Viceroy Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Xcalacoco
Vibe
Shaded jungle pathways emerge onto white sand, where arrival begins with a copal resin blessing from the resident shaman.
“Secluded rainforest refuge”
Dedicated mayordomos, arrival blessings by an on-site shaman, sliced artisanal soaps, and poolside iced-towel service.
Thatched-roof palapa villas feature airy cathedral ceilings, stone floors, and private terraces with heated plunge pools.
A traditional Mayan temazcal sweat lodge, aquatic Ai Chi sessions, and copal-infused bodywork at Wayak Spa.
In coastal rainforest along Xcalacoco Beach, seven miles north of downtown Playa del Carmen.
“the forty-one villas are set off the beach, hidden away within the woods, each one feeling quite private and secluded.”
Rooms
Thatched palapa villas open to walled garden terraces with private heated plunge pools, crocheted hammocks, and open-air rain showers.
“Every villa comes with its own patio with a figure-eight-shaped plunge pool that’s heated and a handmade crocheted hammock.”
Wellness
Wayak Spa features native botanical treatments alongside an authentic Mayan temazcal sweat lodge heated by volcanic stones and herbal steam.
“Palapa villas with lots of wood and rattan (many with private pools and outdoor showers) are connected by meandering pathways…”
Eat & drink
La Marea serves refined regional Mexican cuisine under palapa eaves, while beachfront Coral offers fresh ceviche and Friday grill nights.
“The Viceroy Riviera Maya is a 41-villa resort set on the sugary-white-sand beach along the Riviera Maya, surrounded by a lush jungle ambiance.”
The neighborhood
Set along Xcalacoco Beach, the retreat sits in dense coastal forest seven miles north of downtown Playa del Carmen.
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The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.