NIZUC Resort and Spa

Amidst a sea of towering, shiny, and grand entrances built to show off some of Cancun's most celebrated resorts, comparative newcomer NIZUC Resort and Spa's modest palapa hut entrance gate is an immediate tell to the alternate Cancun experience this property offers. After a short, winding ride, guests reach an elegant entrance: a circular drive surrounded by tall, bleached rock walls, and dual dark slate waterfalls on either side of the lobby entrance. The same simple rustic-luxe decor is found throughout the resort, displayed in earth tones of brown wood, slate gray, and sun-bleached sand. The lobby is built against the edge of a large reflecting pool carefully dotted with plots of leafy trees which seamlessly fades into the oceanfront horizon. The resort's design -- high ceilings, mixed textures, open hallways and walls, and combination of natural elements -- has an immediate calming effect. It seems that nothing at NIZUC is there by chance; every detail seems perfectly planned and placed. Decor from Asia, Mexico and beyond reflects the cuisine found within the resort's restaurants. Scattered about the property, each has its own unique experience and vibe. Although a kids' club makes NIZUC family-friendly, the resort is best for couples or small groups. While it isn't uncommon to find some of Mexico's high society or well-to-do foreigners roaming the premises or renting out space for events, NIZUC manages to keep the vibe casual and unpretentious. Whether you are wearing flip-flops and a sarong, or a chic dress and heels, you'll fit right in. However, this hotel is less social than other resorts -- which probably helps aid in the relaxation quotient -- and is better suited for those looking to get away, rather than to mix and mingle. 

Off of KM 21 along the beginning of Cancun's Hotel Zone loop, NIZUC is one of only two resorts to be located along the beautiful nature preserve within Punta Nizuc. This unique position is privy to uninterrupted rocky shores and white sand beaches and patches of lush greenery, trees, and mangroves, and feels a bit more wild than resorts further up into the Hotel Zone. There is nothing within walking distance, so transportation will be needed to visit anything outside of the resort. However, most attractions, restaurants, and clubs can be found within the Hotel Zone loop and can be reached within five to 25 minutes by car (or bus). Cancun Airport is about 15 minutes drive from the resort entrance. 

With even the lowest category suites outfitted with private outdoor space and upscale decor featuring dark woods, sleek surfaces, and thoughtful details such as Nespresso machines, soaking tubs, and beach bags, it's hard to be disappointed with any of the 274 suites and villas at the NIZUC Resort and Spa. Residence Suites, originally built to function as apartments, have the most typical hotel room floor plans, which include a large bathroom complete with a peekaboo window into the sleeping room, and a balcony with a view. Rooms don't get much more luxe (or private) than the Garden Pool Villas (with or without private pavilion). These upgrades get you individual units off the spa area with a private gated entrance and can feature a private dipping pool, stone-walled outdoor shower, deconstructed bathrooms, large terrace, and dining areas -- although you will most likely sacrifice an ocean view for the extra comforts. All rooms include a minibar, snacks, a nice range of L'Occtaine toiletries, comfy beds with fine linen, bathrobes and slippers, and luxe decor with perfectly paired finishing touches. 

NIZUC has six restaurants on-site, each presenting a unique menu and experience for diners. Breakfast, brunch, and lunch are served in the centrally located main restaurant, Cafe de la Playa. With indoor and outdoor seating areas, this restaurant has a upscale rustic decor and features mostly buffet items with a few live cooking stations and a la carte options. Next door, the open-air Ni serves up traditional Peruvian fare with contemporary twists and a beautiful view of the ocean during lunch and dinner. For those who want to get really local with their meals should visit the indoor ocean views at Ramona, a restaurant that infuses a hearty dose of local ingredients into its updated Mexican menu. Hidden in an exotic space among green vines and trees, La Punta Grille and Lounge has both a pool and rocky sea views, flavorful seafood and meat dishes, and a dining area within the walls of a narrow thatched hut. Open for dinner, Indochine, the resort's Asian-inspired restaurant, has a small outdoor seating deck against a peaceful reflecting pool. On the other side of the property near the Residence Suites is the Mediterranean-themed Terra Nostra with its own small (and often empty) pool. The open-air Terra Nostra Lounge is located on the second floor and is an ideal spot for watching the sun go down. Other bar spaces include the Havana Lounge specializing in cigars and fine spirits, and Bar A-kan, a swanky, but casual spot with a wraparound seating deck and panoramic ocean views. Other features of the resort include water sports and cabanas down on the sandy beach off reception, a more wild and rocky beach area off of the La Punta Grille (as well as a small pier stretching out across the sea), and a classy, dark tiled main infinity pool with a swim-up bar, loungers, cabanas, and far-reaching ocean view. A nicely stocked kids club filled with crafts, games, a stage, ping-pong table, and Wii is located near the main pool. The beauty salon and fitness area are located in the spa building, and the boutique selling souvenirs and snacks is just off the concierge side of the lobby. Wi-Fi and parking are free. 

It may take a short golf cart ride or slightly breezy walk to reach the spa, but you'll forget about any extra effort once you arrive. Greeting guests with soothing, natural textures and the faint trickling of water, the spa creates immediate serenity even before the treatments begin. ESpa products (NIZUC is only one of two spas in Mexico to use the brand) and L'Occtaine goodies fill treatment rooms, countertops, and shower nooks. With smaller public spaces and locker rooms than other spas of this caliber, the focus at NIZUC is on treatments -- specifically hydrotherapy. The spa is built around a collection of hot and cold tiled pools, each with particular showerheads, seating, or massage properties. Individual corridors lining the pools contain showers, a steam room, a sauna, heated tile lounger area, and a bright and comfortable relaxation area filled with coffee, tea, health tonics, and large, comfy loungers facing into a landscaped courtyard. More typical spa treatments are available as well.