Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort

Opened in 2016, the Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort is a family-friendly property that draws travelers wanting all-inclusive packages outside of the busy Hotel Zone. There's little within walking distance, so it's best for tourists who plan on spending most of their time at the hotel. Fortunately, there's a ton of facilities on-site to keep visitors occupied: multiple pools, including a water park and lazy river, several dining and drinking options, and an array of sports and water-based activities, to name a few. Although a spa, golf course, and romantic rooms draw some couples, most guests are families with kids. Despite this, noise isn't an issue. A big pro of the resort is that guests don't have to wear wristbands or make restaurant reservations -- a rarity for Cancun. The design throughout is contemporary and beach-inspired, with lots of polished wood and marble, blue accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows providing gorgeous ocean views from multiple vantage points. Patterned floor tiling in restaurants, rock walls, and woven elements add stylish elements. 

Although a decent pick, the beach here isn't as nice as those found farther south. Travelers wanting a similar property closer to the Hotel Zone may prefer Dreams Sands Cancun Resort & Spa. Couples wanting a more adult-centric property nearby should look into the sleek Beloved Playa Mujeres.

This property is removed from the buzz of the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancun (both at least 30-minute drives), set within the exclusive gated community of Playa Mujeres. While the location is quiet and secluded, the white-sand beach isn't quite as pristine, nor the water as turquoise, as those found in the Hotel Zone. Also on the downside, there's really no restaurants, bars, or shops outside of the hotel in walking distance. The Playa Mujeres Golf Club is a five-minute drive away. Nightlife spots such as Coco Bongo and Senor Frog's are a 35-minute drive away, while the Cancun International Airport is a 40-minute car ride.

The 502 rooms are huge, contemporary, and well-outfitted with modern amenities. Starting at 602 square feet (56 square meters), rooms are spacious and all have at least L-shaped pullout couches, desks, and queen or king-size beds. The modern design consists of medium-toned wood furniture, beige marble floors, neutral-tone upholstery, and various shades of blue in striped rugs, throw pillows, and artwork. Excellent amenities include furnished terraces -- some with sea views -- and two-person whirlpools either outdoors or inside, as well as flat-screen TVs, AC, minibars, Nespresso machines, MP3 docking stations, laptop-sized safes, and electronic tablets to order room service and make reservations. Swish bathrooms have rainfall showers, hairdryers, variety of toiletries, and bathrobes and slippers. Upgraded units include suites with separate living and dining areas, swim-out access, or private plunge pools.

All guests are under the resort's all-inclusive package known as "Unlimited Luxury." It covers all dining at the 10 eateries and all drinks, including top-shelf liquor, at the 13 bars and lounges spread around the resort. World Cafe is the all-day international buffet, while a la carte options provide Mexican, Japanese, French, and Brazilian steakhouse dishes. A coffee and ice cream shop are also available, and none of the restaurants require reservations. Beachfront and swim-up pool bars are on-site, as are an adult-only sports bar and discotheque, and teens' spot serving non-alcoholic beverages. Overall, food receives mixed reviews, though the Mediterranean spot, Mezes, and Brazilian steakhouse, Gaucho Grill, receive consistent praise.

The pretty white-sand beach is peaceful, lined with loungers under umbrellas and palapa-shaded daybeds. Numerous pools include two infinity pools, six hot tubs, two kiddy pools, and a water park, all of which have loungers -- some of which are submerged. A lazy river is a nice addition, but it's exclusively for Preferred Club guests. For those looking to do more than swim or sunbathe, kids and adults alike can utilize the daily activities organized by an animation team, as well as the sports and water-based facilities such as beach volleyball. Kayaks, Hobie Cats, and snorkeling gear are free-to-use, while Jet Skis require a fee. Theme nights, beach parties, and live musical performances provide evening entertainment.

A full-service spa is elegant and offers an outdoor area, plus there are a well-equipped gym and free fitness classes. Kids' and teens' clubs receive positive feedback. Guests get free green fees at the nearby Playa Mujeres Golf Course. Wi-Fi is free and there are event spaces for wedding and meetings.