Review: Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya – A Concept By Hyatt (Cancun Area, Mexico)

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Review: Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya – A Concept By Hyatt (Cancun Area, Mexico)

About Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

The Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya is a luxurious resort located along the stunning Riviera Maya coastline. With a history rooted in Mayan culture, the resort blends contemporary design with traditional elements, offering a unique and immersive experience for its guests.

The resort features 214 guestrooms, including Beach Area Plunge Pool Suites, which provide direct access to the beach and a private plunge pool for a truly indulgent stay. The resort’s notable features include its vibrant art and design showcasing the work of local artisans, as well as its eco-conscious practices and sustainable initiatives.

Our Stay At A Glance:

• Official Website: Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya
• Average Nightly Cost During Stay: $730.40 per night
• Loyalty Program: World of Hyatt
• Loyalty Category: Category 7
• Discount Applied: 25,000 Points per night
• Room Type as Booked: 1 King Bed
• Room Upgrade: Beach Area Plunge Pool Suite (Valued at $300+ per night)
• Resort Fee: N/A (Globalist)
• Parking Fee: N/A

Booking/Redemption

Location & Parking

Situated about one hour south of Cancun, just north of Playa Del Carmen, the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya offers a convenient location for exploring the surrounding areas. Guests can easily access the vibrant nightlife and shopping in Cancun or take a short trip to the charming town of Playa Del Carmen, known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere.

Valet parking at the resort is available for guests, although many (most?) guests (like ourselves) will arrive by shuttle transfer.

Lobby & Front Desk Check-In

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the stunning lobby area of the hotel (and a welcome drink). The design is contemporary and elegant, and is home to the resort’s front desk, concierge desk, and a coffee shop.

We were warmly greeted and informed on the spot that we had been upgraded to a Beach Area Plunge Pool Suite.

FHOP Tip: As you enter the lobby, look up. You’ll see a hole in the roof that is designed to resemble “Cenotes”, one of the many natural caves that were crucial sources of water for the early inhabitants of the Yucatan Peninsula.

World of Hyatt Globalist Benefits

For Globalist elites enrolled in the World of Hyatt program, the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya offers a range of exclusive benefits. These include complimentary room upgrades, complimentary daily breakfast, and late check-out benefits.

Welcome Package

Loyalty Cocktail At Casa Amate

Room Key

Beach Area Plunge Pool Suite Walkthrough Tour

Beach Area Plunge Pool Suite Entrance

Living Room

One of the standout accommodations at the resort is the Beach Area Plunge Pool Suite.

These spacious suites feature a private terrace with direct access to the beach, where guests can relax on comfortable lounge chairs or take a dip in their own plunge pool.

The suites are tastefully decorated with modern furnishings, offering a luxurious and tranquil retreat.

The Andaz Mini-Bar

The living room features the signature Andaz mini-bar, where most everything is complimentary – except for the Alcohol.

Bedroom

Bedroom Balcony

Walk-In Closet

Bathroom

The Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya provides guests with good-quality toiletry products from the AU and Cava brands.

Water Closet

Suite Balcony And Plunge Pool

The suite plunge pool offered a refreshing – but non-heated pool – to relax and cool-off in a semi-private space to soak in Mayakoba.

  

View From The Room

Dining Options

When it comes to dining options, the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya offers a variety of culinary experiences. Guests can indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine at the exclusive Casa Amate, an elegant restaurant with a warm and inviting atmosphere.

For a casual yet sophisticated dining experience, Cocina Milagro serves a selection of dishes with a focus on local ingredients.

Breakfast At Cocina Milagro

The Hyatt Globalist breakfast benefit is a complimentary breakfast credit at Cocina Milagro.

Guests can choose from a range of options, including freshly baked pastries, tropical fruits, made-to-order omelets, and traditional Mexican breakfast dishes, all served in a relaxed and inviting setting.

We really enjoyed daily breakfast at Cocina Milagro. Just beware of the green habanero paste, it’s addictive – and a bonafide scorcher!

Lunch At Tinta Del Pulpo

For lunch, Tinta Del Pulpo offers an enticing selection of dishes, showcasing the flavors of the sea. From grilled octopus to fresh ceviche, guests can indulge in the mouthwatering seafood creations while enjoying the beachfront ambiance.

We ate here several times during our stay, and for the most part, we really enjoyed it, especially the tacos de pulpo (octopus) and tacos de rib-eye.

El Malo Pork Tacos

Notice how I mentioned “for the most part” above? Well, on our last day we went there for lunch, and I ordered the “slow-cooked pork tacos”.

But what I got was the below – basically pink, cold, and raw. Without looking first, I took a bite, and immediately gagged and spit out the bite in my napkin. I hadn’t done that in decades.

I immediately complained to the waiter, and he went to get his boss. His boss took a look at it and then apologized while blaming the “taco guy” who they apparently outsource to for “slow-cooked pork tacos”. My advice – stay far away from these.

Dinner At Sotavento

Sotavento is a stylish beach club located within the Mayakoba complex. With its prime beachfront location, Sotavento offers a laid-back and chic atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoyment of the stunning coastal surroundings. The beach club features comfortable lounge areas, refreshing drinks, and a menu of delicious dishes, providing guests with a memorable seaside experience.

On the night we went to try Sotavento is was raining rather hard so they closed the beach club. Sotavento service was moved to Tinta Del Pulpo where Sotavento guests were mingled with Tinta Del Pulpo and were served different, more expensive menus, and a more expensive bottle of water. It was a bit strange.

Nevertheless, we were committed to ordering off the Sotavento menu and we went with a lobster pasta (amazing!) and a perfectly-cooked rib-eye. While we enjoyed our dinner off the Sotavento menu, in the future I probably would only choose to eat at Sotavento only if the actual beach-club location was open.

Casa Amate

Casa Amate, located within the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya, is a highly regarded dining destination. With its upscale ambiance and a menu inspired by the diverse culinary traditions of Mexico, Casa Amate offers a memorable dining experience.

Unfortunately for us, reservations were required to secure a table at the very-popular Casa Amate. We were unable to get reservations during our entire stay. Apparently, most guests reserve this restaurant [way] in advance of their check-in date. Lesson learned. Casa Amate, who knew?

VB (Vegan Bar)

The VB Vegan Bar is a trendy and popular establishment known for its plant-based food and drinks. With a menu that features a variety of vegan options, this bar provides a vibrant and delicious experience for those seeking vegan cuisine in the Mayakoba area.

We had drinks and bites several times at VB. This is a very popular spot at the resort, and the coveted spots on the patio go quick.

Coffee Shop

The Property At Night

Activities

There is no shortage of activities to enjoy near the resort. Guests can explore the nearby bike paths and take in the beautiful scenery while cycling. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the El Camaleón Mayakoba Golf Course, known for its challenging holes and stunning views. For those seeking adventure, the resort can arrange excursions to explore the enchanting cenotes or embark on a wildlife cruise to witness the diverse marine life.

Mayakoba Bike Path

The Mayakoba bike path is a scenic and well-maintained route that winds its way through the Mayakoba complex. It offers a wonderful opportunity for guests to explore the lush surroundings and admire the natural beauty of the area. Guests staying in the Beach area of Andaz will get very familiar with the bike path, as its required to get around the resort. Luckily, there are complimentary golf-cart shuttles for those who don’t want to walk or bike it.

Whether you choose to leisurely pedal along the path or embark on a more active cycling adventure, the Mayakoba bike path provides a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of both the Andaz Mayakoba and the surrounding resorts.

The Canals

The Mayakoba canals are a unique feature of the resort complex, adding a curated tranquility to the surroundings. These beautifully designed waterways create a picturesque setting and provide opportunities for relaxing boat rides and exploration.

FHOP Tip: It is important to exercise caution while near the canals as they are home to local wildlife, including crocodiles, making it essential to heed any warnings and instructions provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

La Isla Shopping Village

La Isla Shopping Village is a popular shopping destination located near Mayakoba. This open-air shopping center offers a variety of shops, boutiques, and international brands and a selection of dining options.

Beach Swimming Pool

The Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya features several swimming pools for guests to enjoy.

The beach swimming pool is the larger of the two and provides a direct ocean view while surrounded by several restaurants.

Lagoon Pool

The more secluded lagoon pool is perfect for lounging by the poolside with a tropical drink in hand, or family time hanging with the kids.

Spa & Fitness Center

The resort’s Spa and Fitness Center offer a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can indulge in a variety of spa treatments, from massages to facials, and unwind in the tranquil ambiance. The fitness center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, allowing guests to maintain their exercise routines while enjoying their stay.

El Camaleón Mayakoba Golf Course

El Camaleón Mayakoba Golf Course is a world-class golfing destination nestled within the Mayakoba complex. Designed by Greg Norman, this championship course is known for its tropical beauty and challenging layout.

With its diverse landscapes, including dense jungles and scenic coastline, El Camaleón offers a memorable golfing experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels. This course even has its own cenote!

Canal Wildlife Tour

Embarking on a Mayakoba wildlife cruise offers a fantastic opportunity to encounter a diverse array of wildlife. During the cruise, you may spot various reptiles (as we did), such as a green iguana and a crocodile.

The region is also home to a multitude of bird species, including toucans, elegant herons, and egrets, which can be observed perched on branches or gliding above the water. Keep an eye out for colorful tropical fish beneath the surface, or even the occasional manatee.

We booked this complimentary tour for an afternoon spot and, as it turned out, this was one of our favorite activities at Andaz Mayakoba. We saw much more wildlife than we expected, while getting a full tour of the Mayakoba development. We even saw some exposed fossils in the canals.

FHOP Tip: What’s Nearby: Mayakoba is a premier development that offers a range of exceptional resorts and attractions. One of the notable resorts within Mayakoba is the Banyan Tree Mayakoba, known for its luxurious villas and stunning beachfront location. Another renowned resort is the Fairmont Mayakoba, which offers a blend of elegance and natural beauty with its expansive grounds and pristine beach. Andaz guests are free to roam the Mayakoba Development to checkout the dining and shopping options of the nearby resorts.

Cenote El Burrodromo

Cenote El Burrodromo is a hidden gem located near the Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya. This cenote offers a unique and complimentary experience for visitors, with its underground river system and breathtaking stalactite formations.

Exploring Cenote El Burrodromo requires booking the on-site guide which allows guests to witness the beauty of its crystal-clear waters while learning about the history of this cenote. We even saw a roost of bats.

Mexican Stingless Bee Hives

In the same area as Cenote El Burrodromo, is a hive of Mexican Stingless bees (also known as Melipona bees).

Unlike other bee species, they do not have stingers, making them much less aggressive. These bees play a vital role in pollination and are known for producing a special type of honey called “Melipona honey,” which is highly valued for its unique flavor and medicinal properties.

The Bottom-Line Review: Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya – A Concept By Hyatt (Cancun Area, Mexico)