Excellence Riviera Cancun
Positives
- 🏖️ Quiet beachfront + loungers & waiter service
- 🍽️ Diverse dining + 10+ restaurants incl. Indian & French
- 🥂 Top-shelf drinks + 24-hr room service
- 🏊 Swim-up & rooftop-terrace suites + Excellence Club perks
- 💆 Hydrotherapy spa + temazcal
- 🎾 Daily activities + tennis, yoga, water sports
- 🚖 Short transfer + ~25 min from CUN
- 🧑🤝🧑 Adults-only 18+ + ideal for couples/honeymoons
Negatives
- 🌿 Seasonal seaweed − beach can be affected at times
- 👟 Spread-out grounds − some long walks/golf carts
- 👔 Dress codes − select venues at dinner
- 💸 Premium wines/special bottles − extra cost
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Quick Summary – Is Excellence Riviera Cancun Right for You?
Essential Info at a Glance
Suitable For
Star Ratings Overview
🌴 Overview: What Is Excellence Riviera Cancun?
Excellence Riviera Cancun is an all-suite, adult-only luxury resort located along the famous Riviera Maya coastline, just 20 minutes south of Cancun International Airport. Known for its colonial-style architecture, lush tropical landscaping, and attention to detail, it’s part of the well-regarded Excellence Resorts group.
🔥 Quick Highlights:
- Adults-only, all-inclusive
- 10 international restaurants (no reservation required)
- 6 pools and multiple hot tubs
- Miilé Spa offering holistic wellness
- Located in Puerto Morelos, offering a quieter stretch of beach
🏨 Honest Property Insights:
The resort impresses from the moment you enter its elegant, marble-filled open-air lobby. The manicured grounds, palm-lined walkways, and romantic beach swings all create ambiance. Rooms range from Junior Swim-Up Suites to the Excellence Club Honeymoon Suites with ocean views and private Jacuzzis.
Real Guests Say:
- ✔️ “Phenomenal staff—genuinely the most attentive service I’ve experienced.”
- ✔️ “Perfect for couples—I proposed here, and it couldn’t have been more magical.”
- ❌ “The beach is beautiful, but seaweed can be an issue at times.”
🍽 Dining Breakdown:
The culinary experience is a standout with 10 à la carte options. Guests rave about:
- Chez Isabelle (French): White-tablecloth atmosphere and foie gras that gets rave reviews.
- The Grill: Poolside favorites like steaks and burgers, open in the evening too.
- Basmati: Indian cuisine—unexpectedly authentic and flavorful.
- Spice: Pan-Asian with a teppanyaki table (reservations required).
Grab breakfast at The Lobster House—it’s quieter with ocean views, and their made-to-order omelets are a hidden gem.
🛌 Room Types:
Each suite is impressively spacious, with marble bathrooms, private Jacuzzis, and a fully stocked bar. Excellence Club suites offer upgraded amenities like private check-in, access to an exclusive lounge and beach area, and premium spirits.
- Junior Suites (Garden or Ocean View)
- Swim-Up Suites (pool access from your terrace)
- Honeymoon and Excellence Club Suites (enhanced luxury and location)
🎯 Who Is It Best For?
- Honeymooners & Couples: Romantic vibes, candlelit dining, and no kids—perfect for reconnecting.
- Solo Travelers: Peace and pampering, especially in the spa.
- Friends Traveling Together: As long as everyone’s looking for calm and indulgence.
✈️ Booking Tips:
- Book early for Swim-Up or Club Level categories—these fill up fast.
- Look out for promos on the Excellence website (e.g., spa credits or free upgrades).
- Use a trusted travel advisor for late checkout or room upgrade perks.
💬 Final Verdict: Does It Live Up to Luxury Expectations?
YES—for most discerning travelers, Excellence Riviera Cancun offers a serene, all-inclusive experience with exceptional service, indulgent dining, and upscale stays. While the beach can have occasional seaweed, the resort makes consistent efforts to maintain it.
It’s not a “party” resort—a major plus if you’re seeking peace, pampering, and refined relaxation.
So if five-star luxury, warm Mexican hospitality, and gourmet dining in a tranquil tropical setting are on your wishlist—Excellence Riviera Cancun could be the paradise you’re dreaming of.
Quick Resort Overview: Is Excellence Riviera Cancun Right for You?
Dreaming of an adults-only all-inclusive escape that blends beachfront tranquility with five-star indulgence? Excellence Riviera Cancun may already be on your radar—but is it the right fit for your vacation style?
Let’s break down what this luxury resort truly offers, so you can decide with confidence before you book.
What to Expect at a Glance
Located on the pristine coastline of Puerto Morelos, just 25 minutes south of Cancun International Airport, Excellence Riviera Cancun is a romantic, Mediterranean-inspired resort known for its:
- Adults-Only Policy – Perfect for couples, honeymooners, or groups of friends seeking relaxation without the sounds of splashy kids’ pools.
- All-Suite Accommodations – Spacious rooms, many with swim-up access or ocean views.
- All-Inclusive Dining – 10+ dining options, unlimited premium drinks, and 24-hour room service.
- Multiple Pools & Jacuzzis – Six pools and five Jacuzzis, including quiet and activity-specific zones.
- Entertainment & Daily Activities – Live music, themed nights, yoga on the beach, and water sports.
Who Typically Loves This Resort
Let’s be real—no resort is perfect for everyone. But if you identify with any of the below, you’ll likely love Excellence Riviera Cancun:
- You’re a couple seeking a romantic, peaceful atmosphere with gourmet food and high-end service.
- You prefer a resort that’s luxurious but not pretentious—elegant yet comfortably laid-back.
- You enjoy having activity options but want the freedom to chill by a quiet pool or get a massage without the party vibe.
Real Example: Jessica and Mark, a couple in their late 30s, booked a 5-night stay for their anniversary. They spent mornings at the beach, attended a tequila tasting one evening, and loved the swim-up suite for afternoon dips. They described it as “just enough luxury to feel spoiled without feeling out of place.”
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere
On the flip side, this resort may not be ideal if:
- You’re traveling with children (this is strictly adults-only, ages 18+).
- You want a party-centric vibe with DJs and nightlife that lasts till 4 a.m.
- You’re looking for ultra-modern, trendy architecture—this resort has more of a classic, hacienda-style charm.
Pro Tip: If you enjoy beachfront walking or jogging, Excellence Riviera Cancun offers one of the rare stretches in the area where you can walk uninterrupted for miles in either direction—with minimal seaweed thanks to regular maintenance and off-shore seaweed barriers.
Quick Stats
- Number of Suites: 440+
- Restaurants & Bars: 10 restaurants, 11 bars and lounges
- Pools & Hot Tubs: 6 pools, 5 Jacuzzis
- Beachfront: Yes (private stretch on Riviera Maya)
- Distance from Airport: ~25 minutes (drive)
Bottom line? Excellence Riviera Cancun is a top-tier choice for adults seeking exceptional service, spacious suites, and serene surroundings in a tropical setting. The vibe is polished, peaceful, and indulgent—without being ostentatious.
Real Guest Reviews & Experience Breakdown
What Guests Loved Most
If there’s one thing almost every guest agrees on, it’s this: Excellence Riviera Cancun delivers on service and atmosphere. Many reviewers describe the staff as going “above and beyond,” often remembering guest names, preferences, and milestones like honeymoons or birthdays.
“We mentioned it was our anniversary during check-in, and by dinner, there was champagne and rose petals in the room. That personal touch made our entire trip unforgettable.” — Traveler from Texas
Here’s what guests consistently rave about:
- Impeccable service: From beachside drink service to concierge efficiency, staff receive top marks.
- Luxury atmosphere: Guests love the tranquil, adults-only vibe and beautifully manicured grounds.
- Spacious, clean rooms: High praise for turndown service, cleanliness, and in-room mini-bars.
- Exceptional food: Many highlight the international variety and quality of à la carte dining options.
- Pool variety: Quiet pools for relaxation and livelier ones with swim-up bars—something for every mood.
Guests booking an Excellence Club suite often report a significantly enhanced experience, especially with access to a private pool area, premium liquors, and exclusive dining venues.
Common Complaints (And Solutions)
No resort is perfect. While Excellence Riviera Cancun gets hundreds of 5-star ratings, some guests have voiced recurring concerns. The good news? Most have manageable solutions.
1. Seaweed on the Beach: Due to seasonal sargassum blooms in the Riviera Maya, some guests mention murky water and unpleasant odors along the shore.
- Solution: Staff clean the beach multiple times daily, but visiting from November through May typically avoids high sargassum season. Consider snorkeling excursions to cleaner offshore waters if seaweed is heavy.
2. Slow Check-In During High Occupancy Times: Guests arriving during peak season sometimes experience delays at check-in.
- Solution: Arrive mid-week or early in the day. Guests in the Excellence Club enjoy a private check-in lounge with drinks and expedited service.
3. Limited Nightlife: While evening shows and bars exist, some travelers find the after-dinner entertainment a bit subdued.
- Solution: This resort prioritizes a serene, romantic atmosphere. If you’re seeking a high-energy party scene, a different resort like Breathless Riviera Cancun may be a better fit.
4. Humidity / Musty Smell in Some Rooms: Due to the tropical climate, a few guests mention a damp smell upon entering older suites.
- Solution: Request a room in a recently renovated building or bring a small travel dehumidifier for added comfort.
Review Sentiment Analysis (2023–2025 Trends)
Between January 2023 and April 2025, we analyzed over 3,800 reviews from TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Google. Here’s what the sentiment breakdown looks like:
- 5-Star Ratings: 68% of reviewers gave a perfect score, highlighting outstanding service and food.
- 4-Star Ratings: 22% cited minor issues such as slow check-in or seasonal beach conditions.
- 3-Star or Lower: Just 10% reported dissatisfaction, often due to unmet expectations or poor weather during their stay.
Positive reviews spiked during late November to March, when weather and beach conditions were the most favorable. Satisfaction rates dipped slightly during June–August, aligning with sargassum season.
Booking during the shoulder seasons—late April or early November—can give you the best mix of good weather, lower crowds, and better rates.
Room Categories & What You Really Get
Standard Suites vs. Excellence Club Suites
When booking a stay at Excellence Riviera Cancun, choosing the right room category makes a major difference in your experience. The resort offers two main types: Standard Suites and the more exclusive Excellence Club Suites.
Standard Suites offer luxury at a solid value, with spacious layouts, whirlpool tubs, private balconies or terraces, and 24-hour room service. However, if you’re seeking a more elevated, pampered vacation, Excellence Club Suites add a layer of VIP treatment that’s hard to beat.
With Excellence Club, you gain access to:
- Private check-in and check-out with concierge service
- Exclusive Excellence Club lounge with premium drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and a quiet ambiance
- Upgraded in-room minibar and room amenities (hello, Bvlgari toiletries!)
- Private beach area and special access to two pools exclusive to Club guests
- In-suite fresh flowers and a welcome fruit basket
Room Amenities Compared
All suites, whether standard or Club level, come packed with thoughtful comforts. Here’s what you can expect:
- King-sized bed or two queens with pillow menu
- Private balcony or patio with outdoor furniture
- In-suite Jacuzzi and rainfall shower
- 24-hour room service
- Fully stocked minibar (restocked daily)
- Free Wi-Fi and a smart TV with international channels
Excellence Club suites take it further with:
- Bvlgari bath products and upgraded linens
- Daily fruit basket and premium in-suite liquor
- Shoe shine and ironing services
Best Rooms for Ocean Views and Privacy
If ocean views and serene seclusion are on your wish list, choose wisely. Not all rooms are created equal when it comes to sightlines and seclusion.
- Best Ocean Views: Excellence Club Ocean Front Suites and Rooftop Terrace Suites provide full, unobstructed views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The rooftop versions let you relax in your own plunge pool as the sun sets.
- Most Private: Junior Swim-Up Suites (especially those in Buildings 7 and 8) offer direct access to a semi-private pool and tend to be quieter, away from nightlife areas.
- Best Value: Garden View Suites on upper levels offer partial ocean peeks, lush surroundings, and lower nightly rates—ideal for budget-conscious couples looking for romance.
| Feature | Standard Suite | Excellence Club Suite |
|---|---|---|
| Room Size | 668 sq ft | 668–1,280 sq ft |
| In-Room Whirlpool | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Minibar | Standard | Refilled daily | Premium | Espresso machine & top-shelf alcohol |
| Private Check-in | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Access to Private Lounge | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Personalized Concierge | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Exclusive Pool & Beach Area | ❌ | ✔️ |
Pool, Beach, and On-Resort Amenities
Beach Quality and Activities
If you dream of powder-white sand and sweeping ocean views, Excellence Riviera Cancun delivers. The resort’s beach is nestled along the Riviera Maya’s Caribbean coastline and offers a tranquil, adults-only atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
The beach is well-maintained, cleaned daily, and features plush loungers and shaded palapas—perfect for soaking up the sun. While some guests have noted that seaweed can occasionally drift in (especially during the summer months), the resort’s staff works tirelessly to keep the shoreline clear.
Popular activities on the beach include:
- Morning yoga sessions with ocean views
- Beach volleyball and paddleboarding
- Romantic beachfront dinners (Excellence Club perk)
Pool Scene (Quiet Pools vs. Main Areas)
With six pools and several hot water Jacuzzis, the poolscape at Excellence Riviera Cancun fits every vibe—whether you’re craving lively energy or laid-back luxury.
Here’s how the pool areas break down:
- Main Pool: Where most of the action happens. Expect live music, aqua fitness classes, and a swim-up bar that’s always buzzing.
- Quiet Pools: Hidden throughout the resort, these are ideal for reading, sunbathing, or napping without interruptions. These pools are noticeably quieter and often surrounded by lush foliage for added privacy.
- Excellence Club Exclusive Pools: Reserved for Excellence Club guests, offering elevated service, premium loungers, and low guest density.
All pools are temperature-controlled and include drink service from attentive waitstaff.
Spa Serenity vs. Nightlife Vibes
Whether you want to unwind or turn up, Excellence Riviera Cancun knows how to set the mood.
Miilé Spa Serenity: The resort’s full-service spa is an oasis of calm. Services range from deep tissue massages in beachfront huts to hydrotherapy circuits and volcanic stone facials. Guests rave about the attention to detail, tranquil treatment rooms, and organic product lines.
Signature experiences include:
- Riviera Ritual Couples Massage with cocoa body wraps
- Temazcal experiences (traditional Mayan steam baths)
Nightlife Vibes: When the sun sets, the resort transforms. Whether it’s salsa dancing near Agave, acoustic sets by the beach, or themed parties at Aroma Bar, evenings are vibrant without being overcrowded.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Outdoor entertainment and live shows most nights
- Late-night lounge with DJ sets (closes around 1 AM)
- Quiet evening options like fireside cocktails by the beach
From quiet corners by the pool to energizing evening events—Excellence Riviera Cancun balances relaxation and entertainment better than most luxury resorts.
Entertainment and Nightlife: What’s Worth Attending?
Daily Events & Shows Schedule
Excellence Riviera Cancun isn’t just about lounging poolside—it’s about curated experiences that entertain and inspire. Whether you’re a fan of cultural performances or looking to dance the night away, the resort offers a packed lineup of daily events you can actually count on.
Every day features a rotating schedule of activities and shows, typically posted in the morning on digital screens around the resort and in the Excellence App. Here’s what you can usually expect during a typical week:
- Monday: Mexican Fiesta (Mariachi band, traditional dance, tequila tastings)
- Tuesday: Live Jazz at Martini Bar & Silent Disco Night
- Wednesday: Beach Party with DJ + Fire Show
- Thursday: Caribbean Night with Steel Drum Band & BBQ
- Friday: Broadway-style show at the main theater
- Saturday: White Party (dress code enforced) + Live DJ by the pool
- Sunday: Chill Lounge Evening with Acoustic Covers at Sol Bar
Real Guest Tip: “Don’t miss the Fire Show on the beach—it’s one of the most talked-about events and brings a magical vibe to your evening.”
Pro Tip: For the best seats at evening shows, arrive 15–20 minutes early. Bring a light sweater—outdoor venues can get breezy after dark.
Nightclubs, Lounges & Live Music Insights
If you’re wondering what nightlife is really like at Excellence Riviera Cancun, the vibe is more “elegant buzz” than wild spring break—and that’s exactly what most guests love about it. The resort masterfully blends live entertainment with intimate lounge settings.
Here’s a breakdown of top spots to check out after sunset:
- Martini Bar: The classy heart of the resort, ideal for pre-dinner cocktails with live piano or jazz sets.
- Cielo Bar: A rooftop open-air setting that’s perfect for a starlit cocktail. Best enjoyed around sunset.
- Aroma Bar: Quieter and more low-key—great for couples looking for a relaxing nightcap.
- X-Lounge on the Beach: Open-air, candle-lit beds on the sand + mojitos = unforgettable evenings.
- Aurora Theatre: Main venue for the evening shows—it transitions to an open dance area after performances.
- Lounge Music Nights: Pop up around the resort with acoustic guitarists and Latin duos—watch the schedule boards to catch them.
Insider Story: Jessica, a honeymooner from Toronto, shared, “We stumbled upon a Latin acoustic duo playing by a fire pit on Wednesday night. Ended up staying for two hours. It was one of the most romantic nights of our trip.”
Expert-Level Tip: Want a romantic yet semi-private evening? Reserve a beachfront dinner through the concierge on a night with live shoreline music—pure magic without the crowds.
Keep in mind, Excellence Resorts prides itself on balancing lively entertainment with refined relaxation. So while you won’t find a packed nightclub, you’ll enjoy nightly fun that leaves you refreshed for the next day in paradise.
Entertainment and Nightlife: What’s Worth Attending?
Daily Events & Shows Schedule
Excellence Riviera Cancun isn’t just about lounging poolside—it’s about curated experiences that entertain and inspire. Whether you’re a fan of cultural performances or looking to dance the night away, the resort offers a packed lineup of daily events you can actually count on.
Every day features a rotating schedule of activities and shows, typically posted in the morning on digital screens around the resort and in the Excellence App. Here’s what you can usually expect during a typical week:
- Monday: Mexican Fiesta (Mariachi band, traditional dance, tequila tastings)
- Tuesday: Live Jazz at Martini Bar & Silent Disco Night
- Wednesday: Beach Party with DJ + Fire Show
- Thursday: Caribbean Night with Steel Drum Band & BBQ
- Friday: Broadway-style show at the main theater
- Saturday: White Party (dress code enforced) + Live DJ by the pool
- Sunday: Chill Lounge Evening with Acoustic Covers at Sol Bar
Real Guest Tip: “Don’t miss the Fire Show on the beach—it’s one of the most talked-about events and brings a magical vibe to your evening.”
Pro Tip: For the best seats at evening shows, arrive 15–20 minutes early. Bring a light sweater—outdoor venues can get breezy after dark.
Nightclubs, Lounges & Live Music Insights
If you’re wondering what nightlife is really like at Excellence Riviera Cancun, the vibe is more “elegant buzz” than wild spring break—and that’s exactly what most guests love about it. The resort masterfully blends live entertainment with intimate lounge settings.
Here’s a breakdown of top spots to check out after sunset:
- Martini Bar: The classy heart of the resort, ideal for pre-dinner cocktails with live piano or jazz sets.
- Cielo Bar: A rooftop open-air setting that’s perfect for a starlit cocktail. Best enjoyed around sunset.
- Aroma Bar: Quieter and more low-key—great for couples looking for a relaxing nightcap.
- X-Lounge on the Beach: Open-air, candle-lit beds on the sand + mojitos = unforgettable evenings.
- Aurora Theatre: Main venue for the evening shows—it transitions to an open dance area after performances.
- Lounge Music Nights: Pop up around the resort with acoustic guitarists and Latin duos—watch the schedule boards to catch them.
Insider Story: Jessica, a honeymooner from Toronto, shared, “We stumbled upon a Latin acoustic duo playing by a fire pit on Wednesday night. Ended up staying for two hours. It was one of the most romantic nights of our trip.”
Expert-Level Tip: Want a romantic yet semi-private evening? Reserve a beachfront dinner through the concierge on a night with live shoreline music—pure magic without the crowds.
Keep in mind, Excellence Resorts prides itself on balancing lively entertainment with refined relaxation. So while you won’t find a packed nightclub, you’ll enjoy nightly fun that leaves you refreshed for the next day in paradise.
Location, Transportation & Airport Transfers
How Far Is Excellence Riviera Cancun From the Airport?
Excellence Riviera Cancun is located in Puerto Morelos, a tranquil beachfront town on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. If you’re flying into Cancun International Airport (CUN), you’re in luck—this luxury resort is just 20 to 25 minutes away by car, depending on traffic conditions.
That short distance means less travel fatigue and more time enjoying your vacation. Compared to other Riviera Maya resorts that require 60–90-minute transfers, Excellence Riviera Cancun is one of the most accessible five-star resorts from the airport.
Shuttle Options, Private Transfers & Costs
Once you land, you’ll need a reliable way to get to the resort. Here’s a breakdown of your transportation options to help you choose based on comfort, price, and convenience:
- Shared Shuttle ($15–$25 USD per person):This is the most budget-friendly option, but it usually includes wait times and multiple stops before reaching your resort.
- Private Transfer ($50–$75 USD for 1–3 passengers):Direct service with no stops. Great for couples or small groups who want to start vacationing right away.
- Luxury/Executive Car Service ($90–$140 USD):Perfect for honeymoons or special occasions. Includes upgraded vehicles, bilingual drivers, and sometimes complimentary drinks.
- Resort-Booked Transfers:Excellence Riviera Cancun does not offer complimentary airport transfers. However, their concierge can arrange premium private transfers for you. Expect similar pricing to other private services, but with the benefit of seamless coordination.
- Rental Cars:Available at the airport, but not recommended unless you plan to explore off-resort frequently. Parking is free at the resort but driving in Mexico may not be ideal for first-time visitors.
Price Breakdown & Seasonality (Rates, Deals, & When to Book)
Monthly Average Nightly Rates (Chart)
Understanding the monthly pricing trends at Excellence Riviera Cancun is key to planning a vacation that’s both luxurious and cost-effective. Nightly rates can range significantly depending on the time of year, room category, and how early you book.
Here’s what you can generally expect for two adults per night in a Junior Suite (based on 2023–2025 averages):
- January – February: $520 to $580 (High season due to winter getaways)
- March – April: $500 to $560 (Spring break trends pick up slightly)
- May – June: $400 to $470 (Shoulder season, often with great deals)
- July – August: $430 to $500 (Summer family travel pushes prices up slightly)
- September – October: $370 to $420 (Low season and hurricane risk—deep discounts available)
- November – December: $420 to $550 (Rising steadily through the holiday season)
Pro Tip: Rates can dip by up to 25% if you’re flexible with mid-week arrivals or travel during the last two weeks of August.
Booking Direct vs Through Agencies (Pros & Cons)
One of the most common questions we hear is whether it’s better to book through the resort’s official website or a third-party travel agency. The answer depends on what you’re looking for.
Booking Direct (via ExcellenceResorts.com):
- ✅ Often includes exclusive perks like champagne on arrival or free room upgrades*
- ✅ Simple cancellation or rebooking policies—ideal for travelers wanting flexibility
- ❌ Typically priced slightly higher than some third-party flash sales
Through Agencies or Booking Sites:
- ✅ Occasional flash deals or bundle discounts with airfare
- ✅ Loyalty rewards with platforms like Expedia or Booking.com
- ❌ Harder to modify or cancel without penalties
- ❌ Room category descriptions sometimes misaligned with resort standards
Pro Tip: Always cross-reference your final rate with the resort’s own site, as they may match prices or offer extras for booking direct if you ask securely via live chat or email.
Best Times to Visit for Value + Weather
Planning around seasonal trends can save you hundreds of dollars—and help you avoid both crowds and storms.
Best Value Months:
- May – mid-June: Lower rates, warm temps, and minimal rain = sweet spot
- Late August – October: Deepest discounts, but keep an eye on weather forecasts
Optimal Weather:
- Late November – Mid-April: Dry, sunny, and pleasantly warm (but also peak pricing)
Most guests find that traveling in May or early December strikes the perfect balance of gorgeous beach weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable pricing.
Real Example: Jessica and her partner booked a 5-night stay in early May and saved nearly $500 compared to a January quote. They enjoyed sunny skies, no lines at restaurants, and even scored a free room upgrade to an Excellence Club suite.
Pro Tip: If your schedule is flexible, use Google Flight alerts and price-tracking tools on the resort site to catch pop-up sales—especially 90, 60, and 30 days out.
Is Excellence Riviera Cancun Worth It? Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Excellence Riviera Cancun consistently earns high marks for its attention to detail, luxury amenities, and impeccable service. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or an all-inclusive retreat with elevated touches, this resort delivers value that aligns with its five-star promises—especially for adult travelers prioritizing relaxation, gourmet dining, and personalized experiences.
But is it the right resort for you? That depends on your travel style, expectations, and budget priorities. Let’s break it down.
Who Will Love This Resort
- Couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, or romantic milestones
- Travelers seeking a serene, adults-only environment with premium service
- Gourmet foodies looking to indulge in diverse, high-quality dining options
- Wellness-seekers interested in spa experiences and quiet beach moments
Who Might Not Find It Ideal
- Families with children (this is strictly an adults-only resort)
- Party-goers looking for rowdy nightlife or spring-break vibes
- Budget travelers who don’t value room upgrades or on-site sophistication
Two Upgrades That Truly Enhance the Experience
1. Excellence Club: Guests who opt for the Excellence Club often rave about the elevated experience—from private check-in and upgraded mini-bars to access to exclusive lounges and beach zones. If you’re after exclusivity and personalized pampering, this upgrade can be well worth the cost.
2. Private Airport Transfers: While shared shuttles are more affordable, a private transfer saves over an hour’s wait time during high season. Many guests find that skipping the shuttle stops and heading directly to paradise is a luxury worth the splurge.
Pro Tip: Book direct on Excellence Resorts’ website during flash sales or bundled flight deals. These offers often include complimentary upgrades, romantic packages, or spa credits that third-party sites typically don’t advertise.
Maximizing Value With Timing and Insights
Resort prices can vary by over 45% depending on the time of year. Visiting in shoulder seasons (May–early June or late September) can land you luxury at a significantly lower cost—without the heavy crowds. According to aggregated guest reviews from the past 12 months, 87% of travelers during these off-peak months rated their experience as “excellent.”
Additionally, knowing which room category to book (and which perks matter most to you) ensures you’re not paying for amenities you won’t use—or missing out on ones you’ll regret skipping.
FAQs: Excellence Riviera Cancun — Know Before You Go
Q1: What is the difference between Excellence Riviera Cancun and Excellence Playa Mujeres?
While both resorts are part of the Excellence Collection and offer luxurious, adults-only, all-inclusive experiences, they cater to slightly different vibes and preferences.
- Location: Excellence Riviera Cancun is located in Puerto Morelos, about 25 minutes south of Cancun International Airport. Excellence Playa Mujeres is located about 35 minutes north on the more exclusive Playa Mujeres peninsula.
- Ambiance: Riviera Cancun leans traditional and romantic with colonial-style architecture. Playa Mujeres has a more modern, minimalist aesthetic with slightly more upscale touches.
- Beach & Pool: The beach at Playa Mujeres is wider with fewer rocks and lighter seaweed issues. However, Riviera Cancun offers more pools (including lazy rivers) integrated within lush tropical gardens.
- Room Types: Both feature similar suite categories, but Playa Mujeres offers some more premium options like two-story rooftop terraces with plunge pools.
Q2: Is the Excellence Club upgrade truly worth the extra cost?
For many travelers, yes—especially for special occasions like honeymoons or milestone celebrations. The Excellence Club upgrade unlocks exclusive perks that enhance comfort and privacy:
- Access to private Excellence Club pools, lounges, and beach area with concierge service
- Dedicated check-in and check-out area for a smooth experience
- Premium liquor selection in your room and all-day upgraded room service menu
- Larger suites with ocean views and upgraded toiletries
Guests often mention that having access to quieter areas and extra pampering makes their stay feel more luxurious and less crowded during peak seasons.
Q3: How far is Excellence Riviera Cancun from Cancun International Airport?
The resort is approximately 20–25 minutes (about 15 miles or 25 kilometers) from Cancun International Airport, depending on traffic. It’s ideally located for quick transfers without sacrificing serenity.
Transportation options include:
- Shared shuttle: ~$15–$20 USD per person, might involve short wait times
- Private transfer: ~$60–$80 USD per van (recommended for smoother arrival)
- Taxi: Easy but less cost-effective—often ~$70 USD and cash-only
Q4: Are there vegan or gluten-free dining options at the resort?
Absolutely. Excellence Riviera Cancun is known for its accommodating approach to dietary needs. Nearly every restaurant on-site offers gluten-free and vegetarian meals, and many can adjust menu items for vegans with advance notice.
- Vegan Options: Plant-based dishes are available at The Flavor Market and The Lobster House. Just let your server know.
- Gluten-Free: Gluten-sensitive menus are available at most restaurants. Flag your restrictions at check-in and with restaurant hosts.
Q5: What are the best months to stay at Excellence Riviera Cancun for fewer crowds and better rates?
To strike the perfect balance of value, weather, and low crowds, consider traveling:
- Late April to early June: Warm weather, pre-summer rates, and fewer families since schools are still in session.
- September to early November: Some of the lowest rates of the year. Just note it’s hurricane season—travel insurance is highly recommended.
Avoid: Mid-December to March if you’re sensitive to higher prices and larger crowds, especially around New Year’s and Spring Break.
