Hotel Marina El Cid Spa & Beach Resort

Travelers looking for a tropical beachside escape are drawn to this resort's sprawling tropical grounds and away-from-it-all atmosphere. Towering palm trees line sandy pathways, while swish cabanas and sun loungers sit around the infinity pool, which overlooks gorgeous turquoise seas and pristine white sands. Decor is relatively modern and simple, albeit a tad plain, and the spacious lobby has glossy tiled floors and colorful stained-glass ceilings. The decked poolside bar is a lovely place to relax and tan, while the on-site restaurants provide a relaxed and elegant setting for dining. Guests are mostly families with young children, and regular Platinum Club members who tend to return year after year. It's worth noting that timeshare pitches can be a pain, and do diminish from the worlds-away vibe on occasion. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and tranquil, especially on the private beach area and around the infinity pool, though it's a bit more lively around the main pool, with some fun activities for kids taking place during the day. 

Situated between Playa Del Carmen and Cancun, this property offers gorgeous ocean views that overlook Puerto Morelos National Reef Park. The small road leading up to the hotel is enveloped in lush green jungle landscape, making it feel far from city life. Though there's not much activity in the surrounding area, there are plenty of on-site facilities, and it's only a short five-minute car ride away from the bars and restaurants of Puerto Morelos. The hotel has its own private stretch of beach, though heavy seaweed in this area can make swimming difficult during certain months. The underwater rocks can also be a challenge for some guests. Playa Del Carmen is a 40-minute drive from the hotel, and Cancun International Airport is a 30-minute drive away. The ruins in Tulum are a 80-minute drive south of the hotel for those looking to explore a little of the local culture.

All 500 rooms are spacious and well-appointed, though decor feels a little plain and nondescript. Tile floors add a glossy finish, while large windows create a bright, airy feel, letting in plenty of natural light. Dark wood headboards frame double or single beds, which are covered in fresh white bedding and colorful striped cushions and runners. Furniture is kept simple, with marble-topped bedside tables and TV cabinets, and built-in wardrobes. The purple, cream, green, and brown color schemes are pleasant, but not the most cutting edge design choice. All rooms have furnished balconies, some with lovely ocean or pool views. Modern amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, coffeemakers, fully-stocked minibars (included with all-inclusive rates), ironing facilities, safes, phones, hairdryers, and free bottled water. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi costs extra. Bathrooms are spacious and modern, with walk-in, glass-enclosed showers and generous free toiletries. Some have separate soaking tubs, though the dark marble looks heavy and a bit dated. There are plenty of room options for big families, including suites with multiple bedrooms, kitchenettes, and separate living areas. Higher-category Platinum Rooms also come with perks like butlers, turndown service, late checkouts, and in-room treats like fruit and snacks. 

This sizable resort offers plenty of facilities, including five on-site restaurants. El Alcazar serves Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine, while La Alhambra offers international buffet fare with daily themed specials. The poolside Hacienda Arrecife serves up tasty Mexican dishes, La Marina specializes in seafood, and La Trattoria De Gulio offers Italian dishes like pizza and pasta. Guests should be aware that reservations are required for the specialty restaurants, so it's best to book in advance. There are several on-site bars, including a swim-up bar, beachfront bar, and cozy lobby bar. All-inclusive rates make most guests happy, as the quality of the food is good and the prices include many of the hotel's activities.There are two swimming pools, including a 22,000-square-foot pool with water slides, as well as a beachfront infinity pool and adult-only whirlpool. While the hotel has a private area on the beach, swimming in the water means navigating rocky patches, and major seaweed blooms can ruin the experience at certain times of year. Sporty guests can take advantage of an outdoor tennis court, outdoor chess mat, table tennis, and a spacious fitness center that includes twice-daily classes. There are also a full-service spa and sauna, beauty salon, and shops selling clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. The marina has 120 slips as well as its own supermarket and sport-fishing fleet. Dive and snorkel trips can be arranged, and plenty of other water sports are on offer. The kids' club has toys and games for the little ones.Other services include a 24-hour front desk, room service, concierge, and free valet parking. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi and airport transfers cost extra with most bookings. A convention center is available for large-scale business retreats. Platinum rates include free Wi-Fi as well as access to the attractive Platinum Lounge.