The Top 5 Resorts in Mexico According to Travel+Leisure Readers (2023)

The famous magazine Travel+Leisure revealed the list of its 25 best resorts in Mexico, in this case, according to its readers. We’re proud to say that 3 of the top 5 resorts correspond to spots in Riviera Maya!

The Survey

Welcome to the world of Mexico’s finest resorts, where travelers are presented with an abundance of choices, regardless of their vacation preferences or which coastline beckons them. Are you in search of a grand resort with multiple pools and a plethora of high-energy activities to delight the entire family? Or does a romantic adults-only escape, complete with cocktails and a culinary feast, better suit your desires? Perhaps you’re drawn to an intimate retreat where the jungle meets the beach, featuring five dining options curated by one of the country’s most esteemed chefs. Look no further; all of these experiences and more await you on this year’s list of top 5 resorts according to T+L readers.

How Voting Works

Annually, as part of our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L invites readers to share their insights on global travel experiences. Readers have the opportunity to voice their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In 2023, nearly 165,000 T+L readers participated in the survey, marking a nearly 25 percent increase from pre-pandemic voting levels. This substantial turnout resulted in over 685,000 votes cast across more than 8,500 distinct properties, spanning hotels, cities, cruise lines, and more.

Hotels were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, or safari lodges based on their locations and amenities. They were assessed on the following criteria:

1. Rooms/facilities
2. Location
3. Service
4. Food
5. Value

For each of these characteristics, respondents could choose a rating ranging from excellent to poor. The final scores were calculated as averages of these responses.

What Readers Loved

Hotels in the Yucatán Peninsula, particularly in Cancún and the Riviera Maya along the Caribbean coast performed exceptionally well, securing eight spots on this year’s list. A notable newcomer is Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya, ranked at No. 17. This vibrant 349-room resort, which opened in January 2022, provides a sophisticated option in a destination that has recently seen its natural beauty overshadowed by high-octane beach clubs and overtourism.

The rise of all-inclusive hotels has been remarkable, and their offerings have become increasingly elevated. This trend is evident in this year’s list, with five all-inclusive properties making it to the top resorts in Mexico, as voted by T+L readers. Hotel Xcaret Mexico (No. 11), a family-friendly 900-suite property, offers access to eight theme and water parks with every booking, making relaxation effortless for visitors of all ages. Grand Velas Los Cabos (No. 12) and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit (No. 10) on the opposite coast were also beloved by readers for their exceptional cuisine and exquisite surroundings.

The Absolute Top 5 Resorts in Mexico 2023

Here are the winning top 5 resorts according to T+L readers.

1. Hotel Xcaret Arte: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
   • Reader Score: 98.67
2. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
   • Reader Score: 97.99
3. Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort: San José del Cabo, Mexico
   • Reader Score: 97.65
4. Grand Velas Riviera Maya: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
   • Reader Score: 97.17
5. Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection: Riviera Maya, Mexico
   • Reader Score: 97.13

In conclusion, the latest rankings of Mexico’s top 5 resorts, as determined by T+L readers, paint a vivid picture of the growing allure of the Riviera Maya as a favored destination among tourists. With a diverse array of resorts, from romantic hideaways to vibrant all-inclusive properties, the Riviera Maya continues to captivate travelers with its stunning natural beauty, world-class dining, and exceptional service. This coastal gem along the Yucatán Peninsula has firmly established itself as a prominent and sought-after vacation spot, offering unforgettable experiences that cater to a wide range of tastes. As the region evolves and expands, it’s clear that the Riviera Maya’s appeal is on an upward trajectory, promising even more delightful adventures for future visitors.

Source: Travel+Leisure

What Does This Mean to Investors?

For investors, the growing popularity of the Riviera Maya as a favorite destination for tourists carries several significant implications:

1. Investment Opportunities: The increasing demand for accommodations, dining, and recreational experiences in the Riviera Maya presents lucrative investment opportunities. Investors can consider ventures in the hospitality sector, including hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and restaurants, to capitalize on the region’s appeal to tourists.
2. Real Estate: The Riviera Maya’s status as a sought-after destination can drive real estate investments. Investors may explore purchasing properties for rental income, as vacation homes and condos often generate substantial returns due to high occupancy rates.
3. Tourism-Related Businesses: Investors can venture into businesses that cater to tourists, such as tour operators, transportation services, and adventure activities. As the number of visitors continues to rise, these industries are likely to see growth in demand.
4. Infrastructure and Development: The Riviera Maya’s growth as a tourist hub necessitates ongoing infrastructure development. Investors can participate in infrastructure projects, such as road improvements, airport expansions, and eco-friendly initiatives, to support the region’s tourism growth.
5. Diversification: For investors looking to diversify their portfolios, investing in the Riviera Maya can provide exposure to the tourism and hospitality sectors, which may perform differently from other asset classes, adding diversity and potentially reducing overall investment risk.
6. Risk Considerations: While the Riviera Maya offers attractive investment opportunities, investors should carefully evaluate risks, including economic fluctuations, regulatory changes, environmental factors (e.g., hurricanes), and local competition. Conducting thorough due diligence is essential to make informed investment decisions.
7. Long-Term Prospects: Investing in the Riviera Maya may be particularly appealing for those with a long-term horizon. The region’s growth as a tourist destination suggests the potential for sustained returns on investments over time.
8. Sustainable and Responsible Investment: As the Riviera Maya’s popularity grows, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism. Investors focused on environmental and social responsibility may find opportunities in eco-friendly and community-oriented projects that align with these values.

In summary, the Riviera Maya’s emergence as a favored destination for tourists offers a range of investment opportunities across various sectors. However, investors should conduct thorough research, consider risk factors, and align their investments with their financial goals and investment strategies. The region’s continued growth in tourism suggests a promising outlook for those seeking to participate in its economic expansion.