Table of Contents
Now Emerald Cancun
Positives
- 🏖️ Wide, swimmable beach
- ⛱️ Loungers & cabanas
- ✈️ ~20 min to CUN
- 📍 Easy Hotel Zone access
- 🍽️ Buffet + à la carte + grill; no-reservation at most venues
- 🍹 6–8 bars incl. swim-up; minibar restocked daily
- 👧🧒 Kids’ club and family suites
- 💆 Spa + gym / fitness classes
- 🏊 Multiple pools (quiet & activities)
- 🌊 Ocean-view rooms; upgrade tiers
- 🎭 Daily activities & nightly shows
- 📶 Free Wi-Fi
Negatives
- 🌿 Seasonal sargassum possible
- 🚶♂️ Not walkable to nightlife hubs
- ⏳ Peak-time dining waits
- 🥃 Some top-shelf brands extra
- 🔊 Lively pool area can be noisy
- 💸 Spa treatments cost extra
- 🌞 Limited midday shade by pools
- 🛠️ Wear in some older rooms
- 🔊 Show/music noise may carry to nearby rooms
- 📡 Wi-Fi speeds can dip at peak usage
.
Quick Summary – Is Hilton Right for You?
Essential Info at a Glance
Suitable For
Star Ratings Overview
🌴 Considering a beach escape to the turquoise waters of Cancun?
Picture this: You’re lounging under a swaying palm tree, a mango margarita in hand, warm ocean breezes caressing your skin as turquoise waves lap at the shore just steps away. That dreamy setting is exactly what draws millions to Cancun each year—but choosing the right resort to make it reality? That’s where things get tricky.
With hundreds of all-inclusive resorts dotting the Hotel Zone and beyond, finding one that balances value, quality dining, reputable service, and family-friendly—or adult-focused—ambience isn’t easy. We’ve seen travelers, from romantic couples to busy families, overwhelmed by conflicting reviews and glossy marketing. If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re in the right place.
This comprehensive guide is built for you. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, escaping with kids in tow, or just craving a laid-back vibe without breaking the bank,
Now Emerald Cancun might be your match—or might not be. We’re here to help you decide with clarity and confidence.
🧭 What You’ll Discover:
- • What makes Now Emerald different (and what doesn’t)
- • Real guest feedback and the truth about its restaurants, beach, and nightlife
- • Pro tips for room upgrades and maximizing value
- • How it compares with similar resorts like
Dreams Sands Cancun or
Royal Solaris
✨ Expert Insight
As a certified travel planner with firsthand experience at over 18 Cancun resorts, I’ve walked these sandy paths myself. I listened to actual guests on-site, peered behind the velvet ropes of Preferred Club perks, and dined anonymously at every Now Emerald restaurant—so you get facts, not fluff.
📊 Travel Stat
According to 2025 data from the
Mexico Tourism Board, Cancun welcomed over 12 million visitors last year—yet over 40% said they wished they’d done more research before choosing their resort.
💡 Pro Tip
If you’re traveling in shoulder season (late April to early June or mid-August to October), you can save up to 30% per night—and get free room upgrades—just by emailing the resort directly 4 days before arrival. Most don’t mention this on booking sites.
🎯 No matter what kind of traveler you are, this guide will help you answer the ultimate question:
Is Now Emerald Cancun the right resort for YOU?
🌴 Resort Overview – Now Emerald Cancun at a Glance
📍 Location & Setting: Where is Now Emerald Cancun?
Now Emerald Cancun is nestled in Cancun’s famed Hotel Zone, strategically located between the stunning Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. It’s just a 15-minute drive (approximately 7 miles) from Cancun International Airport, making transfers quick and easy—even for families with kids or couples arriving after a long flight.
The resort sits closer to the southern end of the Hotel Zone, which makes it a quieter, less congested area compared to the bustling northern strip. If you’re looking for proximity to nightlife, it’s a 15–20-minute drive to popular clubs like Coco Bongo and Mandala Nightclub.
- 📬 Address: Blvd. Kukulkan Km 19.5, Hotel Zone, Cancun, Q.R., 77500, Mexico
- 🛬 Airport Distance: Approx. 7 miles / 11.2 km (15 minutes by car)
- 🏖️ Beach Setting: Direct beachfront with sunrise views over the Caribbean Sea
🏨 At-a-Glance Features & Resort Snapshot
Now Emerald Cancun is part of the AMR Collection (now integrated under the Hyatt Inclusive Collection), and it blends family-friendly amenities with relaxed luxury in a compact setting. With 427 rooms, it’s one of the smaller all-inclusive resorts in Cancun—meaning less walking, shorter wait times, and more personalized service.
🗺️ Resort Map & Distance to Attractions
Now Emerald’s compact layout makes it easy to navigate without needing golf carts or staff escorts. Rooms are grouped into low-rise buildings that fan out from the center pool and main lobby. Nearly every key facility—restaurants, beach, pools, and spa—is within a short walk.
Here’s how close you’ll be to major attractions from Now Emerald:
- 🏛️ El Rey Ruins: 4 min by car / 20-min walk
- 🛍️ La Isla Shopping Village: 15 min by car
- 🎉 Coco Bongo Nightclub: 18 min by car
- 🚤 Xoximilco by Xcaret: 25 min by car
- ⛴️ Isla Mujeres Ferry (Puerto Juárez): 30–35 min by car
👩❤️👨 Couples
Whether you’re rekindling romance or simply slipping away for a private escape, Now Emerald Cancun offers a quiet, laid-back ambiance that’s ideal for couples who prefer serenity over scene. With adults-only pool areas, an indulgent spa, and oceanfront dining just steps from your room, the resort is designed with connection in mind.
- 🌅 Romantic sunrise views from oceanfront rooms
- 💆 Spa suites with couples massages and hydrotherapy
- 🍹 Quiet lounges and cabana service for two
👨👩👧 Families with Young Kids
Now Emerald Cancun is gently tailored for families with young children thanks to its family pool, sandy beach with calm surf, and a supervised Explorer’s Club for kids aged 3–12. Parents can relax, knowing there’s built-in entertainment just for the little ones.
- 🍽️ Kid-friendly buffet options & high chairs at all dining venues
- 🎨 Daily kids’ programming including arts & crafts and nature walks
- 🛌 Babysitting services available with advance request
👯♀️ Girls’ Getaways / Group Travel
Planning a bachelorette weekend, birthday bash, or wellness retreat with friends? Now Emerald balances fun and chill vibes. While not a party resort, it caters well to groups wanting a casual yet comfortable shared space with solid drinks and oceanfront views.
- 🏨 Multi-room suite options for up to 5 guests
- 🧘 On-site spa and yoga options for daytime rejuvenation
- 🚕 Easy access to Cancun nightlife via short taxi ride
💑 Honeymooners & Romantic Trips
Newlyweds and romance-seekers will appreciate the thoughtful touches designed for intimate moments. From champagne on arrival to candlelit dinners and spa packages for two, Now Emerald quietly amplifies your romantic milestone without the crowds or cost of ultra-luxury resorts.
- 🍳 Romantic add-ons like breakfast-in-bed and Jacuzzi upgrades
- 🌊 Preferred Club Honeymoon Oceanfront Suite with panoramic views
- 💍 Private wedding gazebo and tailored elopement options
🧘 Solo Travelers — Is It a Fit?
If you’re traveling solo and looking to unplug with a beach read and spa day—or to meet fellow travelers over cocktails—Now Emerald can work. While it’s not a high-energy social resort, it offers safety, walkability, and quiet relaxation for solo exploration.
- 🛎️ 24/7 room service and thoughtful in-room amenities
- 🎲 On-site daily activities if you’re feeling social
- 🔐 Secure resort grounds and courteous service staff
Room Categories and Upgrade Paths
Now Emerald Cancun offers a solid lineup of 427 guest rooms and suites, designed to accommodate everyone from solo travelers to families of five. Room categories fall into two main branches: Standard Guest Rooms and Preferred Club Rooms offering exclusive perks. Within those, you’ll choose based on view, location within the resort, and amenities.
Here’s a simplified overview of room categories:
- • Deluxe Rooms: Base-level rooms with lush garden or partial ocean views.
- • Deluxe Ocean View: Similar to Deluxe, upgraded with full or partial ocean views.
- • Deluxe Ocean Front: Located closest to the beach with better oceanfront positioning.
- • Preferred Club Rooms & Suites: Top-tier rooms offering additional privileges, better location, and concierge-level service (more on this below).
What’s Included in Each Room Type
All guest rooms at Now Emerald Cancun include:
- ✔️ Private, furnished balcony or terrace
- ✔️ 24-hour room service
- ✔️ Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
- ✔️ Stocked minibar (refreshed daily)
- ✔️ Air conditioning and blackout curtains for optimal rest
- ✔️ Coffee/tea maker and in-room safe
Higher-tier rooms include extras like marble floors, oceanfront jacuzzis, and closer beach proximity. In Preferred Club rooms, you’ll also enjoy an upgraded bathroom with upscale amenities, a pillow menu, and extended check-in/check-out options.
Preferred Club – Is It Worth It?
Preferred Club status doesn’t just get you a fancier room—it unlocks an elevated resort experience. You get exclusive access to:
- 🌟 Private Lounge: Club-only check-in, premium continental breakfast & top-shelf cocktails
- 🌊 Better Views & Locations: Most Preferred Club rooms are ocean-facing or oceanfront
- 🛁 Upgraded In-Room Amenities: Bathrobes, slippers, premium toiletries
- 🛎️ Enhanced Service: Concierge service and Priority reservations at restaurants where applicable
Pro Tip: Book during off-peak months and the room upgrade fee to Preferred Club often drops by 20–30%. Check booking engines directly or consult with a travel agent specialized in AMR Collection properties.
Pro Tips: Best Building or Floor to Request
Now Emerald has three main towers. The best views and quickest access to the beach and pools generally come from the higher floors in the beachfront towers.
- 🏞️ Ocean View + Tranquility: Request upper floors in Building B (Floors 4 or 5)
- 👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids: Ask for ground-level rooms near the main pool for easier stroller access
- 💑 Romantic Stays: Preferred Club Ocean Front Master Suites in Building C for privacy and panoramic sea views
Pro Tip: Use the “Special Requests” section during booking to ask for your preferred building. Then, email the resort 5–7 days in advance to politely reaffirm. Guests report better room placement with this method.
Room Types Comparison Table
| Room Type | Size (sq ft) | View | Max Capacity | Balcony/Terrace |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Garden View | 441 | Garden/Resort | 3 Adults or 2 Adults + 1 Child | Yes |
| Deluxe Ocean View | 441 | Partial or Full Ocean | 3 Adults or 2 Adults + 1 Child | Yes |
| Preferred Club Ocean View | 441 | Full Ocean | 3 Adults or 2 Adults + 1 Child | Yes + Club Lounge Access |
| Preferred Club Ocean Front | 441 | Direct Oceanfront | 3 Adults or 2 Adults + 1 Child | Yes + Upgraded Amenities |
| Preferred Club Master Suite Ocean Front | 883 | Panoramic Oceanfront | 2 Adults | Yes + Private Terrace & Living Area |
🍝 Restaurant Options & Cuisine Types
Now Emerald Cancun offers a mix of à la carte and buffet dining experiences that aim to satisfy a range of tastes from familiar comfort foods to upscale international dishes. Across its 8 dining venues, you’ll find everything from sizzling steaks and Mexican classics to Asian-fusion delicacies.
- Capers: Classic Italian favorites in a romantic setting.
- Paramour: Fine French cuisine, adults-only, perfect for a special night.
- Spice: Pan-Asian cuisine featuring hibachi and sushi options.
- Market Café: International buffet open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Barefoot Grill: Casual beachside grill serving quick bites like burgers and hot dogs.
- Tamarindo: Authentic Mexican cuisine with a colorful, vibrant atmosphere.
- Ocean Trattoria: Seafood-driven Italian with views of the Caribbean.
- Room Service: Available 24/7 at no additional cost for Preferred Club guests; standard room guests may incur wait times or delivery fees.
🎩 Dress Codes, Reservations & Seating Experience
Most restaurants don’t require reservations, with the exception of some themed dining nights or hibachi tables at Spice (where availability is limited—ask the concierge upon check-in).
- Dress Codes: “Resort Casual” is the norm.
- Adults-Only Dining: Paramour is exclusively for adults, offering a quieter, more refined atmosphere.
- Seating: Wait times vary, especially during peak dining hours (7–8 PM). Pro Tip: Arrive early or dine later (after 8:30 PM) to avoid crowds.
🍹 Bar Locations & Signature Drinks
Scattered across the resort are 6 bars and lounges, each offering their own vibe and drink specialties, from poolside cocktails to evening martinis.
- Scores Sports Bar: Great for catching the game with a beer or whiskey in hand.
- Preferred Club Bar: Exclusive access for Preferred Club guests; premium liquors and service.
- Moments Lobby Bar: Elegant space for cocktails before dinner.
- Time Out Bar: Near the activity pool; known for its tropical drinks and lively vibe.
- Swim-Up Bar: Located in the main pool; don’t miss their icy mango daiquiris.
- Juice Bar (Spa): Healthy smoothies and vitamin shots post-massage or workout.
🍸 Signature Drink: “Emerald Breeze” — a vibrant green cocktail made with rum, melon liqueur, coconut cream, and pineapple. Refreshing and Instagram-worthy.
🌿 Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Other Dietary Needs
Now Emerald Cancun is reasonably accommodating when it comes to dietary requirements. Vegan and vegetarian options are available at all restaurants. However, variety may be limited for gluten- or dairy-free guests.
🗣️ Real Guest Reviews: Dining Pros & Cons
👍 Pros: Guests consistently praise the wide variety of cuisine, the oceanfront views at Ocean Trattoria, and the freshness of buffet options at Market Café.
👎 Cons: Some reviewers mention slow service during peak hours and inconsistent food quality at Barefoot Grill. Hibachi tables get booked quickly and may require advance booking.
🌟 Insider Tip: Paramour and Tamarindo are top picks for an impressive meal.
📜 Now Emerald Drink Menu (PDF or excerpt)
You can view a representative excerpt of the drink menu on the official dining page here.
- Margarita Flight Sampler: Tamarind, coconut, and spicy cucumber
- “Jungle Bird”: Dark rum, Campari, fresh pineapple juice
- Mocktail – “Tropical Detox”: Pineapple, lime, mint, aloe water
📊 Restaurant Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Atmosphere | Reservation | Open Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capers | Italian | Romantic, indoor | No | 6 PM – 10:30 PM |
| Paramour (18+) | French | Elegant, adults-only | No | 6 PM – 10:30 PM |
| Spice | Asian | Modern, hibachi-style | Yes (hibachi only) | 6 PM – 10 PM |
| Tamarindo | Mexican | Colorful, casual | No | 6 PM – 10 PM |
| Ocean Trattoria | Seafood Italian | Oceanfront, open-air | No | 6 PM – 10 PM |
| Market Café | International Buffet | Family-friendly | No | 7 AM – 10:30 AM / 12:30 PM – 3 PM / 6 PM – 10 PM |
| Barefoot Grill | Casual Grilled Foods | Poolside | No | 11 AM – 5 PM |
🏊♂️ Family-Friendly Pool
The main family-friendly pool is the heart of daytime energy. Shallow areas, comfy loungers, and buffet proximity make it an easy favorite for families.
🍹 Adults-Only Pool
This peaceful infinity-edge retreat offers cocktail service, ocean views, and a relaxed romantic atmosphere for adult guests.
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive by 9:00 AM to grab a shaded cabana—especially on weekends when they vanish fast!
🌴 Beach Quality & Conditions
Enjoy direct access to soft white sands and turquoise water. Though sargassum may appear seasonally between May and August, cleanup crews ensure a clean shore for most of the year. Visit between November–April for optimal clarity.
- 👣 Soft sand & gentle waves ideal for kids
- 🍹 Beach bar with server-side service
- 🌤️ More private feel than Cancun’s buzzier zones
📣 Guest Says: “We walked out of our room and were literally steps from the sand. Not crowded at all—just waves and wows!” — TripAdvisor Review
🎉 Daily Activities & Entertainment
Each day brings variety — from yoga at sunrise to shows after sundown. Interactive or easygoing, the activities calendar allows you to do as little or as much as you want.
🚤 Watersports & Excursions
✅ Included
- 🏄 Paddleboarding
- 🛶 Kayaking
- 🤿 Snorkeling Equipment
💳 Additional Cost
- 🚤 Jet Skiing
- 🪂 Parasailing
- 🍌 Banana Boat Rides
🌍 Excursion Add-Ons
- 🎣 Deep-sea Fishing
- ⛵ Catamaran Cruises
- 🏞️ Cenote & Mayan Ruins Tours
💡 Pro Tip: Looking to swim with turtles or visit Chichen Itza? Ask the concierge—discounted bundles are often available off-menu.
📊 Travel Fact: Over 62% of Cancun visitors book at least one excursion—so reserve early to avoid disappointment.
🌙 Nightlife: On-site & Beyond
Nighttime at Now Emerald is pleasantly active—with shows like Caribbean dancing and fire acts. Afterward, Scores Bar morphs into a laid-back lounge until midnight.
Only a quick 15-minute ride gets you to hotspots like Coco Bongo or Mandala, if you’re craving that dance-all-night vibe.
🎤 Guest Insight: “We liked starting our nights at the resort show and then heading out—best of both!” — Reddit Traveler
💡 Pro Tip: Always book return taxis through the front desk to stay safe and avoid inflated rates.
🌺 Spa Treatments & Packages
After a long week—or year—nothing says “vacation” quite like a full-body massage to the sounds of crashing waves. The Now Emerald Cancun Spa by Pevonia promises just that. Tucked within the resort, this serene wellness sanctuary offers a varied menu of treatments designed to help you reset both mentally and physically.
Signature spa services include:
- 💆 Deep Tissue and Swedish Massages – Ideal after a flight or for tension relief
- 🌴 Tropical Body Wraps using local ingredients like coconut and aloe vera
- 💧 Hydrotherapy Circuit – Access included with most 50+ min treatments
- 💕 Couples Massage – Reserve the oceanfront palapa treatment for a romantic touch
Packages range from $60 USD for express services up to $250+ for 90-minute deluxe rituals. Guests booking through the official AMR Collection page or select travel partners may receive discounts or complimentary access—especially Preferred Club guests.
Pro Tip: Book a treatment between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM to take advantage of the spa’s early bird specials—availability is limited but the savings are real.
🏋️ Fitness Center Walkthrough
The on-site gym at Now Emerald Cancun is more than just an afterthought—in fact, it surprised us. Open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily, it’s clean, air-conditioned, and fully stocked with modern equipment.
Here’s what you’ll find inside:
- 🏃 Cardio Equipment: Treadmills, ellipticals, bikes (mostly LifeFitness brand)
- 🏋️♂️ Free Weights & Machines: Dumbbells (up to 50 lbs), Smith machine, and weight benches
- 🧘♀️ Stretching & Yoga Area: Foam rollers, mats, and resistance bands
- 💧 Filtered water station and towels provided
While not massive, the fitness center is rarely overcrowded—especially in the early mornings. There’s no ocean view, but it gets natural light and is conveniently located near the spa, perfect for combining a workout with a well-earned massage.
Pro Tip: Ask the concierge for a printed weekly fitness class schedule—they sometimes offer surprise group activities not listed online.
🧘 Wellness Options: Yoga, Massage, Detox
If your idea of vacation includes resetting your body and mind, this resort won’t disappoint. Wellness isn’t an add-on here—it’s woven into the relaxation narrative.
- 🌞 Daily Morning Yoga: Held near the pool deck or on the beach (weather permitting), these beginner-friendly sessions run around 45 minutes. Mats are provided, and no signup is necessary.
- 🧘♂️ Meditation & Breathwork: Occasionally offered as part of the weekly schedule—be sure to check with the Entertainment Team upon arrival.
🍃 Detox Drinks & Healthy Choices:
- 🥬 Green juices and fresh smoothies are available at the breakfast buffet and pool bar—ask for the “energy green” blend.
- 🥗 Most restaurants offer steamed or grilled options for detox-friendly meals.
💦 Hydrotherapy Ritual: For guests seeking deep restoration, the hydrotherapy circuit combines warm and cold plunge pools, sauna, and steam room. Access is complimentary with higher-tier spa treatments or available à la carte.
Pro Tip: Hydrate well both before and after using the hydrotherapy circuit to avoid fatigue or headaches—especially in Cancun’s humid climate.
Whether you’re here to unwind completely or keep up your wellness routine, the spa and wellness offerings at Now Emerald Cancun strike a thoughtful balance between luxury and holistic care.
✨ Most Loved Features (based on guest reviews)
Thousands of travelers have rated Now Emerald Cancun for what matters most: great views, direct beach access, and a low-key vibe. Here’s what guests consistently rave about:
- ✔ Ocean Views: Many rooms feature sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea—especially on higher floors in the Preferred Club buildings.
- ✔ Beachfront Location: The resort sits right on a stretch of white-sand beach, with calm surf that’s ideal for swimming or simply unwinding under a palapa.
- ✔ Friendly Staff: Guest praise for bar staff, concierge, and waiters is a near constant—many returning guests even mention staff by name.
- ✔ Smaller Footprint: Unlike mega-resorts, Now Emerald is compact and easy to get around, which is a huge plus for families with strollers and older travelers.
- ✔ Sunsets & Sunrise Views: Positioned for breathtaking sky colors—you don’t have to leave the resort to catch Cancun’s famous golden hour.
⚠️ Biggest Complaints You Should Know
No resort is perfect—and Now Emerald Cancun is no exception. Here’s what real guests say could use improvement, so you can plan accordingly:
- ✖ Rooms in Need of Updates: While some rooms (especially Preferred Club) are refurbished, others show signs of wear—like dated furniture or inconsistent air conditioning.
- ✖ Inconsistent Food Quality: Dining experiences are hit-or-miss depending on crowds, timing, and expectations. Buffets were criticized more than à la carte spots.
- ✖ Slow Check-In Process: Multiple guests mention long lines or waits at peak arrival times. It’s recommended to arrive midday or early afternoon for a smoother experience.
- ✖ Noise Levels: Rooms near the theater or pool may be noisy at night. Request a quieter room ahead of time if you’re a light sleeper.
💬 Reddit’s Real Talk: The Truth About Now Emerald Cancun
Reddit users don’t hold back—and their reviews paint a very candid picture of the resort.
In the r/Travel and r/Cancun forums, Now Emerald often comes up in two contexts:
- 🗨️ Budget resort with potential: Many agree the resort is good for the price, especially during off-peak months, but shouldn’t be mistaken for a true luxury experience.
- 🗨️ “Preferred Club” debate: Some Redditors swear by the Preferred Club upgrade for better rooms and access to exclusive lounges, while others say the benefits don’t justify the cost.
💼 How to Handle Problems On-site (Staff and Support Tips)
If something goes wrong during your stay, acting early—and politely—makes all the difference. Here’s how seasoned travelers handle issues effectively at Now Emerald Cancun:
- 📱 Use the AMResorts App: Available for both Android and iOS, the app allows you to submit maintenance requests, book spa appointments, or message staff directly.
- 🛎️ Go to the Concierge, Not Just the Front Desk: They often have more direct access to resolutions like room switches, dinner reservations, or surprise perks.
- 📦 Bad Room? Ask to Be Moved Politely: Explain the issue (e.g., A/C not working or too noisy) and request specific alternatives. Early morning between 9–11 AM is the best time for availability.
- 💵 Tips Make a Difference: Small gratuities ($1–$5 USD) go a long way in Mexico’s hospitality culture—especially for bartenders, cleaning staff, and luggage assistance.
If you’re looking for a smaller, calmer, and budget-friendlier all-inclusive resort in Cancun,
Now Emerald Cancun may be your hidden gem. It offers:
- ✅ Competitive amenities — including multiple pools, on-site dining, and beach access
- 📍 Convenient location, just 15 minutes from Cancun International Airport
- 🍽️ Decent dining variety, especially for relaxed travelers who aren’t seeking gourmet exclusivity
However, it won’t be for everyone. It’s not the flashiest or most luxurious in Cancun—and that’s exactly why many quiet couples, families with small kids, and value-seekers prefer it. If you’re after low-key relaxation with fewer crowds and lower room rates, this could be a smart pick.
📅 When It Offers the Best Value
The best value at Now Emerald Cancun is in the low and shoulder seasons, particularly from late April to mid-June or September to early December.
During these times, rooms drop to an average of $165–$220 USD per night—a rarity for beachfront Cancun properties.
💡 Pro Tip: Opt for a Preferred Club Ocean View room during off-peak months for the best balance of perks (private lounge, premium mini-bar) without overpaying. Many past guests report this as the ideal upgrade path.
🎯 How to Maximize Your Stay
- 📖 Use the room comparison guide to pick the best category for your travel style
- 🍴 Plan dining with help from our restaurant breakdown and guest reviews
- 🌦️ Check seasonality (weather guide here) before booking to align with your expectations
- ✈️ Bundle flights + hotel for discounts—websites like Kayak or Expedia often surface better “packages” than booking direct
You don’t have to guess your way to a perfect vacation. With the right insights and realistic expectations, Now Emerald Cancun can deliver a memorable, budget-smart beach getaway—especially if you know how to steer it.
Q1: What are the pros and cons of staying at Now Emerald Cancun?
Like any resort, Now Emerald Cancun has strengths that appeal to specific travelers—and a few drawbacks you’ll want to weigh first.
✅ Pros
- 💰 Great Value: Often priced 10–30% below other AMR Collection resorts nearby, especially in low or shoulder season.
- 🌊 Oceanfront Location: Direct access to a beautiful stretch of beach, with clear turquoise water and walkable sand.
- ✈️ Quick Airport Access: Located just 15–20 minutes from Cancun Airport (CUN), perfect for easier transfer times.
- 👨👩👧👦 Kid- & Adult-Friendly: Offers separate kids’ areas and adults-only pool options, making it flexible for families or couples.
- 🌿 Smaller & Walkable: Compared to mega-resorts, it’s compact—no shuttle needed to get from room to beach.
❌ Cons
- 🏗️ Aging Infrastructure: Some rooms need renovation. Look out for inconsistent air conditioning or older bathrooms.
- 🍴 Food is Hit-or-Miss: Not considered AMR’s highest-tier cuisine. Buffet better than à la carte, according to guests.
- 🦟 Seaweed & Smell Issues: Depending on the season, sargassum (seaweed) may affect the beach experience—more in summer months.
💡 Pro Tip:
Book rooms in the south building (closer to the sea) for better-maintained spaces and stronger WiFi.
Q2: Is Now Emerald Cancun a good resort for families with kids?
Yes—but with a few caveats. Now Emerald offers family-friendly amenities, yet it doesn’t feel overwhelmingly “kid-centric.” Here’s what matters for parents:
- 👶 Explorer’s Kids Club: Open to kids from 3–12 years old with supervised crafts, movies, and outdoor games.
- 🏊 Family Pool: Large pool with shallow areas close to snack bars and restrooms—stress-free for parents.
- 🍎 Kids’ Menus: Available in most restaurants with accommodating staff that will modify dishes for picky eaters.
💬 One Real Parent’s Insight: “Our daughter loved the kids’ club and the beachfront cabanas. We got actual alone time by the adult pool. It was the best balance.”
— Amanda P., Denver, CO
💡 Pro Tip:
If traveling with toddlers or infants, call ahead for pack-and-plays or strollers—they are available but in limited supply.
Q3: What is the difference between standard rooms and Preferred Club rooms?
The Preferred Club upgrade adds both amenities and an elevated experience. But is it worth it? Here’s how they stack up:
🏅 Preferred Club Inclusions
- 🏖️ Access to adults-only Preferred rooftop pool & VIP beach area
- 🏨 Better Room Locations + Ocean View Guaranteed
- 🍾 In-room liquor setup + Premium bath amenities
- 🏛️ Exclusive check-in/check-out lounge with snacks and drinks
- 📶 Faster Wi-Fi speeds in rooms & public zones
Standard rooms include basic room-category options without access to Preferred lounges or upgraded perks.
💡 Pro Tip:
If you’re traveling as a couple or honeymooners, the rooftop infinity pool alone might more than justify the Preferred upgrade.
Q4: When is the cheapest time to book at Now Emerald Cancun?
Avoid school holidays and peak winter months. The best value routinely appears in:
- 🗓️ September to Early November: Lowest rates (average $135–$160/night) but coincides with hurricane season risk.
- 🗓️ Late April to Mid-June: Great weather, fewer crowds, moderate pricing.
- 🕤 Weekdays: Sunday through Wednesday nights save 10–15% vs weekends.
📊 Data Insight: According to Statista, Cancun’s hotel prices bottom out in early fall, with occupancy rates under 70% vs 90%+ in December.
💡 Pro Tip:
Use flexible rate features on booking platforms like Expedia or Booking.com to auto-lock price drops after booking.
Q5: Are there any restaurants at Now Emerald Cancun that require reservations?
Good news—most dining spots are first-come, first-served, no reservation needed. However, note the following exceptions:
- 🍽️ Paramour (French adults-only): Occasionally requires sign-up during high occupancy
- 📋 Special Events & Theme Nights: Some beachfront or rooftop dinners (e.g., lobster night) must be booked in advance at guest services
All other restaurants—including Cibu (Mediterranean), Carnival (buffet), and Tamarindo (Mexican)—operate without reservations.
💡 Pro Tip:
Head to restaurants between 6:00–6:30 PM for shortest wait times. Peak dining hours (7:30–8:30 PM) can lead to 20–30 minute waits on weekends.
