What first struck me about Banyan Tree Mayakoba was the tree. Not just any tree, mind you, but a giant, soaring natural centerpiece — the namesake of the Banyan Tree brand — towering over a body of water at the center of the hotel’s main lobby building. With lights weaving among multiple branches, it was a truly eye-catching symbol of how this decidedly upscale resort blends natural beauty with Asian style, complemented by generous amounts of Mexican hospitality.
After a quick, comfortable flight onboard JetBlue (where I indulged in the Even More Space seating) I found myself immersed in an even more indulgent situation, unlike anything I had experienced before in the Mexican Caribbean.
The much-photographed Banyan tree sits on a small island in one of the many canals that lace Mayakoba, a sprawling, verdant complex of luxury hotels on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Boarding a small boat — piloted by a crisply uniformed Banyan Tree staff member — to ply the smooth canal waters and reach my guestroom, I would quickly learn that water plays an important and picturesque role at this property.
Golf carts and personal bicycles round out Banyan Tree Mayakoba’s transportation options, offering opportunities to easily explore the meandering roadways and walkways and admire local flora and fauna.
New Accommodation Options
Banyan Tree Mayakoba is home to upscale accommodations in the form of villas and suites. Among the newest categories are Lagoon & Sunset Rooftop Pool Villas, which feature private rooftops with plunge pools and expansive seating areas, and seafront Beachfront Terrace Pool Suites, where I stayed. Both accommodation types debuted within the past two years.
A Beachfront Terrace Pool Suite at Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Credit: 2022 Mark ChesnutMy initial reaction to my room was a simple but heartfelt “wow.” High ceilings, handsome woodwork and stylish furnishings were all pleasing to the eye, of course, but I was immediately drawn to the large sliding glass doors and floor-to-ceiling windows, which took up an entire wall and provided a stunning view of the beach and my own private deck that came complete with a plunge pool and seating area.
Even my king-size bed was perfectly positioned to allow for photo-worthy Caribbean views, and the remote-control blinds made it easy to start every day with an awesome sunrise without even getting out of bed. The large bathroom area, meanwhile, featured a separate toilet and large shower stall, as well as a walk-through closet that led to yet another private deck, out of public view, with a hot tub and outdoor shower.
Every accommodation category at Banyan Tree Mayakoba comes with a set of bicycles, encouraging guests to explore the property. The natural flatness of the Riviera Maya lends itself to good cycling conditions, and it’s a beautiful way to explore. I loved riding to the sizable gym in the main lobby complex every day while observing various birds and families of coatis, the small animals that are distant relatives of raccoons. (Golf carts with drivers can also whisk guests quickly and efficiently around the property.)
Unique On-Site Activities
I must admit I was surprised when I visited Banyan Tree Spa. The picturesque overwater treatment cabins are so large that I had assumed they were guest villas when I had passed them earlier in the day by boat. I realized my mistake as I was escorted into the facility for a rejuvenating massage treatment.
The spa is just one example of memorable activity options on the property. Golfers can test their skills at El Camaleon, a PGA championship golf course in an especially scenic setting. And I enjoyed an informative eco-tour, during which my knowledgeable guide, Francisco, filled me in about the region’s natural beauty and offered lots of opportunities to spot birds, crocodiles and other wildlife.
Delicious Dining
All the hotel’s restaurants feature some kind of Instagram-worthy view, as well as a lovely, upscale ambiance. One of my favorite meals took place at Saffron, the Thai dining venue. Open only for dinner, the eatery offers open-air seating on small piers and platforms along one of the canals, with dramatic torch lighting reflecting in the water.
Saffron is the resort’s Thai dining venue.
Credit: 2022 Mark ChesnutAlso topping my list of memorable dining experiences was HAAB, a unique, open-air culinary event that incorporates elements of traditional Maya culture and cuisine, including culinary and cultural explanations by an expert Mayan host, as well as a private performance by a group of talented dancers in traditional body paint.
In addition, I savored tasty meals at Sands Beach Club, an airy venue that opens onto the beachfront pool; Oriente, which serves an unforgettably large breakfast buffet; and Cello, an exquisite Italian eatery with indoor-outdoor seating. Also on-site are Tomahawk Open Fire Latin Grill, which specializes in Tomahawk steaks; The Burger Shop, which serves gourmet burgers; and The Ember, an upscale Kosher restaurant.
While all the dining venues offer some kind of water view, two interesting options involve actually floating on the water. The Tapas Cruise features a Spanish tapas menu with drinks, served onboard a small boat that sails through the canals. Couples looking for a truly romantic dining experience, meanwhile, should consider Ixchel, a private dining experience that takes place onboard a traditional Mexican trajinera boat that cruises the canal waters. The experience is available for breakfast and dinner; evening menu options include Thai, Mexican and Italian cuisine.
