Design and decor go a long way toward establishing the ambience of a hotel, and Paradisus La Perla Riviera Maya is a perfect example.
During my recent three-night stay at this adults-only all-inclusive resort, I was captivated by the property’s upscale vibe, modern-yet-inviting decor and ideal balance of indoor and outdoor public spaces. Semi-enclosed walkways in the main building wrap around koi-filled ponds that are accented with eye-catching modern sculptures, and the pristinely landscaped grounds are graced with multiple swimming pools.
In short, this is a decidedly photogenic property — and it’s quickly become one of my favorite hotels in Playa del Carmen.
Recent renovations to 49 suites in The Reserve, the most upscale part of the property, have made Paradisus La Perla Riviera Maya an even more appealing option for travelers looking to combine the convenience of the all-inclusive concept with the comfort of a luxury hotel — not to mention the proximity to all that Playa del Carmen has to offer.
Sal Steak Cave is the on-site restaurant to recommend for a meat-centric meal.
Credit: 2024 Melia InternationalDining at Paradisus La Perla Riviera Maya
Guests at Paradisus La Perla Riviera Maya have the luxury of choice, especially because — in addition to dining at multiple restaurants in the adults-only section — they can also access restaurants, entertainment and other features of the family-friendly Paradisus Playa del Carmen Riviera Maya, which is part of the same complex.
The Reserve, meanwhile, provides even more options, since that section has some of its own exclusive options. Among my personal favorites was Sante, where I treated myself to delicious spanakopita and lamb. Guests at The Reserve are also entitled to one meal at Sal, the steakhouse, at no additional charge. (Other hotel guests pay extra for meals there.)
As a guest at The Reserve, I also enjoyed access to an exclusive lounge that offers snacks, drinks and attentive concierge service; my attendant was always good about checking in on me via WhatsApp, and he efficiently arranged all my dinner reservations — I never had to make a phone call or even visit the concierge desk.
Another culinary highlight during my visit was a tasty dinner at Tokimeku, an adults-only Asian fusion venue that has teppanyaki tables in private rooms, a sushi bar and standard restaurant seating in an upscale atmosphere.
I also enjoyed lunch at two of the resort’s buffet restaurants — Naos, which is family-friendly, and Hadar, which is adults-only. Other adults-only options at Paradisus La Perla Riviera Maya include Lemon Fish, a Latin fusion eatery; Kicks Sports & Fun Bar; and Fahrenheit, a pool bar serving grilled snacks.
Outside of the adults-only section, culinary options include Italian fare at Cappella, Mexican dishes at Cielo, handmade ice cream at Twe12lvet and Asian fusion specialties at Tori.
Swim-up suites make taking a quick dip easy.
Credit: 2024 Melia InternationalActivities at Paradisus La Perla Riviera Maya
Paradisus is one of the all-inclusive brands that has begun offering off-property experiences at no extra charge; in this case, the concept is called Destination Inclusive, and this is a wonderful opportunity for guests to enjoy a wider array of activities.
As part of this program, guests staying in superior-designated rooms can sign up for a free outing to a cenote — the giant sinkholes that are some of the region’s most beautiful natural attractions — for a yoga class, a shaman-led ritual and swimming.
On-site, the multiple swimming pools are, naturally, a popular place to relax. YHI Spa, meanwhile, offers a variety of therapy treatments and services. (The water ritual hydrotherapy experience is included at no extra charge for guests staying at The Reserve.)
Live nightly entertainment is another big draw; shows vary widely, ranging from mariachi performances to acrobatic shows.
Travelers looking to celebrate special moments may also be interested to hear about Paradisus La Perla Riviera Maya’s convention center, which can host as many as 2,000 people for meetings, weddings, anniversaries and other events. The hotel is well-versed in serving diverse clientele, with South Asian and LGBTQ+ destination weddings among its areas of expertise.
The interior of a deluxe swim-up suite in The Reserve category
Credit: 2024 Melia InternationalAccommodation Details To Know
Clients can expect an array of room categories here. Personally, I found it hard to leave my spacious and handsome suite at The Reserve. The large balcony, which had a whirlpool tub and overlooked one of the swimming pools, was an inviting place to relax in the morning and at the end of the day. I also appreciated the moveable wall between the bathroom and bedroom, which allows guests to open up the space and enjoy the view while bathing.
Additional features of The Reserve suites include seating areas, dining tables (which I found perfect for working), a large number of well-located outlets and minifridges stocked with drinks and snacks (all of which are included). The live plants add a natural, homey touch that complements the modern decor, while new amenities by Biology are part of the recent upgrade to suites at The Reserve.
Travelers looking to maximize their time in the water may want to consider booking a swim-up suite, which features similar decor but with direct access to a pool.
Paradisus is part of the Melia portfolio, so guests who are members of Melia Rewards can accrue and redeem points. I found Paradisus La Perla Riviera Maya to be an especially good choice in the highly competitive hotel scene in Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
