For decades, Mexico has earned a rep as being the place college kids flock for spring break, and as a top-choice destination for many bachelor and bachelorette blowouts. But this incredible country with impeccably thorough hospitality also knows how to deliver on the chill vacation front.
I’m personally not much of a partier; give me a good book, a cold drink to sip, and a spot on the beach and I’m set for days without so much as a single beat drop.
That said, over the years I’ve been lucky to visit numerous all-inclusive resorts in Mexico that focus more on relaxation and wholesome experiences versus full-out party scenes. These are some of my favorites.
In this article
1. Hotel XCaret: Playa del Carmen
Located in Playa del Carmen, XCaret is easily one of my favorite hotel groups in Mexico, and it’s a place I’ve returned to several times. The property puts a very strong focus on high-end eco-tourism, and has expertly infused authentic cultural details across its expansive properties via food, architecture, art, and ritual experiences.
There are actually three hotel choices to choose from: XCaret (family-friendly with 900 suites), XCaret Arte (900 adults-only suites, more luxe, artsy vibes), and La Casa de la Playa (ultra luxury boutique with 63 suites). Guests at Hotel Xcaret Mexico and Arte can move between many of the shared spaces, restaurants, and natural areas across the two main resorts. Those at La Casa de la Playa have more flexibility, with access to every property plus exclusive spaces private to that property. All guests also have free access to XCaret’s theme parks, located outside of the property, which range from eco-archaeological exploration (XCaret) to water-themed (Xel-Há Park) to high-adrenaline parks (XPlor).
2. Live Aqua Beach Resort: Cancún
Cancún is particularly known for its party scene, but not every resort in this iconic hotel zone is a total banger of a stay. In fact, a number of resorts keep things pretty low-key, allowing guests to venture to the party outside (should they choose) and enjoy a more serene experience while on property. Live Aqua is the perfect example.
This is an adults-only hotel with about 350 rooms and nine floors, each offering a stunning view of the beach (higher floors) and garden views (lower floors). Guests have direct access to the beach, as well as seven heated pools (including a gorgeous infinity pool), private cabanas, and seven themed restaurants. There’s also an on-site spa with a full water circuit.
3. Iberostar Waves Paraíso Beach: Riviera Maya
There’s no party required when you’re tucked away in the jungles of the Riviera Maya. The family-friendly, five-star Iberostar Waves Paraíso Beach is an expansive property with 424 rooms, 12 restaurants, and four outdoor pool areas each surrounded by nature's beauty. The colorful rooms offer tropical views, easy access to the beach or pool, and are generously sized. Choose from standard premium rooms with a seating area and private patio, two-bedroom family setups, and a massive 2500-square foot penthouse suite.
What I loved most about this property was all the quiet, winding paths through the jungle to get from A to B that offer glimpses of peacocks and gorgeous birds, as well as the chill beach setup with umbrellas and loungers, and the number of restaurants that kept the food scene interesting.
4. Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa: Puerto Vallarta
Dreams Vallarta (formerly Now Amber) is a Hyatt-owned, family friendly all-inclusive property in Puerto Vallarta with 372 luxury suites in a tower that overlooks the stunning Banderas Bay and Sierra Madras. During your stay, you can choose from 11 restaurants that serve everything from easy bites to gourmet meals, enjoy direct beach access, and cool off in three outdoor swimming pools, including one for kiddos.
I really enjoyed the laid back, but still lively atmosphere of this hotel. It wasn’t overly quiet; there was live music in the shared areas and different events and experiences to enjoy throughout the stay, like snorkeling, chef's table dining, and classes. Another perk is that the hotel shares space with Secrets (adults-only), and those staying at Dreams can visit some of the other property's restaurants.
The Shortcut
Mexico offers an assortment of family-friendly and adults-only resorts that emphasize relaxation, culture, and nature.
Enjoy opportunities to “choose-your-own-vibe,” be it solo time in luxurious accommodations, beach and pool hangs, or on-site experiences.
Each property prioritizes thoughtful amenities and immersive experiences that make staying on-property feel like the destination itself.
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