Rosewood Mayakoba

Rosewood Mayakoba is a gorgeous, peaceful retreat within the resort community of Playa Del Carmen, set on a mile-long stretch of beach. Though it features an extensive children's program, the resort largely attracts couples with its serene atmosphere, upscale restaurants, and spa. The 128  suites feature attractive contemporary decor -- picture clean lines, white walls, and rich woods -- as well as high-tech amenities and private outdoor plunge pools. They have an open-air vibe, with many floor-to-ceiling windows, and the overwater lagoon suites have swim-up access. Plus, suites include freebies such as Wi-Fi, fresh fruit, and bottled water. Seaweed debris along the beach keeps the Rosewood from being flawless (although they diligently attempt to keep it clean by sending staffers to rake it away), but otherwise this hotel is top-notch -- for guests willing to pay top dollar. Some may prefer the rooms at the Banyan Tree, but the spa is nicer here.

 

Pros

 

• On a mile-long beach with plenty of water sports

• All rooms are large suites, with plunge pools and up-to-date amenities such as iPod docks and DVD players

• Several pools, including a gorgeous infinity pool

• Gorgeous spa with numerous treatment rooms, baths, and a pool

• 3 gourmet restaurants and 24-hour room service

• Family-friendly: kids' club with tons of daily activities, plus amenities such as baby monitors and child-sized robes

• Greg Norman-designed golf course

• On-site activities such as horseback riding

• Freebies include Wi-Fi, fruit, and bottled water

   

   

  Cons

   

  • Some seaweed debris on the beach (staffers often rake it but the quantity is often too high to get rid of it)

  • Small flat-screen TVs in some rooms