All-inclusive beachfront retreat with gourmet dining and pools
Mexico is one of the world's most famous all-inclusive resort destinations. The Caribbean coast has vast white-sand beaches and warm ocean waters, plus many large resorts with swimming pools, beach clubs, and a wide selection of restaurants. Flights from the UK to Cancún operate year-round, and since all meals and drinks are included in the price, it’s easy to calculate your holiday expenses.
The Riviera Maya, which stretches south from Cancún to Playa del Carmen and Tulum, offers the widest selection of all-inclusive resorts. Cancún itself is particularly well-suited for those who want to enjoy the nightlife, as well as for first-time visitors who prefer short distances to their destinations. Playa Mujeres and Puerto Morelos have a more relaxed atmosphere. On the Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos combine views of the bay with desert and mountain scenery.
The Cancún hotel zone and the northern part of the Riviera Maya are ideal for families. In these areas, the water is shallow, transfers are short, and the resorts have their own kids’ clubs. Couples, on the other hand, tend to choose Tulum, Playa Mujeres, or Los Cabos, where there are many adults-only hotels. Both coasts have resorts where family areas and quiet poolside areas are separated from one another.
From December through April, both coasts experience the driest weather, with maximum sunshine, low humidity, and pleasant nights. May and November fall between the peak seasons, so prices are generally more affordable. Hurricane season lasts from June through November, with the highest risk occurring in September and October. The Pacific coast is warm year-round, though in the summer, rain usually falls in the afternoon.
All-inclusive packages in Mexico generally include the cost of accommodation, all meals, snacks, and local-brand beverages. Buffet-style restaurants serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while à la carte restaurants often require reservations at least one day in advance. Kids’ clubs, non-motorised water sports, and evening entertainment programmes are included in the standard package. Spa treatments, premium alcoholic beverages, excursions, and motorised water sports are generally available for an additional fee.
As a general guideline, plan for a stay of 10–14 nights. Since the flight from the UK takes about 10 hours, and factoring in jet lag as well as arrival and departure days, you’ll have almost no time left for a one-week stay. With 14 nights, you’ll not only have time to relax on the beach but also the opportunity to take a trip to Chichen Itza, swim in the cenotes, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride to Isla Mujeres, without rushing back for dinner.