Alila Mayakoba is a luxe Riviera Maya resort tucked between mangroves, lagoons, and a white sand stretch of Caribbean beach inside the exclusive Mayakoba community. During our stay, we loved how family friendly it felt without losing that elevated, peaceful vibe, especially with the eco boat tour, cenote access, bikes, beach clubs, cultural programming, and roomy suites. The property is now operating as AlilaMayakoba, a Hyatt luxury resort, with 182 guestrooms, suites, and villas in the Mayakoba enclave.

Quick Fact	Details
Resort Name	Alila Mayakoba
Former Name	Andaz Mayakoba
Location	Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico
Nearest Airport	Cancun International Airport
Best For	Families, couples, nature lovers, Hyatt loyalists
Resort Setting	Beachfront resort with mangroves, lagoons, jungle trails, and white-sand beach access
Brand	Alila Hotels & Resorts by Hyatt
Room Types	Guest rooms, suites, and villas, including plunge pool options
Family-Friendly	Yes, with a kids club, pools, nature trails, bikes, and cultural activities
Notable Experiences	Eco boat tour, cenote visit, falconry, Mayan cultural programming, beach and pool time
Getting Around the Property	Golf carts, walking paths, and complimentary bikes
Dining	Multiple on-site restaurants plus access to other Mayakoba dining spots
Good to Know	The property is large, so expect to bike, walk, or call for a golf cart
Why We Loved It	It felt peaceful and luxurious without being stuffy, and there was plenty to do as a family

The Private Eco-Tour 

 Kimbo Kids Club 

The kids club area is a fantastic spot for little ones to hang out. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the club offers a variety of planned activities and plenty of games in a spacious area for kids to enjoy their day.

Audrey had a blast there! The staff organized two fun activities: face painting and colorful hair braiding. There’s a small extra cost for these activities, but if you use your Hyatt credit card, you can earn 17 times the points!

The Cenote Experience 

The property is actually home to several cenotes and caves beneath its surface. One of the unique cenotes, Cenote Burrodromo, is located near the Pueblito. Before exploring, you’ll need to sign a waiver, and there’s a staff member on hand to explain the rules.

This cenote stands out from others we’ve visited in the area because it has bats. The cave is equipped with lights, but once you reach the cave floor, you’re asked to keep quiet and avoid using flash photography to avoid disturbing the bats.

It’s a fascinating cultural experience from the Yucatán and Mayan regions, as the Mayan people have used caves like these for thousands of years. They believed the caves were sacred portals to the underworld and relied on them for fresh water, fish, and clay for making pots.

El Camaleón Golf Course

I’m not going to lie…. golf isn’t really my sport, but I’ve played a few games before. This course, though, is absolutely stunning! It features an 18- hole golf course designed by Greg Norman and is actually the first PGA course in Latin America. I was so intrigued that I even ran across the fairway to check out the cenote at hole 7!

The course is surrounded by lush mangroves and jungles, weaving through freshwater canals and lagoons before reaching the breathtaking Caribbean waters and white-sand beach. You definitely need to add this to your list if you love to golf. 

El Pueblito and The Arcade

El Pueblito is a charming spot that gives you a taste of what a traditional Mexican town square feels like, complete with a beautiful chapel. The little town has a few places to grab a bite, and it truly feels authentic, just like the other towns we’ve explored in Mexico over the past four years, though it’s missing the usual street dogs!

The kids had a blast at the arcade, spending a few hours there. For just $10, they could play all day! They had everything from skee ball (my favorite) to Mario Kart, air hockey, and even a boxing punch machine. You can easily get to El Pueblito by taking a free ride via golf cart from the front desk, or you can walk or use the free bikes provided by the resort.

Outdoor Pools

If you’re looking to relax by the pool for the afternoon, there are two distinct pool areas to choose from. The pool near the front desk is divided into three sections and has a sleek, modern vibe. It felt like we had our own private space to unwind after breakfast.

The beachside pool, however, was the place to be! With plenty of seating, restrooms nearby, and drink service from Tinta Del Pulpo delivered right to your spot, it was perfect. We didn’t see this service at the other pool during our stay. The beachside pool also boasts a stunning view of the Caribbean Sea and offers easy access to the white sand beach.

Nature Trails and Riding Bicycles

One of the best ways to explore the property is by taking advantage of the free bikes scattered around the resort. Mayakoba features numerous nature trails that wind through the luxe landscapes of Andaz Mayakoba.

The natural beauty of the area radiates from its natural surroundings, inviting you to explore the nature trails and discover the harmony of nature. We spotted so many animals during our adventures, including baby deer with their adorable white spots, various birds, coatimundis, and raccoons. It felt like we were in a zoo and a bird sanctuary all at once!

Cultural Experiences Offered on the Property

Mayan Rain Dance Ceremony 

Watching the Mayan rain dance ceremony was an incredible experience! While I had only caught a glimpse of it in Puerto Morelos during a beach walk, witnessing the entire ceremony was truly special.

The ceremony takes place at El Pueblito and continues at Cenote Burrodromo on Wednesdays around 4 PM. I recommend checking with the concierge for the most current time and date, as these can sometimes change.

This ancient fire dance of the Mayan people is a ritual to request rain from the gods, specifically invoking Chaac, the rain god. The performance, held around a fire, lasts about 30 minutes and is genuinely entertaining.

Alila Falconry Experience

The resort employs falcons to naturally manage the bird population and keep certain species away, ensuring a more relaxing experience for guests. You might spot the handlers flying the falcons around the pool areas during the day, adding a unique touch to your stay.

The falconry experience allows you to get up close with these magnificent birds while enjoying their beauty. You’ll have the opportunity to chat with the biologist and handlers, who explain the purpose of the bell and why the falcons sometimes wear hoods. It’s a fantastic experience to enjoy right after breakfast!

Interview with the Biologist

The resort has a dedicated biologist on staff who shared fascinating insights about the various initiatives taking place on the property. A key focus is sustainability; for instance, they provide reusable glass bottles for drinking water in the rooms. 

This not only reduces waste but also promotes eco friendly practices. In the restaurants, they use microfiber towels as napkins, which dry more quickly after washing compared to disposable paper napkins.

The biologist also discussed the diverse wildlife on the property and the efforts being made to maintain a healthy environment for these animals. It’s clear that preserving the natural surroundings is a priority here!

Tasting of Artisanal Chocolate Drink

The Mayans were the pioneers of chocolate, and in Mexico, enjoying chocolate is a cultural norm. So, we couldn’t resist signing up for this experience! During the Chocolate Drink Tasting, we discovered that the drink is traditionally prepared with cocoa powder and water, just like the Mayans used to enjoy it.

We learned about the roasting and cultivation processes, highlighting how significant chocolate is to Mexico’s economy today. However, this authentic chocolate style wasn’t exactly Audrey’s favorite. It’s served bitter rather than the sweet version we’re used to today!

If you’re interested in booking some of the cultural experiences but are concerned about a language barrier, don’t worry! The friendly staff speaks excellent English. However, if you still have any doubts, you can easily download Spanish on the Google Translate app for your phone to assist with translations.

The Different Room Types at Alila Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya 

Beach Area Plunge Pool Suite

We booked a Beach Area Plunge Pool Suite using our World of Hyatt points upgrade, which can be done directly by calling an agent. This suite felt absolutely massive, offering plenty of room to enjoy our week at the resort.

Our room was on the second floor, giving us a stunning view of the lagoons from the living room. It was packed with features that made our stay even more enjoyable. The main living area included a Nespresso coffee maker and a tea kettle for all the tea lovers, a large TV, and direct access to our private plunge pool. Our heated pool was perfect for melting away sore muscles at the end of the day.

The large bathroom boasted a walk-in rain shower with a view of the jungle. It had all the usual amenities you’d expect but also featured his-and-her sinks for added convenience. The toilet was conveniently located across a small hallway.

The King Bed was the same comfortable mattress we’ve experienced in Hyatt properties around the globe. It’s nice to know that whether we’re in the Hyatt House in Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo Bay, or the U.S., we can count on a good night’s sleep.

Just off the king suite bedroom, we found a private terrace perfect for enjoying our morning coffee while watching tropical birds flutter by. The terrace had a couple of chairs, a table, and a couch for ultimate relaxation.

But the best feature, in my opinion, is being just steps away from the pristine white sand beach. Morning strolls and beautiful sunset walks became our daily ritual. The beach is meticulously maintained, with seaweed excavation happening every day, ensuring we had an exceptional experience throughout our stay.

Alila Mayakoba Resort Reviews and Amenity Specifications:

• Free Wi-Fi Speed: The Wi-Fi service was decent, with speeds averaging around 30 Mbps, earning a rating of 3 out of 5 stars. 
• Early Check-in & Baggage Holding Available: Early check-in and baggage holding services are available, but we didn’t need to use them since our room was ready when we arrived.
• Wall Sockets for Charging: The wall socket by the bed featured two standard 2-prong outlets, two USB ports, and an HDMI port that connected directly to the TV.
• Bed, Sheets, and Furniture Comfort Level: The comfort level of the textiles was a solid 4 out of 5, which is expected at a higher-end resort. The leather chairs were great for relaxing, and the beach-style fold-up chairs on the terrace by the plunge pool added a nice touch. There wasn’t a single uncomfortable seating or lounging spot in the room. Overall, I’d rate it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
• Level of noise inside and outside during day time and night time while sleeping: It was really peaceful, and we got some great sleep every night.
• Water Pressure & Water Temp: The water was really hot, and the pressure was medium strong. 4 out of 5 stars.
• Shuttle Service: There was no shuttle service to and from the airport, but golf carts were available anytime to get around the resort. 3.5 out of 5 stars.
• Customer Service: The customer service at the resort was top notch, we had no issues at all. It was such a great experience that we’re already looking into more Andaz hotels to visit and enjoy on future travels!
• Bell & Maid service: I’ve got to give a major shout-out to the maid service here—they had me questioning my own memory a few times! We’d leave for dinner and come back to a spotless room with the shades down, bed made, and everything looking perfect. Honestly, I was surprised at how flawless it was every single time. Long story short, they deserve a solid 5 out of 5 stars—they’re working hard and absolutely earning that perfect rating!
• Customer Complaint Resolution Experience:  Our only “complaint” (if you can even call it that) was that sometimes the golf carts were full when we needed a ride from the beach to, say, the kids’ club. Turns out, a WiFi company was holding a summit there, and their group would take all the seats on the carts. One night, we casually mentioned this to a staff member, who turned out to be the bellman manager, and he personally gave us a ride to El Pueblito to catch the Mayan Rain Dance ceremony. It was so reassuring to see how seriously they took even the smallest concerns. Andaz really goes above and beyond in customer care!

Critique For The Alila Mayakoba and Recommendations

The only critique I have, if I had to find something, is that it would’ve been nice to have more staff available for those of us on vacation, not attending a conference. Once that crowd left the resort, you could feel the shift, everything became more relaxed and had that true vacation vibe. It was definitely a noticeable change in the atmosphere!

Where to eat at Alila Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

Tinta Del Pulpo

Tinta Del Pulpo is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a quick meal or drink without the hassle of reservations. Conveniently located next to the beachside pool, they even offer delivery for those days when your family wants to soak up the sun by the pool or beach.

The menu features a variety of international cuisine, including tasty tacos, fresh salads, and juicy hamburgers. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food here, the flavors were on point! 

And let’s not forget about the handmade cocktails; they were super fresh and definitely added to our beachside experience. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before heading back to the beach or just want to kick back with a drink, Tinta Del Pulpo has got you covered!

SOTAVENTO

On our first night, we chose to eat at the beachside restaurant where you can literally put your feet in the white sand beach as you dine. We ordered a variety of dishes, and the wood fired oysters were definitely a standout.

The menu is packed with fresh seafood, and the service was excellent. If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience, I highly recommend checking this spot out for a relaxed yet elegant dinner by the beach.

Casa Amate

We were really looking forward to dining at Casa Amate after hearing great reviews about the head chef’s innovative latin american dining. Unfortunately, it was closed for maintenance during our visit in September, which is their slowest season.

The restaurant is uniquely designed like a house, with tables set in various rooms decorated to resemble a cozy living room, a charming library, and an inviting dining room. It also overlooks the boat tour dock, offering a stunning lagoon view for dinner. 

Casa Amate serves diverse Latin American cuisine and is recognized as one of Mexico’s Top 250 Restaurants by Guía México Gastronómico. It was definitely on our must visit list, so we were bummed it was closed, especially since we love dining at restaurants featured on prestigious lists.

Cocina Milagro

Cocina Milagro was our go-to spot for breakfast, and as Globalist members, we enjoyed complimentary meals! We had the option to either split up… sometimes I’d ride bikes because, you know, “ride or die”—or we could call for a golf cart to take us there. Breakfast is served from 7:30 to 11 AM, so you can really take your time and enjoy your morning before digging in.

The breakfast spread was impressive, featuring everything from a classic chilaquiles bar with cochinita pibil options to fresh pastries, quesadillas, and an egg station. I was particularly intrigued by the array of Mediterranean delicacies, including jamón, feta cheese in oil, and olives in oil.

For dinner, we decided to join in on La Fiesta Mexicana, which takes place on Thursdays from 7 PM to 10 PM. Around 9 PM, they bring out the piñata and the Tenga Stick for the romper la piñata festivities.

Let me tell you, this party was lit! The food options were endless, but my absolute favorite had to be the street tacos prepared on the convex comal pozo. They offered bistec, chicken, cow tongue, and al pastor, each more delicious than the last.

Inside, we were serenaded by a talented gentleman playing the xylophone before the DJ took over, and then the waitstaff began teaching us some dance moves. If you’re around for fiesta night, you’ve got to experience it! Indulge in those street tacos made by the guys outside, they’re amazing!

Nearby Dining Options We Explored on The Mayakoba Property 

Restaurante La Fondita

While exploring the pueblito, we stumbled into La Fondita for a quick water break, it was that hot! But, long story short, we ended up staying for lunch, and we’re so glad we did. Open from noon to 6 pm, this spot quickly became a favorite, and we highly recommend giving their tostadas a try.

At first, I was a little skeptical about the price since they listed one tostada for what you’d usually pay for three. But here’s the deal… they load up one tostada shell with a massive mound of meat, fish, or whatever topping you choose, and then they give you extra shells on the side. You also get a variety of salsas and pork rinds, which made it feel like a build-your-own tostada feast! Oh, and the mixed drinks here? Spot on! The spicy margarita was made perfectly, with just the right amount of heat.

La Laguna Restaurant and Lounge

After seeing the restaurant during the eco boat tour, we were excited to try it for dinner. Getting there from the Alila was an adventure, guest services sent one of the red golf carts that access the whole property, making the ride fun.

We made reservations online and were seated quickly. Since lunch was big, we kept it light with tacos and tortilla soup, both bursting with flavor.

The highlight? Amanda told them it was my birthday, and they brought out a dessert with a sparkler while singing “Happy Birthday.” If you’re celebrating, definitely let them know for a fun surprise!

The Best Time to Visit Resorts in Riviera Maya

The best time to visit is during the spring when the weather is cooler, there’s no threat of hurricanes, and the beach has less seaweed. It’s also prime birdwatching season!

If you visit during peak hurricane season, like we did, expect hotter temps and almost daily afternoon rain. However, summer brings smaller crowds, so you may have the resort mostly to yourself.

How We Used World of Hyatt Points to Stay Here for Free

At the start of the year, we decided to get serious about travel perks and signed up for the World of Hyatt credit card. After staying at a few Hyatt properties, we knew we wanted to stick with one brand and going all-in with Hyatt helped us reach their highest elite status: Globalist.

Being card members of Hyatt means you earn bonus points when staying at Hyatt hotels, and those additional points add up fast. Especially with welcome bonuses and everyday spending. Once you have a solid stash, you can redeem them for stays at luxury resorts (like this one!) without paying a dime out of pocket.

One of the best parts of being a Globalist? You can book a standard room rate with points and often get upgraded to a suite at check-in,hello ocean views. Or, if you want to lock it in, you can use a suite upgrade award for guaranteed space and comfort.

With World of Hyatt points and an upgrade in our pocket, this entire stay was covered with points. Want to learn how to play the points game too? Click here to dive in.

Should I stay at the Alila Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya for Vacation?

Absolutely! You and your family will have a fantastic time here. The friendly staff truly made our stay special; they were a pleasure to get to know during our relaxing days by the pools and beach. We loved the cultural experiences, like the chocolate tasting and falcon encounter—these activities were fun for both the kids and the adults! This was one of the few Hyatt properties where we encountered absolutely no issues. The team here works hard to ensure you have a great experience. We highly recommend visiting this location!

Frequently Asked Questions on visiting Alila Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya

Is there a kids club at Alila Mayakoba Resort?

Yes, there is a kids’ club located just steps away from Cocina Milagro.

Does Alila Mayakoba offer an all inclusive package?

The resort isn’t strictly all-inclusive, but the all-inclusive package is a fantastic deal, according to the staff we spoke with.

Is there on site laundry for guest use at this facility?

No, the hotel does not offer self-service laundry. However, there’s a laundry bag in the closet that you can submit to housekeeping for cleaning.