Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Cancun’s Hotel Zone

The appearance of the 288-room adult-only Hyatt Zilara Cancun goes against the often bad reputation all-inclusives have gained. Suites appear updated and buck traditional room layouts with a centrally located bed and spacious balcony (some are even swim-out). The bathrooms boast massive walk-in showers and Jacuzzi tubs with killer views. The quality of the food is surprisingly good and varied, including the convenient 24-hour VIP lounge. But like many all-inclusive properties, basic amenities can get crowded fast: Expect to fight for chairs by the pool or for dinner reservations at a decent hour. The vibe is also slightly older, so young couples or spring breakers may want to consider staying elsewhere. And families, of course, steer clear (no guests under the age of 16 are allowed).

There is nothing ordinary about the 260-room Le Blanc Spa Resort: Everything from the wine lists to your workout has been tailored to be top notch. It feels more South Beach chic than Cancun party, with a hip, gorgeous aesthetic throughout the entire pristine white property. The rooms are thoroughly modern and bright with minimalist decor and stunning ocean views(some with large Jacuzzi baths). But most of your time should be spent experiencing the top-of-the line spa, the chicrestaurants (especially the stunningly designed Lumiere), and heavenly white-sand beach.

Designed to appeal to all of your senses, the 371-room Live Aqua all-inclusive luxury resort is for adults only. Contemporary upscale decor with artistic and modern details are found floor-to-ceiling, from the lily pad pond entrance, to the sophisticated and luxurious rooms, to the linen-draped beach cabana beds. The resorts vibe is best suited for those seeking a pampered and an atmosphere of modern affluence. This is one of the best luxury options in Cancun and most guests find very little to complain about; however, the food and beverage service and quality occasionally miss the mark.

The 497-room Secrets The Vine Cancun Resort & Spa is an all-inclusive, luxury hotel with an adult-only policy. Many of the rooms have stunning sea views from the balconies, and there are luxurious touches like Italian porcelain flooring and beautiful teak wood furniture. Guests can take advantage of a huge range of activities from yoga to wine tasting as well as six a la carterestaurants serving a global list of cuisines including Italian, Mexican, Argentinian, and Asian. Another way to indulge is the on-site spa, which has 14 treatment rooms, a sauna, and a steam room, plus there are four beautiful outdoor pools to choose from. The beachfront location is ideal for tourists wanting to relax, but it's also a short drive to several attractions.

There’s a lot to like about this 287-room hotel, if you're searching for an all-inclusive experience in the heart of the party-Mecca of the Hotel Zone: three pools with stunning ocean views, lots of dining options, great rooms with high-tech amenities (likeiPod docks and flat-screen TVs), a full spa (not included in the price), a tiny but modern fitness center, and a location right on a gorgeous white-sand beach. However, the hotel lacks the character of smaller, cozier hotels in the downtown area of Cancun. And those not looking for a 24/7 party should consider hotels in other areas.

This couples-only, all-inclusive resort is a great pick for a romantic getaway, thanks to its semi-secluded location, luxuriousspa, and decadent details such as two-person Jacuzzi tubs in every room. It features four pools (one of them jetted), a large, modern fitness center, and a wide array of dining options. Rooms are spacious and offer solid amenities, as well as minimalist, neutral-toned decor. The hotel has a quieter, more intimate setting than the resorts on the party-hearty, northern side of the Hotel Zone. But this somewhat remote location means you'll need a taxi to reach all the action.

The Paradisus Cancun is an all-inclusive, upscale mega-resort whose five interconnected pyramids overlook the gorgeous white sands and perfect blue waters of the Mexican Caribbean. Its 668 rooms are all smart and spacious with sea or lagoonviews -- though some are only partial. While breakfast can get busy, there's no shortage of restaurants and bars to choose from and the huge pool never feels crowded. The impressive spa, large fitness center, and nine-hole golf course are also notable features here. Despite the property's size, its interior tropical gardens also provide a lush even secluded ambience

This 502-room all-inclusive resort might not be the most updated property on Cancun's Hotel Zone strip, but guests seem to appreciate its many restaurants and the friendly, casual, welcoming atmosphere. While the Fiesta Americana Condesa's rates are comparable to those of other upscale all-inclusive resorts in the Hotel Zone, this property feels more mid-range and some may find the mattresses too firm. Bed configuration requests are reportedly not always communicated via third-party booking sites, so it's probably a good idea to call the hotel to confirm them in advance of travel.

This large, full-service all-inclusive resort in the Cancun hotel district directly overlooks the white-sand beach that’s a hallmark of this popular Mexican vacation destination. The Royal Sands offers a nice variety of freebies ranging from thatched beach umbrellas to tennis courts to a well-equipped fitness center. The property, which was once a time-share, now receives temporary guests, though the purchase of an all-inclusive package is mandatory for the latter. Longstanding tenants have commented that the all-inclusive policy has overtaxed the staff. The Royal Sands appeals to families attracted to the daytime activities and sports offerings, though more recently it has begun to draw a younger clientele.

With a gorgeous infinity pool featuring ocean views and two popular swim-up bars, five restaurants serving international cuisine, live entertainment, a great spa, and a wonderful kids’ club, the Hard Rock screams “all-inclusive Cancun megaresort." All rooms feature contemporary decor with rock-n-roll-style twists, open bathrooms with double jetted tubs, balconies with either ocean or lagoon views, and modern amenities -- including flat-screen TVs and iPod docks. It's a solid choice for couples and groups, but families should note that it can get rowdy at times, especially in the swim-up bar areas.