Neoclassical coastal refuge
Classical European palace architecture meets the Caribbean coast, framed by black marble hallways, grand chandeliers, and gentle ocean breezes.
“It’s a behemoth in size, but the Grand Hotel Cancún managed by Kempinski (formerly the Ritz-Carlton) is a cocoon in terms of personalization and comforts.”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Dedicated club lounge service, marble bathrooms with Ferragamo amenities, and attentive beachfront cocktail delivery.
Notable
Kayanta Spa features indigenous Mayan clay therapies, cold plunge pools, and outdoor hydrotherapy terraces.
Notable
Four hundred meters of private white sand, two heated outdoor pools, tennis courts, and oceanfront cabanas.
What they say
Forbes Four-Star
Forbes Travel Guide
2026
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
It’s all about casual elegance at this beachside resort … pink blush and black marble, accent rugs and tasteful touches of classic French art and antiques.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Set along a quieter stretch of the Hotel Zone, the resort commands four hundred meters of powdery white sand.
The rooms
Ocean views greet every guest from private balconies, complemented by soft neutral tones and marble bathrooms with double vanities.
The pools
Bring a swimsuit.
Two heated freshwater pools curve along the oceanfront terrace, flanked by outdoor whirlpool tubs facing the Caribbean Sea.
The spa and gym
Outdoor hydrotherapy pools sit beneath shaded pergolas at KAYANTÁ Spa, steps from treatment rooms and a modern fitness studio.
Bar
D-Lounge
The lounge serves artisanal cocktails and sashimi beside an illuminated alabaster bar looking out to the sea.
At the table
Evenings bring live jazz trios to The Club Grill, Mediterranean dinners beneath Fantino's painted ceilings, and tables set on the sand.
How it began
Opened in 1993 as the first Ritz-Carlton outside the United States, this beachfront landmark joined the Kempinski portfolio in 2022.
Good to know
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Kempinski Hotel Cancún
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.