Caribbean Coast Hotels

Guidebooks

Fodor's 2012 Hotel Award Winner

The Viceroy Riviera Maya

The Viceroy Riviera Maya, Punta Bete (Xcalacoco)

At a Glance

    Pros

  • romantic and private
  • great food
  • luxurious villas

    Cons

  • bugs in jungle setting
  • hidden service charges
  • rocky beach
  • no children under 16
  • the welcome Mayan blessing is not for everyone
Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  

Fodor's FindsLowest Price Guarantee

 
Call IconPrefer booking on the phone?
Call us now: 800-559-7314

The Viceroy Riviera Maya Review

Formerly the Tides, Punta Bete's most luxurious jungle-beach resort is still as romantic, private, and exotic as the it ever was. Sumptuous palapa villas with private plunge pools and outdoor "moon bath" showers in their palm-shaded gardens have virtually every imaginable comfort, from silky-soft sheets on great, canopy-draped king beds to artisan soap hand-cut by your butler. The resort makes the most of its setting at the edge of the jungle, greeting guests with a copal-smoke blessing performed by a Maya shaman, but the winding paths through deep greenery and the appearance of the occasional monkey may not be for everyone. (There's bug spray at every corner, and you are advised to use it.) Junglephobes can also, of course, just stick to the pool, out of the woods and steps from the well-equipped beach. Meals at the two restaurants are exceptionally fine, especially at the more formal La Marea.

    Hotel Details

  • 41 villas.
  • Rate includes some meals, no meals, all meals.
Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  
  • Room  
    Décor  
    Service  
    Value  

    Ikal del Mar (aka The Tides) has incredible service

    We just got back from a week at The Tides. (Note to Fodors; please list this hotel under its new name; it is no longer known as Ikal del Mar).

    It was an amazing experience. The short road to the hotel from the main highway is horrible, but once you get there, it is a beautiful oasis.

    The service is simply amazing. The staff will take care of every need or desire you could possibly imagine. You do pay for this, and some items, such as their day trips, were unreasonably priced, but if this is an issue for you, ask in advance to be safe.

    If there are any negatives to report, it would be the lighting in the room. We had heard about this in advance and brought our own flashlights and even then, it was not enough. Also, the food, although very good, tended to be on the salty side so whenever I ordered anything I asked for "no sal". The water was purified, except for the tap water in the rooms, so rest assured you can eat and drink in the restaurant without any concerns.

    All in all, it was a fabulous trip. It was hard to leave The Tides and go back to having to do things for ourselves. We were used to being treated like royalty the entire time we were there. Amazing staff!

    by JoniC, 3/4/09
  • Room  
    Décor  
    Service  
    Value  

    Professionals even through the Hurricane "Dean"

    David & Elisa Fernandez from Monterrey. We returned from Ikal del Mar (now The Tides) yesterday 19-Aug-2007 because of the Hurricane Dean...they helped us with the airline tickets, transportation, etc It was incredible!!! We spend our best Anniversary there, it was sad that we had to leave earlier than expected, but will return as soon as possible...The chef is one of the best in Mexico, the beach barbecue was awesome! The Manager and staff were there with us explaining with maps and computers the lastest news...we will always be greatful for your help!

    by elisa59, 8/20/07

Add your own review

Free Fodor's Newsletter

Subscribe today for weekly travel inspiration, tips, and special offers.

· Browse Caribbean Coast hotels

By Price:

By Location

 Fodor's Trip Planning Ideas

Travel Deals in Caribbean Coast

* Some taxes, fees additional

· Forums Trip Reports

View more trip reports

·

View more travel discussions

· News & Features

View more blog stories