The Pyramid at Grand Oasis

This busy property is -- like its name suggests -- a pyramid-shaped structure, with rooms occupying the sides and a light-filled courtyard at its core that houses the lobby. The cascading foliage in the atrium, thatched roof walkways throughout the lush gardens, and gorgeous beach contribute to the tropical ambience, although the constant activity makes it hard to find a quiet spot. It’s not uncommon for flash mobs, acrobatics, and singing performances to spontaneously occur in the lobby. While vacationing travelers of all kinds stay here, families should note that the DJ booths, dancing, thumping music, and pumping nightlife create more of a party hard vibe than the majestic atmosphere the hotel claims to have. 

Situated in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, this hotel is one of a lineup of numerous other resorts in the area, with several restaurants and shops within walking distance. The main avenue stretches along one side of the hotel and the gorgeous beach on the back side is the main perk of the property’s location. Most guests tend to stick around the tourist-friendly Hotel Zone, but those looking to venture further can reach downtown Cancun in about 20 minutes from the bus stop on the main road or a taxi. The Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza are just over two hours away by car. Cancun International Airport is a 25-minute drive from the hotel. 

Aside from having balconies with ocean or lagoon views (both beautiful) and king or double beds, the rooms here have little variation. While spacious and cheerful enough, decor is unexceptional and the general blue and green color scheme and tropical floral theme for the bed runners, pillows, and occasional wall print looks somewhat childish. All rooms have air-conditioning (which often malfunctions), safes, blackout curtains, iPod docking stations, free bottled water, flat-screen TVs, and desks, plus ironing equipment. Coffee-and-tea-making facilities and free minibars are also provided, but past guests have complained that the minibars aren't restocked daily. Beach bags with extra towels in each room are a thoughtful touch. Wi-Fi is free, but limited to two devices per room. Cribs and rollaway beds can be requested for families.Bathrooms, outfitted in dark granite, are clean, but past guests have complained about everything from low water pressure to musty smells. No doors separate the toilets from the sink and bathing areas. All bathrooms have shower/tub combos with fixed showerheads, hairdryers, and Oasis brand toiletries.

While most properties in the Hotel Zone are all-inclusive, The Pyramid at Grand Oasis entitles guests to unlimited food and drink at all 24 restaurants and 25 bars in the area, which range from upscale, fusion sushi bars and steakhouses to international buffets, outdoor food courts, and waterfront trattorias. Most restaurants don’t require reservations (though some do, and they occasionally get booked), and there's 24-hour room service, with extra delivery fees. Of note is the restaurant Benazuza, hidden inside the hotel’s Red Casino (which includes a huge poker room, roulette tables, and slot machines), which offers a 22-course tasting menu that guests rave about. Several restaurants include dinner shows and karaoke for extra entertainment. Red Circus includes a nightly circus show with dinner. Guests love the Cigar Corner, which also has a bar. Guests are required to wear a black wristband at all times.Partying is the reason that most guests (especially spring breakers) book rooms here. Dance parties break out all over the place, and there's an organized beach party that past guests have compared to MTV's Spring Break. Guests are allowed to bring their own alcohol to the pool and beach area. The hotel opens to a third of a mile of beautiful beach, where sexy daybeds and bar service are included with the black wristbands. Note that guests are required to go to the bar, as waiter service isn't provided. This area is also home to the longest pool in the Hotel Zone; a quarter-mile long, weaving through the property’s gardens where peacocks can be spotted, and including three swim-up bars. It's one of the main party zones on-site, which are certainly popular, but may not suit everyone. Other all-inclusive amenities include unlimited access to the gym, nine-hole golf course, and outdoor tennis court, though fees apply for golf and tennis equipment rentals. The outdoor Beach Club Spa also comes with charges, but prices are reasonable and treatments are of great quality. A free, one-day Oasis Smartcar rental is included in rates for guests who book at least four nights (extra daily fees for insurance apply). The lobby shop sells beachwear and souvenirs. Meetings and weddings are common here, as there are plenty of facilities for coordinating special events. Property-wide Wi-Fi is free.