We gave our Outoria Team one job:
Find the best and most popular Inclusive Resorts in Playa del Carmen
Here you go, now you should be all set for your next trip to Playa del Carmen.
What’s special about this resort
The Grand Velas Riviera Maya checks off all the boxes for an incredible all-inclusive experience – luxurious rooms, exquisite dining, plenty of fun in the sun, and staff that caters to every need. Guests can choose their desired ambiance between three unique resort experiences: romantic getaway, family fun, or relaxation.
The all-inclusive package includes unlimited food at eight dining options, unlimited top-shelf drinks, and unlimited use of kayaks and boogie boards (other non-motorized water sports equipment has an additional charge). Amenities such as the Kids/Teen Clubs, fitness center, pools, and bike rentals are also included. The spa services are an additional cost, though a complimentary Water Journey experience is included with each service.
Things we like:
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The resort is nestled between a gorgeous Caribbean beach and tropical jungle -
The suites are spacious and tailored to meet travelers' needs (i.e. romantic oceanfront suites, family-friendly suites near the Kids Club, and quieter suites near the spa and business center)
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Suites are luxurious with features such as jetted tubs, private terraces, plunge pools, and butler service
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A Kids Club and Teens Club are available and include plenty of scheduled activities
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The resort offers a range of onsite activities like non-motorized sports, fitness classes, and beach games
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Beach and poolside service are exceptional, with special offerings of popsicles, cold towels, and specialty drinks throughout the day
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Free WiFi is provided throughout the resort
Things we don't like:
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The beach is rocky and not ideal for swimming -
The pool bar food doesn’t seem to meet the same high standards as the other dining options
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It can be hard to snag a pool lounger if you don’t get there early enough
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Many non-motorized sports equipment has an extra charge
What to do
Bask in the Caribbean sun with an ice cold drink in your hand while listening to the sound of the ocean waves. Engage in some fun competition during a game of pickleball or beach volleyball or head out on a kayaking trip. While the little ones are busy at the Kids Club, swing by the adults-only pool for a refreshing drink at the swim-up bar.
Experience holistic spa treatments prepared with traditional Mayan herbs and plants. Discover the healing properties of aromatherapy during a full body massage or facial. Complete your spa experience with a signature Grand Velas Riviera Maya Water Journey, where you can revitalize your senses with five different water experiences. (Spa services are an additional cost.)
Be sure to take advantage of the complimentary bike tour. It’s a great opportunity to pedal through the gorgeous jungles of the upper resort area, learn about Mayan history, and explore the on-site cenote.
What to eat
The Grand Velas resorts are known for incredible food, and this one is no exception. Foodies will appreciate the large selection of food and drinks among eight restaurants.
Keep breakfast casual with a visit to the beachfront buffet, Azul. Burritos, quesadillas, pancakes, waffles, and so much more are served fresh daily. For a little more refined start to your day, head to the relaxed yet elegant Bistro. There you’ll find French-inspired dishes and a robust vegetarian menu.
You’ll have plenty of options for lunch and dinner, though be sure to make dinner reservations for the five a la carte restaurants. Lucca serves Italian cuisine in a warm and family-friendly setting. Frida is the place to go for traditional Mexican cuisine and live music. Piaf offers a romantic atmosphere for an evening full of smooth wines and decadent French dishes.
If drinks are what you’re looking for, check out the guests’ favorite rooftop lounge, Sky Bar. It’s known for strong drinks and amazing sunset views. For a night of socializing and fun, head to the Karaoke or Koi Bar.
Room Guide
Room categories at Grand Velas Riviera Maya are further grouped into the “3 Unique Experiences” the resort offers. Whether you go for the Relaxation, Family Fun, or Romantic Getaway, your room will be awesome – this is an all-suite property with some pretty awesome features in each accommodation class.
Zen Grand – Relaxation: These 254 suites are tucked back in the foliage of the Mayan jungle, just a short shuttle ride away from the main resort. However, this place also offers its own pool, koi pond, and garden spaces. These rooms are family-friendly and can accommodate up to two adults, two juniors, and one infant with one king or two queen beds.
The Ambassador – Family Fun: On the other side of the resort, there are 195 spacious ocean-view suites for those who want to see the sparkling sea. It also has the easiest access to the kids and teens clubs. Rooms can accommodate up to three adults, one junior, and one infant in either one king or two queen beds. Spacious balconies are furnished for enjoyment of the ocean views, and you have the option to go for a room with a private plunge pool here.
Grand Class – Romance: Also on the oceanfront, there are just 90 of these suites, each of which has its own private plunge pool – ideal for couples that just want to disappear with each other. However, families can enjoy the privacy, too, as rooms can accommodate up to two juniors as well. Spa-like bathrooms, grand terraces beside the plunge pools, and a location just steps from the sand make these rooms special.
Special Experiences
There are special experiences for guests of all ages at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. Kids and teens have their respective clubs open all day, every day, with an activities program packed full of fun with new friends from around the world. There’s even a Baby Concierge that can take care of arrangements for the youngest of guests while parents focus on relaxing.
One of the ways to do that is to visit the SE Spa by Grand Velas. While most resorts around the Riviera Maya have spas, this one sets itself apart with very unique hydrotherapy in its Water Ceremony. This includes a clay room, ice room, polar pool, color showers, sensation showers, and much more.
There are many other unique experiences to be found outside the resort. Staff recommendations include a luxury sailing experience to nearby Isla Mujeres or an evening seeing the Cirque du Soleil “Joyá” show in Cancun.
Get to know more of the best all-inclusive resorts in Playa del Carmen:
Related Reviews
Things we like:
-
The resort is nestled between a gorgeous Caribbean beach and tropical jungle
-
The suites are spacious and tailored to meet travelers' needs (i.e. romantic oceanfront suites, family-friendly suites near the Kids Club, and quieter suites near the spa and business center)
-
Suites are luxurious with features such as jetted tubs, private terraces, plunge pools, and butler service
-
A Kids Club and Teens Club are available and include plenty of scheduled activities
-
The resort offers a range of onsite activities like non-motorized sports, fitness classes, and beach games
-
Beach and poolside service are exceptional, with special offerings of popsicles, cold towels, and specialty drinks throughout the day
-
Free WiFi is provided throughout the resort
Things we don't like:
-
The beach is rocky and not ideal for swimming
-
The pool bar food doesn’t seem to meet the same high standards as the other dining options
-
It can be hard to snag a pool lounger if you don’t get there early enough
-
Many non-motorized sports equipment has an extra charge
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