8 of the Best Small All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico
Mexico is known for its many all-inclusive resorts, with everything from your hotel room, food and drink to activities included in the rates. While the large resorts with hundreds of rooms like Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun and Grand Velas Los Cabos have their perks, a smaller all-inclusive with around 100 rooms or less tends to provide a more unique, personalized stay that’s often lacking in the vastness of those massive properties.
Hotel Mousai, Puerto Vallarta
The most exclusive hotel in the Garza Blanca Preserve, Hotel Mousai is tucked into a tropical mountainside along the coastal road showcasing panoramic views of Banderas Bay and the Sierra Madre Mountains.
An adult-only property, it offers both standard rates and all-inclusive packages, with 24-hour room service only available if you choose the latter. There are 73 exquisite suites, and even the most basic comes with furnished terraces with private plunge pools and hammocks overlooking the bay.
On the grounds you’ll find a beautiful rooftop infinity pool that looks out to the Pacific and a spa offering massage, aromatherapy and hydrotherapy treatments, beauty services, plunge pools, and saunas.
There are two bars and a restaurant, plus you’ll have use of the facilities at Garza Blanca and its restaurants, pools, and beach.
Casa Velas Puerto Vallarta
Casa Velas is a luxe hotel located in the exclusive Marina Vallarta community. It was built around the marina and sits right on the Marina Vallarta Golf Club Course, hosting 80 suites, all of which have at least a partial ocean view with the exception of the studios on the ground floor.
You’ll have free Wi-Fi, a minibar, Smart TV, and a marble bathroom with robes and slippers. The Wellness Suites have private terraces and a garden with a private plunge pool, plus a yoga mat, exercise bike, air purifiers, and a massage table. For larger groups, there are ultra-lavish suites that can accommodate as many as eight guests.
An adult-only property, it’s all about personal attention here, with staff that will get to know you by name. It’s also a rare place to escape the loud music and partying that the larger all-inclusives are known for.
The main restaurant serves a variety of upscale American and Mexican cuisine with indoor and outdoor seating, while the spa offers treatments that use herbs and other items grown in the property’s own botanical garden.
Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway, Puerto Vallarta
Located along Playa Camarones, guests of the Villa Premiere enjoy the best of both worlds with a stay at the urban boutique hotel and direct access to the sand. Available only to those aged 16 and older, it has 80 rooms with both all-inclusive and European rates available.
All come with private balconies and ocean views, with the waves so close you can let them lull you to sleep. Most come with bathrooms that have separate showers and whirlpool tubs.
The property boasts a tranquil setting, yet the lively downtown is just seven blocks away with its many excellent restaurants, chic clubs, bars, and thriving art scene.
You’ll get all the amenities of a large resort, packed into a more intimate space, complete with personal butlers, meditation classes, beachfront yoga, a gorgeous pool, gym, and spa.
Viceroy Riviera Maya, Playa Xcalacoco
Located in a small village seven miles from Playa del Carmen, Viceroy Riviera Maya is tucked into the jungle, set on a stretch of beach with white powdery sands that edge brilliant turquoise waters. It includes just 41 suites, all of which are stand-alone villas with lavish touches throughout.
All come with private patios that have heated plunge pools and outdoor showers. You’ll know you’re in an exceptional place when upon your arrival a soap concierge will visit your room to offer a variety of artisanal, handmade soaps.
You’ll get to choose from many different scents and wellness benefits, and they’ll craft your very own personalized bar. Butler service also delivers romantic turndown service with incense and rose petals on your last night.
Just some of the other highlights here include a beautiful pool with poolside butler service and multiple dining options. Fun culinary events can be enjoyed too, from Friday night beach barbecues and grill classes to ceviche and tequila tastings.
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Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, Playa del Carmen
Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is a luxury all-suite boutique hotel in Playa del Carmen. From here, visitors can take day trips independently or on a guided tour to Chichen Itza, about 2.5 hours away.
You might want to spend most of your time here to take advantage of all this property has to offer, however. The accommodations are luxurious, complete with private balconies and breathtaking Caribbean views.
Enjoy three pools, including a stunning pool for the adults with a swim-up bar and a children’s pool, five restaurants serving gourmet fare, including Mediterranean and a fabulous farm-to-table experience. A kids’ club, daily family-friendly activities, and a beautiful beach are just a few of the other highlights here.
Beloved Playa Mujeres, Isla Mujeres
An adult-only, couples-only property, the Beloved Playa Mujeres provides a romantic dream-like stay with a relaxed ambiance and a magnificent white sandy beach, while Mayan ruins can be explored just five minutes away.
A sleek boutique with just over 100 rooms, you’ll enjoy exceptional personalized service, including a welcome cocktail. The huge suites start at 960 square feet, and all come with furnished balconies, any with views of the Pacific and some with private plunge pools.
The spa is impressive, with its three elegant outdoor pools featuring poolside food and drink service. One has ocean views and a swim-up bar. You’ll enjoy beach service as well, along with motorized watersports that are included in the rates, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling.
High-quality dining can be enjoyed at four a la carte eateries, with no reservations required, and unlimited premium liquor is included too.
Isla Mujeres Palace, Isla Mujeres
Located just north of Cancun on a white sandy beach in the southern part of Isla Mujeres, this 62-room couples-only boutique hotel offers all the amenities you’d expect in a big resort but with a more intimate vibe and a smaller scale.
If you’re looking for a quiet setting away from the hustle and bustle with more authentic charms, this may be your ideal spot. The elegant rooms are luxurious with features like balconies and jetted tubs for two. There’s a peaceful beach where non-motorized watersports can be enjoyed on a complimentary basis along with a large outdoor pool with a swim-up bar.
Marina Fiesta Resort and Spa, Cabo San Lucas
One of the rare small all-inclusive resorts in Cabo San Lucas, Marina Fiesta is ideal for couples and families alike. It’s located along docks in the heart of downtown and hosts just over 100 one- and two-bedroom suites, all with balconies that offer ocean or downtown views. Each one comes with a kitchen or kitchenette, a dining table, and a separate living area with a flat-screen TV.
A stay here puts you within walking distance of one of the area’s only swimmable beaches, iconic Medano with its calm, clear aquamarine water, and on-site there is a spectacular pool with a swim-up bar.
With a kids’ club and babysitting services, parents can treat themselves to a massage in the spa or enjoy a special date night at one of the restaurants which includes an Italian eatery, a steakhouse, and a restaurant serving authentic Baja fare.
FAQ About All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico
Are all-inclusive resorts in Cancun worth it?
Whether you’re looking at all-inclusive resorts in Cancun, all-inclusive resorts in Cabo, or anywhere else in Mexico, they tend to be an excellent value. You won’t have to worry about constantly pulling out your wallet, with drinks, meals, and many activities typically included in room rates. The options run the gamut from adult-only and family-friendly, to the more affordable and ultra-luxurious.
How many times can you eat at an all-inclusive resort?
All-inclusive resort restaurants have certain hours and days they’re open, although there may be a 24-hour dining option depending on the property. Some offer 24-hour room service, liquor, and snacks.
Check with the hotel concierge to find out more about what’s open and when. Be aware that there may be an additional charge for certain items such as lobster and fine cuts of meat.
How much money do I need at an all-inclusive resort?
At most all-inclusive resorts you’ll still need some money, but each has its own unique offerings which make it a must to carefully review the details of every property you’re considering.
Non-motorized sports are typically included but motorized options aren’t. Spa services, off-site activities and tours, and items at the gift shop, all usually come with an additional cost. As many hotel and resort employees rely on tips to earn their living, be sure to set aside some money for tipping.
In Mexico, both USD and pesos can be used, but pesos are preferable.
How old do you have to be to go to an all-inclusive resort?
Some all-inclusive resorts are family-friendly with children as young as infants welcome, while others are for adults only, which may mean 13, 16, or 18 and over, depending on the property.
What is the best time of year to visit an all-inclusive resort in Mexico?
The weather varies depending on the coast, with hotter, more humid weather on the Caribbean side which also tends to experience more tropical storms and hurricanes during the season, generally between July and October with August and September the peak.
Storms, including hurricanes, are also possible on the Baja peninsula during this period which also brings scorching hot, dry weather in the summer. Puerto Vallarta is protected and not right on the open ocean, so chances of being hit by a major storm there are unlikely. The summer storm season does bring the possibility for significant discounts and fewer crowds.
Winter weather is mild throughout coastal Mexico and the most popular time to visit. You may be able to avoid the crowds, enjoy pleasant weather, and some discounted rates by visiting from mid-April to early June (outside of spring break), or between November and mid-December.