Located about 35 minutes away from Cancun, this highly exclusive community is a gateway to absolute serenity for its guests. It is so complete in Mayakoba that there are only four resorts to choose from. Two of them are Rosewood Mayakoba and Banyan Tree Mayakoba.
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Quick Glance: Rosewood Mayakoba vs Banyan Tree Mayakoba
| Rosewood Mayakoba | Banyan Tree Mayakoba | |
| Location | Ctra. Federal Cancún-Playa del Carmen,Deluxe Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico | Carretera Federal Chetumal-Puerto Juárez, Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen, Mexico |
| Getting There | Requires a 30-minute car ride from Cancun International Airport. The resort offers pre-arranged private chauffeured transfers, too. | Requires a 50-minute car ride from Cancun International Airport. The resort offers pre-arranged private chauffeured transfers, too. |
| Room | 129 suites and villas | 161 villas |
| Amenities | 6 Pools, Spa, Fitness Center, Tennis Courts, Golf Course, Archery Range, Dive Center, Shopping Outlets, Meeting Rooms | 2 Pools, Spa, Fitness Center, Tennis Courts, Golf Course, Archery Range, Business Center, Gallery |
| Food and Dining | 8 restaurants and bars | 6 restaurants and 1 bar |
| Staff and Guest Services | Butler service is available for all guests. They know how to add personal touches to make your vacation feel more seamless throughout. | Exceptional. It is a full-service AAA Five Diamond resort, so you know the service will be world-class. |
| Price | Rooms start at $1,050 per night during off-peak season. Prices can range at around $2,470 per night on the average season. During peak season, prices can go up to $4,410 per night. | Rooms start at $720 per night during off-peak season. On peak season, it can go up to $2,920 per night. The average season rate is around $1,140. |
| Points Redemption | Rosewood Mayakoba currently doesn’t have any points redemption available. | Banyan Tree currently doesn’t have any points redemption available. |
The Details: Rosewood Mayakoba vs Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Rosewood Mayakoba
Rosewood Mayakoba. Image Credit: Rosewood Hotels
This beachfront resort is flanked with lush green mangroves, unspoiled emerald lagoons, and pristine beach shores of the Caribbean sea. Like classic Rosewood fashion, its architecture and overall ambiance stay true to Riviera Maya’s location.
Location
Rosewood Mayakoba is one of only four luxury resorts in Mayakoba. It covers several small islands nestled in the mangrove jungles in the area.
The resort is about 35 minutes away from Cancun International Airport (CUN), 15 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, and 55 minutes north of Tulum. Guests can arrange private, hotel-chauffered transportation services from the airport. The chosen vehicle is an impressive Cadillac Escalade.
Room
The resort’s 129 rooms consist of airy suites and villas decked with living areas, spacious bathrooms, plunge pools, and private docks. Mexican artisans make their furnishings to reflect Mayan’s heritage. Its sleek furnishings with touches of tropical color bring life to your stay. Upon arrival, guests are taken to their suites by a motorized boat.
All stays come with fresh fruit with local honey and nuts, bottled water, Nespresso coffee/tea service, Maison Caulieries bath amenities, Bose audio and sound, complimentary Wi-Fi, and even a bottle of mezcal.
The entry-level Lagoon Studio Suites are situated around the resort’s lagoon. The suites have a king- or two queen-size beds, an oversized bathroom with a soaking tub, dual vanities, and indoor and outdoor rain showers.
Upgrades to the Lagoon Studio Suite include the one-bedroom Deluxe Lagoon Suite, Deluxe Overwater Lagoon Suite, and Beachside Lagoon View Suite. Enhancements for the deluxe types are the second bathroom, a walk-in closet, and an outdoor lounge terrace.
Located at the beachside area of the resort, the Oceanview Suites showcase breathtaking views of the sea, which can be enjoyed from the rooftop sun deck outfitted with comfortable lounge furniture.
Upgrade to a Rooftop Ocean View Suite, and you’ll get an extra sofa bed and unparalleled views from the rooftop. Aside from rooftop sea views, the townhouse-style Mayakoba Two-Bedroom Suites also come with two rooms, an additional sofa bed, and a plunge pool terrace.
There are also Lagoon Villas that offer up to five-bedroom configurations. The villa upgrades include a media room, villa or wraparound terraces, and airy indoor/outdoor living spaces.
The Beachfront Studio Suites and the Four-Bedroom Beachfront Presidential Suites are your best bet for those looking for direct access to the sea. These gems open up to a breathtaking view of the Caribbean sea. The sound of the waves will softly lull you to sleep at night.
For larger groups, another beachfront option is the Founder’s Villa. This plush villa has six bedrooms with dual master suites, eight bathrooms, a media room, a private fitness center, and a convertible office suite. Its outdoor area includes a 92-foot infinity-edge pool, an oceanside lounging and dining area with a fire pit, and of course, a sweeping view of the Riviera Maya’s white sand beach.
For wellness enthusiasts, the loft-style Wellness Suites are a perfect choice. It comes with a king-size bed, two bathrooms, a serenity pavilion, and a reflexology fountain. Additional perks include a natural essential oil capsule shower diffuser, a customized cold press juice menu, and wellness turndown amenities. A dedicated Well-Being butler is also available to accommodate any needs. Plus, guests enjoy complimentary fitness and wellness classes at their in-house spa as well.
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Amenities
This exotic destination offers all types of activities for those seeking adventure and relaxation. Thanks to its prime beachfront location, guests can enjoy different types of water sports, including kayaking, snorkeling, and surfing. The resort provides the appropriate gear for guest use.
Take a dip around any of their six outdoor pools in four different pool decks; each one is unique, depending on your preference.
The Caso de Lago Pool is a multi-level pool set in lush greenery with magnificent lagoon views. The beachfront infinity-edge Punta Bonita Family Pool is where the whole family can relax in, thanks to its expansive lounging area. The hydrotherapy Spa Serenity Pool is located in the resort’s spa area. The adults-only Aquí Me Quedo area has three beachfront infinity edge pools called Tequilita, Mezcalito, and Chelita.
The adults-only Aquí Me Quedo beach club is where adults can unwind at their lush lounging spaces and infinity pools. There is also an open kitchen where interactive culinary classes are regularly held.
Rosewood Mayakoba also prides itself as a sustainable resort that integrates itself into its environment. Its unique natural mangrove forests make it home to various indigenous flora and fauna.
Environmentally friendly modes of transportation such as electric boats, bikes, and golf carts are mainstays here. There are daily eco-tours available so guests can learn about the resort’s sustainability practices and Mayakoba’s local flora and fauna.
Aside from a large tennis center, extensive nature paths are perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. Rosewood Mayakoba is also pet-friendly, so your furbabies are also more than welcome here to join your vacation.
Golfers can also hit the range at El Camaleón, the Greg Norman-designed PGA Championship Golf Course. It is also the first PGA Tour golf course in Latin America.
The Dive & Water Sports Center offers a wide range of water activities such as scuba diving, jet ski rentals, and private yacht charters. El Pueblito is where you can find several shops and restaurants, an arcade, and two tennis courts.
Rosewood Mayakoba sustains its family-friendly image through its signature Rose Bud children’s program. From a scavenger hunt to Mayan storytelling, they have plenty of activities to entertain the little ones. It also hosts several seasonal events catered to families, such as Family Night Out-themed parties and Beach Nights.
Complimentary shuttle vans and scheduled ferries are available if you choose to venture outside. Enjoy the dining and nightlife in Playa del Carmen, or visit nearby ecological and archaeological parks, such as the famous ruins of Xel-Ha and Tulum.
Nestled among the lush jungle lies a healing sanctuary called the Sense, A Rosewood Spa®️. It is home to twelve treatment rooms, hydrotherapy circuits, relaxation lounges, a private yoga pavilion, a fitness center, and the sensory Kuxtal Garden. The spa invites you to reinvigorate with its series of wellness treatments, rituals, and sensorial journeys inspired by the ancient Mayan culture.
Food and Dining
Rosewood Mayakoba Aqui Me Quedo Beach Club. Image Credit: Rosewood Hotels
Rosewood Mayakoba’s culinary spots are a gastronomic treat for all things Mexican. Traditional Mexican ingredients and techniques are sometimes fused with international styles in some of their restaurants.
The Casa del Lago serves traditional breakfast dishes of Central Mexico, while Punta Bonita serves lunch by the sea with a menu drawn from Mexico’s southern Pacific coast.
Situated on a terrace overlooking the lagoon, Agave Azul is a casual Baja California restaurant that cooks up primarily seafood dishes with Asian influences. The adults-only La Cantina Aquí Me Quedo offers Caribbean street food and cocktails in a beautiful beachfront setting.
The indoor-outdoor Zapote Bar pays homage to Mexico through its impressive selection of artisanal cocktails exquisitely made from local ingredients. La Fondita offers local street food delicacies such tostadas and tacos with craft beer and mezcal. Bread lovers will delight in Pan Dulce, a bakery that serves traditional Mexican baked pastries.
Dine family-style at the al-fresco La Ceiba Garden & Kitchen, where cooking demonstrations and tastings are often held.
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Staff and Guest Services
Rosewood resorts are universally known for their remarkable hospitality, and it’s no secret that Rosewood Mayakoba is where you can experience it firsthand. Guests staying in Rosewood Mayakoba will enjoy personalized butler service. Daily housekeeping with nightly turndown services also comes with the package here.
For example, beach attendants will deliver your orders from the resort’s nearby dining spots. Or, they will even give you refreshments such as chilled towels, sunscreen, bottled water, and mini-massages.
Price
Booking an entry-point room during the off-peak season can start at $1,050 per night and up to $2,470 per night during the regular season. During peak season, prices can go up to $4,410 per night.
Points Redemption
Rosewood Mayakoba currently doesn’t have any points redemption available.
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Who Is It For?
The Rosewood Mayakoba is a perfect choice for families seeking a private tropical vacation. Parents will undoubtedly appreciate the balance of adults-only, family, and exclusive kids activities. Whether the day’s agenda is to spend quality time with the whole family, explore the nearby area, or take a breather with a spa treatment or drink, everyone in the family will certainly enjoy a stay in Rosewood Mayakoba.
Rosewood Mayakoba Gallery
Rosewood Mayakoba Casa del Lago Pool. Image Credit: Rosewood Hotels
Rosewood Mayakoba Lagoon Presidential Suite Terrace. Image Credit: Rosewood Hotels
Rosewood Mayakoba Lobby Lagoon. Image Credit: Rosewood Hotels
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Discover the beauty of Mayakoba through charming Banyan Tree Mayakoba. This charming Asian-inspired hideaway is one of the area’s most captivating destinations.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba. Image Credit: Banyan Tree
Location
Banyan Tree Mayakoba is one of four resorts in the enclosed community area of Mayakoba. It is approximately 50 minutes away by car from the nearest airport, Cancun International Airport.
This resort is a few minutes away from Playa del Carmen in Quintana Roo, Mexico. This area is more well-known as the Riviera Maya.
Room
Built to exist in harmony with its nature, Banyan Tree has 161 accommodations in total. Each one fuses Asian style with local Mexican charm. Their private pools and suites come with spacious terraces and full to mid-size heated swimming pools.
Each villa comes equipped with coffee and tea and making facilities, an in-room safe, complimentary bicycles, Wi-Fi, an outdoor bathtub, a Smart TV, and Talavera glazed earthenware sinks.
The intimate villas for two start with the Bliss Pool Villa and Serenity Pool Villa with king-sized beds and lagoon views. The Wellbeing Sanctuary Pool Villa is a two-story villa with a balcony overlooking a gorgeous view of the lagoon. The highlight of Oceanfront Balcony Pool Suite and Oceanfront Veranda Pool Suites are the unmatched views of the Caribbean sea and calming sea breeze.
The Two- or Three-Bedroom Family Residences are recommended for those coming with larger groups. It comes with well-appointed furnishings, separate entrances, and a serene golf course view.
Book the Beachfront Lanai Pool Suite or the Beachfront Terrace Pool Suite, and you’ll have direct access to the pristine, powdery-white beach. The priciest accommodations are the Lagoon & Sunset Rooftop Pool Villa, Harmony Two-Bedroom Lagoon Pool Villa, and Harmony Three-Bedroom Beachfront Villa. It offers a spectacular vista of the sparkling blue waters outside and a spacious terrace beside its heating pool and bubbling jet pool.
Amenities
Activities at Banyan Tree Mayakoba are aplenty too. The Sands Beach Club is also where you can find interactive The Rangers Club for kids. Indoor and outdoor activities will keep them entertained, including treasure hunts, board games, beach sports, and more.
Those looking for relaxation can head to the Banyan Tree Spa. This award-winning sanctuary embodies the Asian wellness philosophy in its soothing ambiance and service—a dedicated spa concierge and a private therapy pavilion are assigned to every guest!
The Rainforest is their state-of-the-art hydrothermal treatment. It comes with a rejuvenating rain walk and aroma steam chamber to melt stress and fatigue away from your senses. Other top-notch spa amenities include a sauna, ice fountain, vitality pool, and waterfall.
The resort also offers a guided eco-tour to immerse yourself in nature and wildlife among the mangroves alongside the water canals. Adventure lovers have a plethora of water-based activities to choose from await if you decide to explore Playa del Carmen: exploring the Great Maya Reef, scuba diving, diving with turtles and snacks, swimming with dolphins, deep-fishing, and sailing. A turtle release activity also happens twice a year in the resort, where guests can witness baby turtles head to the sea.
Playa del Carmen is home to the region’s attractions for culture and history lovers. The resort’s concierge can arrange group or private tours. They can even recommend activities and programs based on your preferences.
Like Rosewood Mayakoba, it also offers easy access to El Camaleón, the Greg Norman-designed PGA Championship Golf Course. Those who want to perfect their swings with the help of professionals can join the prestigious Jim McLean Golf School. Other outlets to keep active during the vacation include archery, kayaking, yoga classes, four tennis courts, one paddle court, and a fully-equipped fitness center. A natural trail is available where you can walk, jog, or bike.
Food and Dining
Banyan Tree Mayokoba Sands Beach Club. Image Credit: Banyan Tree
Banyan Tree Mayakoba has six restaurants, with several harping on global influences. Saffron serves contemporary Thai cuisine overlooking the canals. Cello offers traditional Italian gourmet with an impressive selection of wines, while The Ember serves authentic kosher meals. Tomahawk Den, their in-house steakhouse, is where you can find the best Tomahawks in town. Feast on gourmet burgers that you can customize on your own at The Burger.
The other dining spots focus more on local cuisine. The al-fresco Sands Beach Club pays tribute to local ingredients in its menu along with a picturesque panoramic view of the sea. Head to Oriente and enjoy a buffet breakfast or ala carte dishes of local and international specialties. La Copa is a contemporary lounge bar where you can sample Mexican specialties with tequila and mezcal.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba also offers exceptional culinary experiences. HAAB relives the culinary arts of the ancient Maya civilization. This unique Mayan-style dinner immerses you with theatrical skills, including storytelling and dancing. Its menu features the four sacred elements of water, earth, wind, and fire.
The Tapas Cruise is where you can taste delectable tapas and drinks as you sail through the canals in the resort. Go onboard the Ixchel, their traditional Mexican trajinera (canoe), and have a magnificent cooked-to-order breakfast or moonlight dinner as you navigate through the resort’s waterways. Enjoy light meals and snacks after a refreshing dip at the Reflections Pool Bar for pool and sunbathing lovers.
In-villa dining services are always available if you prefer to dine in utmost privacy. Their signature in-villa BBQ can be customized according to your preferences.
Staff and Guest Services
Banyan Tree Mayakoba is a full-service AAA Five Diamond resort. Guests can expect exemplary service here, as the staff is consistently attentive to accommodate your needs.
Price
At Banyan Tree, room rates start at $720 per night during off-peak season. During the average season, rates go up to around $1,140 per night. On peak season, it can go up to $2,920 per night.
Points Redemption
Banyan Tree currently doesn’t have any points redemption available.
Who Is It For?
While Banyan Tree Mayakoba has certain family-friendly elements, it captures the ideal ambiance for those looking for a romantic escape. The Mayan touches are melded with Asian influences to create a charming yet luxurious feel. Plus, the villa’s private heated swimming pools and airy terraces will undoubtedly appeal to those who want the utmost privacy.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba Gallery
Banyan Tree Mayakoba Pool View. Image Credit: Banyan Tree
Banyan Tree Mayakoba Pool Suite Room. Image Credit: Banyan Tree
Banyan Tree Mayakoba Spa Pavilion Deluxe. Image Credit: Banyan Tree
Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Food | Banyan Tree Mayakoba | Rosewood’s dining options focus more on local cuisine, while Banyan Tree offers more international options like steak and burgers for guests wanting a little more variety. |
| Best for Pools | Rosewood Mayakoba | Rosewood wins in terms of quantity and diversity with their pools. |
| Best for Spa | Banyan Tree Mayakoba | Banyan Tree Spa has a dedicated spa concierge and a private therapy pavilion for each guest. They also offer Rainforest, the state-of-the-art hydrothermal treatment not commonly found in other spas. |
| Best for Beaches | Tie | Both resorts boast easy access to the pristine sand, sea, and sun of Mayakoba. |
| Best For Adults | Banyan Tree Mayakoba | Both are family-friendly resorts, but Banyan Tree is the preferred choice for adults seeking tranquility. |
| Best for Families | Rosewood Mayakoba | Rosewood’s signature Rose Bud program is a fleshed-out, adventure-packed program that the kids will love. |
| Best Location | Tie | Both are in the private community of Mayakoba. |
| Best for a Calm Vacation | Banyan Tree Mayakoba | Since Rosewood is a better choice for families, Banyan Tree may be the quieter option. |
| Best for Diving or Snorkeling | Rosewood Mayakoba | Rosewood has a renowned dive center as a starting point for scuba beginners and avid scuba enthusiasts alike. |
| Best for Service | Rosewood Mayakoba | The resort offers personalized butler service to all its guests staying at the suites. |
| Most Exclusive | Tie | Both are equal in terms of exclusivity, thanks to their location in Mayakoba. |
Wrapping Up
Because of their exclusive location in Mayakoba, both resorts offer the same unique setting of lush mangrove forests and beachfront tranquility.
Rosewood Mayakoba stands out more for its diverse activities that cater to family-friendly and adults-only, but Banyan Tree Mayakoba certainly does have its perks.
It has a more romantic ambiance with an impressive spa and unique culinary experiences. It includes a cruise and an immersive traditional Mayan-style dinner complete with storytelling and dance.
In the end, Mayakoba has all the makings of an idyllic destination for your honeymoon, a romantic getaway, or family vacation.
It is the more secluded, quieter option than its other tourist-heavy neighbors, Playa del Carmen and Cancun. However, thanks to its proximity, guests can venture out and easily explore one place from another and then come home to a peaceful Mayakoba stay.