Fodor's Expert Review Fairmont Mayakoba

The Fairmont Mayakoba is simply put one of the best resorts in the whole Riviera Maya. Its level of luxury, upscale design and top-notch service is hard to match. Usually, this kind of hotels are adults-only, but Fairmont makes a point of making the little ones feel welcome. An overall outstanding resort for discerning travelers who look for high-end accommodations and impressive natural surroundings.

room

Among the 401 luxurious guestrooms available at Fairmont Mayakoba, there is a wide array of different types of accommodations, including beachfront casitas, suites with private terraces and plunge pools overlooking the tranquil lagoon and water canals, a presidential suite on an island of its own and even full 3 or 4-bedroom residences. Amenities can vary, but upscale design is a constant throughout the property.

bathroom

The bathrooms are wide and spacious, most featuring double sink and separate shower and soaking tub. Décor is elegant and contemporary, with strong Mayan-inspired accents. They all include lit makeup mirror and luxury LeLabo toiletries.

lobby

The lobby of Fairmont Mayakoba is a wide hall of white marble floors and fine wood elements. The front-desk provides a warmer setting with hardwood floor in stark contrast with the rest of the area.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Although the lobby is a large area, there are not many seating options. It can get a bit frustrating for kids if their wait is long.

pool

Besides the many private infinity and plunge pools with ocean or lagoon views, Fairmont Mayakoba also offers a large pool surrounded by manicured gardens, comfortable loungers and even a water slide. There is also a beachfront pool and a relaxing adults-only infinity pool overlooking the gorgeous lagoon and the beyond into the jungle.

spa

The Willow Stream Spa is, unsurprisingly, one of the best in the region. Facilities are large in size, without ever loosing the exclusive style so characteristic of this place. The wet areas are outstanding, but the list of treatments, therapies and rituals available is even more impressive.

Once you know what kind of treatment you’d like to experience, it’s highly recommended to book in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.

gym

A fully equipped fitness center is available for Fairmont Mayakoba guests. It includes electronic cardio equipment, free weights and resistance machines, aerobic floor and media wall and professional training instructors. If anything, it lacks the wow factor present in the rest of the hotel.

dining

A total of 8 restaurants, bars, cafes and lounges form the exciting culinary offer of Fairmont Mayakoba. Needless to say they all offer upscale design in extraordinary settings overlooking the lagoon or the beach. All four restaurants have been recently redesigned to great success. The cooking classes are an experience on its own, and they are worth a try.

Photo: El Puerto

Photo: Brisas

Photo: Lobby Lounge

drinking

El Lobby Lounge is a sophisticated bar perfect to enjoy a top-shelf bourbon or an international wine maybe. Las Olas and Aqua are pool bars specialized in refreshing tropical cocktails. While the Mexican craft beer tasting events are a must during your visit.

Photo: Lobby Lounge