The Caribbean and Mexico offer a vast array of resorts, from sprawling international brands to smaller, niche options. Although the all-inclusive vacation has transformed over time, the relaxed, carefree atmosphere pioneered by Club Med in Europe has become a staple of Mexican tourism. Discovering the ideal resort can be difficult, but the Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun is the perfect choice for a bespoke tropical holiday. More than a beachfront escape—this 5-star all-inclusive provides a truly exceptional experience for travellers looking for a unique fun-in-the-sun experience.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun and its sister resort Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya (Adults Only) are inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s platinum-selling 1977 album “Changes in Latitude.” Travellers may be familiar with the Margaritaville brand through its hotels, restaurants, bars, and cruises across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and the Caribbean. Still, this resort concept presents a fresh take. Mexico-based Margaritaville resorts are part of the Karisma Hotels and Resorts portfolio, providing a luxurious all-inclusive escape with unique flair.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun is the smaller of the two Karisma resorts, located a quick thirty minutes from Cancun International Airport, offering a convenient escape for international travellers. Hidden away from the main road amidst lush foliage and striking mangroves, the resort’s entrance features a grand A-frame structure that provides arriving guests with a breathtaking view of the reception area with sightlines straight out towards the sparkling sea. The reception area, adorned with palms and tropical plants, offers a welcoming atmosphere where the concierge promptly takes your bags and escorts you to plush couches or inviting floating beds while you await check-in. Guests are immediately granted a “License to Chill,” encouraged to leave their worries behind and embrace the carefree atmosphere. The resort maintains a playful vibe, evident in whimsical touches like a large bronze flip-flop and wanderlust décor.
The resort’s hospitality and quality are immediately apparent. Margaritaville excels at effortlessly offering a unique and tailored experience. Its clever design features low-rise bungalows clustered around pools, bars, restaurants, and amenities, creating a free-flowing, inviting atmosphere. Rooms range in size and offer garden, pool, or ocean views, with swim-up suites providing direct pool access from private patios. The rooms’ design enhances the Margaritaville experience: a light colour palette, clean wood lines, and subtle pops of colour evoke a tranquil, spa-like feel.
Even if you haven’t opted for a swim-up room, numerous swimming options abound, with pools and pool bars dotted along the beachfront. The more private SOS Bar allows guests to swim up or relax on a beach swing or floating bed, with white macrame hammocks and lush foliage creating an Instagram-worthy setting. The 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar, named after the famous song of the same name, is the star of the show, invoking the carefree lifestyle of sand between your toes and a cold drink in hand. Located just steps from the main pool, it ensures guests never have to venture far from their beach chairs to grab a drink or socialise. The adults-only pool also features a bar, and, since the property is beachfront, service continues onto the sand where loungers and cabanas are available for the perfect luxurious beach day. For pre-dinner drinks that won’t compromise your glam, the upscale indoor Compass Bar offers a jazz lounge ambience with a fantastic selection of imported rums from the Dominican Republic, Cuba, and Jamaica—perfect for the rum connoisseur.
What sets many all-inclusive resorts apart is their cuisine, and Margaritaville boasts an impressive, around-the-clock à la carte menu. From customizable breakfasts in bed or with a mimosa beachside to candlelit dinners al fresco, culinary delights abound.
A major consideration for any holiday is dining, and knowing that every meal will be memorable is crucial for travelling foodies. This resort caters to all tastes, from pescatarians to those craving authentic Mexican tacos with a side of margaritas by the Caribbean Sea. The mix of casual and fine dining options at Frank and Lola’s (Italian), The Beach House (beach chic), Rita’s (Mexican), Latino (Asian-Latin fusion), and room service allows guests to choose between a quick bite before heading back to the beach and indulging in fine wine, steaks, handmade pasta, and made-to-order drinks.
The St. Somewhere Spa is a can’t-miss experience. Hidden just off of the main reception area, it offers a serene environment that instantly whisks you away to total relaxation. This secluded area provides a wide range of spa services, from massages to mani-pedis. While it might seem counterintuitive to leave the beach for a few hours, the spa’s quality services make it well worth it. The relaxation massage and hydrotherapy session are a great way to unwind. Starting with a dry and hot sauna, the experience culminates in a plunge pool and hot tub before an amazing massage that melts away post-flight tension.
The endless tailored experiences on the property create not only fun and excitement around vacation routines but also lasting memories. The entire resort is peppered with these creative extras that enhance the experience. From keyless rooms to floating pool tacos, one amenity that encapsulates the à la carte feel is crafting your minibar. Instead of a pre-stocked minibar, guests can visit the Joe Merchant boutique and cafe to grab a handcrafted drink, along with other beverages and snacks for their room. Each room receives points to use towards filling the minibar, ensuring guests have exactly what they want, which is exactly what everyone deserves.
Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun is an escapist paradise where travellers experience the Mayan Riviera’s beauty in upscale, relaxed surroundings. Despite offering the privacy and amenities of a much larger property, it maintains an intimate, boutique feel – a hidden gem that perfectly captures the essence of escapism. Margaritaville is designed for those seeking a different kind of escape, one focused on quiet luxury and savouring the simple pleasures of each day. It’s an adult Neverland, where endless sunny days and blissful indulgences reign supreme. Margaritaville didn’t invent the escapism lifestyle, but they may have perfected it.
Images: Brands respectively/Pinterest
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