Which Adults-Only Hotel in Mexico Reigns Supreme Over the Past 2 Years?

In our travel adventures, we've had the pleasure of experiencing various adults-only hotels across Mexico. Our journey began at Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka'an Hotel in June 2022, where we indulged in a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Later that year, in December 2022, we ventured to the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya for a memorable 7-day stay filled with luxury and lots of beach volleyball. Most recently, we had the pleasure of staying at Live Aqua Cancun at the end of February 2024, where we enjoyed a blissful 10-day escape. Each hotel offered its own unique charm and amenities, contributing to unforgettable experiences that we cherish.

Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka'an Hotel

At Sian Ka'an, we embarked on a journey that began with an hour and a half long ride to reach the hotel.

One tip we learned is to inform the hotel in advance if you're celebrating a special occasion or have any allergies or intolerances - it can make a big difference in your experience.

Nestled amidst nature, Sian Ka'an stood apart from other Bahia Principe Resorts like Grand Tulum, Akumal, or Coba. Although we were further from the beach, a convenient trolley ride ensured we could still enjoy everything Bahia Principe had to offer.

While we did venture to meet friends at Akumal and soak up the sun on the beach a couple of times, we found ourselves preferring the tranquility of our own hotel.

The culinary offerings at Sian Ka'an were exceptional, catering to dietary needs with ease - we had no trouble finding delicious gluten-free and dairy-free options. As for entertainment, the atmosphere was laid-back, with ping pong tournaments near the pool and volleyball in another smaller pool nearby. For added convenience, guests could even download the app to easily book dinner reservations.

Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya

Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya quickly became my favorite among the three adult-only resorts we visited. Upon arrival, the resort's warm hospitality immediately set the tone for a memorable stay. We were welcomed with open arms, seated comfortably on plush couches, and checked in at our own pace. As a Montreal native, I was initially hesitant to miss Christmas at home with family, but the timing couldn't have been more perfect to experience the resort adorned with beautiful holiday decorations - it felt like stepping into a postcard scene.

Entering our spacious room, we were greeted with a generous bowl of fresh fruits, a luxurious hydromassage tub, and a charming bed decoration. The resort itself is expansive, encouraging leisurely strolls everywhere you go, although a bit more planning may be required compared to Live Aqua Cancun. The beach was a highlight, with plenty of loungers adorned with palapas for shade. I found myself drawn to the fantastic volleyball court, spending countless hours enjoying the game.

While there were occasional waits for dinner, the restaurants were incredibly accommodating to our dietary intolerances, ensuring delightful gluten-free and dairy-free options. One memorable evening, we met a charming couple celebrating the husband's birthday - the playful napkin hat they placed on his head brought laughter to all.

Evenings were filled with entertainment, including live bands and ample space for dancing. Despite the resort's size, the 40-minute ride from the airport left us feeling refreshed rather than exhausted upon arrival. Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya truly exceeded our expectations, leaving us with cherished memories and a longing to return.

Live Aqua Cancun

Live Aqua Cancun provided a different experience compared to the other resorts we visited, with more of a hotel feel and a convenient location just 20 minutes away from the airport. Initially, I had mixed feelings about the resort, especially considering the price we paid. Everything felt relatively close, and while there were plenty of gluten-free and dairy-free options available, we couldn't help but feel a bit disappointed.

However, as the week progressed, we began to appreciate certain aspects of the hotel more and more. Our typical day usually started around 9 am, deciding whether to have breakfast before heading to the beach to secure loungers - a task that proved challenging and frustrating due to the limited chairs and shaded options.

Despite the proximity of the beach and infinity pool, restaurant reservations were a hassle, with small-sized venues leading to long wait times, especially during peak hours. It was disheartening to spend a significant amount of money only to find ourselves constantly waiting in line or checking in.

While the on-site bar offered some entertainment, such as the enjoyable silent disco night, we often found the festivities ending too early. To inject more excitement into our evenings, we ventured to Coco Bongo Cancun via the inexpensive bus ride to downtown. It turned out to be the highlight of our trip, with a vibrant atmosphere, dancing, and laughter - despite the steep price, the experience was well worth it.

Exploring options outside the resort, we discovered a shopping mall nearby and even stumbled upon a picturesque sunset spot. For those keen on photography, the beach boasts a set of wings, adding a playful touch to vacation snapshots.

In hindsight, Live Aqua Cancun can be a pleasant choice for those willing to invest in cabana reservations, pre-booked restaurant slots, and who aren't reliant on nightly entertainment. While it may not cater to everyone's preferences, with some adjustments and exploration beyond the resort's boundaries, it can offer a satisfying stay.