As soon as I came across Hotel Xcaret Arte, I knew it shot up to my #1 dream destination in Mexico. I spent years waiting for the day when I could plan my trip here because of everything that this hotel offers. Take away any preconceived notion you may have of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, because this place is absolutely none of those. Read my honest review of Hotel Xcaret Arte below.
Hotel Xcaret Arte Review: Quick Take
If you are asking is Hotel Xcaret Arte worth it, I would start with how much you will use the included parks, dining, activities, and transportation. This adults-only all-inclusive can be a strong value when you want more than a beach resort and plan to take advantage of the full Xcaret experience.
- Best for: adults-only trips, food-focused travelers, couples, friend trips, and travelers who want built-in activities.
- Worth it if: you plan to visit the parks, try several restaurants, and want a resort that feels active instead of quiet.
- Compare with: my La Casa de la Playa review and JOIA Paraíso by Iberostar review.
More Hotel Xcaret Arte Planning Guides
Ready to take your Hotel Xcaret Arte experience to the next level? I’ve done the legwork to make it easy for you, so sit back, relax, and let me guide you to an extraordinary getaway at Hotel Xcaret Arte with these must-read articles.
- The All-Fun Inclusive Package at Hotel Xcaret Arte
- Casas and Suites at Hotel Xcaret Arte: A Riviera Maya Haven
- Is It Worth It to Upgrade to Casa de Los Artistas?
- 10 Restaurants at Hotel Xcaret Arte: A Journey of Gastronomy
- 10 Bars at Hotel Xcaret Arte: A Flare of Mixology
What is included at Hotel Xcaret Arte & What Makes it Different Than Other All-Inclusive Hotels?
The things that first drew me to the Hotel Xcaret Arte, an all-inclusive hotel in Playa Del Carmen just outside of Cancun, were the natural beauty of this place that was unlike any other hotel I had seen. While there are certainly plenty of pools, what stands out are the natural elements, like a lagoon of clear blue waters filled with waterfalls, small islands, and hidden coves that make you feel like you could be out in the wild rather than in a hotel.
At Hotel Xcaret Arte, indulge in luxury with an ocean view of the Caribbean Sea or jungle-view suite that has a private balcony, exclusive pool, and individual butler service. Enjoy a wide variety of Mexican cuisine, bars, and 24-hour room service to keep you ready for adventure. Restaurant and bar lineups can change, so check the resort’s current dining list before planning around a specific spot.
Speaking of adventure, your stay includes access to Grupo Xcaret parks and experiences, with activities ranging from swimming to jungle zip-lining. Inclusions can change by package and reservation rules, so confirm the current All-Fun Inclusive details before planning your itinerary.
With roundtrip airport transfers in Cancun Airport, Wi-Fi, and all taxes and gratuities included, this inclusive resort experience is beyond compare. Keep in mind that certain activities may require reservations and dress regulations, and other adventures have age or height limits.
The Activities
Another thing that stands out about the Hotel Xcaret Arte is that rather than a general calendar of activities like pool parties, bingos, and kitschy hotel games, they opt out of your typical all-inclusive itinerary in exchange for all included access to all of their different parks, where you can snorkel with fish, race down epic slides, swim through mangroves, ride ATVs, zipline, and so much more.
Usually those are things you’d have to book as an additional charge at your stay, but for Hotel Xcaret Arte guests, it’s all included. It’s why they refer to it as a fun-clusive hotel. With 8 parks that add up to over 200 experiences, and even sailing included, there is no shortage of fun! Make the most of your stay and enjoy the All-Fun Inclusive Package at Hotel Xcaret Arte.
The Mexican Culture
One of the things that I really liked about staying at Hotel Xcaret Arte was that it felt like I was actually staying in Mexico with all of its dedication to Mexican artists both through the artwork around the property and in our room, as well as how they had woven that art into the whole stay. Hotel Xcaret Arte honors the finest Mexican artists.
When you check in, your room is located in one of 6 casas. Each “Casa” at Hotel Xcaret Arte represents a work of art and is named after well-known Mexican artists such as Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Casa del Diseño features modern design, Mexican textiles, and a weaving workshop, while Casa de la Paz promotes relaxation and houses the Muluk Spa.
As you check into the hotel’s luxurious accommodations, the local artisanship takes center stage with furniture carved from local woods, optical illusions, hand-painted ceramics on shelves, and finely woven carpets on the ground. Every feature hints at Mexican and Mayan ancestry. Take a closer look at my experience at The Casas and the Suites at Hotel Xcaret Arte.
The Food
Another thing that really stood out about Hotel Xcaret Arte was the food! When it comes to all-inclusive resorts, you typically prepare yourself for a slightly below average experience. However, that was absolutely not the case here. Each restaurant highlights the distinct flavors of a certain Mexican region, from the spicy Oaxacan cuisine at Xaak to the Yucatan Peninsula’s Mayan-inspired seafood at Kibi-Kibi. It’s like doing a gourmet trip and satisfying your taste buds without leaving the resort.
Several restaurants are led by renowned chefs, including the Michelin-starred Chef Paco Méndez, who ensure the highest level of technique and creativity. It’s a set of exceptional dining experiences, with creative presentation and meticulous attention to detail.
The resort highlights ecological practices and uses locally sourced foods to provide the freshest seasonal produce and seafood. This offers flavorful recipes that represent the region’s distinct character. I could’ve planned a trip here based on the food alone! Read my post about the restaurants and the bars at Hotel Xcaret Arte.
How to Get to Hotel Xcaret Arte?
This location, only 45 minutes from Cancun International Airport, was more than simply a resort. It was an immersive journey into Mexico’s vibrant heart. When you book your stay, you give them your airport arrival times and flight details. It’s so convenient to be picked up at the airport without having to deal with expensive transportation or the hassle that comes with arriving at Cancun International Airport.
They are also able to pick you up at Tulum International Airport if that is where you are flying. I will note that these are the only two places they will pick you up from. We flew into the Cozumel airport because we had found cheaper flights and took the ferry to Playa Del Carmen which is about 20 minutes to Hotel Xcaret Arte. However, they do not provide transportation from there, so we ended up getting a taxi, which cost less than $30.
They do not have car-sharing apps in Playa Del Carmen like Uber or Lyft, so taxis are the best method. They all charge a standard rate based on zones, which isn’t always the most logical, but it does save you from worrying about having to be scammed.
Is Xcaret Arte the Best Resort in the World?
Travel + Leisure ranked Hotel Xcaret Arte as the #1 Best Resort Hotel in Mexico and #4 in the World in 2023. Rankings change from year to year, but the resort continues to stand out for its Mexican art focus, eco-conscious design, culinary experiences, and proximity to Grupo Xcaret parks.
Hotel Xcaret Arte does not have a 5 Diamond rating, though its sister property Hotel Xcaret Mexico received that recognition in 2019. Both resorts are known for polished service, high-end design, and the All-Fun Inclusive concept, but check current resort awards and inclusions if those details are important for your trip.
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Check-In Experience at Hotel Xcaret Arte
I arrived at the Hotel Xcaret Arte around 10 am. While our room wasn’t going to be available until 3pm, I was still able to take advantage of all of the resort’s amenities. When I stepped inside, my travel worries faded right away. The staff members’ kind greeting included cool beverages, refreshing towels, and even a delicious mini paleta, or popsicle in English—a wonderful first impression!
After providing my name, I was given a complete tour of the hotel, including timetables, suggestions, and, most importantly, the magical all-access bracelet! With this key to easy access to top notch amenities hanging around my wrist, I became instantly excited to explore each corner of this amazing resort.
What You Need To Pack for Your Hotel Xcaret Arte Trip
Another great thing about Hotel Xcaret is that you don’t need to pack much. Despite being an intense overpacker, I managed to fly carry-on only which is so convenient for saving time once you arrive and going through customs.
Some things that the hotel provides include sunscreen (although it doesn’t list SPF or ingredients, so use at your discretion), umbrellas, a large tote bag, beach towels, and your other typical hotel amenities.
I would recommend bringing the following:
- Soft water shoes if you plan on visiting the parks
- An insulated glass to keep your drinks cold once you order
- Reef-safe sunscreen
Also, you’ll want to choose a swimsuit that reflects the tropical atmosphere at Hotel Xcaret Arte. Opt for bold colors or fun patterns to stand out against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters. As for sunglasses, consider a stylish pair that not only complements your swimsuit but also provides ample protection from the sun’s rays.
Here are my favorite picks:
Related Posts: The Hotel Xcaret Arte All-Fun Inclusive Package
Whenever I’m in Mexico, I use it as an opportunity to practice my Spanish. I loved how kind the Hotel Xcaret Arte staff were in letting me practice and being patient with my mistakes, and it made the trip feel even more connected to the culture around the resort.
What is the Difference Between Xcaret Arte and Xcaret Mexico?
Xcaret Arte is the adult-only side of Xcaret. Each side has its own set of restaurants, main pool and rooftop pools, and landscapes. Typically, you cannot visit the other side of the park unless you have special perks associated with staying at Casa de Las Artistas, which we explain in more detail in our rooms guide.
Who Owns the Hotel Xcaret Arte?
Stepping into Hotel Xcaret Arte is like entering the heart of Mexico. The company behind this immersive experience is Grupo Xcaret, which is known for sustainable tourism and cultural immersion. Grupo Xcaret was founded by visionary Miguel Quintana Pali and began with the legendary Xcaret Park, which celebrated Mexico’s natural beauty and ancient traditions. Their enthusiasm for hospitality grew into Hotel Xcaret Mexico, the first 5-Diamond all-inclusive in the Riviera Maya, and now Hotel Xcaret Arte adds a touch of artistic excellence to the mix.
Aside from these two jewels, Grupo Xcaret’s portfolio includes additional Xcaret hotels, such as Hotel La Casa de la Playa, an exclusive boutique hideaway, and eco-adventure parks, all of which promise thrilling adventures among breathtaking scenery.
Miguel Quintana Pali is a pioneer in responsible tourism. He has been renowned for his unique concepts, such as the “All-Fun Inclusive” experience, which goes beyond food and beverages to provide visitors with immersive cultural and natural activities. His commitment to sustainability and community development garnered him multiple awards. Establishing Grupo Xcaret’s reputation as a leader in responsible tourism.
So, when you choose Hotel Xcaret Arte, you are not just choosing a magnificent hotel. You are also supporting a group devoted to conserving Mexico’s legacy, encouraging sustainability, and providing unique experiences. With each visit, you contribute to a bigger vision of responsible tourism, which benefits the environment and local people.
Does Hotel Xcaret Arte Offer Day Pass?
At the moment, the Day Pass service at Hotel Xcaret Arte is not available.
Hotel Xcaret Arte Review: Final Thoughts
Hotel Xcaret Arte is a vibrant masterpiece created with the spirit of Mexico. It makes you feel as if you’re wandering through a paradise of hidden islands, crystal-clear lagoons, and thick rainforests. Leaving you to feel more like an adventurer than a traveler. Your “All-Fun Inclusive” package includes activities such as snorkeling with tropical fish, cruising through mangroves, and racing down epic waterslides at Xcaret’s amusement parks.
Ever picture yourself surrounded by Mexican art, indulging in world-class service, and exploring nature all at once? Hotel Xcaret Arte isn’t your average all-adult, all-fun resort. It’s an experience that redefines luxury and lets you dive into the soul of Mexico.
So if you’re looking for something beyond poolside margaritas (though they have those too!) check out what makes Hotel Xcaret Arte unique!
Don’t forget to share your Hotel Xcaret Arte experience with me on social media using #MCAHotelXcaretArte! ¡Bienvenidos al Hotel Xcaret Arte!
Last Updated 22 hours ago ago by Jessica Serna | Published: February 29, 2024