20 Best Luxury Resorts in Riviera Maya Mexico (2023)
Looking for the best luxury resorts in Riviera Maya Mexico?
You’ve come to the right guide because I’m a luxury travel expert that lives in Playa del Carmen, and I’m here to share with you my insider information on which Riviera Maya resorts are the best and what to expect when visiting.
Riviera Maya is home to countless luxury resorts offering incredible accommodations, drop-dead gorgeous pools, and private beachfront areas.
But with so many amazing resorts to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
MY TOP PICK
⌚️ Don’t have time to read the full article?
The best luxury resort in Riviera Maya is Rosewood Mayakoba, offering butler service, gondola transportation, and 5-Diamond luxury.
In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations for the best luxury resorts in Riviera Maya whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a Mexico beach escape with friends.
And if you want to learn more about the very best resort in Riviera Maya, go ahead and check out Rosewood Mayakoba–with private docks, butler service, and gondola transportation, it’s the best of the best!
Ready to find out which of these top-notch luxury Riviera Maya resorts is best for you? Let’s get started!
Top 3 Picks: Best Luxury Resorts in Riviera Maya
Best Luxury Resorts in Riviera Maya Mexico
These are the best luxury resorts Riviera Maya has to offer:
1. Rosewood Mayakoba
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.8/10 Exceptional
Rosewood Mayakoba is the best overall luxury resort in Riviera Maya, offering a unique blend of luxury and seclusion.
Located in the exclusive Mayakoba community, this AAA 5-Diamond resort provides guests with private docks at their accommodations which can be accessed by gondola boats connecting the area’s lagoons and waterways.
All rooms feature their own private plunge pool so that you can relax after a long day exploring the area’s attractions or just take in some sun on your terrace.
Plus, there are 6 outdoor pools scattered throughout the property where you can cool off during hot days or take part in aquatic activities such as scuba diving or snorkeling tours arranged by hotel staff.
The dining options at Rosewood Mayakoba are top-notch! From casual beachside snacks to gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients, there’s something to tantalize every palate at the hotel’s 8 restaurants and bars.
The recently opened Zapote Bar and Lounge is a must-visit spot for specialty cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients. Plus, you can enjoy evening entertainment and daily resort activities.
Overall, Rosewood Mayakoba is the best high-end resort in Riviera Maya that offers an unforgettable experience that will make you feel like royalty.
If you’re looking for the best of Riviera Maya, Rosewood Mayakoba is it!
✅ AAA 5-Diamond
✅ Not All-Inclusive
✅ Family Friendly
2. Hotel Esencia
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.6/10 Exceptional
For those looking for the very best in boutique luxury in Riviera Maya, Hotel Esencia is the perfect place to stay.
This 5-star boutique hotel, originally built as a retreat for an Italian duchess, offers 45 stunning beachfront suites and 3 villas with luxurious minimalistic design elements.
And the location of the estate on the dreamy Xpu-Ha Beach is simply breathtaking, while providing luxury and seclusion.
But the best part about staying at Hotel Esencia is that it’s been known to be frequented by a variety of celebrity guests.
✅ Not All Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
3. Hotel Unico 20°87°
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.0/10 Wonderful
Located near Akumal, Hotel Unico 20°87° is the best place to stay in Riviera Maya for an elevated luxury experience.
This modern adults-only resort is brand new, offering luxurious amenities and stylish accommodations with trendy design elements.
Having earned the AAA 5-Diamond award, guests will experience the ultimate in luxury and service at the resort’s three pools, private beach area, and on-site spa and wellness center.
Hotel Unico 20°87° also offers personalized service with a local host assigned to each guestroom, as well as curated adventures, and unique pop-up events.
Plus, it’s adults-only and all-inclusive with a gastronomic focus on local food and drink – perfect for a romantic getaway or a beach escape with a group of friends.
✅ AAA 5-Diamond
✅ All Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
4. La Casa de la Playa
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.4/10 Exceptional
For those looking for a more intimate and private experience, La Casa de la Playa is Grupo Xcaret’s newest boutique hotel experience.
This 63-suite adults-only boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations with colorful accents and natural wood materials.
And the best part about staying at La Casa de la Playa is that guests can take advantage of tailor-made experiences at the Xcaret parks that are not open to the general public.
If you’re looking for a totally unique and exclusive experience, La Casa de la Playa is definitely worth considering.
✅ All Fun Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
5. Hotel Xcaret Arte
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.2/10 Wonderful
With a focus on art and culture, Hotel Xcaret Arte is the adult version of Hotel Xcaret Mexico, offering an adults-only luxury all-inclusive experience.
The most unique aspect of this resort is that it pays homage to Mexican art with each building inspired by different “Casas” offering artist workshops for painting, textiles, pottery, and dance.
The resort also features a number of luxury amenities such as relaxing pools, elevated gastronomy, and a natural rock spa.
Plus, the resort offers the same “All Fun-Inclusive” concept as Hotel Xcaret Mexico, providing unlimited access to all nine Xcaret parks and tours.
✅ All Fun Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
6. Hotel Xcaret Mexico
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.0/10 Wonderful
Owned and operated by Grupo Xcaret, Hotel Xcaret Mexico is located just south of Playa del Carmen and is the best luxury family resort in Riviera Maya.
This modern, AAA 5-Diamond luxury resort features glass infinity pools, rivers, inlets, and unique beach areas for guests to explore.
But the best thing about staying at Hotel Xcaret is that they offer an “All-Fun Inclusive” concept which means guests receive unlimited access and roundtrip transportation to the nine Xcaret parks and tours.
The entrance fees to the Xcaret parks can be very expensive on their own, so staying at Hotel Xcaret Mexico is a great value for families or anyone with an interest in the adventure parks.
Plus, you’ll also receive complimentary tickets for Xcaret Xailing–Xcaret’s newest ferry service to the island of Isla Mujeres.
It’s also worth mentioning that Hotel Xcaret is eco-friendly, designed around sustainable practices and built with respect and appreciation for the natural environment.
✅ AAA 5-Diamond
✅ All Fun Inclusive
✅ Family Friendly
7. Grand Velas Riviera Maya
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.6/10 Exceptional
Located just on the outskirts of Playa del Carmen, Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an AAA 5-Diamond luxury all-inclusive resort that has consistently been rated as one of the best hotels in Riviera Maya Mexico.
At Grand Velas, you’ll find five signature restaurants, casual lounges, bars, beachfront bistros, and 24-hour suite service – all offering a variety of exquisite gastronomic experiences.
Plus, the resort is family-friendly with a kids’ club and plenty of resort activities to keep everyone entertained.
Grand Velas also features luxury suites that have private terraces, spa bathrooms with jacuzzis, and some with private plunge pools.
And with an impressive hotel entrance, a beach club, and outdoor pool areas, Grand Velas Riviera Maya is one of the best resorts in Riviera Maya for luxury seekers.
✅ AAA 5-Diamond
✅ All Inclusive
✅ Family Friendly
8. Banyan Tree Mayakoba
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.6/10 Exceptional
Experience the best in luxury and relaxation at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, a 5-star resort located in the private gated community of Mayakoba.
This AAA 5-Diamond resort is a nature sanctuary, offering spacious villas and suites that combine Asian influence with local Mexican charm.
Each villa comes with its own private plunge pool, with ocean or serene jungle views.
Guests can also taste the best of Thai, local, and fusion cuisine at the resort’s multiple restaurants, or relax and indulge at the signature Banyan Tree Spa.
Plus, with its close proximity to the area’s best attractions, such as the El Camaleon PGA Golf Course, cenotes, and adventure parks, guests will have plenty to explore.
✅ AAA 5-Diamond
✅ Not All-Inclusive
✅ Family-Friendly
9. Fairmont Mayakoba
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.2/10 Wonderful
Nestled on the Caribbean coast just north of Playa del Carmen, Fairmont Mayakoba is an expansive AAA Five Diamond resort that offers luxurious accommodations and a variety of activities.
The luxury Riviera Maya hotel features over 400 rooms and luxurious suites, each with its own private terrace and views of the stunning lagoons of the Mayakoba community or the pristine Caribbean coastline.
Fairmont Mayakoba offers all-inclusive packages or you can dine on your own at one of the 5 restaurants and bars.
The resort also boasts an impressive selection of activities for guests including golf, tennis, swimming pools, spa, and a fitness center.
Plus, there are plenty of tour options available to explore the best of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, from snorkeling excursions to discovering ancient Mayan ruins.
✅ AAA 5-Diamond
✅ All-Inclusive Optional
✅ Family Friendly
10. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.2/10 Wonderful
Experience the best of all-inclusive luxury and seclusion at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, one of the best luxury hotels in Riviera Maya for couples.
Located on the world-famous Maroma Beach, this award-winning resort has earned the AAA Five Diamond Award and offers a modern luxury experience.
Guests staying at Secrets Maroma Beach will enjoy 13 outdoor pools, seven restaurants, a coffee shop, and suites that have hot tubs, marble baths, furnished terraces, and minibars.
Plus, Maroma Beach is one of the best and most beautiful beaches in the Riviera Maya – making it the perfect place for a private adults-only getaway.
✅ AAA 5-Diamond
✅ All Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
11. Chablé Maroma
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.2/10 Wonderful
Located on the exclusive Maroma Beach, Chablé Maroma is an intimate hotel offering a boutique luxury experience for adults.
This serene and tranquil resort has only 70 villas, providing guests with the best privacy and luxury in its minimalistic design and earthy decor elements.
Each villa comes complete with its own private plunge pool, as well as a moon shower – making it perfect for couples or small groups.
In addition to luxurious villas, Chablé Maroma also features yoga classes, a spa and gym, two restaurants and plenty of activities – all designed to provide guests with the best experience in Riviera Maya.
✅ Not All Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
12. Maroma, A Belmond Hotel
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.6/10 Exceptional
Experience the best of nature and luxury at Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, which is scheduled to reopen in May 2023.
Set against the lush jungle and backed by the stunning Maroma Beach, this luxury retreat offers a serene ambiance to its guests.
The resort’s redesign will feature the utmost luxury by the ocean, with opulent beachfront villas in a contemporary design, private plunge pools, and unobstructed views of the sea.
Guests can also retreat to the Maroma Spa by Guerlain, a modern jungle oasis with an extensive spa menu.
Maroma, A Belmond Hotel is considered one of the finest 5-star resorts in Riviera Maya and the perfect spot to find solitude and relaxation amidst stunning natural beauty.
✅ Not All-Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
13. Andaz Mayakoba Resort
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.4/10 Exceptional
Experience ultimate luxury and wellness at the one-of-a-kind Andaz Mayakoba Resort, located within the private gated community of Mayakoba on the Mexican Caribbean.
Surrounded by lush jungle and nature, the resort offers 214 guestrooms and suites with modern decor and bright pops of color.
Take in the best of Mexico with an array of feet-in-the-sand activities, from beach lounging to kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.
Plus, enjoy the best of local and international gastronomy with several exquisite restaurants and bars, or take a refreshing dip in the two outdoor pools and heated hot tub.
✅ All-Inclusive Optional
✅ Family-Friendly
14. Viceroy Riviera Maya
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.4/10 Exceptional
Treat yourself to the best of luxury, serenity, and rejuvenation at Viceroy Riviera Maya in Mexico.
Situated in the Mayan jungle of Riviera Maya, just north of Playa del Carmen, this exclusive beachfront resort offers 41 private villas with modern amenities and your own private plunge pool.
Revel in the best of nature with a full-service spa, featuring massages, facials, and body wraps, or enjoy the best of local and international cuisine at the newly redesigned Coral Restaurant + Bar.
Plus, take advantage of the resort’s seven miles of white sand beachfront and enjoy on-site water sports such as kayaking or snorkeling.
✅ Not All-Inclusive
✅ Adults-Only
15. Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.2/10 Wonderful
Located in the luxury Kanai development north of Playa del Carmen, Etéreo is an ultra-luxurious beachfront resort that is part of the Auberge Resorts Collection.
Voted as one of the new best hotels in the world by Travel + Leisure in 2022, Etéreo (meaning “ethereal”) offers guests a heavenly experience with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and focus on wellness.
The resort’s guest rooms come with floor-to-ceiling windows, private plunge pools, and outdoor terraces. Guests can also enjoy the dreamy cabana beds on the beach with flowing canopies.
Plus, Etéreo offers an elevated gastronomy experience with a variety of restaurants and bars, as well as unique experiences like a Mexican wine club, tarot card readings, spiritual jewelry workshops, and more.
✅ Not All-Inclusive
✅ Family-Friendly
16. Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.2/10 Wonderful
Discover the best of luxury, sophistication, and style at Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen, one of the newest hotels in Playa del Carmen that is ideal for couples.
Located just north of downtown Playa del Carmen, this adults-only all-inclusive resort offers 485 opulent suites with modern amenities and stunning views.
Indulge in a unique array of international cuisine from over a dozen restaurants and bars, or take it easy with an exquisite poolside experience.
On top of that, guests can also enjoy a full-service spa and the best of local culture with live entertainment every night.
Plus, the resort’s close proximity to Playa del Carmen’s lively downtown area and Fifth Avenue makes it easy to experience the town’s entertainment and nightlife.
✅ All-Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
17. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.0/10 Wonderful
For a unique and luxurious overwater bungalow experience closer to home, consider Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma.
These are the only true overwater bungalows in Mexico, located on the beautiful and exclusive Maroma Beach.
Located just offshore, the property’s 30 overwater bungalows feature private decks and direct access to the ocean.
Guests can enjoy exclusive amenities such as butler service, infinity pools, a glass-bottom floor for viewing tropical marine life, and more.
It’s the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy one of the best luxury all inclusive resorts Riviera Maya has to offer.
✅ All-Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
18. Barcelo Maya Riviera
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 9.2/10 Wonderful
As one of the newest top hotels in Riviera Maya, Barcelo Maya Riviera is a modern adults-only all-inclusive resort located just north of Playa Xpu Ha with 850 luxurious accommodations.
Guests can enjoy the best of luxury and service at the resort’s three pools (including the longest infinity pool in Riviera Maya), private white sand beach, and five restaurants.
Plus, you’ll have access to a variety of activities in the Barcelo resort complex such as a shopping center, bowling alley, 24-hour sports bar, 3 theaters, and a nightclub.
For some adrenaline-pumping fun, guests can also visit the Ventura Fly and Ride adventure park with a zipline circuit and ATVs.
✅ All-Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
19. El Dorado Maroma
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 8.8/10 Excellent
Experience a luxurious getaway to the best of Riviera Maya at El Dorado Maroma.
Located on the exclusive Punta Maroma beach, this beautiful upscale hotel is designed with a contemporary Caribbean style.
The spacious terraces on each suite and room feature an outdoor bed, while the resort’s “Gourmet Inclusive Experience” offers a variety of restaurants serving Mexican and Caribbean fusion, Asian and Italian cuisine, as well as gourmet burgers, tacos, and BBQ.
Furthermore, guests can unwind in one of the four pools, have a drink at any of the swim-up bars or classic lounge bar, and take advantage of 24-hour room service.
And don’t forget to enjoy some relaxation time at the full-service spa.
✅ All-Inclusive
✅ Adults Only
20. Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⭐️ Guest Rating: 8.6/10 Excellent
Experience the best of Riviera Maya’s luxury and modern design at Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel, located just north of the Mayakoba community.
This newly-opened all-inclusive boutique adults-only hotel features 128 elegant beachfront rooms, with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.
Accommodations include beachfront casitas, as well as rooms with private docks, rooftop terraces, infinity pools, private pools, and more.
Guests can also enjoy delectable cuisine at three restaurants and bars, as well as a variety of wellness activities and amenities such as spa treatments, wellness retreats, rituals, temazcal ceremonies, and more.
✅ All Inclusive Optional
✅ Adults Only
FAQs about Luxury Resorts in Riviera Maya
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about luxury resorts in Riviera Maya:
The most luxurious all inclusive resort in Riviera Maya is Rosewood Mayakoba, which offers a unique experience of luxury, serenity and adventure.
Yes, Riviera Maya is generally considered nicer than Cancun as it offers more seclusion, privacy, and natural beautiful beaches and jungle retreats.
The best Mayakoba hotel is Rosewood Mayakoba, which is a luxurious all-inclusive resort located in the private gated community of Mayakoba.
The best month to go to Riviera Maya is February, as the weather is warm and sunny, but much less humid.
Celebrities have been known to stay at Rosewood Mayakoba or Hotel Esencia in Riviera Maya.
Conclusion: Best Riviera Maya Luxury Resorts
Riviera Maya offers numerous luxury resorts to choose from, each rooted in local Mexican culture and offering guests a unique vacation experience.
Whether you are looking for an all-inclusive escape, a family-friendly retreat, or a secluded adults-only getaway, there’s something for everyone at one of these Riviera Maya luxury hotels.
From the best of gastronomy to on-site spa services and a range of activities, the luxury offerings in Riviera Maya are unparalleled.
In my opinion, the top overall luxury resort in Riviera Maya is Rosewood Mayakoba — with its luxury butler service and gondola rides through the canals, this exclusive resort is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
But no matter which of these Riviera Maya 5 star resorts you choose, you’ll be sure to have a luxury vacation of a lifetime!
