A personal note: When I made the decision to visit Andaz Mayakoba, apprehension overwhelmed me. It marked my first international journey following a broken ankle I had suffered the previous year. Despite undergoing two surgeries and enduring numerous hours of physical therapy, mentally preparing for a stay at a vast resort proved challenging. The uncertainty of navigating the premises, ascending stairs, or traversing the sandy beach heightened my anxiety. However, as soon as I arrived, all my fears vanished. The staff exhibited remarkable attentiveness by assigning me a room that required no stair climbing. Moreover, the resort offered 24/7 golf cart service to conveniently transport guests, and the drivers were exceptionally enjoyable!

Travel with me and read why Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya – a Concept by Hyatt is on this year’s must travel to list!

Nestled along the stunning Riviera Maya coastline, the Andaz Mayakoba Resort stands as a gateway to tropical paradise. With its breathtaking natural beauty, impeccable service, and commitment to sustainability, this concept by Hyatt offers a truly unforgettable experience for travelers seeking an escape from the ordinary.

Upon arrival, the guests are greeted by the warm smiles of the staff, setting the tone for a relaxing and remarkable stay. The resort boasts 214 rooms, ranging from beachfront suites to charming standard rooms. For those seeking a more tranquil retreat, the spacious standard rooms facing the resort’s lagoon provide an idyllic setting. As you step into the room, the panoramic views of the lagoon unfold, inviting you to unwind and soak in the serenity of your surroundings. (I highly suggest ordering room service for breakfast to enjoy on your private terrace). The rooms are tastefully designed with a contemporary aesthetic, incorporating subtle elements of Mexican craftsmanship and art, creating a harmonious blend of comfort and style. The thoughtful amenities such as plush bedding and modern technology, ensure a truly comfortable stay.

I must emphasize that the most impressive feature in this case is undoubtedly the air conditioning system of the room! Coming from Houston, where the coldest setting of the a/c is never sufficient, I was surprised to find myself turning off the a/c several times. Additionally, you know that uncomfortable dampness one typically experiences inside the room at a beach resort? Well, I’m not sure what those brilliant engineers did, but that was not the case here. Every time I returned from my daily activities and excursions, I entered a clean, fresh, (and chilly) room that was truly delightful.

Guests are offered an array of convenient transportation options to effortlessly navigate the expansive and picturesque property. For those seeking an active and eco-friendly way to explore, you can walk – but also, the resort offers stylish bicycles that allow guests to pedal their way through lush pathways and winding trails, soaking in the serene beauty of the surrounding nature. Alternatively, for a leisurely and relaxed mode of transportation, guests can hop on one of the many golf carts provided by the resort (the drivers are so much fun!). These nimble and comfy carts offer a convenient way to traverse the resort, allowing guests to reach their desired destination while enjoying the refreshing breeze and scenic vistas. (Also, the drivers will stop for those must-have photo opportunities).

As you navigate the resort, you will notice the impressive collection of vibrant and captivating murals that add a touch of artistic flair to the surroundings. These stunning murals, created by talented local and international artists, showcase a diverse range of styles and themes. From bold abstract designs to intricate nature-inspired motifs, each mural tells a unique story and invites guests to immerse themselves in a world of creativity and imagination. The captivating presence of these murals adds an extra layer of beauty and cultural richness to the Andaz Mayakoba experience.

During my stay at Mayakoba, I had the delightful opportunity to meet Mexican artist Alonso Delgadillo, who was specially commissioned to create a captivating mural for the resort. His incredible work can be admired on Instagram, where he shares his artistic journey under the handle @alonsodelgadillo. It was truly a privilege to witness his talent firsthand and experience the beauty he brought to Andaz Mayakoba through his artistic vision.

As your step outside the resort, you are greeted by the captivating beauty of the Riviera Maya. The Andaz Mayakoba Resort boasts a pristine stretch of beach that beckons sun-seekers and ocean enthusiasts. Sink your toes into the warm sand, relax on one of the many shaded sunbeds, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. For the more adventurous, an array of water sports activities awaits.

The pools at Andaz Mayakoba are a true oasis, inviting guest to unwind and soak up the sun in style. Whether you choose to lounge on a comfortable chaise lounge chair or retreat to a private cabana at the resort’s lagoon pool area, the serene ambiance combined with the vibrant greenery and tropical landscape creates a sense of tranquility that is hard to match. For those who crave the mesmerizing sights of the Caribbean Sea, the oceanfront pool also offers breathtaking views. While the beachside pool area may be slightly more crowded and popular among families with children, the arrangement of lounging areas is adequately spaced out to ensure a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere for all guests. Additionally, the pool area boasts Tinta de Pulpo, a restaurant that serves fresh, mouth-watering ceviches and invigorating cocktails. Furthermore, there is a dedicated Vegan bar available, offering a delectable range of healthy juices and smoothies.

For the nature lovers, Mayakoba offers a distinctive eco-boat cruise experience, allowing guests to explore the picturesque lagoons and waterways of Mayakoba. The complimentary cruise, though requiring advance reservations, provides an excellent opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of the expansive Mayakoba community. As you guide along, you’ll pass by the stunning resorts, private villas, and the renowned golf course, getting a glimpse of the community’s grandeur. Moreover, the Mayakoba community surprises visitors with its vastness, and during this tour, you’re likely to encounter a variety of local wildlife, including diverse bird species, turtles, and perhaps spot a crocodile or two!

Now let’s talk spa! Immerse yourself into a luxurious retreat that offers pure relaxation and rejuvenation. From the moment you step into the serene and tranquil spa environment, you are enveloped in a world of tranquility and indulgence. Highly skilled therapists and practitioners provide a range of exquisite treatments, tailored to meet individual needs and preferences. Whether it’s a soothing massage, invigorating body scrub, or a blissful facial, each treatment is meticulously designed to restore balance, promote wellness, and enhance your overall sense of well-being. The spa facilities include complete private casitas with private shower rooms, further enhancing your journey, allowing you to completely unwind. With its serene ambiance, the spa at Andaz Mayakoba promises a transformative experience for the mind, body, and soul.

Beyond the luxurious amenities and stunning landscapes, Andaz Mayakoba sets itself apart through its commitment to sustainability. The resort strives to minimize its environmental footprint while enhancing the guest experience. From the moment you arrive, you will notice the eco-friendly practices integrated into the resort’s day-to-day operations. The resort’s restaurants prioritize locally sourced, organic ingredients, supporting the local community and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Additionally, the resort is committed to preserving and protecting the precious coral reefs that surround its location. Through collaboration with local environmental organizations and experts, Andaz Mayakoba actively participates in coral restoration projects, focusing on replanting and nurturing coral fragments to rejuvenate damaged areas. By the end of your stay, you will not only have experienced the tranquility and luxury of the resort, but also gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of sustainable travel.

In the realm of culinary delights, Andaz Mayakoba takes gastronomic experiences to new heights. The resort is home to a collection of exceptional restaurants, each offering a unique culinary journey. Cocina Milagro, the resort’s poolside pavilion restaurant, tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant flavors and locally inspired dishes. The skillful chefs fuse traditional Mexican cuisine with innovative techniques, creating a symphony of flavors that leave a lasting impression. (My favorites were the Tika Masala Chicken and the Rice Noodles Salad).

For those seeking a more intimate dining experience, Sotavento is a hidden gem nestled on the beachfront. Here, guests can savor exquisite dishes while relishing the gentle sea breeze and the rhythmic sound of the waves. Prepared with the freshest ingredients and complemented by an extensive selection of wines, the menu showcases a tantalizing array of dishes crafted with locally sources ingredients. Each dish is a work of art that showcases the culinary prowess of the talented chefs. Indulging in a candlelit dinner at Sotavento under the starry night sky is an experience that will stir your senses and created cherished memories.

Important to note: when considering Mexico, it’s important to go beyond the stereotype of tequila and explore its diverse culinary offerings. Surprisingly, Mexico boasts one of the oldest wineries in North America! (I learned this important fact while at Mayakoba). Also, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Chefs Miguel Torres, Javier Aguirre, and Oscar Torres for creating a culinary experience that will forever be etched in my memory. Their exceptional skills, creativity, and dedication to their craft elevated each dish and wine pairing to new heights. The flavors, presentation, and attention to detail showcased their culinary expertise and passion. I am truly grateful for the unforgettable gastronomic journey they provided me, and I commend them for their outstanding contributions to the Mexican culinary world.

As your journey at Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya draws to a close, you will find it difficult to say goodbye to the breathtaking landscapes, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality that have captured your senses. The memories of your time spent in this tropical paradise, where comfort and sustainability go hand in hand, will stay with you, calling you back to experience it all over again. Andaz Mayakoba is more than just a destination: it’s an invitation to discover the beauty of nature and indulge in the pleasures of life.