Hyatt Ziva Cancun - where family fun meets all-inclusive luxury, right in the heart of Cancun!
Selecting the perfect resort for your vacation, destination wedding, or group getaway can sometimes be overwhelming.
Even after hours of research and reading countless reviews, you might find yourself more perplexed than when you started.
This is where I step in!
Throughout the year, I personally explore a range of resorts to bring you genuine, firsthand insights. My mission is to make your choice easier by sharing my experiences, guiding you to find out if a resort truly aligns with what you're looking for.
So, let's get to it:
Is Hyatt Ziva Cancun the right resort for your next vacation?
ABOUT THE RESORT
Hyatt Ziva Cancun is like the unicorn of resorts –
-Want a resort with multiple ocean front options- this one is surrounded on three sides by different views of the ocean due to being at the tip of the peninsula!
-Family-friendly? Absolutely. But hey, they’ve got an adults-only tower too because... balance.
- All-you-can-eat? You bet. And for the sweet-toothed in the family, there's a whole shop of treats. Literally, it’s an entire sweet shop!
-Fancy swimming with dolphins without leaving the resort? Guess what, you can do that right here!
-And if you're looking to zip from plane to paradise, they’re just 14 miles from Cancun airport.
See why I say say it’s a unicorn!
CHECK-IN:
We rolled into the resort at about 1 PM, fresh from a drive where our littlest darling decided to go full 'Exorcist' on me. Let's skip the gory details, but let's just say I was a walking, talking modern art piece in vomit.
The second I stepped out of the car, the resort staff turned into superheroes, whisking me away to get cleaned up. They even made sure we had a room pronto so I could get out of the clothes, shower, and change. I can't recall if there was champagne or a cool towel greeting us – the staff was too busy being awesome and tending to our crisis.
THE ROOMS:
The hotel has three distinct guest room buildings, each with their own unique charm and atmosphere.
The star of the show is the pyramid building, with rooms that offer views of everything from the standard resort to the ocean, not forgetting the dolphin-pool-view rooms (yes, dolphins!) and fancy swim-up suites.
This is the building our room was located in. We chose the Dolphin Master Suite so that our kiddos could step out onto our balcony and watch the dolphins! The room had a king bed and a sleeper sofa. My parents joined us on this trip, and our 13-year-old son bunked with them. Just a heads-up, most rooms here have a max occupancy of 4.
Next up is the Club Tower, stretching up a whopping 17 floors! This is where the hotel's swanky club rooms and suites reside, offering a taste of the high life with VIP check-in and checkout, posh bath treats, and a cool, air-conditioned club lounge. Now, I'm usually all over Club Level rooms like a moth to a flame, but this time I hit pause. Splurging on the extra cost for my kids felt a bit like pouring money down the drain – they're pretty oblivious to the whole 'upgraded luxury' scene.
Last but not least is Turquoize, the grown-ups' paradise. This adults-only luxury wing rolls out the red carpet with butler services that make you feel like royalty, and private Jacuzzis on each balcony for those 'soak and gaze at the stars' kind of nights. If you’re a FTK type of parent…this is where you want to stay! My husband and I do plan to sneak away soon and stay in this tower.
Something that is important to note is if you have a family of 5, you will likely need to get two separate rooms. Luckily, this resort does offer guaranteed connecting rooms! There's a small catch though – a nightly fee of about 30 bucks per room to guarantee this. You also need to book rooms in the same category- think oceanfront king meets oceanfront double.
The rooms to me were more functional than cozy. Let’s just say, I didn’t walk in and have my breath taken away like I do at some resorts. However, it did its job! They even wheeled in an adorable little baby bed for the baby, which was a sweet touch. The bathroom was roomy enough, though not quite the sprawling space you might find at other resorts.
FOOD AND DRINKS:
I always say it, and I'll say it again – if you're a foodie, finding an all-inclusive that satisfies those gourmet cravings can be like searching for a needle in a haystack. And a family-friendly one? Even tougher! But, I've got to hand it to Hyatt Ziva Cancun – they break the mold. Ranging from 'pretty good' to 'wow, this is amazing', they really surpassed my expectations!
Between bites, I was sipping away happily. The alcohol selection was top-notch, boasting big names like Belvedere and Grey Goose, Johnnie Walker Black, and a parade of tequilas including Don Julio and Herradura. The bartenders were super friendly and always ready to whip up my next drink.
Now, for something I’ve never seen at a resort… Hyatt Ziva has an upscale microbrewery that's brewing right on site! It's got this chill vibe with pool tables, TVs, and a laid-back, grown-up feel. It's perfect for rainy afternoons or lively nights, though I must admit, I'm more of an 'outdoorsy, margarita-in-hand' kind of gal. But having an indoor pub option? Pretty cool.
And for the kiddos (and let's be real, us adults too), the Pasteles Dessert Shop is like walking into CandyLand. Chocolate fountains, marshmallows, ice cream, cotton candy, and a candy bonanza – it's a child's paradise. Not a marshmallow fan? No problemo, just sneak over to the connected coffee cafe for your morning or evening caffeine fix.
Speaking of coffee, let's talk about Casa Cafe. Open bright and early at 6 AM (just like our baby's internal clock), it was our go-to for 'first breakfast' with strong coffee and tempting baked treats. It's got this chic decor that might just make you snap a coffee-floor Instagram pic. Which of course I did.
If you're craving some Americana, Chevy's American Diner is a hop, skip, and a jump away by the pool. It's got this cool retro Chevy you can dine in! Hot dogs, fries, milkshakes – it's classic, easy-going poolside fare. It was perfect after a day in the sun!
Lorenzo's was our Italian go-to for the fam. From antipasti to custom spaghetti and shrimp, they had us at 'hello.' They even wowed our big kids with Shirley Temples.
The crown jewel of my culinary adventures at Hyatt Ziva Cancun? Hands down, the lunches we had beachside at Habaneros Shack. I LOVED the breezy, ocean front, open-air vibe.
Our 13-year-old was practically a room hermit – I'll get into that in a bit – but seriously, I think he sampled just about every dish on the 24/7 room service menu. He definitely gave his approval.
Clearly, we didn't manage to conquer every option during our stay. We had to leave something for the next visit, but everything we did sample was amazing.
AMMENITIES:
The all-inclusive fun at the hotel wasn't just about the endless food and drinks. Let's talk pools - they had three big ones! The first, and the liveliest, sat right in the heart of the resort, a hop, skip, and a jump down from the main lobby. Picture loads of chaise loungers, a swim-up bar, and a Jacuzzi – all the essentials for a pool day.
We went at the end of May…and just a heads up, there were SEVERAL senior trips happening at that time. The main pool, with the swimup bar, was FULL of 18 year olds living their best life. It was a little much for us, so we spent time at the other areas.
Right near the lobby is also where you'll find the dolphin pool, home to the four finned celebrities. The dolphin encounters, run by Delphinus, were an extra charge. We planned to try this experience, but remember the saga of my little one falling ill? Well, the bug decided to take a tour – 24 hours later, our 12-year-old daughter caught it, and then, 12 hours after that, our 13-year-old son joined the sick club. So, the dolphin escapade had to take a rain check this time around!
The resort also has a kids club, perfect for the little ones. It's a pint-sized waterpark heaven with a bonus indoor play area for those who prefer less sun and more fun. Our youngest was a tad too small to join in, and our older ones had outgrown this level of fun, but for the 4 to 11-year-old crowd, it's perfect!
Now, one floor up from the lobby, there was this exclusive infinity pool for the Turquoize Tower guests – talk about swimming in style. I didn't get to dip in there, but it looked fab. Then there was a more chilled-out pool nestled between the Club and Turquoize towers. Smaller, sure, but oh-so-peaceful and away from the senior trip crowd, with a lukewarm Jacuzzi that was just what the doctor ordered after a day out and about.
And for the fitness fanatics like myself, the 24/7 gym was decked out with all the machines and weights! It was truly one of the largest gyms I’ve seen at a resort.
I didn’t get the chance to check out the spa, but the word on the street (or poolside) is that it’s pretty spectacular!
THE STAFF:
I do have to commend the staff at Hyatt Ziva Cancun for their exceptional service. From our arrival with an unwell child, through the entire duration of our family's bout with a stomach bug, their efforts were outstanding. We did end up having to call in the doctor, and our 12-year-old daughter received a shot. The quantity of sheets and pillows provided by the housekeeping team was astonishing. Both the doctor and the resort manager followed up with us several times. Their dedication and care throughout our ordeal left a lasting impression on us.
DESTINATION WEDDINGS:
….this will likely speak volumes about the quality of this resort…
Aaron and I are actually heavily weighing having our 5 year vow renewal at this property. I absolutely fell in love with the Lighthouse Gazebo Venue. I also loved the Firepits Area Venue for a reception option.
If you're dreaming of a breathtaking ocean view without the sandy toes, they've got you covered with four terrace venues! But, if sandy toes are your thing, there's a beach venue just for you!
This property really hits the mark for families looking for the perfect blend of adult-only elegance and kid-friendly fun.
A heads-up though: the resort has a pretty firm policy on external vendors for weddings. Unlike some resorts that might let slide the outside vendor fee for a 3-night stay, this one sticks to its guns. They charge a $1500 per day, per vendor for their services. Sure, they have a list of approved vendors, but I get it, sometimes you've just got your heart set on a particular photographer or videographer.
AUBREE’S TAKEAWAYS:
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE YOU GO….
This resort is quite popular for senior trips, so you might want to steer clear during the last few weeks of May and the first week of June, especially if the sight of overly intoxicated 18-year-olds isn't your cup of tea. We witnessed teens so drunk they were stumbling into the pool fully clothed. It's important to note that this isn't unusual for lively resorts – we've encountered similar scenes at numerous other resorts during this time, particularly with senior trips. However, thanks to its higher price point, this resort tends to attract fewer such incidents compared to our experience at some resorts.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun is perfect those who love snorkeling. Its unique position on a peninsula ensures that the surrounding waters are typically calm and crystal clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling adventures. Our family spent countless hours exploring underwater! We brought along full-face snorkel masks, which I highly recommend. They allowed us to stay submerged and watch the fish continuously without needing to surface for air! Do yourself a favor and snag these!
Going back to this resort being a unicorn…it stands out for its almost magical ability to dodge the sargassum seaweed, which often crashes many Caribbean beach parties. The resort is usually spared from the sargassum invasion. This means the beaches at Hyatt Ziva are consistently postcard-perfect all year round, letting you enjoy those sandy strolls and ocean dips without the smell of unwanted seaweed.
If you are the can’t sit still type, you can kayak and paddle-board for free on the beach!
There is an ATM on site if you need to grab some extra cash while visiting.
A pre-authorized hold will be placed on your card at check-in. A good rule of thumb for this is $100 per day. It could be more or less, but this is usually the amount. This resort accepts Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. I do not believe they accept Discover, so make sure to bring one of the other options!
SO, WHO IS THIS RESORT FOR?
Family Vacationers: This resort IS FOR the paernt that really want an adult’s only resort, but they have to bring their kids. The entire resort is more adult’s only centered…but they allow children, which makes it GREAT for families with tiny tots. It's not super huge, which means less trekking around, which is super handy when it's nap time for your little ones. Plus, there's a “kiddie” pool with a cover that's only about a foot deep in spots. The ocean is also super gentle, so your little beach bum can happily splash around at the shoreline. Sandcastles.
Multi-Generational Groups: Tying the knot, traveling with the whole gang, or bringing everyone in the family? This resort is your go-to! With a layout that's easy for both the young ones and the young-at-heart, everyone can roam around with ease.
Senior Trips: If you're planning a senior trip, this place is a hit! As stated already, we saw a bunch of senior groups having the time of their lives during our stay. The teens were absolutely loving it! Its proximity to downtown is a major plus. Just steps away, you'll find Coco Bongo, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and entertainment. This location is crucial for keeping an eye on teens – they can easily find themselves in the heart of downtown action in no time. Ideal for groups who want the excitement of the city close at hand while being able to monitor their younger members.
Fitness Enthusiasts: The resort has a massive gym, one of the largest I’ve personally seen at a resorts, making it perfect for those who love to stay active even on vacation. There's also a juice bar not far from the gym that’s open in the mornings, complete with protein boosts and all sorts of health and wellness options. It's the perfect spot to refuel after the workout!
Couples and Honeymooners: Hyatt Ziva Cancun's adults-only vibe, despite being kid-friendly, makes it a romantic destination for couples. I would highly recommend us booking you in the Turqoize Tower if you go with this resort. That way you have that true adult’s only experience!
WHO MIGHT NOT BE THE BEST FOR FOR THIS RESORT:
Families with Teenagers (12-17 years old): Hyatt Ziva Cancun might not be the best choice for families with older children, particularly those between 12 and 17 years old. My 12 and 13-year-old, to put it mildly, were bored stiff. This could partly be because we had just come from the excitement of Nickelodeon Riviera Maya OR it could be because they were fighting that stomach virus I spoke about. However, it's worth noting that this resort doesn't have features like water slides or a dedicated water park, which are typically popular with teenagers. If a teen isn't interested in snorkeling, lounging, or just swimming in the pool, they might find themselves somewhat unenthusiastic about the offerings here.
Budget-Conscious Travelers: Those who are traveling on a tight budget may find the resort a bit too pricey, as it offers a range of upscale amenities and services that could be beyond their financial comfort zone.
Travelers Seeking A Quiet Retreat: Travelers looking for a serene, solitary getaway might not find the family-oriented, lively atmosphere of Hyatt Ziva Cancun to their liking, especially if they prefer more secluded or quiet destinations.
To download my free packing list click here!
Let’s Get you booked!
Thank you for sticking with me through this review! If you're now set on Hyatt Ziva for your next getaway, I've got great news: I'll happily waive my agency fee for your booking! Just fill out the form linked below and select the 'Complimentary Agency Fee' option.
On the flip side, if Hyatt Ziva doesn't quite match your travel dreams after reading my review, no worries at all! I'm eager to craft a custom travel plan that aligns perfectly with your desires. Use the same form to let me know what you're looking for.
Curious about what's covered under each agency fee option? Check out the detailed breakdown right here!
Please note, the complimentary fee offer is not applicable to group bookings or destination weddings. Let's make your travel aspirations a reality!