Riviera Maya’s luxurious Mayakoba is a scenic and peaceful destination in a natural setting. Located where Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula meets the turquoise waters and white sand beaches of the Caribbean Sea, the area is an oceanfront paradise teeming with exotic species that live in its dense mangroves and lush lagoons amidst an exotic tropical jungle.
Conceived by architects, biologists and geologists, Mayakoba is a gated, resort development whose aim is to enhance its environment while preserving nature. It is located just a few minutes north of the bustling town of Playa del Carmen, arming guests with plenty of recreational and cultural options and diversions should they tire of relaxing poolside with a frosty beverage, strolling along the endless stretch of white sandy beach, ferrying around the lagoon to visit neighboring properties while exploring wildlife, leisurely biking through the nature trails, or detoxing at the spa. Golfers can also enjoy a round at El Camaleon, the Greg Norman-designed 18-hole course, adventurers will find guided kayak tours on the inland waterways, archery, croquet, tennis, bird watching and hiking along the nature trails.
Situated on 590 lush acres, Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya is the newest addition to the Mayakoba resort collection. Debuting in December of 2016, the property now joins the prestigious hotel groups of Rosewood, Fairmont and Banyan Tree and brings a more modern vibe to the community. From arrival to the time of departure, guests are immersed in a luxe world of detailed personal service and stunning architectural design inspired by the unique history of the region. Architect Ronald Zürcher seamlessly blends Mayan cultural elements throughout the hotel, incorporating them into the property’s design, while interior designers DAS Concept utilized tones of blue, deep green and the colors of the toucan bird for the vibrant public spaces and 214 guest rooms and suites that are housed in 28 buildings.
We were treated to an oceanfront suite that was bathed in sunlight and featured an open layout complete with a sitting area, luxe mini-bar, plasma screen, king-sized bed and a private beachfront terrace. The vibrant decor, decorative tiles and local artwork enhanced the already nature-friendly vibe. All of the guestrooms include a balcony or terrace with a garden, mangrove, lagoon, or ocean view while some of the 41 luxury suites boast private plunge pools.
Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya's four on-site restaurants showcase fresh local ingredients and authentic cuisine. Cocina Milagro serves breakfast and offers a casual, all-day dining buffet, while Casa Amate offers an upscale dinner experience serving Latin American dishes. Olla Taco and Olla Ceviche serve tasty street fare and fresh seafood by the pool.
In addition to four dining venues, three pools and a fitness center, the Andaz Mayakoba offers the luxurious Naum Spa, insuring that pampered guests have no reason to leave their idyllic surroundings. Named after the Mayan God of consciousness and mind, the 10,000-square-foot Naum spa is home to six open and airy treatment cabins and two hydrotherapy areas, offering a complete, customized menu of refreshing and rejuvenating services, many of which incorporate indigenous Mayan methods.
The treatments, which are referred to as Naum Rituals, were developed based on native Mayan traditions which are reflective of the mind, body and spirit. The Naum Rituals were created to pay homage to oneself and the Mayan Gods, and to find harmony based on the guest’s selected area of wellness intention—whether that be Clarity (Tsoolik), Rest (He’lel), Strength (Muuk’) or Connection (Molcintah). Each Ritual is a three-part experience, alluding to the balancing nature of the number three with a beginning, middle and end. The Ritual begins with a Mayan Time of Reflection, followed by the treatment experience itself, and concludes with a Mayan Celebration to help guests balance and reconnect with themselves and the universe. Naum's beauty salon also offers full hair and nail services, including blowouts, waxes, manicures, and pedicures.
The full-service fitness center is equipped with everything a fitness-minded individual could need, with treadmills, elliptical machines, bikes, free weights, and stability balls. If yoga is more your speed, the on-site studio offers complimentary yoga and Pilates classes daily. Or, take your workout outside to walk, jog, or bike on the vast nature trails. Complimentary bicycle rentals are also available and offer a nice way to navigate the enormous property.
