One of Mexico’s best beach resorts, the Viceroy Riviera Maya near Playa del Carmen boasts a Aaa Overall Beach Resort Rating and caters well to couples with a beautiful jungle setting and impeccable, first-class service; upon check-in, guests are greeted with tea, cool towels, and a copal-smoke blessing from a Mayan shaman. Families are welcome, but children under 14 are not allowed. The resident spider monkeys and mosquitoes may not be for everyone (bug spray is provided) and on-site dining variety is below average (there are just two options); but the property offers a beautiful white-sand beach, an outstanding swimming pool area with plenty of palm trees and a natural vibe, a spa with unique Mayan-inspired treatments such as chocolate and mud massages and Temazcal ceremonies, Friday night beach BBQs, and exceptional restaurants such as La Marea. All accommodations are romantic villas, with luxurious features such as heated plunge pools, outdoor rain showers, king-size beds with Egyptian cotton bedding, Italian linen bathrobes and slippers, Bose radios, homemade soaps, and Roil and Natura Bisse bath amenities; some also have ocean views and deep soaking tubs. The second-to-none Beachfront Villas have all of the above and more, with butler service and postcard-worthy plunge pools overlooking the sea. Activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, a variety of yoga classes by the sea (Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Chakra styles, plus private classes), great tequila tastings, and candlelit dinners on the beach.
Departure COVID-19 antigen tests are available free of charge for up to two guests per room (minimum three-night stay required). Additional tests cost $35 USD per test. In the event of a positive test, guests can extend their stay at a discounted rate.