Over the last few years, I’ve really started to appreciate a good adults-only all-inclusive tropical vacation. My partner and I have been trying to fit in at least one every year — and each time we choose a new one to try out, we ONLY opt for adults-only resorts.
Why? Because sometimes, you just want to get away from the crying babies and splashing nonsense in the pools — relaxation and tranquil vibes only! And so far, our favorite ones have been in the Riviera Maya area.
Along the Riviera Maya, you will easily find many, many adults-only all-inclusive resorts. There are almost too many to count!
Some of them stand proudly in more populated areas like Playa Del Carmen, while others are more tucked away along Highway 307, Riviera Maya’s main drag. With so much open space and pristine natural beauty, you can find these resorts literally everwhere.
So with SO MANY resort options, how do you pick which is best for you?
If you’re going to go all-inclusive, you gotta do it right! The resorts on this list are some of the best bang-for-your-buck options out there in the Riviera Maya and Playa Del Carmen area.
In this post, I WON’T be suggesting budget or “just okay” resorts, because I personally think if you’re going to shell out money to have food/drink and activities included, it better be food/drink and activities that you’ll actually enjoy!
So without further ado, here are my favorite adults-only all-inclusive resorts in the Riviera Maya area of Mexico. I’ve helped you break them all down based on their most notable features, distances away from the airport, and more!
Don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s an at-a-glance view of my recommendations:
- Excellence Riviera Cancun – best overall adults-only resort for the price
- Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
- Hotel Xcaret Arte – best if you plan to partake in Xcaret’s many eco theme parks/activities
- Viceroy Riviera Maya All Inclusive – best intimate, upscale experience
- TRS Yucatan Hotel
- The Royal Hideaway Playacar – closest in proximity to Playa Del Carmen
- Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya
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7 Best Adults Only All-Inclusive Resorts In Riviera Maya
Table of Contents
1. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
Price Range: $$$
Located about a 30-minute drive from Playa del Carmen and a 35-minute drive away from the Cancun International Airport, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun is perfectly situated on a private beach. Yes, you can expect a private white sand beach to relax at any time of the day!
What’s even cooler is that the pool overlooks the fine white sands and turquoise blue waters of the beach. What paradise…
After lounging by the beach or the pool, get pampered at the world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia. Each spa treatment comes with a complimentary hydrotherapy circuit session which includes the use of a sauna, steam room, and various hot/cold pools.
Spa not your thing? No worries, there are numerous other activities to partake in including playing tennis, basketball, volleyball, mini-golf, as well as doing yoga or archery, taking dance lessons, cocktail lessons, or aqua-aerobics classes, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and much more.
There’s even a dance club on the property for guests to enjoy well past midnight!
Once you get your fill of activity, enjoy top-shelf spirits and premium wines in any of the six bars on the property before heading to dinner at one of the resort’s 9 restaurants.
You can expect an international buffet, a cafe, seven a la carte restaurants, and 24-hour room service.
What does this mean for you? Around-the-clock gourmet dining!
In terms of the guest suites, all 412 rooms feature thoughtful touches like bathrobes and slippers, free WiFi, furnished balconies, sitting areas, and premium bedding. If you’re looking for easy access to the pool, definitely opt for one of the swim-up rooms.
AT A GLANCE: Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
- Adults only all-inclusive resort
- 412 suites
- 9 restaurants, 1 coffee shop
- 6 bars
- 14 outdoor pools (2 main pools, various semi-private pools for swim-up suites)
- 30 minutes by car from Playa Del Carmen
- 35 minutes from Cancun International Airport
2. Excellence Riviera Cancun
Price Range: $$$
I’m a huge fan of the Excellence Riviera Cancun. This resort (plus the rest of the Excellence Resorts) features peaceful beaches with fine, white sands, several outdoor pools, the most relaxing spa and hydrotherapy area you’ll ever find in this budget range, and ample spaces for relaxation.
The all-inclusive rate covers usage of the 5 pools, 6 hot tubs, as well as food and beverages at 9+ international restaurants and 10+ bars.
On top of that, they have tons of scheduled activities throughout the day, so even if you do nothing else around Cancun or Playa Del Carmen, you’re sure to have a lot to do at the resort.
Some examples include group aquatic Zumba, bike rides around the property, poker and casino night, Mexican fiesta buffets, workout classes, free stand-up paddleboard and kayak usage, and nightly entertainment.
The rooms are clean, spacious, and beautifully decorated with light colors accentuated by a light Mediterranean blue. I really do love how they’ve decorated these rooms because I’m always immediately transported into a state of relaxation and tranquility upon check-in.
The rooms also come with furnished balconies or patios and four-whirlpool tubs.
If you want easy and direct access to the pool and your own personal hammock and daybed on the lawn, opt for the Junior Swim-Up Suite!
You can usually find pretty good deals on Excellence Resorts if you book early enough (often 40%+ off room rates).
AT A GLANCE: Excellence Riviera Cancun
- Adults only all-inclusive resort
- 440 guest rooms
- 8 restaurants
- 10 bars
- 5 hot tubs, 6 pools
- 40 minutes by car from Playa Del Carmen
- 25 minutes from Cancun International Airport
3. Hotel Xcaret Arte
Price Range: $$$
Hotel Xcaret Arte is a new resort that opened its doors in mid-2021. When you stay at Hotel Xcaret Arte, you’re opting for the All-Fun All-Inclusive concept, where “all-inclusive” is defined a little differently than traditional resorts.
A stay at Hotel Xcaret Arte includes unlimited access to the most iconic eco-parks in Cancun and Riviera Maya: Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xenses, Xoximilco, Xavage and Xenotes.
Together, these parks/activities will add up to 200 experiences of adventure, culture, and a whole bunch of fun!
Moving on to the accommodations themselves, Hotel Xcaret Arte has 900 adults-only (including young adults ages 16 and up) suites inspired by artists.
These rooms are all light, airy, and decorated with beautiful, timeless decor. Its eco-integrating architecture blends design and nature in a loving and responsible way, achieving a balance between ethics and aesthetics.
You’ll get to enjoy 9 gastronomic experiences under the care of some pretty big-time chefs in Mexico as well as various bars serving up carefully designed cocktails and coffee drinks.
And not only do the restaurants serve delicious food, but the decor and ambiance of the restaurants and bars are drop-dead gorgeous.
On top of the all-inclusive food, drink, park access, and transportation to/from the parks, you’ll also have complimentary access to Mexican artistic workshops including weaving, painting, pottery, dance, and vegan cooking.
With all there is to do on the property as well as in the various parks, you are guaranteed to never have a dull moment. Now that’s what we like to see when resorts call themselves all-inclusive!
Bottom Line: If you plan on visiting any of the Xcaret parks, Hotel Xcaret and Hotel Xcaret Arte are both wonderful choices that could end up saving you money on the cost of activities in the long run.
AT A GLANCE: Hotel Xcaret Arte
- Adults only all-inclusive resort (includes young adults ages 16 and up)
- 900 guest rooms
- 10 restaurants, 2 coffee shops
- 12 bars/lounges
- 3 swim-up bars
- 15 outdoor pools
- 17 minutes by car from Playa Del Carmen
- 1 hour from Cancun International Airport
You may also like: Xcaret Park Review: Is It Worth The Money?
4. Viceroy Riviera Maya
Price Range: $$$$
Located on the coast of Xcalacoco Beach 10 minutes outside of Playa del Carmen, Viceroy Riviera Maya All Inclusive is one of the most upscale adults-only all-inclusive resorts in the Riviera Maya area.
If you’re looking for a more intimate stay compared to what you’ll get at your average run-of-the-mill all-inclusive resort, this is it. The Viceroy Riviera Maya All Inclusive is set in a lush, tropical jungle, providing a secluded and intimate setting that is perfect for couples and adults seeking a peaceful escape.
The resort has only 41 villas, each with its own private plunge pool and outdoor shower, ensuring that you have plenty of space and privacy. It’s truly going to feel like it’s just you, the jungle, and the beach!
The resort features two gourmet restaurants that offer nothing but the best ingredients and best flavors. For a dinner crafted by one of Riviera Maya’s acclaimed chefs, Chef Julio Chavez, make a reservation at La Marea. For all-day dining with a focus on healthy, local ingredients, visit Coral Restaurant + Bar.
The resort also features a full-service spa that offers a range of wellness and beauty treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. There is also a yoga deck and fitness center, providing plenty of opportunities to relax and rejuvenate during your stay.
From the moment you arrive, expect nothing less than exceptional service! You will be treated like royalty, with staff going above and beyond to ensure that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable.
This hotel is hands-down the most upscale option on this list, but it doesn’t come cheap! Still, if you’re celebrating something special, we think this hotel is worth the splurge.
AT A GLANCE: Viceroy Riviera Maya
- Adults only all-inclusive resort (guests age 12 and up are allowed)
- 41 villas – super intimate experience!
- 2 restaurants
- A bar/lounge
- A beach bar
- A poolside bar
- 18 minutes by car from Playa Del Carmen
- 40 minutes from Cancun International Airport
5. TRS Yucatan Hotel
Price Range: $$
TRS Yucatan Hotel is a newcomer on the all-inclusive scene, having opened in 2017. It is a relatively new hotel in the Riviera Maya area, offering modern and luxurious accommodations for adults-only guests. The hotel is part of the Palladium Hotel Group, which has several other properties in the Caribbean and Mexico.
Since its opening, TRS Yucatan Hotel has received positive reviews for its upscale amenities, variety of dining options, and beautiful beachfront location. It’s the perfect choice for couples, groups of friends, and adults who want to enjoy privacy, personalized service, and top-quality services!
With a 24-hour butler service to cater to your every need, your stay can be exactly what you dreamed it would be … relaxing in every way possible!
First of all, let’s touch on the resort decor — it’s so modern and chic. The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed with all the amenities you could want. In addition to the Junior Suite rooms, you can also find specialty rooms to elevate your stay such as Romance Bungalow By The Lake, Suite Private Pool Poolside, Ambassador Suite with Panoramic Ocean View, and Wellness Junior Suites too.
The hotel grounds pay homage to the indigenous flora and fauna, and the immaculate grounds are complemented by elegant architecture and decor. Expect earth tones galore!
But the best part is the food and drinks! The hotel has a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from, so you’ll never get bored. They have everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to Italian dishes, and even a teppanyaki-style restaurant where they cook your food right in front of you. And the drinks are amazing too – they have a great selection of cocktails and top-shelf liquor.
The hotel also has a beautiful pool area with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas for shade. And if you’re looking for some relaxation, they have a spa on-site with a variety of treatments to choose from.
AT A GLANCE: TRS Yucatan Hotel – Adults Only
- Adults only all-inclusive resort
- 454 fully-fitted suites with 24-hour room service
- 9 different à la carte restaurants
- 6 bars
- Premium VIP beach area with loungers and waiter service
- 3 private pools with built-in jacuzzi and waiter services, including an infinity pool with sea views
- 35 minutes by car from Playa Del Carmen
- 70 minutes from Cancun International Airport
6. Royal Hideaway Playacar
Price Range: $$
The Royal Hideaway Playacar is another one of my top recommendations for all-inclusive, located on the white sand beach on the Riviera Maya, offering an adults-only experience.
The 201 luxurious rooms on the property are surrounded by lush gardens with the added benefit of a private concierge service and endless amenities.
The hotel features 6 restaurants with the most notable dining feature being The Chef’s Table at Ventanas restaurant. In fact, this is the only restaurant on the Yucatán peninsula based on interaction with the chef.
The Royal Hideaway also features 6 pools, all large and with unbeatable views, including 3 relaxation pools and an infinity pool with a waterfall! There is also a spa (5-star spa called The Retreat) and a fitness center, as well as an endless amount of water, fitness, and sports activities offered throughout the day.
AT A GLANCE: The Royal Hideaway Playacar
- Adults only all-inclusive resort
- 201 guest rooms
- 6 pools
- 6 restaurants and a theater for dinners
- 4 bars (no swim-up bar)
- 10 minutes by car from Playa Del Carmen
- 1 hour from Cancun International Airport
7. Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya
Price Range: $$ – $$$
Last but certainly not least on our list is Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya. Resembling a modern hacienda sitting along a stretch of pure white sand beach, the resort boasts a stunning beachfront location, with sparkling sea and sand that you can enjoy from stylish and spacious suites.
Combining beautiful architecture with impeccable service and lavish accommodations, this all-inclusive resort is a vacation paradise like no other!
With 291 rooms and suites in 12 different categories, you can select the perfect accommodation to suit your needs, each boasting warm/earthy tones, modern furnishings, luxe spa-like bathrooms with rainfall showers, and fully furnished balconies to soak in the epic coastal views.
The next thing we need to mention is the food. You can trust that you’re going to get way above-average food here. At Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya, gastronomy takes center stage, with acclaimed local chefs telling a story with every dish they create. You can satisfy any craving at any time with complimentary room service, or pursue something sensational at one of the 9 onsite restaurants, bars, and lounges.
The resort features a full-service spa that offers a whopping 10 treatment rooms and a range of wellness and beauty treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. There is also a fitness center and yoga classes, providing plenty of opportunities to relax and rejuvenate during your stay.
AT A GLANCE: Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya
- Adults only all-inclusive resort
- 291 guest rooms
- Massive beachfront infinity pool with beach loungers and swim-up bar
- 9 restaurants
- 8 bars/lounges
- A coffee shop/cafe
- 15 minutes by car from Playa Del Carmen
- 35 minutes from Cancun International Airport
What Is Included At An All-Inclusive Resort?
Each all-inclusive resort is different, but the majority of them function similarly in that the price you pay will often include the following:
- a double-occupancy overnight guest room
- food and beverage
- Wi-Fi
- daily entertainment
- pool use
- non-motorized watersports (kayaks, stand-up paddleboards)
- fitness center and classes
- kids activities
- as well as any taxes and service fees
There is also typically some sort of private beach that hotel guests can access.
Depending on which all-inclusive resort you go with, some may also offer airport transfers, premium watersports (jet skis, scuba-diving), and unlimited top-shelf alcoholic drinks at the all-inclusive price.
What Is NOT Included At An All-Inclusive Resort?
It is important to know that the term “all-inclusive” doesn’t literally mean you get anything and everything that’s offered at the resort. Here are a few examples of things that typically cost extra:
- There is usually a premium-level tier of guests that often have their own pool, lounge, and section of the beach. You’ll usually have to upgrade to some type of membership to use these parts of the property.
- Spas and massages, golfing, and (sometimes) premium liquor usually cost extra.
- Services such as laundry, transportation, tours and activities, and motorized watersports (like jet skis) are typically excluded.
- Sometimes, personalized assistance (babysitter) has an extra cost. Other times it’s included.
This is why it’s so important to do your homework before booking a resort. You’ll want to know what their list of inclusions consists of and what their list of extra-cost activities/features consists of.
If it’s unclear, simply reach out to the hotel to confirm.
Are All-Inclusive Resorts Good For Adults?
All-inclusive resorts can be a great option for adults who are looking for a relaxing and convenient vacation. With all-inclusive resorts, you typically pay one price upfront that includes your accommodations, meals, drinks, activities, and entertainment on the property. This can make it easy to budget for your trip and not worry about additional expenses while you’re there.
All-inclusive resorts are perfect for people who want to spend most of their time on the property, taking advantage of the amenities and activities offered. This can include things like spa treatments, water sports, fitness classes, and organized excursions. It can also be the best option for people who love to eat and drink! You can easily indulge in food and drinks without worrying about the cost!
Having said that, all-inclusive resorts may not be the best option for everyone. If you plan to spend most of your days away from the hotel doing activities and NOT taking advantage of the amenities on the property, then a regular hotel may be a better (and cheaper) option for you.
Additionally, if you’re someone who likes to explore local restaurants and cuisine, an all-inclusive resort may not offer the same variety or authenticity as dining off-property.
MOST POPULAR EXCURSIONS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN
Xcaret Eco Park – The ultimate must-do day trip in Riviera Maya! This eco-park boasts more than 40 attractions including underground rivers, an immersive aviary, a coral reef aquarium, aquatic activities, live cultural shows, a Mayan village, and more.
Xplor Adventure Park – Another massive eco-park that features ziplining, driving amphibious vehicles in the jungle, and paddling through underground rivers through stalactite caves.
Riviera Maya Jungle Half-Day Tour: ATV, Ziplines, Cenote Swim, Rappel – combines off-roading, ziplining, rappelling, and snorkeling in a cenote. Gear and snacks are included in this 4-hour tour.
Tulum Ruins Cenote and Swimming with Turtles from Playa del Carmen – a great family-friendly activity spent in the water.
MEXICO TRAVEL INSURANCE
This is a no-brainer. When traveling internationally, be sure to get yourself some travel insurance.
I’ve heard of too many unfortunate experiences where friends and family have had baggage lost/stolen, hotels canceled, or have had unexpected medical emergencies while traveling where they’ve had to cut their trips short.
True story alert — in 2022, my partner even had his shoulder completely dislocated while surfing in Mexico, resulting in a $950 USD emergency room bill that we had to pay out of pocket for! Not fun… and most definitely not cheap.
Without travel insurance, you would have to pay out of pocket for these mishaps. This is why I get travel insurance for all my international trips now!
One of the best budget-friendly travel insurances for those traveling outside their home country is SafetyWing.
SafetyWing Insurance provides coverage for unexpected illness or injury, including eligible expenses for hospital, doctor or prescription drugs. This means that if you get ill or injured, THEY will cover the medical expenses.
In addition, it provides emergency travel-related benefits such as:
- emergency medical evacuation – very much needed if you like to go hiking or backpacking in the wild.
- travel delay
- lost checked luggage
- adventure sports coverage (add-on) – so you can rappel down waterfalls, cave dive, mountain bike, scuba dive, etc. with peace of mind.
- electronics theft (add-on) – get reimbursed if your laptop, phone, camera or other electronics get stolen.
Click here to price out how much travel insurance would be for your trip.
And there you have it — my favorite adults-only all-inclusive resorts in the Riviera Maya area! Each one offers something slightly different and excels at something different.
While they might seem like they’re all on the pricier side, my rule of thumb is if you’re going to go all-inclusive, you should opt for the best. I mean, who wants unlimited food/drink if the food and drinks aren’t even going to be good–am I right?
I really hope all the prior research I did in order to get this post out to you has made your all-inclusive resort decision-making process a bit simpler. Happy travels!
Want more Mexico travel tips? Read more:
8 Amazing All-Inclusive Resorts In Playa del Carmen For Families
Mexico All-Inclusive Packing List: 60 Essential Things To Bring With You
27 Best Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen For An Unforgettable Vacation
25+ Exciting Things To Do In Cancun To Make Your Trip Unforgettable
