and modern Mexican aesthetic. It’s not just reserved for girl’s trips, however. Couples, multi-gen families (adults-only on this one!), wedding groups, and even business groups enjoy the luxe vibe and gathering spaces here.
Guests can take advantage of the world-class spa designed to refresh body, mind, and spirit. True to their heritage, the UNICO spa utilizes native ingredients, techniques and beauty rituals to create a wholly restorative environment.
Stay well and utilize the holistic fitness program including personal training, meditation, yoga & fully equipped gym.
UNICO has 5 unique restaurants, including Cueva Siete under celebrity chef Lula Martin del Campo, 5 bars, and mixology master classes.
Guests can venture outside of the resort with UNICO’s luxury signature tours: sail on a private yacht, explore Tulum, Yal Kú, and a Cenote tour, swim in an underground river, explore Chichen Itza, one of the 7 wonders of the world, and so many more options.
3 - El Dorado Royale Hotel in Riviera Maya
Nestled on a quiet, secluded beach, El Dorado Royale is a popular resort with my multi-gen families. The decor feels authentically Mexican and the warm, relaxed atmosphere gives true vacation vibes.
This all-inclusive resort boasts only suites for their guests, where sophistication meets Mexican warmth. Choose a room with a personal hammock, a swim up patio, or one just steps from the beach.
The numerous restaurant options feel nearly endless, with something sure to please every person’s palette. From a seaside BBQ and a culinary theater to Asian delicacies in a Buddhist setting, guests won’t tire of the options.
Guests can enjoy the 20,000-sq-ft., Mexican-themed spa designed to soothe the senses. For my brides, it even includes a Memorable moments bridal floor and event space. They offer alternative therapies inspired by native Mexico, a water journey pool, and full-service beauty salon services.