Hotel Snapshot
Tucked between lush jungle terrain and white sandy beaches, Palmaïa - The House of AïA is a wellness mecca in the middle of Playa Del Carmen. Though it is home to 234 suites, its intimate and calm atmosphere combined with its hands-on service create a boutique ambiance that mirrors its own mission for connection. The all-inclusive format extends from dining, which is primarily vegan, to daily wellness classes like breathwork, yoga, sound baths, and more. The hotel’s crown jewel, however, is none other than the outdoor Atlantis Spa, which features swimmable cenotes, a traditional temazcal and jungle-view treatment rooms.
Design & Character
Palmaïa is spread out across nearly 1,000 acres of lush, verdant land. On one end of the resort, you’ll find a majority of the main dining options, and at the other end lies the spa, gym, and the beach club. The suites are split up amongst seven white, standalone buildings, with the ocean on one side and jungle on the other. The main path, which can be walked or biked, is a straight shot through the property, but as you stroll, you come across a variety of cobblestone walkways that veer off somewhere different. Some paths take you to the various tents where classes are held, others lead to rugged caves and crystal clear cenotes. Exploring and getting lost is one of the most fun parts of Palmaïa—just don’t be surprised when you stumble upon the gigantic AïA sculpture. Her eyes have an uncanny ability to pierce your soul.
Though most of the wellness classes take place in the jungle parts of the property, the massive beach club extends for what feels like forever, ensuring that there are plenty of cabanas and daybeds for guests to use. The main swimming pools line the front of each accommodation building, but there are also two smaller pools tucked away toward the entrance of the resort, along with a delicious vegan taco truck, hot and cold plunge pools and various wooden structures like the beach temple and towering Psychedelic Mushroom. There’s a special level of whimsy that truly transports you to another world, but it’s clear that the focus here is on New Age spirituality.
The Rooms
There are 234 suite-style rooms in total, all of which maintain a similar style and layout. The spacious bathroom features a sleek white soaking tub opposite a walk-in rainshower and a double sink station. There is a modern bohemian aesthetic, emphasized with hand-woven textiles, knitted blankets and ocean-inspired hues. In the closet, guests will find a complimentary mini fridge filled with gut-healthy kombucha, mineral water and some of the best coconut water you’ll ever have. Though the higher level rooms boast sweeping ocean views from the balcony, those who stay on the first floor can score swimout rooms that lead directly to the pool, allowing you to enjoy and early morning dip or hit the swim-up bar at your leisure.
The Food & Drink
Though you’ll find all-inclusive dining at resorts and hotels all across Riviera Maya, Palmaïa’s program stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, all of the restaurants are anchored around vegan and vegetarian dining, though swaps can be made for fresh fish and meat in certain dishes. I enjoyed a new ceviche at Su Casa nearly every lunch, but as someone who is far from being vegan, the plant-based dishes are what impressed me the most. Health-conscious consumers will also appreciate the fact that Palmaïa uses zero seed oils or refined sugars.
There are six different dining concepts on-site, with options ranging from Asian-inspired Ume to cafe-style Plantissa. Charly’s Vegan Taco Truck is great for a beachside lunch, but if you want to enjoy an upscale dinner featuring fresh pastas and refined entrées, head to Mar de Olivo. Guests also have access to 24-hour room service. While the intentional and vibrant mixed drinks are initially presented as mocktails on the menu, they can all be turned into cocktails with your choice of spirit. House wine and beer is also included in the dining and drinking program.
The Amenities
Every single day, Palmaïa’s schedule rotates between an array of soothing sound baths, fitness classes, meditations, art experiences, and other mindful activities. You’re able to partake in as much or as little as you’d like, but I recommend going full throttle. The teachers are all fantastic and well-versed in their craft, leaving you with a true sense of connection rather than a phony sense of euphoria that’s often associated with new age gurus. While it’s not included in the nightly rate, be sure to explore the private class offerings (specifically, a private stretch with Angel).
Though you’ll find a few swimmable cenotes within the confines of the Atlantis Spa, there is also one tucked away along the path toward the Gaia Deck. Definitely take advantage with a refreshing dip before or after hitting the waves and catching some sun. If you prefer to swim in less rustic waters, there are four different pools for you to enjoy along with a secret hot and cold plunge tucked behind Charly’s Taco Truck. Guests also are treated to a 24/7 “nomadic guide” who acts as an intentional butler and basically takes care of your every need and ensures you’re always on schedule.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
Palmaïa is about 50 minutes away from the Cancun airport and is located within the gated community Playacar. Despite the fact that it is right next door to the larger and rowdier Sandos resort, it feels completely secluded and tucked away on the very edge of a white sand beach that backs right up to rugged jungle.
Fast Facts
Location: Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Rating: 5-star
Room Count: 234 suites
Pricing: Prices start around $800 per night
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The swimmable cenotes, attentive service, and all-inclusive wellness activities.
Dining: Primarily vegan and vegetarian fare spread out across six different restaurants.
Amenities: Wi-Fi, gym, spa, 24/7 room service, all-inclusive dining, wellness classes, complimentary mini bar, turn turndown service, deep-set soaking tubs, swimmable beaches, cenotes, and 24/7 butler service.
Nearby Attractions: Frida Kahlo Museum, Portal Maya sculpture, Mayakoba, and Chichén Itzá
Airport: Cancun International Airport
Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico
