
Fodor's Expert Review Blue Diamond Riviera Maya
Carretera 307, Km 298, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 77710, Mexico See on Map
This is the kind of hotel that make all-inclusive resorts look bad. When you get this level of luxury and personalized service, you never go back to the mass-tourism concept. The privileged location of Blue Diamond has it surrounded by tranquil waterways, a sacred cenote and the gorgeous Caribbean. Add this to a refined taste for luxurious amenities and stunning design, and you get one of the best hotels for adults in the Riviera Maya.
room
All accommodations include terrace or garden, some include private plunge pools, while other enjoy relaxing ocean, lagoon, or cenote views. Décor is modern and minimalist, and suites are fully-equipped with top-notch amenities. There are rooms with gorgeous beachfront wooden decks and a rooftop terraces with infinity pool, while others come with private pier for direct access to the lagoon.
YOU SHOULD KNOW That most rooms don’t enjoy ocean views.
bathroom
The bathrooms are nothing less than delicious mini-Spas. They include 2 separate rainfall showers, deluxe double sinks, walk-in closets, outdoor bathrooms, and some also feature private outdoor bathtub. All come with luxury Bulgari toiletries.
lobby
It might be impossible to find a lobby in the Riviera Maya that’s not under a big palapa. Once said that, I recognize that Blue Diamond’s lobby is different, with a long relaxing fountain, hardwood floor section, and oriental accents.
pool
Blue Diamond Riviera Maya offers three swimming pools with different ambience each. There is a long, narrow pool, with stylish with lounge beds on its side and a small Jacuzzi on one end. A gorgeous beachfront infinity pool with stunning ocean views and separate shaded-Jacuzzi. Finally, a quieter pool in a garden by the Spa area is surrounded by comfy loungers and offers the perfect spot to achieve complete relaxation.
spa
The Spa by Blue Diamond, is an upscale wellness center with sleek facilities and a Zen-like atmosphere. Besides the outdoor pool mentioned above, it has its own private indoor pool, sauna, and Temazcal.
gym
One of the best fitness centers in the region, featuring top-notch Kinesis equipment in an elegant setting with hardwood floor. A yoga studio is also available for guests.
dining
If anything else, book way in advance a night at the Chef’s Table. An outstanding gourmet experience. Both Ambar and Aguamarina feature avant-garde design while serving innovative dishes. For a more casual atmosphere, visit Ceviche Tapas Bar by the beach.
drinking
Pool Bar might be the most stylish poolside bar in the Riviera Maya (it even has a dress code by night). For a sophisticated evening, visit the hip rooftop bar Cigar Lounge.
Blue Diamond offer to guests a 24-hour Champagne Breakfast, which is always good to know.
LOCATION
Getting Around
Take a taxi at Cancun International Airport or book a private transfer service for a half an hour ride to Blue Diamond Hotel. Once there, any visit to a nearby sight will have to be in taxi or if it’s a long trip like Chichen Itza or Tulum, maybe renting car will be worth it.
Restaurants
For a sophisticated dining experience, try the gourmet dishes of Passion (12-minute drive). Locals consider Chiltepin (14-minute drive) as the best seafood restaurant in Playa del Carmen.
WHY WE LIKE IT
Because there are few hotels so stylish and sophisticated in the area. We love the design and décor of accommodations. It has direct access to a cenote, a lagoon and the Caribbean!

QUICK FACTS
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