Please note our writers visited the following hotels prior to the coronavirus pandemic
While Mexico may well be known for tequila, Mayan pyramids and verdant jungles, it’s the country’s sun-soaked beaches that truly come to mind when dreaming of a Mexican holiday. From the gorgeous sands of Cabo San Lucas in the north, to the wild coastline of the Pacific Ocean, and the turquoise waves of the Caribbean Sea, Mexico is brimming with all-inclusive hotels for every occasion. Whether you’re contemplating a family holiday, a spa break or a couples getaway, here’s our pick of the best Mexico all-inclusive resorts.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen
Most tourists come to Playa Del Carmen and never leave the luxurious bubbles of their all-inclusive resorts, and Grand Velas Riviera Maya – on a vast and breezy plot beside the Caribbean Sea – is certainly no different. From the vast beds of pink bougainvillea to the manicured 1,700-foot stretch of private beach, this hotel appears to be run (and maintained) like the proverbial well oiled machine. The food is exceptional, ranging from high-end French and Italian cuisine to poolside sushi and sashimi; the pools are gargantuan; and there’s so much space that, despite the huge footfall, the place never seems remotely crowded.
Read the full review: Grand Velas Riviera Maya
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Fairmont Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen
On Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the luxury resort of Mayakoba has a calming natural setting, part-beachfront, part-lagoon-side. The hotel is grand but modern, with Mexican elements and a balcony looking out over a vast stretch of jungle and mangroves that leads to the oceanfront. There are plenty of ways to get active or relax, from kayaks, tennis courts and swimming pools to eco-boat tours. Large, spacious rooms feel private but for a treat, plump for a Beachfront Casita which include butler service, additional living rooms and rooftop with private pool. There are three restaurants and three bars, including an exceptional lagoon-side Mexican restaurant.
Read the full review: Fairmont Mayakoba
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Beloved Playa Mujeres, Playa Mujeres
A great option for romance-seekers in search of a hidden escape. A serene world of soft whites and beiges welcomes you on arrival and follows you throughout the resort. Pathways lined in sand gardens lead you from the main building past the villas and all the way to the infinity-edged main pool and the palapa-adorned beach. Rooms are absolutely huge and bursting with amenities, each of the suites features a hot tub with indoor-outdoor access by the spacious terrace, and a living area. The all-inclusive rates are higher than most luxury Cancun-area resorts, but the small-hotel feel is worth it for travellers seeking a quiet getaway without the crowds.
Read the full review: Beloved Playa Mujeres
Double rooms from £232 pp/pn (belovedhotels.com)
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Marquis Los Cabos Resort & Spa, Los Cabos
With dreamy infinity pools, a dramatic oceanfront setting and smooth, professional service, The Marquis is a distinguishable all-inclusive spot among a host of newer resorts. All rooms are sea facing and offer a contemporary style with nods to traditional Mexican accents in the form of colourful Spanish tiles, dark wood cabinets and furniture. Master suites and Casitas have plunge pools, and standard Ocean Suites tend to be on the lower floors. Staff are extremely attentive, especially in the Vista Ballenas restaurant. Other dining spots include Sakke Pan Asian dishes, or Canto del Mar for sophisticated French cuisine.
Read the full review: Marquis Los Cabos Resort & Spa
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Le Blanc Spa Resort, Cancun
This couples-orientated hotel on the white sands of the Hotel Zone is one of Cancun’s most highly praised. The calming décor permeates the entire property by day until the evenings when stylish lighting illuminates all areas in a wash of different colours. The staff always manage to stay one step ahead: refilling poolside drinks before you ask, waiting with a clean towel as you step out of the pool, and the butlers add even more luxury, unpacking luggage, preparing baths and aiding relaxation with aromatherapy. You can request these services through Le Blanc’s phone app, along with restaurant reservations, room service orders, and spa appointments.
Read the full review: Le Blanc Spa Resort
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Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun
The Grand Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach Cancun – a beachfront haven for pool junkies, fun-seeking kids, and the spa-obsessed – has been designed so that every guestroom has a balcony and an ocean view. The Junior Suites offer a spacious bathroom and cosy living area, while the extra-roomy Master Suites boast a large terrace. For added amenities, book a stay in the Grand Club, where you’ll have access to a VIP Penthouse Lounge and the Beachside Deck. The sprawling lagoon-style pool is lined with fountains, shallow lounging areas, and three swim-up bars, while the huge Gem Spa is a must-visit with its 10-step hydrotherapy circuit.
Read the full review: Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun
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Grand Velas, Nuevo Vallarta
Grand Velas is right on the beach on the northern edge of Banderas Bay, known for its beautiful beaches, aquatic tours and large beachfront resorts. The sizeable resort echoes a traditional hacienda, but on a grand scale, with white walls, red tiles and lush landscaping. Palm trees and bougainvillea add to the outdoor décor, and many of the hotel’s common areas are open-air. The resort sits right on the water, and lounge chairs and umbrellas are available for guests. The infinity pool in the centre of the property also offers beautiful ocean views and there’s a full-service spa. In terms of drinking and dining there are plenty of options, from fine dining to casual poolside bites.
Read the full review: Grand Velas
Contributions by Tim Ecott, Graeme Green, Jimmy Im, Simon Parker, Amanda Statham, Marissa Willman & Laura Winfree