Best Riviera Maya Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts
Last Updated on May 21, 2024
The Riviera Maya is a gorgeous stretch of Mexico coastline that begins just south of Cancun. It’s one of the top Mexico vacation destinations, thanks to its white-sand beaches, luxe resorts, and calm turquoise waters. For an effortless and serene retreat, these are the best Riviera Maya adults only all inclusive resorts.
If you want to get away, there’s no better place than Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Whether you want to escape the winter cold, celebrate an anniversary or honeymoon, or find a base for a work-cation, the all-inclusive resorts here promise all the relaxation you need.
Of course, there are adventures to be had too! You can break up your beach time with a day trip to see Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza or Tulum, visit the Xcaret waterpark, and snorkel with turtles in Akumal Bay.
For maximum relaxation, exploration, and libations, these are the best all-inclusive adults only resorts in the Riviera Maya. If you decide you might like to stay closer to Cancun, be sure to check out my guide to Cancun all-inclusive resorts too.
I independently evaluate all of my recommendations. I might receive compensation for any links you click on my site. Learn more.
In this Guide to the Best Riviera Maya Adults Only All Inclusive Resorts
Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya | El Dorado Maroma | Paradisus La Perla | Barcelo Maya Riviera | TRS Yucatan | Secrets Maroma Beach | Royal Hideaway Playacar | Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique | Iberostar Grand Paraiso | UNICO 20°N 87°W | Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya | Bonus Riviera Maya Picks | What To Expect
Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya $$ | Guest Favorite Riviera Maya All-Inclusive
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
5-star resort
The 5-star all-inclusive Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya is located a short 25 minutes from Cancun International Airport. Set amid lavish gardens on a half-mile-long stretch of white sand beach named Playa Del Secreto (The Secret Beach, although Playa Del Secreto sounds waaaay fancier), this award-winning resort boasts one of the largest swimming pools in Mexico. It features multiple bars, a lazy river with swim-up access in upgraded rooms, and a full-service spa.
All-Inclusive Amenities at Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya
The hotel offers eight restaurants, including Mexican, French, Japanese, and Italian a la carte options, and 11 bars with top shelf liquor and 24-hour room service included.
Rooms are geared toward couples and most have a king-size bed with the exception of a few suites that offer two double beds. All rooms have balconies or patios.
Other amenities include coffee/tea facilities, flat-screen TVs, iPhone docks, bathrobe and slippers, electronic safes, and minibars stocked with water, soda, juice, and beer.
Valentin Imperial is a guest favorite because of its excellent pools, truly gorgeous stretch of beach, and beautiful grounds.
Escape in luxury at Valentin Imperial with:
- Three pools, eight restaurants, and 11 bars including two swim-up plus beachside service
- A fitness center and spa offering facials, massages and luxury treatments
- Nightly shows, live music, poolside games, and a theater for live shows
- I just have to mention the gorgeous, enormous pool again
Valentin Imperial is perfect for: pool and beach lovers, friends’ getaways, and couples who want to be spoiled for choice with amenities.
El Dorado Maroma $$$ | Luxe Suites, Overwater Bungalows, and Top Ratings
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
5-star, AAA Four Diamond Resort
El Dorado Maroma is an intimate resort – only 157 suites. It’s located on the renowned Maroma Beach, considered to be one of the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world.
An exclusive Gourmet Inclusive experience is standard here: cuisine created by top chefs, gourmet services and amenities such as beach butlers, full concierge service, turn-down, 24-hour room service and premium beverages.
All suites offer lush garden views and a comfortable oversized terrace with an outdoor bed. Swim-up suites, private pool suites, and honeymoon villas are some of the most luxurious room options. For the ultimate indulgence, a 5-bedroom villa is available, or treat yourself with one of the overwater bungalow rooms.
All-Inclusive Dining and Amenities at El Dorado Maroma
Five restaurants are available featuring local and international menus including Asian, Italian, Caribbean, and authentic Mexican flavors. Four bars ensure you’re never without tasty libations in hand, including two swim-up bars, plus beach and pool butler service. 24-hour room offers an a la carte menu delivered in gourmet baskets any time of the day or night.
Amenities feature three sparkling swimming pools, non-motorized water sports, Spanish lessons, yoga, aqua aerobics, Latin dance lessons, cooking classes, fitness center and more.
Special nightly entertainment includes karaoke, live music and shows. The onsite Naay spa blends traditional Mayan healing methods with modern beauty and relaxation techniques.
Pamper yourself with a getaway at El Dorado Maroma for:
- Nightly turndown service, full-service concierge
- All gourmet meals complemented by a variety of house wines
- Welcome glass of sparkling wine and unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from a selection of domestic and international premium brands
- Daily restocked mini bar with soft drinks, water and beer
- Special Wedding, Honeymoon and Anniversary packages available with two beachfront wedding venues
- Overwater bungalow rooms available
- Named the 4th best resort in the world by Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards
El Dorado Maroma is perfect for: travelers seeking relaxation, personalized service, and a romantic setting, with many added inclusions. Their overwater bungalows are a top pick for honeymoons and anniversaries.
Paradisus La Perla Playa del Carmen $$ | Traveler Favorite with Gourmet Cuisine
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 | Awards: 2023 Traveler’s Choice
Forbes “Recommended” Rating
5-star resort
A paradise awaits you at Paradisus La Perla in Playa del Carmen! This 5-star luxury resort in Mexico is the adults-only section of the top-rated Paradisus Playa del Carmen.
All-Inclusive Amenities at Paradisus La Perla
Enjoy international cuisine in 8 restaurants and 6 bars exclusively for adults, plus 11 restaurants and 8 bars where everyone is welcome, 5 of which have won the Wine Spectator Award for Excellence.
The resort also features 9 pools including two heated infinity pools that offer stunning views of both the sunrise and sunset.
Whether you’re seeking a honeymoon escape or just looking to get away from it all, Paradisus Playa del Carmen fits the bill.
Indulge yourself at Paradisus La Perla with:
- Gorgeous suites, some with kitchenettes, pool access, and ocean views
- Spectacular outdoor pools with a swim-up bar
- White sand beach has sun loungers, Bali-style beds, umbrellas, and water sports
- Access to 14 restaurants and 11 bars, including buffet and gourmet options and room service
- Did I already mention the swim-up bar?
Paradisus La Perla is perfect for: foodies, honeymoons, babymoons, special anniversaries, and romantic escapes. Plus it also works for mixed groups: if you’re traveling with family or friends with kids, they can stay next door at La Perla’s sister resort, the Paradisus Playa del Carmen.
Barcelo Maya Riviera $$ | Modern Resort With Exchange Privileges Within the Barcelo Complex
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
5-star, AAA Four Diamond Resort
The polished, modern Barcelo Maya Riviera overlooks spectacular sandy beaches and a turquoise sea, in a stunning secluded location. It receives top reviews for its gorgeous pools, large modern rooms, quality of food, and privileges at other nearby Barcelo resorts.
The resort is large, with a total of 850 rooms, and even the standard rooms have a terrace with an outdoor hydromassage tub. Swim up suites are available, all with exclusive pool access, sun terrace, and spectacular views.
All-Inclusive Dining and Amenities at Barcelo Riviera Maya
Premium level suites come along with personalized check in, concierge, rooms with the best views, upgraded amenities and bath toiletries, VIP minibar, and priority reservations for restaurants.
A wide array of flavors can be found at the included buffet and specialty restaurants, including Japanese-Peruvian fusion, Italian, French, and authentic Mexican.
Two pool bars and a music bar offer up tropical cocktails, along with a third bar with a live DJ and music.
Barcelo Maya Riviera boasts the largest infinity pool in the Riviera Maya. With access to the other Barcelo resorts, a total of 8 pools will be at your disposal.
Other amenities include water sport activities, scuba diving lessons, a shopping center, bowling alley, 24-hour sports bar, 3 theaters, and a nightclub. The onsite spa offers exclusive facilities: saunas, steam baths, tropical showers, and immersion pools.
Book your escape at Barcelo Maya Riviera for:
- An impressive beach: nearly 2km of white sand beach and turquoise blue sea
- More than 500 rooms with sea views
- The largest infinity pool in the Riviera Maya (sooo much room to pose for selfies)
- Free access to the services and facilities of the other hotels in the complex
Barcelo Maya Riviera is perfect for: friends and couples who want a quiet, relaxed getaway. Also great for mixed family groups – parents with kids can stay at adjoining Barcelo Maya Palace or Maya Caribe.
TRS Yucatan $$ | Top Pick for Value, Service, and Amenities
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 | Awards: 2023 Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best
Forbes “Recommended” Rating
5-star, AAA Four Diamond Resort
TRS Yucatan Hotel is an adults-only all-inclusive escape located 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen. Luxurious suites, a private beach club, stunning sea views, and rave reviews for service make it a 5-star escape perfect for your next vacation.
Standard suites are spacious and modern with sofas, hydromassage tubs, and small terraces, as well as turn-down and butler service. Upgraded options include terrace jacuzzis, private pools, romantic bungalows, and an Ambassador suite with panoramic ocean views.
All-Inclusive Dining and Amenities at TRS Yucatan
Six a la carte restaurants serve a variety of cuisines from Italy, Mexico, and Brazil plus a steakhouse for you carnivores out there. Six beach and pool bars mean that cocktails, beer, and snacks are only steps away.
Premium VIP beach area with loungers and waiter service. 3 private pools with built-in jacuzzi and waiter services, including an infinity pool with sea views. Other amenities include yoga and aerobics, luxury spa and wellness center, as well as kayaking and diving.
Spoil yourself at TRS Yucatan Hotel with:
- Attentive, personalized service that goes above and beyond
- VIP area on the beach and 3 pools with loungers and waiter service
- A wide range of activities: yoga, aerobics, kayaking, windsurfing
- Privileges at nearby Grand Palladium resort, just a short golf cart ride away
- Make dinner reservations easily via smartphone – this is a guest favorite feature!
- Reservations directly through the resort include airport arrival transfer
TRS Yucatan is perfect for: travelers who want a wide variety of excellent restaurant options, personalized service, and standard butler service. TRS is a resort where guests plan return visits.
El Dorado Casitas Royale $$$ | Honeymoon Favorite All-Inclusive in the Riviera Maya
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 | Awards: 2023 Traveler’s Choice
5-star, AAA Four Diamond Resort
El Dorado Casitas Royale is a top pick for couples, honeymooners, and wedding parties. Located on a secluded beach, the resort offers indulgences from gourmet cuisine, to swim-up suites, to a lavish spa and concierge service.
There are only 205 suites here, making it an intimate setting for couples. All are Casitas suites, with thatched roofs, indoor hot tubs, ocean views and romantic “Aguas de Amor” open air showers. Swim up and private pool suites are also available, but the standard rooms are pretty luxe.
All-Inclusive Dining at El Dorado Casitas Royale
14 restaurants serve up an array of gourmet cuisine in lavish settings and displays. A once-daily seating of culinary theater “iron chef style” is a must-experience.
18 bars, including swim up bars in the different Casitas sections, offer ambience and tasty libations at every turn. 24 hour room service is included.
Indulge in luxury at El Dorado Casitas Royale with:
- All Gourmet meals and specialty bites, alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages from a selection of domestic and international premium brands; minibar with beer, water, soft drinks stocked once a day
- Daily and nightly activity program with live music and shows; cooking classes, dancing lessons and Spanish lessons
- Fitness center, spa, non-motorized water sports: kayak and snorkeling gear, plus scuba clinics in the pool
- Two onsite spas offering traditional and alternative spa therapies
- Wedding packages available
El Dorado Casitas Royale is perfect for: honeymoons, babymoons, anniversaries, and couples looking for a thoroughly indulgent escape.
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun $$$ | Best Pick for Couples and Beach
TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 | Awards: 2023 Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best
5-star, AAA Five Diamond Resort
Luxury and tranquility await at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun! This 5-star resort is tucked away on secluded Maroma Beach, voted the World’s Best Beach by the Travel Channel four years in a row. Spoil yourself at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun with their commitment to “unlimited luxury.”
The resort itself is a quiet oasis, with well-manicured sprawling grounds, tranquil white sand beaches, and turquoise waters. Lounge in two outdoor pools and whirlpools.
All-Inclusive Amenities at Secrets Maroma Beach
Dine at six a la carte gourmet restaurants, with reservations never required. Or sneak away for a romantic meal on the beach. Even a late-night nosh sesh is included with 24-hour room service!
The luxurious, elegant suites at Secrets Maroma Beach feature a king-size bed (or two double beds), private terrace or balcony, in-suite hydrotub for two, and complimentary mini-bar.
Get pampered at the 13,000 square foot Secrets Spa by Pevonia with its hydrotherapy and indigenous treatments. For the ultimate luxury experience, book a swim-out suite or upgrade to the Preferred Club for access to special amenities.
Find your bliss at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun with:
- Two spectacular pools and swim-out suites available
- Six restaurants, 24-hour room service, and top shelf liquors
- Live music, dancing and entertainment in their open-air theater
- Snorkeling, beach activities, yoga, tennis, and complimentary greens fees for two
- Recognized as “The Best of the Best” by Tripadvisor for 2023: #21 Best Hotel in the World, #8 Best All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico, Best Romance in Mexico
Secrets Maroma Beach is perfect for: travelers who want to stay on the best Riviera Maya beach, plus golf lovers, travelers looking for swim out suites, and luxurious romantic escapes.
Royal Hideaway Playacar $$ | Classy All-Inclusive Close to Playa del Carmen
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 | Awards: 2023 Traveler’s Choice
5-star, AAA Four Diamond Resort
The Royal Hideaway Playacar is located on the white sands of an idyllic beach on the Riviera Maya and offers an all inclusive, adults-only experience close to Playa del Carmen. 201 rooms provide a luxury stay within lush gardens.
Most rooms accommodate 2-3 guests, but the Royal Casita has space for up to 5, making it perfect for family or friends gatherings. Rooms feature cool white linens, mahogany furnishings, and a hacienda style.
Amenities at Royal Hideaway Playacar
The hotel boasts 6 swimming pools, including 3 an infinity pool with a waterfall. The resort’s stellar beach has views to the island of Cozumel. What a perfect place to relax and unwind!
The Royal Hideaway Playacar also features 6 restaurants serving international cuisine with a la carte options.
Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel Riviera Maya $$ | Quiet, Luxe Resort in a Natural Setting
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5
5-star, AAA Four Diamond Resort
Just 10 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, the 5-star Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel is an exclusive hideaway set in 36 acres of lush tropical jungle and beautiful sandy beaches.
There are only 128 suites here, each with a spacious balcony or terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows. The standard Junior Suites offer one king or two doubles plus living space and patio with an outdoor tub.
Room Types and Amenities at Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique
Palafitos Junior Suites are overwater bungalows suspended over the lagoon, while patio suites offer a private pool and double rain showers. The Beachfront Presidential Suite has 3 bedrooms, living space, a kitchenette, and direct beach access.
The resort has two hotels with beach views, a fitness center, and a serene spa with steam room and sauna. Several restaurants are on offer, serving everything from tapas to upscale fusion cuisine. Room service is available for an extra charge.
Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel Riviera Maya is perfect for: guests looking for a luxurious, intimate escape with attentive service, who don’t mind the sprawling property or lack of nighttime entertainment.
🌴 Check rates: Blue Bay | Expedia | Booking 🌴
Pro tip: Register as a My BlueBay member and book direct through the resort for extra perks.
Iberostar Grand Paraiso $$ | Over-the-Top Luxury Setting and Amenities
TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0
5-star, AAA Four Diamond Resort
The Iberostar Grand Paraiso is an adults-only Riviera Maya all inclusive with elegance on a grand scale. Located about 25 minutes from Cancun, it’s an oasis of calm within the larger Iberostar resort complex. Their “Aliveness” concept is designed to help you rediscover yourself, while butler service allows for a totally tailored experience.
Rooms are large and luxurious with a separate seating area and a private balcony or patio. Villas with a private pool and Presidential Suites are the choicest room offerings.
All-Inclusive Dining and Amenities at Iberostar Grand Paraiso
Butler service is standard: from helping to unpack your luggage, customizing your aromatherapy essence, minibar service, and even drawing a bubble bath.
Three swimming pools are at your disposal, with a saltwater infinity pool, whirlpool baths, and pool bars. Take in a round of golf at the Playa Paraiso Golf Club course designed by architect P.B. Dye. The spa offerings include Turkish and Roman baths as well as personalized spa treatments.
Activities encompass a fitness center, daily yoga and other classes, tennis and watersports – the first hour of kayaking, catamaran sailing, snorkeling or windsurfing for free.
Local and international food options are available at 5 themed a la carte restaurants and 2 buffets – everything from surf and turf, teppanyaki and sushi, to Mexican and haute cuisine. Plus, access all the restaurants in the adjoining Iberostar complex.
Book your luxury escape at Iberostar Grand Paraiso for:
- Exclusive setting on the white-sand Playa Paraiso
- Personal butler and concierge service, plus 24-hour room service
- Three pools: one saltwater with a swim-up bar, and one with quiet cabanas
- Six restaurants and six bars, including a Cuban cigar bar
- Privileges at the Playa Paraiso Golf Club, free for guests meeting the stay requirement
Iberostar Grand Paraiso is perfect for: travelers who want an over-the-top setting and personalized service for their stay.
🌴 Check rates: Iberostar | Expedia | Booking 🌴
UNICO 20°N 87°W Hotel Riviera Maya | Immersive Cultural Experience in a Stylish Setting
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 | Awards: 2023 Traveler’s Choice
5-star, AAA Five Diamond Resort
The 5-star all-inclusive UNICO 20°N 87°W seeks to immerse guests in regional culture, from locally-inspired cocktails and cuisines to guestroom art and unique day trips.
The hotel has a sense of relaxed luxury, while exciting pop-up events add adventure and spontaneity. Their holistic spa and wellness center offers an immersive experience with signature spa treatments, a full-service beauty salon & barber shop.
Rooms and Suites at UNICO 20°N 87°W
UNICO features stylish, upscale rooms with four-poster beds, terraces, and high-end amenities. 24-hour room service is standard, as well as an in-room mini bar stocked according to guests’ preference.
Other room amenities include Nespresso machines, flat-screen TVs, JBL Bluetooth sound systems, robe and slippers, and pillow menus with aromatherapy options.
Room types range from jungle view rooms to swim-up suites, oceanview and beachfront rooms, and even two-bedroom suites and villas. Rooms with two queen beds are available; maximum occupancy can be up to 6 guests in the 2-bedroom stays.
Amenities at UNICO 20°N 87°W
UNICO offers three pools with poolside and beachside service of snacks and beverages. Unwind at five bars with a devoted mixology program and a lounge featuring live entertainment. UNICO also features five unique restaurants, including Cueva Siete under celebrity chef Xavier Perez Stone.
Land and water sports are included, plus a fitness Center with a visiting instructor program. Stay on resort and participate in daily and nightly activities and events, or have a host help you arrange unique day trips in the region like snorkeling, sailing to Isla Mujeres, and exploring the Tulum ruins.
Escape at UNICO 20°N 87°W Hotel Riviera Maya with:
- Five restaurants, five bars, and 24-hour room service
- Rooms with chic, modern design, including swim up suites
- TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice for 2021
- The hotel has an on-staff Executive Mixologist, who creates cocktails with the use of organic ingredients & local flavors
UNICO is perfect for: travelers who want a unique, immersive experience with the amenities of an all-inclusive; honeymoons, babymoons, romantic getaways, and friends’ or family trips
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya $$$ | Romantic Escape with Sea Turtles
TripAdvisor Rating: 5.0 | Awards: 2023 Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best
5-star, AAA Five Diamond Resort
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is ideally located in the heart of the Riviera Maya along the famed white-sand beaches and calm, clear waters of Akumal. This 5-star Riviera Maya all-inclusive resort features winding walkways, secluded pools and a world-class spa.
Akumal means “place of the turtles” in Mayan, and the bay here is a prime snorkeling location with — you guessed it — sea turtles!
Amenities at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya
This new adults-only resort offers the exclusive Secrets “UnlimitedLuxury” experience with 24-hour room service, daily refreshed mini-bar, limitless gourmet dining and top-shelf spirits, six à la carte restaurants, seven bars and lounges, pool and beach wait service, nightly entertainment and more.
Spend a night out with the Sip, Savor & See dining experience at nearby sister properties or indulge at the Secrets Spa by Pevonia.
Explore the region with day trips to Chichen Itza or Tulum, then head back to relax at your posh accommodations complete with concierge service for all your needs from booking excursions to arranging spa treatments.
Indulge at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya with:
- Infinity Pool, Social Pool & Relaxing Pool plus two outdoor whirlpools
- Six restaurants, 24-hour room service, and top shelf liquors
- Theme nights, live music concerts, and beach parties
- Snorkeling with turtles, bike tours, fitness classes, beach activities, yoga, tennis, and more
- Recognized as “The Best of the Best” by TripAdvisor for 2022
Secrets Akumal is perfect for: sea turtle lovers (so basically everyone), travelers who want to be close to Tulum and ruins day trips, luxury travelers, honeymoons and babymoons
More Riviera Maya Resorts to Consider
If your dates are booked at a first choice above, or if you still haven’t found your perfect resort, consider these unique all-inclusive picks below.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
This #1 rated Riviera Maya all-inclusive sets a new standard for luxury with their Grand Class section for romantic escapes. Expedia | Booking
Heaven at Hard Rock Hotel
The adults-only section of the all-inclusive Hard Rock Riviera Maya Hotel promises you’ll be treated like a rock star for your vacay. Expedia | Booking
Hotel Xcaret Arte
This adults-only resort pays homage to the art, culture, and gastronomy of Mexico, and its “All Fun Inclusive” concept includes theme parks! Direct | Expedia
Desire Resorts Riviera Maya
Seeking a more hedonistic escape? These all-inclusive, clothing-optional resorts are dedicated to fulfilling your inner fantasies. Direct | Expedia
What to Expect at Adults Only All Inclusive Mexico Resorts
Mexico is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of North America, which makes it the perfect setting for luxury resorts. In addition to posh accommodations, you’ll find first-class restaurants, relaxing spas, sparkling pools, and soft sands.
So while there are a lot of locations in the Caribbean with all-inclusive options, Mexico is one of the best because of its easy flight connections and great value for your money. There are some amazing deals right now in particular, while not everyone is able to travel!I
Adults Only: What It Means
Some Mexico adults-only resorts are more couples-oriented: expect to see a lot of couples here for honeymoons, babymoons, and romantic escapes. At other resorts, you’ll also see groups traveling together for friends’ vacays, bachelorette parties, and girl gang getaways.
Generally “adults-only” means everyone 18+, although a few resorts allow older kids starting at age 16 or slightly younger. Still, they’re not likely to disturb your beach bliss.
What Amenities Are Included at Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resorts
All-inclusive resorts are generally a “as much or as little as you like” scenario. All meals, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and 24-hour room service are generally standard.
Mexico all-inclusive resorts are home to stunning pools, private beachfronts, lounge chairs, and chairside service. Lounge beds (or “Bali beds”) might incur an additional charge, or be available based on your room category.
Hotels offer fitness centers, and generally non-motorized water sports and entertainment are included.
What’s Not Included
Some resorts might offer premium-level upgrades with an exclusive pool, lounge, or beachfront area. Greens fees at nearby golf courses and spa services, as well as non-motorized water sports and off-resort tours, are generally not included.
Tipping: Should You Do It?
While most all-inclusive resorts say that tips are included, individual tips are usually welcome. Many guests of all-inclusive resorts find that they get more personalized attention and faster service if they tip a few dollars to bartenders, waiters, poolside servers, etc. I’d say a safe budget for tipping would be around $15 – $25/day on-resort depending on your own comfort, the resort, and individual service.
A general guide would be tipping a shuttle driver about $5 (especially if you have bags), $1-2 per drink order for bartenders and poolside servers, $2-5 for room cleaning, and $5-10 for meals (less if it’s a buffet). If you’re ordering drinks by the pool or at the bar with a plan to stay a while, you might consider starting with a larger tip and then adding on another after a few rounds of drinks.
If you book spa services or off-resort tours, I’d use around 10-15% of the cost as a guide.
Should You Tip In Pesos or USD?
At resorts in Mexico, many travelers opt to tip in US dollars (USD). If you do too, be sure to bring crisp $1 or $5 bills; torn or worn bills and American coins will be difficult or impossible for resort employees to exchange.
Or exchange USD at the hotel front desk for small Mexican bills. $20MXN or $50MXN (Mexican pesos) are the equivalent of about $1 and $3 in US currency. Note that Mexican pesos are also denoted with a $ sign which can be confusing. You might also encounter coins in denominations ranging from 20 to 1 peso.
If off-resort, you might find that you can use USD at local businesses but at a poor exchange rate! I recommend bringing as many small US bills as you think you’ll need on-resort, and then exchanging for pesos or withdrawing additional cash from an ATM for off-resort use.
Some travelers choose to order foreign currency from their bank before departure for convenience and because you can usually select denominations.
Ready to Book One of These Riviera Maya Adults Only All Inclusive Resorts?
Save this article so you have my updated tips when you’re ready for an all-inclusive beach break! And be sure to grab my tips on what to pack for Mexico!
