The hype
Travelers rave about the food and the 'new' feel of the resort but are consistently disappointed by the lack of a beach.
Margaritaville Beach Resort Riviera Maya - An Adults Only All-Inclusive Experience
$350-550/ night
Book this if You want a laid-back, food-focused adults-only escape where the pool is the main event and you don't care about the beach.
Why People Love It
- The food quality blows typical all-inclusives out of the water (especially the Italian and Brewery)
- Swim-up suites are abundant and actually usable
- Compact layout means no 20-minute treks to get a drink
Quick Take: A fantastic pool party with excellent food that happens to be sitting next to an ocean you can't really swim in.
Reviewed by @camillacattaneo_: I honestly didn't expect to love the 'floating taco bar' this much, but it was the highlight of our trip! The swim-up suite made morning dips so easy, and the adults-only vibe meant we could actually relax. If you need a fun, carefree escape, this is it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Joe Merchant's' minibar system is cool in theory but can be annoying if you just want a stocked fridge upon arrival without doing a 'shopping' run.
- You are a 'pool person' who prefers swim-up bars to sand
- You prioritize high-quality dining over a massive buffet selection
- You want a modern, clean room with strong A/C and good showers
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily and thorough; guests consistently report returning to a spotless room.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Showers are large, grout is clean, and water pressure is strong.
- Maintenance: The resort is new (opened 2023), so peeling paint and broken fixtures are virtually non-existent.
- Linens & towels: Fresh, white, and fluffy. No threadbare pool towels here.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells like lime and salt (intentional); outdoor areas can smell of sargassum (nature).
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Daytime DJ/foam party noise at the main pool
- Evening entertainment at the LandShark Brewery
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Environmental Sanitation Fee' is mandatory and charged at check-in (approx. $4.50 USD/night).
- Room service is 24/7 and actually decent.
- You need to download the resort app to check restaurant menus and daily activities.
What to pack
- Insulated tumbler (Yeti/Stanley) to keep drinks cold at the pool
- Bug spray (mosquitoes can be bad in the evenings near the mangroves)
- Small bills for tipping (staff appreciate it despite the 'all-inclusive' tag)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Luxury Paradise Suite Swim-Up (ground floor) for instant pool access
- Oceanfront Paradise Studio for the best views (even if you can't swim in the ocean)
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms directly facing the main pool if you want to nap during the afternoon foam party
- Ground floor rooms near the walkway if you value privacy
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a quiet room on an upper floor, away from the main pool and LandShark Brewery noise. If a swim-up is available, please ensure it is in a lower-traffic section of the resort.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there really no beach?
Correct. There is a retaining wall and rocky area. You can look at the ocean, but you can't really lounge on sand or swim in it.
Is the alcohol top shelf?
It's decent mid-tier. You'll get Jose Cuervo and similar, but you can upgrade or ask for specific brands if available.
Do I need reservations for dinner?
Mostly no, but it's smart to check upon arrival. The Italian restaurant (Frank & Lola's) is popular and fills up.
Is it a party resort?
It's 'lively' but not a spring break rager. Think foam party at 2pm, acoustic guitar at 8pm, quiet by midnight.
Can I walk to Puerto Morelos town?
No. It's a highway drive. You need a taxi or shuttle.
Are the pools heated?
They are generally comfortable, but can feel brisk in January/February mornings.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use your 'Joe Merchant' points immediately to stock your room with beer and snacks; you don't have to wait.
- ✨
The 'LandShark' beer is brewed on-site and is often fresher than the other draft options.
- ✨
Go to the rooftop terrace for sunrise; it's the best view in the house and usually empty.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'ocean smell' (sulfur/seaweed) can be strong depending on the wind direction.
💡The pickleball courts are surprisingly competitive and popular.
💡You might see spider monkeys or coatis near the resort edges (don't feed them).
💡The bathroom lighting is excellent for makeup (often a hotel weak point).
💡The 'floating taco bar' in the pool is a paid extra, not included.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Margaritaville Beach Resort Riviera Maya - An Adults Only All-Inclusive Experience is located and what's nearby.