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The lush jungles of the Mayan Riviera hide many treasures, but while some visit for the ancient Mayan temples, some folks are drawn to the perfect Caribbean coastline that the jungles fringe...The Mayan Riviera is the area on the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula, including party-central Cancún, dive centre Cozumel and the ancient ruins surrounding Tulum, the most famous of which is wonderfully ancient and astronomically correct Chichén Itzá.
Chichén Itzá will be top of many lists, but it's worth popping into the colonial town of Valladolid on your way. And about 90kms east of Chichén Itzá is the Pre-Columbian city of Coba - once home to 50,000 people. You probably also want to visit Tulum. Perched on a cliff, overlooking pristine beaches and an aquamarine sea, the ruins here make even the most banal holiday snaps beautiful.
Divers and snorkellers will definitely want to visit Cozumel. Between this island and the mainland are the spectacular coral gardens of the Palancar Reef and the Great Mayan Reef. As well as being beautiful the reefs are a magnet for marine life. There are amazing sights to see both for novice divers and snorkelers and for more experienced divers. Right across from Cozumel, Playa del Carmen is definitely one of the best places to stay on the Riviera Maya for divers and snorkelers.
On the Riviera Maya it's always cerveza time, but in the evenings the places to be are Coco Bongo and Dady'O in the Zona Hotelera. Quinta Avenida, Playa del Carmen's main pedestrian corridor is the place to see and be seen. By evening its boutiques and uber chic lounges are where the party starts but after midnight Playa's fun moves to the beachfront discos.
Our selection of the best hotels on the Riviera Maya cater for all. From boutique chic in the heart of Playa del Carmen to hidden gems on the Isla Mujeres.
Rosewood Mayakoba is a secluded, luxury, family friendly property with beach on one side and jungle on the other. It may not be small, with 128 suites, but the accommodations are beautifully appointed and many have their own private plunge pool. There are various dining options, sumptuous spa, and activities galore.
The Hotel Secreto on the Isla Mujeres, just off the coast of Cancún is a luxurious 12 room boutique hotel in an extremely private spot overlooking its own private beach. The rooms have original art works and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the infinity pool and the beach. Apparently the bar serves dangerously good Margaritas.
Belmond Maroma is luxurious, secluded and beautiful, perfect for honeymooners. The nearby beaches are some of region's most beautiful and the massive range of activities and treatments means you don't have to leave.
Casa de Las Olas is a seven suite boutique deco-hotel on its own private beach. Rooms are traditional and decorated in white and the atmosphere is one of intimacy and peace. No children under five.
Jashita is a luxurious beach-side property overlooking Tulum’s glittering turquoise waters. There are 26 indulgent suites decorated all in white plus spectacular views and and excellent Italian/ Mexican fusion restaurant.
There are plenty of hotels right on the sand in Tulum, but Ana Y Jose Hotel is in a great spot even by Tulum’s standards, close to one of the best sea swimming spots along this stretch of coast. There are 23 rooms and an exotic spa to top it off.
Tulum’s The Beach also demands to be included in this section of the list, but it’s deserving, with 28 boho-chic, white-on-white rooms and lovely views just steps from a secluded stretch of white sandy beach.
The Thompson Playa del Carmen is a chic beach property with 120 contemporary, minimalist rooms with large terraces and epic views. Their Mexican restaurant is right by the beach, there’s also a hip rooftop bar serving memorable cocktails.
Playa del Carmen’s Viceroy Riviera Maya is a a stunning collection of 41 rooms and villas surrounded by tropical forest and white sand. The restaurant specialises in exceptional seafood and there’s a fantastic Mayan spa. Great if you want to relax on the beach or try every watersport under the sun.
The Nizuc Resort & Spa has a beachfront spot on the Punta Nizuc, which is just out of Cancún proper, and offers panoramic views of the Caribbean. This is a big hotel - with 274 rooms and suites - with chic, contemporary decor, a luxurious spa and a choice of six onsite restaurants.
Casa Ticul in central Playa del Carmen is a favourite of the diving contingent.
Just outside Tulum, in a beautiful beachfront spot, Sanara is a low-key hotel with 19 rooms and suites and a great spa. There’s also a superb restaurant perfect for after your post-sunset-beach-stroll.
Mezzanine is a nine room, eco-friendly resort beside a secluded beach. There are tropical gardens and breathtaking sea views, plus plenty of activities on offer.
If you like the idea of a small property right on the beach then Encantada Tulum is a for you. There are just eight rooms and you’re set directly against a pristine stretch of white sand. The large terraces have incredible sea views and inside the decor is simple and chic with plenty of wood.
The Papaya Playa Project is a collection of 73 sustainable boho-chic rooms and cabanas on a secluded stretch of white sandy beach. The decor is hip and Mayan, while the beach club is hip and Mexican.
Nomade Tulum is a 38 room hotel in a stunning, beachfront spot. The accommodation is in a range of rustic tents, villas and suites and there’s a retreat feel to the place and a great vegetarian restaurant.
Hotel Secreto is a modern white cubist building with stylish, but bare interiors - think limestone floors and huge mirrors inside and daybeds and an infinity pool outside. Situated on the Isla Mujeres, this hidden gem is easily one of the best places to stay in the Riviera Maya if you want to avoid the crowds.
Hidden within the jungle, Be Tulum is a collection of 20 atmospheric suites with rustic chic decor and free-standing baths. The romantic restaurant blends Mediterranean and Mexican flavours and there’s a pool and spa as well as the beach right on your doorstep.
La Zebra is a 16 room boutique style hotel on a quiet stretch of beach. The decor is contemporary with plenty of natural light. There’s a great seafood restaurant and a lively tequila bar if you need a bit of a kick.
Soho Playa is in just the right district of Play del Carmen, surrounded by cool bars, good shopping and a hip vibe - all just a few steps from the beach. They help you get into the right frame of mind with yoga and meditation in the mornings.
Also in Playa del Carmen, Be Playa is a chic boutique property with contemporary rooms with wood floors, hot tubs and excellent views. There’s a rooftop pool, a hip bar and a creative seafood restaurant.
Casa Malca is a trendy private-beach-side hotel with 40 rooms and suites, three pools and a lively bar. The decor is white on white and contemporary fabulous.
Casa Ticul is a relatively new adult's only 20 bedroom boutique hotel in Playa del Carmen with traditional decor but all the mod. cons.. There's a small outdoor pool and you're well located for exploring town and the beach. Rooms start from around £85 per night.
Some of the Hotel La Semilla's nine rooms start from just over £100, but this is a more stripped-back and fashionable Playa del Carmen property with well chosen flea-market furniture and no TVs.
The Zamas Hotel is a laid-back 20 room property on one of Tulum’s most beautiful stretches of beach. The decor is rustic chic with wooden furniture in sort-of-tile-floored-huts. There’s also a private villa for families and the restaurant has great traditional Mayan fare. Rooms start from around £100 per night.
Also for around £100 per night you can stay at the Hotel Tiki Tiki, a 15 room boutique hotel in quiet, leafy surrounds. The decor features plenty of glass and minimalist design.
Playa del Carmen
Stunning private villas surrounded by tropical forest and white sands. Watersports abound, delicious fresh fish restaurant, and fantastic Mayan spa to top it all off. A thrill for spa-junkies and beach seekers alike.
Isla Mujeres
One of Isla's only luxury boutique hotels. A hidden gem with infinity pool overlooking its own private beach. The chic modern rooms boast floor to ceiling windows and original artworks, and the hotel has its own exclusive beach house. The new bar serves up dangerously good Margaritas.
Tulum
Trendy barefoot luxury with a secluded beach and tropical gardens. Relax in airy suites and rooms with breathtaking sea views. Enjoy cocktails on the sun terrace or in dappled shade on bean bags. Great water sports and activities on offer. A place to relax in style. Adults only.
Playa del Carmen (LT 08 MZ 151 Col Zacil-Ha )
Intimate, adult-only boutique hotel combines traditional looks with contemporary comforts. Bright rooms and the courtyard swimming pool make this an ideal place for exploring by day, and relaxing in the evening. Breakfast is served poolside and is the perfect way to start the day. Great beach spot.
Playa del Carmen (Quinta Roo)
Urban hip hotel in cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Playa del Carmen, sprinkled with good restaurants. Close to the beach, with roof top pool. Start with early mooring yoga or meditation on the terrace with ocean views. Pretty colourful Mayan style rooms, with balconies and hammocks.
Tulum (Punta Piedra)
Brilliantly situated half way along the main strand. At Ana y Jose you'll find amazing and discrete service, top class amenities and one of the best sea swimming spots in Tulum. Not forgetting the exotic spa with numerous treatments including a chocolate wrap. An A-list paradise.
Playa del Carmen
A chic beach property with a youthful energy. Contemporary rooms are minimalist in style with epic views, large terraces and luxurious bathrooms. Dine on Mexican cuisine by the beach or on the hip roof terrace. The bar is also on point and serves superb cocktails. A beach haven.
Tulum
A boutique eco hotel set on its own private beach. Made up of just 7 suites this is an intimate spot. Rooms are traditional in style; think white washed walls, beamed ceilings and large floor to ceiling windows. Every effort has been made to make this a legitimately sustainable property. Superb.
Tulum (Entre Av. 5 Sur y Av. 10 Sur)
A small boutique hotel set in quiet leafy surrounds on the edge of Tulum. Light airy rooms feature plenty of glass, minimalist style, small terraces and luxury bathrooms. A large central pool is the perfect spot to unwind by. Well priced, chic style and easy access to Tulum's beaches. Superb.
Playa del Carmen (Playa del Carmen Km 298)
A secluded luxury property set away from lively Playa del Carmen. Stunning suites are simply designed with large floor to ceiling windows, enormous contemporary bathrooms and dark wooden furniture set against white walls. Easy access to white sandy beaches and superb cuisine. Beachside perfection.
Cancún (21.26, )
Nizuc Resort & Spa enjoys a beachfront location on the secluded Punta Nizuc and offers beautiful panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. This designer hotel features chic and contemporary accommodation whilst you can spend your days lounging carefree by the seaside. A luxurious and top-notch stay!
Tulum
This hotel enjoys a stunning beachfront location in Tulum. It features a range of chic and rustic tents, villas and suites whilst their vegetarian Macondo restaurant serves delicious local cuisine. Forget about the hustle and bustle of modern life at this peaceful seaside retreat, a fantastic spot.
Tulum (Tulum)
A tranquil haven set between a pristine white sandy beach and tropical jungle. Chic rooms are contemporary in style; think white on white and plenty of glass. Spend rejuvenating days lounging on the beach, practicing yoga and eating superb healthy food. The ideal spot to completely relax.
Tulum (Boca Paila Tulum )
A trendy beach side property in glorious Tulum. Stylish rooms feature rustic wooden doors, chandeliers and contemporary artwork all set against a sleek white background. Boasting three pools, a spa and private beach. A lively bar stirs up cocktails until the early hours. Fabulous.
Tulum (Tulum)
A collection of sustainable boho-chic rooms and cabanas on a secluded stretch of powder white beach. Simply styled interiors focus on nature with inspiration coming from Mayan design. A hip beach club serves contemporary Mexican cuisine and houses a lively bar. A beach haven.
Playa del Carmen (Riviera Maya)
An indulgent luxury hotel nestled in the heart of Riviera Maya. A fusion of colonial charm and modern elegance, where lush gardens meet pristine sands. With unrivalled amenities including a world-class spa and tantalizing dining options, surrender to serenity at this tropical haven!
Tulum (Tulum)
A collections of atmospheric suites hidden amidst the Mexican jungle. Rooms are rustic chic with stylishly placed drift-wood, free standing baths and cow-hide rugs. A romantic restaurant mixes Mediterranean and Mexican flavours. Boasting a pool, spa and beach location this is the perfect hideaway.
Tulum (Zona Hotelera)
A stunning beach side property perfectly encapsulating boho-chic style. Airy rooms are all white on white with linen draped four posters, luxurious bathrooms and lovely views. Just steps from a secluded stretch of white sandy beach, offering yoga and a spoiling spa. This is beach perfection.
Tulum (Quintana Roo)
A laid-back property located on one of the best stretches of beach in Tulum. Rustic-chic rooms feature wooden furniture, tiled floors, pastel colours and plenty of light. The private villa perfectly serves families. A beach-side restaurant serves up traditional Mayan fare. The ideal beach escape.
Tulum (Zona Hotelera)
A glorious boho-chic property sat directly on a pristine stretch of white sand. Rooms sat amongst the tree tops allow for epic sea views from the large terraces. Inside the style is simple and chic with plenty of wood and white washed walls. A laid back restaurant serves regional dishes. Fabulous.
Tulum (Tulum)
A luxury beach-side property overlooking glistening turquoise waters. Indulgent suites are all white on white with fabulous bathrooms, spectacular views and sink-in-to beds. The restaurant boasts some of the finest Mexican and Italian cuisine in the area. A romantic spot for a beach holiday.
Playa del Carmen (Playa del Carmen)
A chic boutique property in Mexico's beach resort town of Playa del Carmen. Contemporary rooms feature crisp white linen, clean lines, wooden floors and the best have hot tubs with a view. A rooftop pool, hip bar and creative seafood restaurant really make this hotel stand out.
Tulum (Ejido Pino Suarez)
A chic boutique property situated on quiet stretch of white sandy beach. Contemporary rooms have an organic feel with natural materials, plenty of light and soft hues. A lively bar offers tequila sampling and a restaurant specialises in seafood. The ideal spot for a relaxing beach holiday.
Playa del Carmen (Gonzalo Guerrero)
The adult-only Hotel La Semilla is located in the coastal town of Playa del Carmen, just 200 metres from the beach. With romantic rustic accommodation, furnished in a shabby-chic style. Enjoy splendid buffet breakfasts each morning and relax in the terrace with a drink! Intimate and boutique.
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.