Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Even those who don't like the all-inclusive resort experience might be converted by the Hyatt Zilara Cancun. The things that can be bad at other all-inclusive resorts like the food and entertainment -- are actually notably good here. Even the buffet is high quality, with lots of fun show cooking stations, and the evening shows -- often cheesy and groan-worthy at other resorts -- are worth seeing here (expect quality live music, acrobatic acts, and dancing). Those who like more traditional all-inclusive activities such as trivia by the pool and water sports will find them, but half of the pool is dedicated to relaxation, and some of the organized activities, such as tequila tastings, Pilates, and guacamole making, are better than the norm. It’s worth noting that those seeking a tranquil retreat may be disappointed by the occasionally lively vibe – there are weekly foam parties, for instance.
The resort also stands out above the crowd because it is, well, gorgeous. It has a Mexican Colonial vibe, with massive pillars and archways throughout, plenty of marble tiling, wood beams accenting the ceilings, wrought-iron details, and even a stained-glass ceiling in part of the lobby. Renovations in 2014 and 2015 updated parts of the lobby with new furniture and walls, as well as the spa and gym.
Though Hyatt Zilara Cancun is a luxury resort and priced accordingly, it's actually not the most expensive all-inclusive adults-only resort in town. That title usually goes to the stunning and impressive Le Blanc Spa Resort. Nizuc Resort and Spa is also usually pricier, and allows families (though it has adults-only areas). Live Aqua Cancun is probably the Hyatt Zilara's closest competitor in terms of price and level of luxury; it also has ocean views from all of its rooms (some may be partial, as is the case here). Unlike the Hyatt, the Live Aqua Cancun doesn't have the option of swim-up suites. Families seeking a comparable experience to the one at the Hyatt Zilara may want to consider its kid-friendly sister property Hyatt Ziva Cancun.

The Hyatt Zilara Cancun is located in the heart of the oceanfront Hotel Zone, next door to family-friendly Panama Jack Resorts Cancun. It is a great spot for those who want a beautiful, half-empty beach; there is a shopping plaza next door with an Outback Steakhouse, but most eateries, shops, and the tourist-oriented Cancun nightlife are a few minutes' drive to the north. Because there is so much on-site, some guests never venture out at all. Buses and taxis can be found on the main avenue in front of the hotel, and guests can be downtown in about 20 minutes, or at the Cancun International Airport in 25 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
The Zona Hotelera (or Hotel Zone) is the megaresort, mega-mall area in La Isla Cancun that caters to mass tourism. The nightlife is one of its main draws, as are its shops and restaurants -- but there's little of Cancun's original flavor here. To get a hint of what that is, you'll have to take a cab to Ciudad Cancun, the real downtown, where smaller, better restaurants, local shops, and quieter bars are located.

• 40-minute drive to snorkeling and quiet beaches in Puerto Morelos
• One-hour drive to Playa del Carmen, a popular town with great shopping and a well-heeled crowd
• One-hour-45-minute drive to the Mayan ruins at Tulum

The 307 rooms have a charming colonial style, with plenty of earthy colors, natural stones, woodwork (including accent beams on the ceiling), and marble tile floors. A beachy blue and white color scheme comes through in blue-cushioned chairs, ocean artwork, and white linens and walls. All suites have furnished balconies with hammocks and at least partial views of the ocean. Most rooms have excellent ocean views, though note that you can usually see your neighbors -- a downside for those seeking privacy.
Suites are divvied up into several categories; the quality of the views varies within each category and is mostly luck of the draw, so upgrading just for a better view may not be worth the extra outlay. Note that the Ocean View rooms are in the center of the resort, and the Ocean Front Rooms are in the ends that jut out slightly farther. The Swim-Up Suites may be worth the splurge, as long as you don't get assigned one right by the main pool (these can get noisy from the pool music). Expect to get a sales pitch for an upgrade at check-in.
Standard amenities include fully stocked minibars and liquor dispensers (included and regularly replenished), a "Magic box" for discreet 24-hour room service delivery (no need to open the door), bathrobes and slippers, a pillow menu, and coffeemakers. On the tech front, there are flat-screen TVs with CD/DVD players, free Wi-Fi, and digital safes. Bathrooms have rainfall showerheads, hairdryers, swish toiletries, and hair straighteners on request. Upgraded rooms do get extra amenities such as Nespresso machines and reserved beach cabanas.
Note that some past guests have reported issues with their air-conditioning units.

Hyatt Zilara Cancun’s huge freeform infinity pool is one of the main draws of the resort. There are a few bridges across it, and the beach restaurant and swim-up bar are located in the center, effectively bisecting the pool into two areas: one for activities, and one for relaxation. It’s surrounded by loungers and shady cabanas, but no umbrellas. Waiter service is available throughout the day, but only for beverages. It's usually very easy to find a lounger, but cabanas -- the only option for shade -- can sometimes get snagged early. There are also two whirlpools.
There are more loungers and cabanas at the wide, spacious beach, which has fine white sand and turquoise water. The waves are often too rough for swimming, and some of the cabanas are reserved for guests in upgraded rooms. Though there is some seaweed, the staff is diligent about raking it up.
There’s a slew of free daily activities at the Hyatt, ranging from beach and water sports, to bicycle tours, to culinary classes and tastings. There are quality evening performances on the lobby stage, and events such as "Mexican Night," with arts and crafts vendors, themed food, and musical performances.
The fully equipped, modern gym includes a Pilates studio and training sessions, plus an outdoor lap pool. Both the spa and gym were remodeled in 2014. The spa includes a full-service beauty salon, an extensive hydrotherapy circuit, eco-holistic treatments, a temezcal sauna ceremony. It has stone floors with river-rock accents, massive pillars, and plenty of marble and granite in a very dark and quiet space.
The hotel also has over 6,800 square feet of event space, and multiple free wedding packages are available.

The Hyatt Zilara Cancun has great food options, particularly for an all-inclusive resort. All meals, snacks, 24-hour room service, and top-shelf liquor at the several bars are part of the all-inclusive package. Note that some restaurants require dress codes, such as long pants and close-toed shoes for men.
Spice is the main buffet, serving international cuisine for all three meals, including show cooking stations (such as a pasta and taco station), grill for meat, and salad and ceviche bar, among plenty of other options. Maria Marie serves Mexican cuisine and tends to be a favorite (this is, after all, Mexico). Asiana is also extremely popular, and has a teppanyaki cooking show (one of the only things that does require reservations).
Pelicanos is the beach bar, and serves Caribbean and seafood-oriented cuisine. La Adelita Cantina serves Caribbean and Mexican fare for dinner only; tequila and mezcal cocktails and craft beer are also on offer. There's a coffee shop with cookies, ice cream, pastries, and coffee drinks. Chef's Plate is a set seven-course menu that changes daily; it must be reserved in advance and is only available to those in the premium suite-level rooms.