Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun

Echoing all resorts within the Now brand, Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun draws several families with its collection of solid kid-friendly features. The resort's tranquil and tropical landscaping also bring in U.S. couples in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, plus a fair share of weddings. The open-air hallways and outdoor paths make for sunny surroundings, and it is not uncommon to spot indigenous animals like coati and iguana. However, the resort was built in 2004 (as Paradisus by Melia) and underwent renovations in 2016. During these upgrades, Cibu Mediterranean and Bluewater Grill restaurants got full overhauls, including new floors and a new rooftop for the grill restaurant. The vibe here is more laid back than luxurious, and some of the traditional decor may feel a bit bland or old-fashioned. Overall, though, the resort has a breezy relaxing vibe and all-inclusive rates help keep things simple. 

Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun is located in the former fishing village of Puerto Morelos, just off the main Highway 307. There's little within walking distance, but the resort's easy access to the freeway makes it a good base for those wanting to explore the Riviera Maya region. Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum are a 40-, 60-, and 90-minute drive south, respectively, while Cancun International Airport is around a 20-minute drive north. The ruins at Coba and several cenotes are within a two-hour drive. Sister property Dreams Riviera Cancun is a five-minute drive away. 

The 496 guest rooms are housed in 14 different buildings and feature a traditional look that's a bit simple and old-fashioned, though attractive. Expect marble floors, classic wood furniture, neutral linens, generic artwork, and a junior suite-style layout with sitting areas. All rooms have furnished balconies or terraces, some of which overlook the ocean. Standard amenities consist of DVD players, coffeemakers with coffee packets (no tea options), and 32-inch flat-screen TVs, plus iPod docks, laptop-sized digital safes, and daily refills on minibars stocked with soft drinks and bottled water. Comfort features include terrycloth robes and slippers, while steam irons, hairdryers, magnifying mirrors, and basic bathroom amenity kits add to convenience. Bathrooms have bidets, four-ounce toiletries (though only conditioning shampoo, instead of separate shampoo and conditioner), and shower/tub combos. 

Deluxe Junior Suite Tropical View rooms are the only category not in the Preferred Club level. For the most part, all Junior Suites are similar, with changes in their views, though some add whirlpool tubs. Upgrading to the Preferred Club Governor's Suite means nearly twice the size and extras like a large outdoor patio and dining room. 

The beach behind the hotel is a wide band of fine white sand, though, due to the area's frequent influx of seaweed, it can be hit or miss. Sturdy plastic loungers under straw umbrellas are set up in only a few rows at the top of the beach, giving the space a more relaxing atmosphere than resorts who have crowded their beachfront with loungers. Unfortunately, some guests have complained of not being able to find an open lounger. Drink service is available from the Sand Bar beach bar. A lifeguard is on duty during daytime hours. 

The Now brand has an “Unlimited Luxury” no-wristband, all-inclusive plan. Rates cover all buffet meals, a la carte restaurants, domestic and international top-shelf liquor and house wines at five bars (including a nightclub), 24-hour room service, and daily refills of in-room minibars. Expect free Wi-Fi throughout, plus free calls to the U.S. and Canada when placed through the resort’s app. Guests can also eat dinner at any sister properties in the Now and Dream families (except Dreams Playa Mujeres), thanks to the free Sip, Savor and See program, though transportation is not included. All taxes and tips are included. 

Preferred Club guests have extra perks, from private check-in service and an extra dining option for breakfast to one hour of hydrotherapy per day and minibar upgrades that include candy and mini bottles of liquor. Preferred guests also receive premium liquor brands at the Preferred Bar and have an exclusive pool area. 

Guests at Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun can dine at five a la carte restaurants serving up either Mediterranean, Asian, French, Mexican, or grilled specialties. Overall, the food here receives good reviews, and the French restaurant is a guest favorite. Breakfast is available at the main buffet, with two additional options for a la carte restaurants for Preferred Guests, while lunch options expand to include the Barefoot Grille poolside snack bar and the Bluewater Grille. Pastries, sandwiches, and other coffee shop-style snacks can be found from early until late at the Coco Cafe. Room service is available 24/7, and guests with dietary restrictions can expect marked menus in most restaurants and convenient allergen cards. All restaurants have a no-reservations policy, except for the teppanyaki experience. 

Now Sapphire has four decent-sized pools, including pools dedicated to adults, teens, and smaller children. The hotel's main pool is the largest and suitable for families. The bar with swim-up seats keeps it social, a poolside DJ keeps it upbeat, and several cabanas and palapa umbrellas help give respite from the sun. Loungers are contemporary, and the resort also has foam pool mats and built-in tiled loungers resting in shallow water. The adult-only pool is restricted to Preferred-level guests, and features relaxing pop tunes, a bar, stylish wicker loungers with thick cushions, and Bali beds that need to be reserved in advance. Both the kids' and teens' pools are located in their respective club zone areas. 

The hotel's spa is a popular facility at Now Sapphire Riviera, featuring Pevonia products, a beauty salon, and seven treatment rooms. There are also a small hydrotherapy circuit (fee), free temazcal ceremonies, and a steam room and sauna. Ocean views from the gym are a nice plus, in addition to the LifeFitness machines, fresh scent, and chlorophyll water. There are free activity clubs for children, though programming for the Explorer Club (ages 3 to 12) often leans on the younger side. Beepers are given to parents for emergencies, and parents are not allowed to the leave resort. The teen Core Zone has a no-parents area, and features active programming reliant heavily on sports and table games. 

Golf cart shuttle service from the main lobby to guest rooms, free green fees at local golf courses, and laundry service are thoughtful freebies. Upgrades to premium wines, golf cart rental fees, a la carte menu upgrades, and babysitting services cost extra. Other resort features include a sports bar that doubles as a dance club at night, daily activities and nightly entertainment, and a variety of shops off the lobby, selling vacation club memberships, beachwear, and souvenirs. This hotel is a member of the Rainforest Alliance and serves drinks in glass bottles and does not use plastic straws. Turtle release programs are available seasonally.