Banyan Tree Mayakoba

We recently returned from a wonderful week at Banyan Tree Mayakoba. We were again struck by the superb service and hospitality. We definitely felt like “family” at this property, which is lovely, perfectly maintained, and that really brings it in terms of making guests feel welcomed and cared for. We want to give special thanks to the following: Gamaliel, our beach host who noticed that we were interested in Mayan cuisine and who arranged for bespoke Mayan lunches at our beach palapa. Jesus, our other beach host who provided great conversation and impeccable service. Alejandro, who not only cooked and served us an amazing private bbq at our villa, but who also bonded with us with our shared appreciation for Depeche Mode. And last, a special shout out to Fabian, our nighttime housekeeper who carefully prepared our villa for restful sleep each night. It’s the small things like having excellent, friendly, unobtrusive nighttime housekeeping that demonstrate the excellence of this property.

We stayed at Mayakoba for our honeymoon during a very hot month (August) and still had an excellent experience. The rooms are beautiful and spotless (we stayed in the 2-bedroom pool villa) and the property is uniquely split between the oceanfront and a large lagoon. Service is exceptionally attentive, and the breakfast buffet stands out, though dinner pricing is high, as expected at this level. Privacy is amazing and all around it's just supreme luxury. There are plenty of activities for both couples and families, though it feels more tailored to couples. We enjoyed biking around the property and seeing the wildlife, and even left the resort one day, which was easy to do by renting a car. The only drawback is the ocean. There was lingering seaweed, which affects the experience if you’re looking for clear, swimmable water. The hotel makes a strong effort to manage it, including barriers, but it does impact the view. Though this may not be the case all year round. If ocean swimming is not a priority, the resort is still exceptional and worth it as there is a lovely hotel pool and beautiful white sand beach seating.

This is the 15th time we have visited the priority but the first review. Greats: staff is very attentive, the property is very well maintained, the renovated villas are nicely updated. I would call out the Sands beach staff particularly Juan was so attentive and made our past two experiences very welcoming and special. The spa cannot be missed and it is always worth the splurge. Good: Food and staff very good, Saffron and Cielo are stand outs. The staff is very attentive to allergies and special dietary restrictions and very accommodating to make changes, substitutions and requests for guests. Opportunities: it's a quiet property so no music, no dancing opportunities on the property but you can go to one of the sister properties for some bar activities but it's very (very) chill and about focusing on relaxation and relationships. I would love to see at least some low key night life at the property to cap that special evening. Overall, it's a great property, worth the splurge, the villas and setup with private pools and secluded layout assures privacy and time with whomever your travel partner is. Again, the staff and spa never disappoints.

We had a phenomenal stay. All of the staff was wonderful and Gameliel at the beach went above and beyond to make sure that everything was perfect each and every day. 10/10!

Amazing stay at Banyan Tree. Beach villas are fantastic - highly recommend for beach access, private palapa, and promiximity to Sands for breakfast and lunch. Service is excellent, especially at the beach. Gamaliel, in particular, was so friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Food is delicious. Buffet breakfast and Saffron are a must. We loved getting around Mayakoba in the golf carts and boats and also enjoyed dinner at Fuego (fairmont) and Agave Azul (rosewood).