The most modern and upscale of the five sections of the Barcelo Maya resort complex in Puerto Aventuras, on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the Barcelo Maya Palace caters well to both couples and families; its Overall Beach Resort Rating is A2, three notches above the less expensive Beach and Caribe sections of the complex (which are Ba1) and two notches above the Colonial and Tropical sections (which are Baa2); this is mostly due to higher quality rooms and slightly better dining and overall service (although the check-in process here can also be slow, like the other sections). The atmosphere is quieter, though, and more exclusive at the Palace; guests here have access to all five sections of the complex, but the reverse isn’t true. The beach and pool areas are excellent; there are plenty of loungers and palm trees for shade on the beach. Some of the shared facilities, such as the tennis courts, are a little bit of a walk from the Palace section (since it’s north of the other sections), but a shuttle is available to navigate the sprawling grounds. Some of the most unique attributes of the greater resort complex include a mall, a Dolphinarium where guests can swim and interact with dolphins, mini golf, and a water park with slides and a Surf Rider wave pool (with surfing). Other on-site water sports include scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, Hobie Cat sailing, and deep sea fishing.
On-site COVID-19 testing is offered prior to departure, but it isn’t complimentary.