Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

Opened in December 2016, this Andaz is set in the exclusive gated Mayakoba complex, home to the Rosewood, Fairmont, and Banyan Tree luxury properties. The Andaz distinguishes itself as a younger, hipper, and less expensive option than the others. The chic design is inspired by the Mayans, from a lobby entrance made to resemble a cenote (a water-filled sinkhole), where guests are given a colored marble to throw in a fountain after making a wish, to ring-shaped statues designed to mimic an ancient game. Large, colorful murals of a jaguar and birds on building exteriors were done by local street artist Senkoe and they add striking touches. Interiors are minimalist and modern, filled with lots of wood, concrete, and colorful decorations such as woven baskets and chairs.The property is divided into two sections: a lagoon side and a beach side. Both have well-sized pool areas, rooms, and dining options, but amenities such as the lobby, spa, and gym are by the lagoon. This is where guests can also hop on for a lagoon tour by boat, where visitors are likely to spot numerous bird species and howler monkeys. Unfortunately, the walk between the two areas can be quite long -- think roughly 20 minutes -- so guests will likely need to rely on the free bicycles stationed about, or staff-driven golf carts. The atmosphere at this property is relaxed -- think staff that wears khakis and denim shirts, and DJs that play chill music by the beachfront pool. Although an all-inclusive package is available, it doesn't cover premium liquor. Travelers wanting an all-inclusive property that covers top-shelf liquor may prefer the adults-only Royal Hideaway Playacar. Families meanwhile should consider Hotel Xcaret Mexico, which gives all guests free access to the Xcaret parks.

Located about a 20-minute drive north of Playa del Carmen's center, the Andaz Mayakoba is in the gated and secured Mayakoba complex. It sits along a lagoon filled with wildlife, as well as along a beautiful stretch of powdery white sand. The ocean here does occasionally succumb to seaweed, though hotel staff clean up what they can. Golf carts and boats are available for transportation between Mayakoba properties (guests can dine at their restaurants), and bikes are available for those going from the main building to the beach. Cancun and its international airport are about a 45-minute drive north. The Tulum ruins can be reached in an hour by car.  

There are 173 rooms and 41 suites here, all done in a similarly chic modern style that's clean-lined. Expect concrete floors with geometric patterns, natural and gray-painted wood furniture, hip lighting and leather butterfly chairs, and colorful decorations such as rugs, woven baskets, and mini hammocks that act as "Do Not Disturb" signs. Rooms are divided between the lagoon and beach side, so travelers should pick depending on what they would rather be close to. All have furnished balconies or patios, and upgraded units add private plunge pools and beach access.Standard amenities consist of free Wi-Fi, minibars, flat-screen TVs, desks, seating areas, Bluetooth speakers, kettles alongside Nespresso machines, and closets with laptop-sized safes, ironing facilities, sandals and beach bags, and bug repellent. Spacious bathrooms have rainfall showers, upscale Malin + Goetz toiletries, bathrobes, and hairdryers. Some units add separate freestanding tubs. 

Leisure facilities are stellar here, starting with the wide stretch of white sand. The beach is lined with red and orange loungers next to umbrellas, and waiter service for drinks and snacks is provided. A cool feature is a machine that sprays people with sunscreen, but it costs extra. However, be aware that the beach is a far walk (or shorter bike or golf cart ride) from the main reception area. Just back from the beach is a well-sized pool, offering pretty ocean vistas and ample loungers. During the day, a DJ sometimes plays laid-back music off to the side. Another pool -- really three heated pools in one -- is on the lagoon side, and a kiddy pool, hot tubs, and cabanas that can be rented and come with perks are all available here.Inspired by Mayan traditions, Naum Wellness & Spa offers a variety of treatments, saunas, relaxation area, and small pool. The 24-hour, window-lined fitness center is filled with modern cardio and strength-training machines, and yoga is offered on the beach often (daily in high season). Guests also have free access to tennis courts shared between the Mayakoba properties, and non-motorized water sports such as kayaks and paddleboards. Also within the complex is the El Camaleón Golf Club at Mayakoba, for which guests get discounts. First-come, first-served bikes can be used for getting around the resort. Kimbo, the property's well-reviewed kids' club has all-day activities for kids 4 to 12. Babysitting services are also offered. Guests can get free 45-minute lagoon boat tours, or pay for activities such as archery. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and pets are allowed (dogs under 50 pounds accepted). Meeting spaces are on-site.

There are four restaurants on-site, from casual to upscale, offering either Mexican, Latin, or international cuisines. The main eatery is Cocina Milagro, set in the middle of the resort and open all day. Buffet breakfasts and a la carte fare such as burgers, pizza, and ceviche are all on offer here. It has its own bar and barbecue nights on Saturday to encourage mingling among guests. Also open all day is the beachfront OllaTaco, where visitors can expect tasty regional specialties such as steak fajitas and octopus tacos. OllaCeviche is also by the beach and it serves ceviche and cocktails for dinner. Casa Amate is a stylish dinner-only restaurant serving Latin American cuisine in a chic space with various rooms, including a cozy library room.Guests can dine at other Mayakoba properties and charge it to their room. For travelers on the all-inclusive package, all meals at restaurants and house wine, beer, and liquor are included. Unfortunately, top-shelf liquor isn't covered.