The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya — about 40 minutes from Cancun Airport (CUN) and 25 minutes from Downtown Playa del Carmen — is a luxurious venue to look at.
Adjoining to the 620-acre UNESCO World Heritage Website of Sian Ka’an Reserve, this intimate resort with 124 rooms and 19 suites feels prefer it’s hovering above the mangroves. Certainly, a collection of raised wood boardwalks leads company from the central lodge to the rooms and swimming pools, the seaside and the eating places — all with out disturbing the character under.
Resort proprietor Grupo Alhel made a concerted effort to make sure the property blends in with its environment so you’re feeling such as you’re in the midst of an unlimited nature park. As you make your approach down the lengthy driveway that winds via the mangroves, you’re feeling as in case you are gentle years away from the touristic facilities of Cancun and Playa del Carmen.
Actually, you’re tucked away from the actual world and really rapidly slip right into a actuality that focuses on the pure panorama, the wind and ocean waves, and the crisp traces of the resort’s beautiful architectural design by Mexican agency Edmonds Worldwide and interiors by Chapi Chapo Design.
The St. Regis Kanai Resort opened in mid-March 2023 and after I visited in early Might, it was nonetheless very a lot coming into its personal. The crowds have not descended but and the ending touches are nonetheless rolling out to some facilities. It is a vacation spot that’s nonetheless discovering its identification. However, should you’re like me — a Marriott Bonvoy elite member itching to make use of factors for beautiful trip experiences — you will wish to go sooner fairly than later.
Fast take
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Welcome to The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
After my transient two-night keep, it wasn’t fully clear to me precisely what viewers the resort goes for, whether or not that is household vacationers who need a new place to discover or {couples} out for some romantic seclusion. Nonetheless, the stunning setting paired with a modest conference heart made me image convention and wedding ceremony teams excessive on that record.
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Outside seating on the conference heart. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
The out-of-the-way location and quiet vibe additionally lend themselves to these seeking to completely unplug and benefit from the solar and sand whereas being pampered by the workforce of expertly educated butlers. (As with different St. Regis properties, a butler is assigned to each room and suite.)
In case you love the excitement of lots of people, busy night time golf equipment or Broadway-style reveals within the evenings, you will not be completely satisfied right here. It is a place to take pleasure in quiet and solitude.
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I might have pictured this as an amazing distant work spot — particularly for authors and journalists — however the lack of writing desks within the rooms and suites is a matter. Sure, there’s a desk on the room terrace however you in all probability do not wish to work exterior all day underneath the Mexican solar.
The Grand Luxe rooms and the suites — particularly the Vincent Astor, St. Regis and John Jacob Astor with non-public plunge swimming pools — are perfect for {couples} that will not wish to stroll or take the golf cart to the swimming pools or seaside every time they wish to take a dip. The Deluxe visitor room or Grand Luxe with two queens or the Presidential Suite with two bedrooms, one king and one with two queen beds, are the perfect bets for households.
Getting there
Relying on visitors, Riviera Maya’s prime resorts are a 40- to 60-minute drive from Cancun Airport. There’s ongoing building on the roads into the airport, so be prepared for attainable visitors.
In case you plan to discover past the resort, you will need a rental automotive (or you may depend on taxis). Playa del Carmen is a 25-minute experience. Rental costs ranged broadly after I checked for my dates. Relying on the rental automotive firm, I might lock in an financial system automotive for $35-$220 for my four-day go to. Tip: Some companies hire guide transmission automobiles. In order for you an computerized transmission, be certain you guide it.
From the airport, there’s an abundance of personal and shared shuttle providers that you would be able to guide earlier than your flight. A number of suppliers supply wheelchair-accessible van shuttles, too. I paid $135 for personal round-trip transfers for 2 individuals.
You may as well seize a taxi upon arrival. The fare to Playa del Carmen for Riviera Maya needs to be round $60. Tip: Not all automobiles in Mexico have air-conditioning, so examine the car’s facilities earlier than you hop in. Cancun Airport stresses that everybody ought to pre-book taxis. You are able to do that by going to the airport’s web site and clicking on the transportation web page.
Uber is not an choice right here. On account of authorized disputes, Ubers do not choose up on the airport and lots of inns will not allow them to on their property. As an alternative depend on conventional taxi corporations.
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Reserving particulars
The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya has been on my radar for years and as building neared completion, I stalked Marriott’s web site ready for bookings to open. In January, I reserved a two-night keep for Might in a Grand Luxe King with mangrove view and plunge pool. The whole was $2,703.52 (together with free breakfast resulting from my Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite standing and a $100 property credit score for paying with my Marriott Bonvoy Good® American Categorical® Card — see charges and charges).
Alternatively, I might have used factors or a mixture of factors and money. Two nights would have set me again 304,000 factors, or I might spend $200 and 264,000 factors. The Factors Man values Marriott factors at .84 cents every. If I paid with factors, that equates to $2,553.60. Whereas I might “save” $149.92 by reserving with factors, I nonetheless went with money as a result of I’ve earmarked my Bonvoy factors for a redemption at a Japanese lodge.
I additionally utilized a Suite Evening Award, which I earned as a Platinum elite in Marriott’s Bonvoy program. Of all of the suites listed, just one, The St. Regis Suite, included a plunge pool. Since that is an amenity we appeared ahead to, I talked with the lodge previous to arrival they usually knew to not improve me to any room with out the non-public pool.
In the long run, no suites with a pool had been obtainable (many suites have but to be accomplished since this property continues to be just some months previous), so we caught with our initially booked room and I am glad we did. We made good use of the plunge pool.
Standout options
There are such a lot of resorts vying for vacationers in Riviera Maya and close by Cancun and Cozumel. However I problem you to search out one which’s obtained the avant-garde architectural aptitude of The St. Regis Kanai Resort.
Listed here are the methods by which this lodge stands out from the competitors.
- In a world that thinks “greater is healthier,” this resort caters to a really manageable variety of individuals with simply 124 rooms and 19 suites on property.
- The structure and inside design is eye-catching at each flip and there are a number of comfy nooks across the resort the place you may settle in to benefit from the setting, converse with buddies or learn a very good guide.
- Each room is assigned a butler who’s educated to supply top-notch and discreet service. No ask is simply too small or too daring.
- The culinary choices are beautiful, from a stable buffet breakfast and a la carte choices to a number of eating places providing connoisseur dinners. A grab-and-go deli with picnic-style choices was simply opening throughout my go to as nicely.
Drawbacks
This resort will not be for everybody. In case you thrive off the power of others, chances are you’ll not discover what you are searching for right here.
The resort is intimate however with loads of private house for everybody. You’ll be able to stroll across the advanced with out working into lots of people. Some individuals will adore that whereas others will discover it stifling.
- The spa consists of two therapy rooms so chances are you’ll not get your required appointment occasions when the resort is busy.
- Nightlife is on the quiet aspect: Assume reside music throughout dinner.
- The swimming pools are small and there aren’t many cabanas so reserve in order for you one.
- The Library gives a chocolate-tasting menu however this outlet closes at 6 p.m. I might have cherished to take pleasure in a nightcap and chocolate treats right here later within the night.
- The resort is about off by itself. You’ll be able to’t stroll to any eating places or retailers — although that can change when the close by Version opens (no stable opening date as of now).
The vibe
Breezy and cosmopolitan. That is how I might describe the vibe at The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya. The employees is exceedingly pleasant in such a welcoming and genuine approach. I want each lodge had such variety and competent entrance of home representatives, bellhops, housekeepers and waitstaff like this resort.
What I actually preferred about this resort, although, is how the structure and design tackle a persona that could be very current within the public areas, the rooms, eating places and bars and beachside recreation venues. The architects appeared to the celebrities for inspiration and located it within the constellation Pleiades. They designed a collection of half-crescent-shaped buildings so practically each house has expansive views over the mangroves and out to the blue ocean.
And whereas there’s undoubtedly a minimalist vibe right here, it does not imply there aren’t jaw-dropping areas, such because the multistory water characteristic within the open-air foyer. And the staircase that results in The St. Regis Bar… nicely, it is a showstopper.
The room
Listed here are the obtainable room sorts at The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya:
- Deluxe: 592 square-foot visitor room with terrace (king or 2 queen beds)
- Grand Luxe: 592 sq. toes with terrace and plunge pool (king or 2 queen beds)
- Riviera Luxe: 592 sq. toes with terrace and out of doors bathtub (nook room with king)
- Vincent Astor: 592 square-foot studio with terrace and plunge pool (nook room with king)
- St. Regis Suite: 1,130 sq. toes with terrace and king mattress (a model with a plunge pool can be obtainable)
- Atlas: 1,130 sq. toes with an outside tub on the terrace (nook room with king)
- Caroline Astor Suite: 1,711 sq. toes with terrace and whirlpool (nook room with king)
- John Jacob Astor Suite: 1,711 sq. toes with terrace, whirlpool and plunge pool (nook room with king)
- Two-bedroom Presidential Suite: 2,313 sq. toes with two patios, a whirlpool on the terrace and a pair of.5 baths (nook room with 1 king bed room and one with two queen beds; most occupancy is six)
As I discussed, I used to be in a Grand Luxe King with a plunge pool The room itself makes a beautiful first impression as you stroll via the door. Mild cascades via the floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doorways with views over your non-public plunge pool to the mangrove and ocean within the distance. (Be aware: In case you’re hoping to listen to the ocean waves out of your room, this is not the proper place to guide. The entire rooms are a good distance from the seaside.)
Hues of white, beige, child blue and pale mint inexperienced are paired with limestone and walnut woodgrain to fantastic impact. The carved-walnut headboard is a stunner, appearing as a focus and dividing the bed room and dwelling space from the expansive toilet and closet-dressing space.
Upon arrival, the resort had left a bowl of scrumptious mangoes and white chocolate “card” for us to take pleasure in together with a handwritten notice from the supervisor and a printed letter noting my Marriott Bonvoy Platinum elite advantages.
Ceramic pendant lights hover over the mattress’s finish tables, one among which gave delight of place to a carved sea turtle — a bit memento for company to take house. I additionally preferred the throwback model of the Tivoli clock radio.
On the far aspect of the room is a well-organized credenza with a espresso and tea maker in addition to a bar setup and minibar. (Espresso and tea are complimentary whilst you’ll pay for any liquor consumed.)
The terrace with plunge pool was undoubtedly a spotlight. At the very least 4 individuals might comfortably lounge within the water on the identical time.
There have been additionally a solar mattress, desk and two chairs on the terrace. It was very comfy and we used the pool many occasions throughout our quick keep.
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Fascinating twin sinks that face reverse methods. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Designers made the many of the house allotted for the lavatory, with twin vanities and a walk-in closet.
Sliding wood panels closed off the lavatory from each the entry hallway and bed room/dwelling space.
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Stroll-in bathe. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
The soaking tub and walk-in bathe had been highlights of the room.
The room was fantastically designed however I do marvel about a few of the colour and materials decisions. There are two fairly, velvety chairs in entrance of the sliding glass doorways to the terrace. They’re white and pale inexperienced. I can image somebody coming in from taking a dip, not being correctly dried off and plopping down in a kind of chairs. Good luck to employees maintaining them wanting crisp and clear.
Among the furnishings additionally had veneer on its edges, which might simply get dinged as company come and go. The rooms are attractive however I am curious as to how they may maintain up over time.
Food and drinks
My keep was too quick to strive all the F&B retailers on the resort however I completely loved what I sampled. Here is the rundown on meals and snacks at The St. Regis.
Chaya (Center Japanese delicacies)
Just some steps past the foyer, Chaya — overseen by govt chef Michael Grau — is open for breakfast (buffet and a la carte) and dinner.
The inside of the restaurant is interesting however, climate allowing, you really need one of many out of doors tables with sweeping views of the property.
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Stepped, cascading water characteristic close to Chaya. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
There are expansive water options simply past the restaurant with soothing sounds.
The temper at breakfast was quiet and reserved however musicians play outdoor within the evenings, including some aptitude to the eating expertise. The gown code is informal.
We loved the buffet that included all the same old suspects — cooked-to-order omelets, baked items, fruit and extra — plus some regional specialties.
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Buffet breakfast with loads of selection. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
The yogurts, muesli and meats and cheeses had been a pleasant technique to start breakfast.
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Toasted breakfast breads. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
I additionally appreciated all of the several types of breakfast breads and sweets, granola and nuts and dried fruit.
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Station with made-to-order eggs. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
And there have been all kinds of scorching objects, from made-to-order eggs to Mexican dishes.
Dinner, with a Center Japanese aptitude, was spectacular, though it might have been extra gratifying if there have been extra individuals within the restaurant. Ours was one among three occupied tables that night.
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Mezeh platter and white clam pizza. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
We began with a Mediterranean mezze platter for 2 ($34) that included hummus, babba ganoush, labneh, muhammara and pita bread baked within the oven that is the centerpiece of the open kitchen. (Be aware that whereas it appears to be like like a conventional pizza oven, it is truly electrical and never wooden or coal-fired.)
Subsequent, we needed to strive the white clam pizza ($25). It was mind-blowingly good with a garlicy cream sauce, shaved fennel, lemon and mozzarella accenting the fragile clams.
For mains, we tried the seared grouper ($38) and rooster Milanese ($34), each of which had been additionally scrumptious.
Toro Riviera Maya
Whereas it is solely open for dinner, you do not wish to miss eating at Toro. Movie star chef Richard Sandoval, initially from Mexico Metropolis, is on the helm and has designed a menu with influences throughout Latin America.
The out of doors seating space is magical, particularly because the solar is setting and all of the lanterns start to offer off a heat glow.
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Toro indoor eating room. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
There’s additionally loads of indoor seating in addition to a small space for bar seating proper behind the restaurant.
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Brief rib tacos. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
The menu opens with ceviche and sushi. The oysters with a chipotle mignonette ($38) and the kampachi tiradito with hibiscus salt, mango and citrus French dressing ($25) gave the impression to be well-liked.
There are some attention-grabbing starters, comparable to tuna chicharron ($24), quick rib tacos ($26) and an octopus anticucho with peanut and habanero aioli ($31). Or, you can focus extra on conventional dishes, like beetroot salad with goat cheese and candied pecans or crab soup ($18 every).
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Scrumptious entrees and sides. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
It is the entrees that actually dazzle, although. The shrimp and crab enchiladas with Oaxaca cheese and charred poblanos ($30) had been scrumptious. The lomo saltado was an beautiful beef filet with white rice, Asian sauce and crisp greens with candy potato ($36). Or, you can go for one thing “merely grilled,” with choices starting from U.S. beef tenderloin, New York strip, rib-eye or a catch of the day.
The one disappointment was that some menu objects weren’t but obtainable. I actually wished to strive the heirloom carrots with pepita pistou, cashew aioli and keenness fruit honey nevertheless it wasn’t an choice on the night we dined.
One phrase of warning about dessert. La Bomba ($27) is an interactive menu merchandise. Whereas the menu — and our server — did not inform us prematurely, the chocolate, cookie crumbs, strawberry, dulce de leche and coconut ice cream with seasonal berries is served in a chocolate sphere … which your waiter will smash in your desk. It was fairly a shock! We chuckled however do this to the improper kind of particular person or somebody that will get berry juice splattered throughout their white outfit and the end result could possibly be very totally different!
If you don’t need that kind of expertise, go for one thing just like the chocolate cake with amaretto ganache ($17) or the yellow corn cake with vanilla ice cream, hibiscus, mezcal sauce and caramel popcorn ($14).
The St. Regis Bar
I all the time look ahead to a go to to any St. Regis Bar. This one, open each day 5–11 p.m., is not any exception.
It hosts the festive night Champagne sabering ceremony, which is all the time enjoyable to look at, and the cocktail menu is intensive.
Among the yummy drinks included the Tonatiuh with Tobala mezcal, pineapple, ancho chile liqueur, rosemary and basil leaves; the Lu ‘um with pear vodka, lychee syrup and a rose infusion; and the Kanai with gin, sake, cumber infusion and yuzu. These signature cocktails had been about $25 every whereas extra normal drinks like a Moscow mule, Manhattan, quaint and mint julep had been $22 every.
This house, on the third flooring, has a pleasant out of doors part with loads of shade in addition to an indoor (learn: air-conditioned) lounge.
You may as well order a wide range of snacks (guacamole, edamame, sashimi), gentle meals (surf and turf skewer, fish of the day, lobster quesadilla, poke bowls) and desserts (mango ceviche with banana ice cream, apple spring rolls and Key lime pie) right here.
Whereas we loved drinks one night time, we noticed a number of teams huff and puff their approach up the fantastic staircase that leads from the foyer space to the bar. Whereas it is a sweeping sight, you need not stroll up all these stairs. There’s an elevator that is hidden across the nook.
The Library
Because the title implies, that is the resort’s library (open 9 a.m.–6 p.m.). Whereas we popped in a single morning, we did not have an opportunity to return again to order something.
It is the place you may head for some tea and wonderful goodies. There’s a $34-per-person “chocolate armoire expertise,” which we sadly didn’t get to strive. You’ll be able to choose 4 high-end goodies from the case and pair them with tea or espresso.
If chocolate is not your factor, you may merely order an espresso, macchiato, scorching chocolate, latte, cappuccino mochaccino, scorching tea or chilly brew iced tea infusion. Drinks value $8-$11.
There’s additionally a small however ingenious cocktail menu with issues like a chocolate quaint and low negroni ($22) in addition to nonalcoholic decisions such because the Pink Masala with beet, cinnamon, cardamon and soymilk ($14).
Pik Nik (grab-and-go deli)
This little store sells breakfast, lunch and dinner “to go” from 6 a.m.–6 p.m. You will discover a few of the identical tasty pastries which might be served at Chaya and it’s also possible to buy sandwiches, wraps, salads, fruit and yogurt.
I wasn’t in a position to take a look at the sports activities bar, Jack’s Membership, or the Seashore Membership, which serves a BBQ dinner.
Riviera and the Seashore Membership
We didn’t have time to strive Riviera or the Seashore Membership, each of that are informal beachfront eating venues close to the pool. Riviera is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and gives salads, sandwiches and seafood.
The Seashore Membership has a BBQ menu that modifications weekly. It is close to the adults-only pool.
Facilities and repair
As you’d anticipate at any St. Regis, there are many facilities comparable to 24-hour in-room eating, laundry, dry cleansing service and turndown service (although nobody got here to show down our room on both night time of our keep).
On-site parking is free.
The Seashore Membership (the seaside, swimming pools and scorching tub)
The seaside space is not enormous however there’s loads of room for company to unfold out. Actually, once we had been there, it felt as if we had the seaside to ourselves more often than not. Sure, there was sargassum seaweed washing ashore, however that was taking place in any respect the resorts in Playa del Carmen throughout our keep. The resort stayed on prime of it and raked it up in an environment friendly method.
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Outside seaside front room. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
I cherished the world between the beachfront loungers with umbrellas and the swimming pools. It provided all kinds of various out of doors seating preparations with loads of shade from overhead “sunbrella” material strung between the timber.
Three swimming pools — every manned by a lifeguard — are on-site:
- Household pool and whirlpool (Monday–Sunday, 8 a.m.-11 p.m.)
- Seashore Membership adults pool (Wednesday–Sunday, 8 a.m.-11 p.m.)
- Adults pool (Monday–Sunday, 8 a.m.-11 p.m.)
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Pool. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Not one of the swimming pools appear that huge for a resort of this caliber. There are additionally only some cabanas obtainable for hire so organize these immediately should you’re touring throughout a busy time interval.
Spa
The St. Regis Spa is true by the foyer and it is by appointment solely, from 9 a.m.–8 p.m. You’ll be able to guide providers by way of the resort’s web site.
Even should you’re not a spa particular person (I am not), there are some attention-grabbing choices on supply. The 90-minute Secret Backyard therapy ($428) features a stroll via the resort’s personal herb backyard the place you select the elements on your personal well-being recipe.
The hydrotherapy move ($83) additionally sounded interesting and provides entry to the spa’s sauna, steam room, whirlpool, chilly plunge and out of doors rest pool.
Quite a lot of massages can be found to focus on rest, stress reduction and extra they usually run $328-$473.
Health heart
You will discover the 24-hour health heart proper subsequent to the spa. It is outfitted with all of the gear you’d anticipate from elliptical machines, train bikes, free weights, strength-training gear, treadmills and weight machines.
The health club additionally gives a wide range of health lessons, comparable to yoga and sound therapeutic in addition to private coaching.
Pet-friendly
Pets are welcome for a $200 nonrefundable charge and just one pet per room is allowed. I didn’t see any furry buddies throughout my journey.
Out and about
I believe the attract of the St. Regis Kanai, Riviera Maya is the truth that it feels prefer it’s in the midst of nowhere. So, I am undecided if the clientele reserving right here need to go “out and about.” However, it is simple to do. Taxis can be found to take you to Playa del Carmen (a 25-minute drive south) and even Cancun, although that is an extended trek at 50 minutes away.
Day journeys could be organized to all kinds of locations, from Cozumel (1.5 hours) and Tulum (about 70 minutes) to Chichen Itza (2.5 hours).
Accessibility
Whereas spectacular staircases are a part of the architectural design of this lodge, there are additionally elevators that can whisk you wherever you have to go — although they’re tucked away.
The principle entrance is accessible as are the eating places, spa, health heart and assembly areas. Nicely-placed ramps are a part of the panorama.
To get to the seaside, swimming pools and oceanfront eating places, you in all probability do not wish to push a wheelchair alongside the elevated wood boardwalk, however golf carts are ready to deliver you from side to side.
I didn’t see a wheelchair mat main from the seaside to the ocean, so inquire if it is a must-have on your seaside day.
Be aware that some areas of the lodge have low lighting and shallow swimming pools with no barrier or lip from the walkway. Watch your step.
In visitor rooms, anticipate the next:
- Accessible vanities
- Adjustable top hand-held bathe wand
- Self-closing doorways
- Lowered electrical retailers
- Non-slip seize rails within the toilet
- Roll-in bathe
- Rest room seat at wheelchair top
- Switch showers in visitor rooms
Trying out
Checkout was as straightforward as check-in and the employees actually appeared focused on our opinions of the brand new property. The bell captain was involved with our shuttle driver and we bid adieu with none hiccups. The resort is gorgeous and I’m intrigued to be taught its mission as soon as all facilities are up and working.
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