Hotel Xcaret Review | Authentic + Active All-inclusive

H O T E L   X C A R E T  is a unique concept for an all-inclusive hotel in Mexico. The hotel is an architectural masterpiece with an ample amount of creature comforts. Hotel Xcaret is owned by the same Mexican family of brothers who own and operate seven of the region’s top entertainment parks. Entrance to these parks is included in the hotel’s all-inclusive plan. This makes it an obvious choice for families with children of all ages.

what to do // Hotel Xcaret offers their trademarked all-fun inclusive program to all hotel guests. My visit was primarily to explore the hotel and get a feel for what type of client it would most appeal to. I did not visit any of the parks on this trip, but I have in the past and they are all top-rated entertainment venues. I know from client feedback and speaking with guests on property that the parks are one of the biggest draws to Hotel Xcaret. The included parks are: Xcaret :: XelHa :: Xavage :: XOXiMilco :: Xenses :: Xplor :: Xplor Fuego 

The all-inclusive Hotel Xcaret not only includes a wide array of on-property activities, and access to the seven parks listed above but also includes tours to some of the most spectacular Mayan Ruins, including Xichen, Coba, and Tulum.

If you opt-out of touring for the day, you’ll have plenty to do on property. While the two beaches are small, they are beautiful and pristine. The hotel has multiple pools, a lagoon, and a river, and watersports are complimentary.

rooms // The hotel was full when I was there, and I was given the entry-level (aka least expensive) room category. The room was incredible, and I would likely book the same room for a return visit. It captured the vibe of the entire hotel, complete with locally crafted furnishings made by Mexican artists. My favorite decor piece – this alabaster shell lamp. Shame it was so heavy, or I would have bought one.

eat // It is hard to find an all-inclusive hotel with incredible food. I’ve been saying for 20 years that most all-inclusive hotel vacations are not without a culinary sacrifice. Hotel Xcaret is an anomaly. It is noteworthy to say that the food was amazing! Think innovative modern Mexican fare and fresh local takes on international cuisine. 

Our most memorable dinner was at Cuevas, Hotel Xcaret’s restaurant located in a cave. The aesthetic, the menu, the flavors were all 10/10. The only negative was the temperature, caves by nature are insulated spaces, and it was warmer than my normal desired dining temperature. I visited during a particularly hot week in September so perhaps it is more comfortable at other times of the year.

I’m usually not a fan of buffets (and I think we will see less and less of these after the pandemic), but the breakfast buffet at Hotel Xcaret was such a pleasant experience. Multiple made-to-order stations and a wide variety of Mexican + International dishes.

All the exotic fruit and vegetable juice combinations you could dream of. My juice fix was easily satisfied every day, which was great because I needed it to balance my overindulgence of fresh handmade tortillas.

wellness // The Muluk Spa at Hotel Xcaret is currently my favorite spa in the Riviera Maya. Most of my travels are work-related, so even though I visit spas often, they rarely work their magic on me because I’m so focused on the main purpose of the trip – work! But this spa worked! I can’t remember the last time I was that relaxed.

I could have spent the entire day in the common area of the spa. Even though the hotel was at almost full occupancy, the spa was empty. It was a further testament that most people visit Hotel Xcaret to take advantage of the included tours and spend every day jumping from one park to the next. 

From the drooping vines to the chimes of the waterfall the stage is set for relaxation from the moment you arrive. As with the rest of the hotel’s public spaces, water is the central focus of the Muluk Spa. You can even opt to have your massage in a cave that includes a private cenote. Even though the spa will likely be able to accommodate your appointment request on arrival, we enjoy helping clients plan their weekly schedules in advance. This ensures they are able to take advantage of every park + tour they want and the spa too! 

sustainability // The most notable sustainability practice is the use of primarily Mexican textiles and arts to furnish the property. I’m a fan of Mexican folk art and immediately noticed the authenticity of the materials. In fact, 59% of Grupo Experiencias Xcaret purchases are being made in the Yucatan Peninsula, reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to improving the local economy. The hotel + tour company contributes to almost two dozen local animal welfare conservation projects and the company is also Earth Check certified.

Who is Hotel Xcaret best for? Hotel Xcaret would apply to almost everyone, which is rare for a hotel. First off, you must be open to the all-inclusive dining plan, but I’ve already mentioned how surprisingly great their culinary scene was. Families (with kids 5+) will love that the entrance to the parks are included; this is an enormous saving. Adults will love that there is a sleek adults-only section of the hotel. If you’d like to discuss if Hotel Xcaret is right for you, contact us – we’d love to hear from you.

Cheers,

Laura Sangster

P I N   T H I S   F O R   L A T E R ::

How far is Hotel Xcaret from the airport?

Hotel Xcaret is around 64 kilometers, 55 minutes from the Cancun airport.

Is Hotel Xcaret all-inclusive?  

Yes, the room rate at Hotel Xcaret is all-inclusive of all meals, drinks, and access to seven adventure parks.

Is Hotel Xcaret adults only?  

No, Hotel Xcaret is not adults-only but there is an adults-only section of the hotel.

Is Hotel Xcaret kid-friendly? 

Yes, Hotel Xcaret is kid-friendly.