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After years immersed in articles about all-inclusive beach resorts, I finally embarked on my inaugural all-inclusive beach getaway.
In June, I visited Isla Mujeres, a charming little island just off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. While Cancun itself is a well-established all-inclusive haven, Isla Mujeres offers a more tranquil escape compared to the bustling Hotel Zone. During my stay, I had the pleasure of experiencing Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort—Marriott’s second adults-only all-inclusive property, which opened in October 2024. The resort exuded a fresh, new feel, making it perfect for a first-timer like me.
Available from $569 or 78,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, this resort offers exceptional value based on my experience—a place worth saving your points for.
Additionally, consider applying for one of the best Marriott credit cards, like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card. With this card, you can earn 155,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 within the initial six months of membership.
Here are some highlights from my stay at Almare.
Related: The best Marriott all-inclusive resorts to book with points
Embracing the island’s laid-back atmosphere
At an island resort, one naturally expects a laid-back experience. As this was my first all-inclusive beach resort stay, I wasn’t sure what to anticipate. I thought there might be excessive noise and crowds. Surprisingly, the ambiance was a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation, beginning with a serene 20-minute boat ride from Cancun on a private hotel vessel.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed with a refreshing fruit drink as we made our way to the sandy beach and the airy lobby with plenty of wicker seating, lush greenery, and tributes to ancient Mayan culture. Check-in was quick, with friendly staff providing convenient room key bracelets—no need for plastic cards.
The vibe at the resort was unmistakably centered around relaxation. There was no pressure to rush or participate in activities; staff provided a daily schedule—also accessible via the Marriott Bonvoy app—and offered guidance to the beach, pool, and spa locations. After that, we were free to explore at our leisure.
Our deluxe guest room, spanning 463 square feet, boasted stunning views of the pool and sea through floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. The room featured two plush double beds, a stylish sitting area, an ocean-facing balcony with lounge chairs, a marble bathroom, a large flat-screen TV, and an oversized tub.
It was difficult to leave the room each morning, especially with the option of ordering breakfast in (more on the food later). Plus, all snacks and beverages in the room were included, a delightful surprise.
Delicious Mexican Cuisine
There’s been a lot of chatter about the typical all-inclusive resorts serving lackluster food and drinks, but the landscape is changing. I experienced this shift firsthand at Almare. With my focus on local cuisine, I was thrilled to find authentic Mexican options among the seven dining venues.
My favorite was Boga, where the menu features a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican and Mayan cooking methods. I savored the best tamale I’ve ever had, served with a poached quail egg and rich roasted cherry tomato cream, along with fresh ceviche and flavorful short ribs.
Breakfast offered a bevy of choices, from refreshing acai bowls and delicious homemade quesadillas to chilaquiles and fluffy pancakes with smoked butter and carrot compote. The coffee was exceptional throughout the resort, particularly the cappuccinos at Boga along with the freshly squeezed juices.
The Breeze pool bar was another must-try, offering crispy shrimp tacos, fresh guacamole, and aguachile, all accompanied by cold piña coladas or chilled Tecate.
A Rooftop View Like No Other
The only thing better than a pristine white sand beach is a rooftop with stunning ocean views.
The rooftop at Almare is the perfect spot to unwind in the evenings. The small infinity pool, complete with submerged lounge chairs, offers breathtaking sunset views, visible just past the rooftop restaurant, Seasalt. Although Seasalt features a Mediterranean-inspired menu, it had plenty of options, including Baja oysters, pasta, pizza, and various protein dishes.
I loved starting my evenings with a skillfully crafted cocktail from the restaurant’s open-air bar while soaking in the stunning sunset. It was the perfect way to transition into dinner at Boga.
Creative Reflections of Mayan Culture
One of the standout features during my three-day stay was the resort’s commitment to showcasing local artistry and cultural elements.
The resort incorporated traditional building techniques, such as chukum plaster—an ancient Mayan method of mixing tree resin and limestone for beautiful, weather-resistant walls—alongside stunning hand-painted murals by local artists and a cenote-inspired installation in the lobby.
This dedication extends to the resort’s spa, a serene oasis that honors Mayan wellness practices, offering services like shaman consultations and massage treatments featuring local ingredients.
Departure Reflections
As I departed Almare, it was hard to believe how much value the resort offered—especially as a first-time all-inclusive traveler. While a multi-night stay can be pricey, Almare is undeniably a property worth saving your Marriott Bonvoy points for. The high quality of the cuisine, attentive service, and pristine condition of the property make it stand out.
Art and culture enthusiasts will appreciate the local artistic displays, and the inclusive rates cover various activities. Plus, the beautiful beach offered plenty of opportunities for fun—or simply to unwind. And who could forget the inviting pool with a swim-up bar?
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