Palm Leaf Travel

Maybe you’ve heard the name Xcaret tossed around, but you’re still not quite sure what it is—or why so many people are absolutely obsessed with it. I stayed at Hotel Xcaret México, and after experiencing it firsthand, I can tell you: it’s unlike any all-inclusive resort you’ve ever visited.

A Resort Unlike Any Other

Hotel Xcaret México is a five-diamond luxury resort located just south of Playa del Carmen, about an hour’s drive from Cancun. It’s part of the Xcaret family, situated next to two of its sister properties, and recently completed a massive expansion that doubled its size.

The resort now features:

• 1,800 rooms spread across 10 themed “Casas”
• 20 on-site restaurants
• Room styles including Garden View, Ocean View, Ocean Front, River View, River Swim-Up, Adults-Only sections, and luxurious suites

From the moment you arrive, it’s clear this is not your average beach vacation. In fact, the beach is not the main attraction—due to the rocky coastline, there isn’t a traditional swimmable oceanfront. But don’t worry. Xcaret more than makes up for it with a winding, turquoise river running through the property, where you can kayak, paddleboard, snorkel, or simply relax on one of the resort’s river beaches.

Why It’s So Expensive (and Why It’s Worth It)

Yes, you’ll probably experience sticker shock when you first see the nightly rate. But that’s because Hotel Xcaret México includes much more than just a stay. The rate comes with what’s called the All-Fun Inclusive™ package—offering full access to over 10 parks and tours throughout the Riviera Maya.

Just to put this into perspective:

• A single-day pass to Xcaret Park for one adult normally costs $128 USD
• But your resort stay includes access to Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xenses, Xoximilco, Xenotes, and more
• Transportation to and from these parks is also included—and for some (like Xcaret, Xplor, and Xenses), shuttles run every 30 minutes, making it incredibly convenient

It’s a packed itinerary by design. There’s so much to do that you’ll need to actively choose when to slow down and relax at the resort. But if your family thrives on adventure and discovery, this setup is priceless.

The Food: A Highlight All Its Own

I’ve been to a lot of all-inclusive resorts, and I can say confidently: the food at Hotel Xcaret México is the best I’ve ever had.

Here are a few standouts:

• Mercado: This buffet is so good, I’d happily eat here for every meal. It has something for everyone.
• Chibali: A kid-favorite with pizza, burgers, and an epic candy section
• Las Cuevas: A Brazilian-style steakhouse located in a cave
• Teppanyaki grill called Xin Gao
• La Trajinera: a traditional Mexican cuisine
• Bio: a vegan restaurant even meat lovers enjoy
• Room service is available 24/7 and consistently excellent

Planning Ahead Is Key

If there’s one downside to Hotel Xcaret México, it’s the need to plan ahead, and I’m not just talking about flights. To make the most of your stay, you’ll want to book most of your preferences 30 days before your arrival:

• Reserve popular restaurants in advance (some fill up quickly)
• Book select parks or excursions before arrival
• Build an itinerary to balance park days with resort downtime

Some guests show up and just wing it, but that can backfire. You might miss out on a special dinner or not get a time slot for the park you were most excited about.

To help with this, I created a 100-page travel guide that walks you through everything. It’s thorough, practical, and will save you a ton of time.

Final Thoughts

Hotel Xcaret México isn’t just a resort—it’s an entire experience. If you’re the type who loves culture, nature, adventure, and incredible food, this place will feel like a dream.

If you have any questions at all, feel free to email me. I genuinely love this place and want to help other families make the most of their time here.

Take a look at my Travel Guide. For a price less than a cup of coffee it will take care of every question you might have: