Set amidst the idyllic backdrop of the Yucatán Peninsula’s Caribbean coastline and its aquamarine waters, the resort development of Mayakoba blends seamlessly with the region’s vibrant ecosystems. A tapestry of pristine jungle, mangrove forests, and lagoons, the community is home to four distinct resorts, all interconnected by winding canals and lush trails that allow guests to explore the area by foot, bike, or boat. At its heart is Rosewood Mayakoba, occupying one of the most spectacular locations along the shore and the lagoon.

This luxury enclave is a combination of striking natural beauty, sophisticated design, and world-class service. Its staff provides a masterclass in the art of hospitality, catering to individual preferences and offering tailor-made experiences that indulge guests with the warmth of personal attention. Case in point: deep in my writer’s bio, I mention my adoration of my golden retriever Nate. Someone at Rosewood took note. In addition to a makings-for-a-mezcal margarita welcome amenity, the Rosewood staff provided a special gift, specifically for Nate. Such “next level” attentiveness is a Rosewood hallmark, and it creates a feeling of intimacy and belonging. This dedication to personalized service is enhanced by the resort’s butler team, on hand to actually craft that mezcal margarita, or arrange anything desired, from spa treatments to dinner reservations to a private sunset cruise.
While they had me at check-in with that thoughtful gift for Nate, I continued to be wowed during my brief stay with personalized attention that is clearly not reserved only for those writing about the resort. I witnessed bespoke service all around me, such as a surprise bottle of champagne delivered to the couple sitting near me at dinner, celebrating an anniversary. My own experience also included a private wine tasting with the resort’s wine director Alejandro Bru of some of Mexico’s varietals. Again, Rosewood staff had taken note of my vinous interest, and concluded that I might enjoy this introduction to some of the country’s best. They were right. (Particular favorites were a Piscis Rosé Grenache, and a Casa Madero Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon.)


One of my favorite aspects of Rosewood Mayakoba was its cruiser bikes, utilized by every guest to traverse the large property. I felt like a kid again, pedaling from my lagoon-based suite along the jungle-lined path to the white sand beach, while spotting iguana and coati. The Rosewood beach features two distinct regions: Aquí Me Quedo is an adults only haven with comfortable loungers, cabanas and umbrellas positioned to take in intoxicating views of the horizon. Here, beach attendants deliver chilled towels, sunscreen, bottled water, drinks and bites from the nearby cantina, and the complimentary 1pm house cocktail of the day. Yum. The second, family friendly beach area is adjacent to the Punta Bonita family pool, and features the same attentive service.

The resort’s accommodations are elegantly refined. Guests can choose from a variety of options, including beachfront villas, over-water bungalows, and lagoon-view suites which are positioned along the winding waterway. Carefully constructed to reflect the natural flow of the land, the lagoon is a centerpiece of the Rosewood experience, offering both aesthetic beauty and a sanctuary for local wildlife. Guests are led to their rooms and suites via boat ride along this lagoon. (For a more in-depth peek, eco-tours can be scheduled, whereby a guide points out the flora and fauna found throughout.) Décor is inspired by traditional Mexican craftsmanship, with use of indigenous materials such as wood, stone, and thatch. As expected at a Rosewood property, the amenities are luxe. My lagoon suite featured a private plunge pool, a spacious, furnished terrace, and an indulgent outdoor rain shower shielded by lush vegetation.


Rosewood Mayakoba is home to some of the development’s most celebrated restaurants, and guests of the other three hotels are always invited. (Mayakoba offers golf cart and boat service between all resorts, making the community a veritable hospitality wonderland.) Rosewood’s Zapote Bar is a particular favorite; this convivial, day-to-night, indoor-outdoor destination, has ranked among North America’s 50 Best Bars for three consecutive years. Aquí Me Quedo’s La Cantina (a retrofitted vintage food truck) is known for its tangy ceviches and catches of the day. Casa del Lago, overlooking the resort’s inner pool, features a beautiful and extensive breakfast menu (don’t miss the complimentary, traditional Mexican coffee and hot chocolate offered at the entrance); the restaurant transitions in the evening to a sleek dinnertime spot and is often home to limited-run culinary collaborations with esteemed chefs from around Mexico, the U.S., and beyond. Agave Azul highlights Chinese and Japanese cooking techniques, and Punta Bonita features indoor and terrace seating, with a menu that showcases freshly caught seafood, made-to-order ceviche, and mesquite charcoal-cooked tlayudas.

For those who wish to venture outside the resort for a meal, nearby Banyan Tree Resort is home to signature restaurant Saffron, offering authentic Thai dishes. Saffron offers a beautiful, al fresco dining experience where guests sit on a twinkle-lit wooden deck overlooking the tropical mangroves. Another unique culinary experience can be found at La Cocina Cooking School at El Pueblito, Mayakoba’s village square. Choose from a menu of 50 plus traditional Mexican recipes, and learn all of the steps—start to finish—to create your own feast back at home. My lesson included sesame encrusted seared tuna tostadas and tacos al pastor with various picos de gallo and guacamoles—all enjoyed with a passionfruit margarita.
Not that additional relaxation was necessary, but I would have been remiss to ignore Rosewood’s beautiful and serene Sense Spa during my visit. I booked a wonderful traditional massage, performed in a private casa within the lush grounds, which I preceded with a traditional Temazcal ritual, a Mayan healing practice led by Rosewood Mayakoba’s resident shaman. The Temazcal is heated with volcanic stones over which aromatic water is poured to create detoxifying steam that rises slowly, allowing the body to gradually adapt to the temperature. The ceremony includes the singing of mantras, sensorial rituals, and moments of self-reflection. It’s a deeply restorative and emotional wellness journey that is great for those who are open to a spiritual, life-changing experience.


Temazcal or not, my visit to Rosewood Mayakoba was indeed life-changing. From the tranquil lagoon to the exceptional staff, this resort offers a rare blend of beauty and service that elevates it beyond a mere vacation destination—it’s an oasis where luxury and nature coexist in perfect harmony. Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or a solo escape into nature, Rosewood Mayakoba delivers with exceptional attention to detail, welcoming every guest as part of the Rosewood family.
Photos courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba, unless otherwise noted