Let's look at what we consider to be the best luxury hotels in Cancun, Mexico, but before we do that, here are some reasons why this fantastic Caribbean resort is worth visiting. Describing itself as a place where powdery white-sand beaches, turquoise seas, and an amazing colorful coral reef teaming with fish come together for many people, Cancun will seem like paradise on earth.
While Cancun has a reputation for being the party capital of the Yucatan Peninsula and is synonymous with Spring Break, it has a sophisticated side. While some people may go to Cancun to let their hair down, drinking margaritas in strobe light flashing night clubs, Cancun has much more to offer the well-heeled visitor.
In recent years, the Mexican government has encouraged top hotel brands to move away from the all-inclusive model and cater to more affluent tourists. This is evident in the number of establishments catering solely to a 5-star clientele. With that in mind, here are our favorite hotels for a luxury Cancun vacation.
Kempinski Hotel Cancun
Offering timeless elegance by the sea, the Kempinski Hotel Cancun 5-star resort epitomizes luxury and hospitality. Managed by Geneva, Switzerland-headquartered Kempinski Hotels S.A, its Cancun property used to be the Ritz-Carlton, Cancun. While some may find its old-world country club appearance dated, there is no denying that it is an elegant hotel with an established clientele.
The Kempinski's ever-attendant and polite staff are on hand to care for your every need but are never over-obtrusive or in your face. All 365 rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies with sea views. Amenities at the Kempinski Hotel Cancun include:
Business center
Two swimming pools
Tennis court
Beach cabanas
Six bars and restaurants that offer everything from locally inspired dishes and fresh seafood to gourmet Mediterranean dining
Fully equipped gym
A health spa that offers ancient Mayan healing treatments
Le Blanc Spa Resort
While slightly smaller than some of its Costa Mujeres neighbors, this is the place to stay if you want to be pampered. Nestled on a powdery white beach, the 260-room adults-only TAFER Hotels & Resorts property has a remarkable array of amenities that set it apart from other Cancun hotels. Besides its opulent lobby and tastefully decorated rooms, the Le Blanc Spa Resort features:
Three swimming pools, two of which have swim-up bars
A fully equipped gym with pilates, TRX, and Spinning
World-class spa with medical grade and holistic treatments
Breakfast and lunch buffets
Four à la carte restaurants serving Mexican, French-fusion, Italian, and Peruvian-Asian fusion with Japanese, Thai, and Chinese options.
24-hour room service
Waldorf Astoria Cancun
The Waldorf Astoria Cancun is the Riviera Maya's newest hotel and the Hilton luxury brand's second hotel in Mexico. Located on the beach in a lush mangrove reserve 15 minutes from Cancun International Airport (CUN), every room has ocean views. The Waldorf Astoria Cancun markets itself as the "Jewel of Cancun," an exclusive place for people looking to relax and unwind.
Tastefully decorated to reflect the region's Mayan heritage, luxury is understated with neutral colors. The hotel's outdoor spaces and pool areas are awash in tropical plants and palms, providing guests with a sense of privacy and the feeling of being in the heart of a jungle. Amenities at the Waldorf Astoria Cancun are:
Two oceanfront infinity swimming pools
Wellness-focused classes, including yoga, meditation and pilates
A serene cenote-inspired health spa
Gym and fitness center
Six unique restaurants and bars, which include a wonderful seafood restaurant run by acclaimed chef Stuart Roger
NIZUC Resort & Spa
Offering a world of luxury and sophistication redefining modern Mexican 5-star hotels, the NIZUC Resort & Spa provides guests a relaxing, zen-like escape from everyday life. With two exclusive beaches, the NIZUC Resort & Spa combines contemporary Mexican design and Asian minimalism. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the NIZUC Resort & Spa is the ultimate place to take in the sun, sea, and sand while enjoying a relaxing vacation. At the hotel's heart is a 30,000-square-foot wellness facility and fitness center offering treatments inspired by ancient Mayan rituals. Amenities at the NIZUC Resort & Spa include:
Three swimming pools
Main bar and satellite bars
Six gourmet restaurants offering Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean fare.
Heath spa
Gym and fitness center
Kids Club
24-hour room service
If you plan to travel to Cancun for a vacation, Paramount Business Jets can arrange the perfect long-range business jet to suit your needs. For more information, visit Paramount Business Jets online or call +1-877-727-2538 24/7.
For private aviation, the FBO at Cancun International Airport (CUN) is located northwest of the airfield, next to Terminal 3, and is open 24/7.
Photos: Dronepicr, Kempinski Hotel Cancun, La Blac Resort Spa, Waldorf Astoria Cancun, NIZUC Resort & Spa.
