Banyan Tree Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen is among the latest additions to resorts with overwater bungalows in the Caribbean generally, and the newest of only four overwater bungalow resorts in Mexico.
Of the three others in Mexico two are very nearby – Palafitos El Dorado Resort and Rosewood Mayakoba – both of which are fabulous resorts and Banyan Tree Mayakoba matches them on all fronts.
We saw it wins consistently great reviews for its eco-friendly principles, its choice setting, its luxury accommodation and facilities.
These include a Greg Norman-designed 18-hole golf course and an award-winning spa, and gourmet food & drink.
Their overwater bungalows are more European chalet-like than rustic Polynesian.
The interiors are sleek, modern, and plush but with plenty of nice earthy, back-to-nature touches.
They are set over two floors and we think they offer a much greater sense of privacy than most.
Lagoon luxury: Banyan Tree’s two-story overwater villas
The above-mentioned over-water villas are all doubles with king-size beds and are very spacious indeed – over their two floors they cover a full 2400 square feet / 222 sq. meters.
They have a heated plunge pool on the private terrace which has views over the lagoon. Their bathrooms are particularly nice with spa baths as standard.
As with the resort in general, though they have a sleek modern design, the overriding philosophy with the overwater villas is harmony with nature.
The decor and furniture are generally of wood or other organic materials and the many native Yucatan potted plants add an extra earthy, jungly vibe.
We found these overwater villas an extremely popular choice, and there are only 6 in total, so expect to be disappointed unless you book well in advance.
If they do happen to be booked out though we find Banyan Tree has a tremendous choice of other luxury accommodation, some of the finest in the Cancun region, in fact.
Check rates and reserve
Check availability & prices at Booking.com here or at Expedia here
Gourmet food: From Mayan to Thai fusion plus romantic, private dining
We have a choice of eateries here from fine dining to relatively informal offering a wide range of cuisine, from traditional Mayan and contemporary Mexican to Thai and international.
Their seafood is especially note-worthy, and plentiful.
Along the beach and the resort’s main pool area, we can kick back with something from their extensive cocktail menu, grab a beer, or choose from their lists of premium mixed drinks, spirits, and wines.
Romantic, private dining experiences can be arranged – al fresco on the beach or a traditional boat floating peacefully through the lagoons for example, and even fine dining deep in the jungle.
We saw that the concierge team at Banyan Tree are highly praised and will be eager to make it special.
Experiences: Championship golf, spa retreats, water sports
Banyan Tree guests have access to the Greg Norman-designed El Camaleón Golf Course right next door and the resort’s top-of-the-range spa facilities have won many plaudits and awards.
Jungle treks and bike tours can be arranged at Banyan Tree too, plus lots of other tours and excursions in the surrounding area.
Water sports are of course available too – paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and more.
You can also play on-land sports such as tennis and archery.
The resort has a laid-back, relaxed, romantic atmosphere, the accommodation is generally quite private, and it sees a lot of couples.
Children are also very welcome though – they have their own kid’s club, which has a strong educational focus, kid’s meals are provided and overall they will be very well taken care of.
At the heart of the Riviera Maya
The resort is just outside the chic beach town of Playa del Carmen, in Mexico’s Mayan Riviera.
The journey from Cancun and its international airport (from where a shuttle bus will be waiting to pick you up) takes less than an hour.
Verified reviews: What other guests are saying
“Without a doubt the concept wraps you up in the culture and nature of what Mexico represents, a magical place. Totally recommended….”
“Villas were spacious and gorgeous. Staff was incredibly welcoming and beyond reproach. Food was delicious and generous. The vibe was magical and uniquely memorable….”
See all the reviews right here
