As a travel advisor, one of the questions I hear most is, “Where should we go in Mexico?” More and more often, my answer is Maroma Beach. This quiet stretch of soft white sand and turquoise water on the Riviera Maya

was voted the most beautiful beach in Mexico in 2023, and it is home to some of the region’s best all-inclusive resorts.

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family vac

ation, a well-earned break from work, or a group trip, here’s what makes Maroma stand out and how to choose the right resort.

Where Is Maroma Beach?

Maroma Beach sits on the Riviera Maya, about 30 miles (48 km) south of Cancún and just north of Playa del Carmen. That makes it an easy transfer from Cancún International Airport, so you can trade the airport for the beach on your first afternoon.

The location gives you the best of both worlds. You’re far enough from the crowds of Cancún’s Hotel Zone to feel truly away, yet close enough to visit Playa del Carmen’s shops and restaurants, or the cenotes and Mayan ruins of the region, whenever you want.

What Makes Maroma So Special

It’s officially Mexico’s most beautiful beach. At Tianguis Turístico 2023, the country’s largest tourism event, Punta Maroma received the title of most beautiful beach in Mexico, an award voted on by readers of México Desconocido magazine.

It’s peaceful. Access to Maroma is limited to guests of the nearby hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. You won’t find day-tripper crowds or vendors here, just room to spread out.

The setting is lush and natural. The beach is backed by more than 500 acres of tropical forest, so the resorts feel tucked into nature rather than lined up along a busy strip.

There’s plenty to do, or nothing at all. Calm, clear water makes it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, while the Great Maya Reef, the largest coral reef system in the Northern Hemisphere, lies just offshore.

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts on Maroma Beach

Each resort on Maroma has its own personality. Here’s a quick look, followed by who each one suits best.

Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancún

This adults-only, AAA Five Diamond resort is the classic cho

ice for honeymoons and anniversaries. Every room is a suite, many with four-poster beds, and ground-floor swim-up suites open right onto the pool. Couples’ spa treatments in private beachside cabanas are a signature experience. For extra pampering, the Preferred Club upgrade adds a dedicated concierge and a private section of beach with reserved loungers and waiter service.

El Dorado Maroma

Also adults-only, El Dorado Maroma is all about tranquility and food. Guests enjoy four pools, a relaxing spa, and a variety of restaurants, including Lima Limón for Peruvian ceviches with a view of the beach. It’s a wonderful pick for travelers who want a slower pace and a gourmet experience.

Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma

You no longer need to fly to Bora Bora for an overwater bungalow. Palafitos, at El Dorado Maroma, were the first overwater bungalows in Mexico: just 30 private, adults-only suites set right over the turquoise water of Maroma Beach.

Each bungalow has a glass-bottom floor, direct ladder access to the ocean, a private infinity pool, an indoor Jacuzzi, an outdoor shower, and a large sun deck. Guests enjoy Karisma’s Gourmet Inclusive Experience, with butler service and 24-hour room service, plus an overwater grill and wine bar and the overwater Naay Spa. You also have full access to the amenities of El Dorado Maroma next door. For a honeymoon, anniversary, or once-in-a-lifetime celebration, it’s hard to top.

Catalonia Playa Maroma

Traveling with kids? Catalonia Playa Maroma is the family favorite on this beach. Its hacienda-style design and eco-friendly feel come with a kids’ club, beach volleyball, dance lessons, and water sports. The Privileged upgrade adds a separate lounge and beach area, à la carte dining, and other exclusive perks for parents who want a little extra.

Senses Riviera Maya by Artisan

This adults-only boutique resort is chic, intimate, and a little playful. Free yoga, beach access, and a shuttle to Playa del Carmen make it a great choice for couples who want style and the option to explore.

Looking for ultra-luxury?

Maroma is also home to high-end retreats such as Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, and Chablé Maroma, whose villas come with private plunge pools. These typically operate on a different meal plan than a traditional all-inclusive, so ask me how to package them for your trip.

Tips for Planning Your Maroma Getaway

• Consider a club-level upgrade. Programs like Preferred Club at Secrets and Privileged at Catalonia add perks such as private beach areas, lounges, and extra dining options, and they’re often worth the added cost.
• Ask about sargassum. This seasonal seaweed affects much of the Mexican Caribbean, typically in the warmer months. Maroma is often reported to be hit less heavily than many nearby beaches, but conditions vary year to year.
• Leave time to explore. Cenotes, Mayan ruins, eco-parks, and the shops of Playa del Carmen are all an easy day trip away.
• Be ready for sales pitches. Some resorts offer timeshare or vacation club presentations at check-in. A polite “no, thank you” is all you need.
• Book early for peak dates. Holidays, winter, and spring break fill up quickly, especially for swim-up and club-level rooms.

Why Book Maroma With a Travel Advisor?

With so many resorts, room categories, and upgrade programs, choosing the right fit takes more than a quick online search. A travel advisor brings firsthand knowledge of the properties, access to packages and promotions, and support before, during, and after the trip. That matters for couples and families, and even more for group travel: destination weddings, milestone celebrations, corporate retreats, and incentive trips, where coordinating rooms, events, and transfers for many guests is a job in itself.

If Maroma Beach is on your list, for yourself, your family, or your team, I’d be glad to help you plan it. Sendme a message on LinkedIn for a personalized quote, and feel free to share this article with anyone dreaming of a Mexico getaway.