Introduction
Hotel Xcaret Arte is a luxury, adults-only, all-inclusive resort located just south of Playa del Carmen, Mexico. With 900 suites and nine restaurants, it’s one of the most ambitious resorts in the region. Neighboring the original Hotel Xcaret Mexico and nestled among lush jungle and ocean views, it’s about a 45-minute drive from Cancun International Airport.
This guide gives you the real scoop, based on hundreds of actual guest reviews, so you know what to expect (and what to avoid) before booking.
Price and Room Options
Rooms at Hotel Xcaret Arte typically start around $550–$650 per night, depending on the season. This base rate includes full access to the Xcaret Parks, airport transfers, premium dining, and 24-hour room service.
Guests can upgrade to different casa experiences like Casa de los Artistas or Casa de la Paz, which offer unique perks such as rooftop pools, private check-in areas, and exclusive restaurant access. Many guests felt the extra cost was worth it, especially for the peaceful rooftop pools and butler service.
What Guests Loved Most
The Artistic, Soulful Atmosphere
Every part of the resort celebrates Mexican artistry, from handcrafted tilework to immersive art workshops. Guests felt like they were in a living museum of culture and craftsmanship.
“It felt like every hallway had a story, it wasn’t just decoration, it was meaning.”
Rooftop Pools and Peaceful Vibes
The rooftop pools were frequently described as peaceful sanctuaries, often quieter than the main pool areas and perfect for relaxation.
“The rooftop pool at Casa de los Artistas felt like my own private retreat. Never crowded, always calm.”
Dining with Purpose
Guests praised the food quality across most restaurants, particularly Apapachoa (plant-based fine dining) and Encanta, led by Michelin-starred chef Paco Méndez. The focus on local ingredients and ritualistic touches added meaning to each meal.
“The meal started with a handwashing ritual and ended with me tearing up. That’s how good it was.”
What Guests Didn’t Like
Communication and Service Inconsistency
Some guests noted inconsistent service, especially at check-in or when requesting assistance via the butler service. Others reported slow room service and language barriers.
“They were lovely people, but sometimes it took 3 calls to get extra towels.”
Layout Confusion and Transportation Delays
The sprawling layout and reliance on shuttles caused delays for some guests, particularly when trying to reach parks or restaurants. The app was also reported as glitchy and unhelpful at times.
“It’s beautiful but confusing. We got lost the first two days.”
Top Tip from Previous Guests
Book dining and spa reservations before your trip. Popular restaurants like Encanta and experiences like the Muluk Spa fill up quickly. Also, don’t wait to explore the parks, guests who did 2–3 early in their trip felt less rushed and more relaxed later.
Review Score Summary
Here’s how Hotel Xcaret Arte scored across major review platforms:
- TripAdvisor: 4.7/5
- Google: 4.8/5
- Yelp: 3.3/5
- Expedia: 9.2/10
- Booking.com: 9.2/10
That averages out to a Palm Leaf Score of 8.8 out of 10, one of the highest scores we’ve given so far.
Final Takeaway
If you’re looking for a soulful, luxurious resort that blends art, nature, and elevated dining with full access to adventure parks, Hotel Xcaret Arte might be one of the best values in Mexico.
Just be prepared for a sprawling layout, the occasional service hiccup, and the need to plan ahead for the best experience.
View the Palm Leaf Comparison Sheet:
Palm Leaf Travel 
Leave a comment