Which Hotel Should You Stay at in Mayakoba?
If you're dreaming of a luxurious escape to Mexico’s Riviera Maya, chances are Mayakoba is already on your radar. This stunning, gated resort complex is home to pristine beaches, lush mangroves, tranquil lagoons, and world-class hotels, each offering a unique take on luxury.
Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a family getaway, or a relaxing retreat, Mayakoba has something for everyone. But with four incredible resorts—Rosewood, Banyan Tree, and Fairmont (and with Alila coming soon!)—how do you choose the perfect one for your stay? Let’s dive in!
PHOTO C/O BANYAN TREE
So, What is Mayakoba?
Mayakoba is a private resort community set along the Caribbean coast of Mexico, just north of Playa del Carmen. It’s designed with sustainability in mind, with winding canals, dense mangroves, and lush jungle, all teeming with wildlife. You can kayak through the lagoon, bike along nature trails, play at the El Camaleón Golf Course (home of the first PGA Tour event in Mexico), or unwind at one of the best spas in the region. The entire area is connected via complimentary boat and golf cart shuttles (Or biking!), making it easy to explore no matter where you stay.
Now, let’s compare the resorts!
Rosewood Mayakoba: The Ultimate in Personalized Luxury
If you’re looking for intimate, high-touch luxury, Rosewood Mayakoba is the place to be. This ultra-luxurious resort is famous for its overwater lagoon suites, private plunge pools, and next-level service—think personal butlers and customized experiences tailored just for you.
Who It’s Best For:
✔️ Honeymooners & Couples
✔️ Travelers who love high-end service - especially families
✔️ Guests who want a villa-style experience
Standout Features:
Stunning Lagoon Suites & Beachfront Villas with private pools
Butler service for every guest
Sense Spa, a private spa island with Mayan-inspired treatments
Laid-back yet sophisticated dining, including a beachfront taco truck
Rosewood Explorers Club for kids (with engaging cultural experiences!). Rosewood Mayakoba is one of our favorites for families looking for a first getaway with baby! read the list here.
Potential Downsides:
One of the most expensive options in Mayakoba
Feels more private and exclusive, which may not suit those looking for a more social resort experience
BOOK WITH US FOR OUR PREFERRED PARTNER PERKS :
Upgrade - subject to availability upon arrival
American breakfast buffet for 2 PER BEDROOM in Casa Del Lago daily
$125 resort credit per stay
Early check-in and late check-out upon availability
PHOTO C/O ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA
Banyan Tree Mayakoba: A Tranquil, Asian-Inspired Escape
For those who love seclusion, wellness, and spacious villas, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is a dreamy sanctuary with a distinct Asian-meets-Mexican vibe. Every suite is a standalone villa with a private pool, creating an intimate and peaceful setting.
Who It’s Best For:
✔️ Couples who want privacy & relaxation
✔️ Families who want spacious multi-bedroom villas
✔️ Wellness-focused travelers
Standout Features:
All villas come with private pools (perfect for honeymooners & families!)
Banyan Tree Spa, one of the best in Mexico, featuring Thai-style treatments
HAAB Mayan Dining Experience, an immersive jungle dining experience
Fun water activities, including eco-boat tours and kayaking
Family-friendly with kid’s activities, yet feels tranquil for couples
Potential Downsides:
Not ALL ROOMS ARE directly on the beach (but offers golf cart & boat transfers AS WELL AS BIKES)
The design leans more minimalist & modern, which may not be for everyone
BOOK WITH US FOR OUR PREFERRED PARTNER PERKS :
Upgrade - subject to availability upon arrival
breakfast buffet for 2 PER BEDROOM
$100 resort credit per stay
Early check-in and late check-out upon availability
OFTEN WE CAN OFFER 4TH NIGHT FREE!
PHOTO C/O BANYAN TREE MAYAKOBA
Fairmont Mayakoba: A Classic Resort with a Family-Friendly Feel
For a laid-back yet luxurious stay, Fairmont Mayakoba is the most accessible and family-friendly of theM ALL. It offers a traditional resort atmosphere, but still embraces Mayakoba’s nature with canals, lagoons, and a beachfront area.
Who It’s Best For:
✔️ Families looking for a kid-friendly luxury experience
✔️ Groups & travelers wanting a more social resort
✔️ Those looking for a great value within Mayakoba
Standout Features:
More affordable luxury compared to Rosewood & Banyan Tree
A mix of rooms, casitas, and suites (some with plunge pools)
Several pools, including a waterslide for kids
Fairmont Discovery Club for kids with nature activities
A variety of dining options, including beachside restaurants
Potential Downsides:
Feels more like a traditional resort rather than an ultra-exclusive retreat
Some rooms are further from the beach, requiring a golf cart ride
PHOTO C/O FAIRMONT MAYAKOBA
Coming Soon: Alila Mayakoba (Opening LATE 2025)
Exciting news for luxury travelers! Alila Mayakoba is set to open in LATE 2025, bringing Hyatt’s high-end, wellness-focused brand to the region.
Alila hotels are known for their stunning, minimalist design and immersive cultural experiences, so this resort is sure to be a fantastic new option for couples and wellness lovers.
What to Expect:
A modern, eco-conscious design with stunning natural elements
Wellness-focused experiences, including yoga and holistic spa treatments
A boutique feel, likely smaller and more intimate than Fairmont
Strong emphasis on local cuisine and farm-to-table dining
We can’t wait to see how Alila Mayakoba fits into the mix!
Which Mayakoba Hotel is Right for You? LET US HELP…
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
💎 For the ultimate in luxury & personalized service → Rosewood
🌿 For a tranquil, spa-like retreat with private villas → Banyan Tree
👨👩👧 For families & a more traditional resort experience → Fairmont
🌎 For a new, modern, eco-conscious luxury stay → Alila (coming soon!)
No matter where you stay, you’ll get to experience the breathtaking nature, world-class dining, and laid-back elegance of Mayakoba. Each resort offers something unique, making this one of the most exclusive and unforgettable destinations in Mexico.
IF YOU NEED HELP DECIDING - REACH OUT TODAY, WE’D LOVE TO HELP MATCH MAKE YOU TO THE PERFECT RESORT AND BOOK YOUR STAY WITH EXTRA PERKS + VIP SERVICE.
PHOTO C/O BANYAN TREE
