The luxurious adults-only all-inclusive Sandals resorts are popular for honeymoons and all sorts of romantic trips. They’re found throughout the Caribbean and many people wonder, is there a Sandals resort in Mexico?
In this article we’ll answer that question as well as others, including is there a Sandals in Cancun? and what countries is Sandals in?
Does Mexico have a Sandals?
Unfortunately, the answer to “is there a Sandals resort in Mexico?” is no. Although there are not any Sandals all inclusive resorts in Mexico yet, there were reports back in 2016 that there would be soon. At the time, Sandals CEO Adam Stewart had said they were planning to break ground on a Sandals in Mexico along the Riviera Maya, north of Playa del Carmen.
It was also thought that there might be another Sandals resort in Cancun or Cabo San Lucas. However, nothing further has been heard along those lines, so we’re still waiting to see if a Sandals resort in Mexico materializes.
The closest Sandals resorts to the U.S. are in The Bahamas (Sandals Royal Bahamian and Sandals Emerald Bay) and Jamaica (Sandals Negril, Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Royal Caribbean, Sandals Ochi, Sandals Dunn’s River, and Sandals South Coast.)
Is there a Sandals in Cancun?
Despite rumors of plans to build a Sandals resort in Cancun, we are not aware of any under development at this time. There are plenty of adults-only all-inclusive resorts throughout the Cancun area, however, that make excellent alternative choices (see below for some of our favorites).
What countries is Sandals in?
Currently, Sandals resorts are in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Grenada, St. Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, Curacao, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Alternatives to a Sandals Resort in Mexico
Mexico offers a huge variety of adults-only all-inclusive resorts to choose from, while you wait for a Sandals to open. Here are some of the top picks.
Excellence Playa Mujeres
For sophisticated luxury near Cancun but not so close you feel crowded, try Excellence Playa Mujeres. This resort offers outstanding service, 13 dining options, 7 bars, luxurious rooms, and a wide range of amenities including seven pools, a rooftop terrace, and a beautiful beach.
All-inclusive packages include spa treatments, outdoor activities, and water sports. FYI, there aren’t many attractions nearby so this is best for those who want to mostly stay on the resort grounds.
Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun
Tucked away on a secluded stretch of beach, Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun is a serene oasis that offers elegance, comfort, and world-class service.
Every room at Le Blanc Spa Resort is a masterpiece of sophistication. From the 2-person hot tubs to the impeccable butler service, every detail is curated to pamper and delight. The rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including satellite flat-screen TVs, fully stocked minibars, and coffee facilities.
Engage in a variety of amenities including spa services, yoga and Pilates classes, paddleboard yoga experience, a state-of-the-art gym with sauna and steam room, three pools, and a private beach.
Five gourmet restaurants serve a range of cuisines including French-fusion, Italian, Japanese, Thai, and Chinese. The two sophisticated bars are perfect spots to relax and savor a drink, and guests enjoy complimentary glasses of Moet et Chandon champagne.
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
The adults-only all-inclusive Secrets Resorts are also aimed at couples and offer a similar experience to Sandals resorts. One of the best Secrets resorts in Mexico, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun lies just north of Playa del Carmen along Maroma Beach (which has been named World’s Best Beach by the Travel Channel).
Rooms feature modern décor and all come with a private balcony or terrace and a whirlpool tub for two. Book a swim-out suite and enjoy a dip in the pool any time, straight from your terrace.
There are two hot tubs and two pools; the infinity pool overlooks the turquoise Caribbean. The wide beach is lined with umbrellas and cabanas that offer shady spots to lounge.
Dining options include 8 restaurants and a café, serving international cuisine including Mexican, French, and Pan Asian, plus fresh seafood. At night, have a drink at one of several bars, including a swim-up bar, a beach bar, a theatre bar, and a music lounge with dancing, or enjoy a theme party, live music, beach party, and shows.
Activities at Secrets Maroma Beach include snorkeling, beach volleyball, mini-golf, tennis, non-motorized watersports, archery, yoga, water aerobics, water polo, cocktail classes, and dance lessons. Golfers will enjoy complimentary greens fees at two nearby golf courses. For extra, you can go scuba diving or deep-sea fishing, take an area excursion, or indulge at the 13,000-square-foot spa.
El Dorado Maroma
Home to the first overwater bungalows in Mexico, this all-inclusive resort isn’t adults only but the bungalows are. The Palafitos Overwater Bungalows are set right over the turquoise waters of beautiful Maroma Beach, one of the best beaches in the world.
These all-inclusive overwater bungalows feature incredible views from the large deck and private infinity pool, as well as direct access to the water, glass floor panels, full butler service, a romantic outdoor shower, an indoor hot tub for two, a minibar, and exclusive beach beds.
Your stay includes onsite activities like yoga and nonmotorized watersports, nightly entertainment, all meals, nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, WiFi, taxes and tips, and roundtrip airport transfers.
This luxury resort also offers the Náay Spa, which offers treatments utilizing traditional Mayan herbal practices and the antioxidant-rich Maroma Beach sea moss; three infinity pools; a tennis court; and a fitness center with sauna and steam room. Six restaurants serve a wide variety of cuisines with marvelous ocean views, and there are multiple bars including three swim-up bars.
TRS Yucatan
Located near Playa del Carmen, TRS Yucatan is perfect for couples who want a romantic and peaceful vacation or honeymoon in Mexico. This modern and luxurious resort has a variety of rooms and suites as well as private rentals, some featuring private outdoor jacuzzis and swimming pools.
The top-rated resort has 9 a la carte restaurants ffering delicious dishes from a variety of different cuisines. Guests can relax on the nearby beach or at one of the stunning pools. The spa offers a variety of restorative treatments and the activities and entertainment ranges from cabaret shows to aqua excursions.
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya
Set on the stunning white sands of Akumal Beach (which has been voted one of the top ten beaches in Mexico), the calm waters at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya and a native sea turtle population make this a snorkelers’ paradise. The grounds are spectacular as well, featuring paths that wind through tropical landscaping.
Suites here are spacious, and most offer sea views from their private balconies or terraces. They also come with whirlpool tubs for two. You can book a swim-out suite here as well.
Guests enjoy delicious dining at 8 restaurants including Pan-Asian, Italian, French, Mexican, and seafood plus a café. Choose from 5 bars including a swim-up bar, a beach bar, and a music lounge.
There are plenty of activities such as non-motorized water sports, tennis, archery, bike tours, dance classes, and Spanish lessons, Onsite facilities include 3 pools, 2 hot tubs, a fitness center, and the full-service spa. Golfers get complimentary greens fees at the Riviera Maya Golf Club. You can go scuba diving or deep-sea fishing for an extra fee.
Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun
Live Aqua Beach Resort is a haven for couples seeking an upscale retreat on the white-sand shores of Cancun. Every room is luxurious and offers an exclusive aromatherapy menu and breathtaking views.
There’s a huge variety of dining options, from traditional Mexican dishes to international cuisine; every palate is catered to. Health-conscious guests enjoy vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, while seafood lovers can indulge in the freshest catches from the ocean.
But what truly sets Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun apart is its commitment to relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa is a sanctuary of tranquility, boasting world-class treatments and internationally acclaimed relaxation techniques.
Breathless Riviera Cancun
Breathless Riviera Cancun has a reputation among couples and singles for its lively atmosphere and is a well-known party resort. Built right on the shoreline, the resort offers views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea that will leave you “breathless.”
The buildup of sargassum seaweed, which is a common problem for all resorts in the area, can sometimes render the beach un-swimmable but there are loungers for sunbathing and relaxing, and staff offer food and beverage service.
Previous guests of Breathless Riviera Cancun praise the property, citing excellent customer service, lively daily and nightly entertainment, and delicious food. However, other reviews mention that the beach was underwhelming, and the party atmosphere means that light sleepers might have issues with the noise. However, if you’re ready to party, Breathless Riviera Cancun is the place to be.
Secrets Aura Cozumel
Ferry to the island of Cozumel for a luxurious stay just steps away from a white sand beach. Secrets Aura Cozumel offers romance, tranquility, and a true escape from daily life. Guests can discover the vibrant coral reefs on scuba diving or snorkeling excursions in crystal-clear waters, or lounge by one of the three pools.
Reconnect in the spa while you enjoy a couples’ massage, then indulge in a gourmet romantic dinner at one of the 8 restaurants. There are also 5 bars where you can get a hand-made cocktail made with premium spirits or a glass of fine wine. You will leave Secrets Aura Cozumel feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and eager to come back.
Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa
Secrets Huatulco is set on a secluded stretch of beautiful golden sand along the Pacific Coast of Mexico. The relaxing resort offers elegant ocean-view suites with private balconies or terraces, perfect for watching the sun sink into Conejos Bay, and oversized whirlpool tubs.
The resort features two pools; non-motorized water sports like snorkeling, windsurfing, and kayaking; tennis; and beach volleyball. For an extra cost, scuba diving or sport fishing, area excursions, or spa treatments are available.
Nine restaurants offer steaks, fresh seafood, French cuisine, Mexican, Italian, and more. Plus, there is a café and 5 bars and lounges, including a swim-up bar, Sky Bar, theater bar, and beach bar. At night there are shows, dancing, live music, theme nights, beach parties, and movies under the stars.
Breathless Cabo San Lucas
For laid-back downtime during the day and vibrant nightlife, Breathless Cabo San Lucas is a top choice. Modern and chic, this adults-only all-inclusive resort is a stylish and luxurious place to stay. Spa treatments and yoga on the beach are just two of Breathless Cabo San Lucas’ rejuvenating offerings.
Once the sun sets, there is a noticeable change in the atmosphere. Live DJs, pool parties, musical performances, and fashion shows bring the resort to life. Plus, all the local nightlife of downtown Cabo San Lucas is just a short walk away.
Do any of these alternatives to a Sandals resort in Mexico appeal to you, or do you want to wait until one opens? Le