Disclaimer: This travel blog post is based on personal experiences and opinions. Your adventure will vary, but we’re confident you’ll have an amazing time!
Are you dreaming of a sun-soaked vacation in Mexico? Look no further than the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya! This sprawling 1,264-room resort, nestled in the picturesque Puerto Aventuras, offers a blend of luxury, entertainment, and tropical paradise. Whether you’re traveling with family or seeking an adults-only retreat, this resort has something for everyone.
The Resort’s Split Personality
The Hard Rock Riviera Maya wears two distinct hats:
- Hacienda (Family Side):
- Vibrant and Kid-Friendly: Buildings 1 to 4 are awash in warm orange and red tones. Bracelets at check-in make sure everyone knows who’s over 18 and who’s not.
- Endless Fun for Families:
- Multiple Pools: Splash, swim, and play – the pools cater to all ages.
- Kids’ Club: Little adventurers have their own haven.
- Pizzeria and Buffet: Satisfy those cravings.
- Restaurants and Bars: From casual bites to gourmet delights.
- Coffee Shop: Fuel up for more adventures.
- Sports Bar: Catch the game with fellow fans.
- Water Park, Escape Room, E-Sports Arena: Non-stop excitement.
- Indoor Play Zone: Laser tag battles and bowling alley fun (brand new as of April 2023).
- Heaven (Adults-Only Side):
- Sophisticated and Serene: Buildings 5 and 6 are painted a serene blue.
- Adults’ Oasis:
- Unwind by the pool or sip cocktails at the bar.
- Enjoy quiet dinners at exclusive restaurants.
Revel in the grown-up ambiance.
Location and Views
Nestled just an hour’s ride from Cancun Airport, the Hard Rock Riviera Maya beckons with its promise of sun, sand, and adventure. Don’t let the short journey deter you; it’s a swift ride to paradise. Plus, Riviera Maya serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby eco parks and the captivating ruins of Tulum.
Tropical Views and Lagoon Beach
- Stunning Tropical Views: Guests rave about the breathtaking vistas – turquoise waters, swaying palms, and endless skies. It’s a postcard-worthy scene that invites relaxation.
- Protected Lagoon Beach: While it’s not your typical open ocean beach, the resort’s beach is a tranquil lagoon. Here’s why families love it:
- Snorkelling Paradise: Grab your gear and explore the saltwater snorkelling areas. The calm waters make it perfect for beginners and little ones.
- Kayaks and SUP Boards: Paddle away on kayaks or stand-up paddleboards – a delightful way to soak up the sun.
- Seaweed-Free Zone: Thanks to protective rocks and nets, the beach remains blissfully seaweed-free – a rarity in this part of Mexico.
Note: Some guests mention the lack of a traditional beach experience, but the resort’s other amenities more than compensate for it .
Rooms
During our stay at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya, we lucked out with an upgrade to the Deluxe Grand Sky Terrace (Two Bedroom) – a slice of paradise high above the turquoise waters. Here’s what made it unforgettable:
- Two Connecting Rooms: Our spacious suite featured a king bed in one room and two double beds in the other. Perfect for families or friends traveling together.
- Private Sky Terrace: Ascend to the second floor and discover your own oasis. Lounge chairs, a hydro spa tub, and even a half bathroom – all with panoramic views.
- Balcony Bliss: Each room boasted a balcony finish with a hammock – the ideal spot for sipping morning coffee or stargazing at night.
- Mini Fridge Magic: Daily restocking and personalized requests – they’ve got you covered.
Prime Placement: Buildings 7 and 8
Want to be close to all the action? Buildings 7 and 8 are your golden ticket. These well-positioned rooms make sure easy access to the resort’s amenities, from pools to restaurants. Convenience meets comfort!
Family-Friendly Fun
At the Hard Rock Riviera Maya, families thrive on the abundance of kid-friendly amenities:
- Lively Poolside Entertainment: Splash, laugh, and soak up the sun. The pools are a hub of activity.
- 24-Hour Room Service: Late-night cravings? No problem – they’ve got you covered.
- Gamer’s Paradise: Xbox or PlayStation – take your pick. Kids (and adults!) can unwind with their favourite games.
Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club
While our kids skipped the clubhouse (too many adventures elsewhere!), the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club is a haven for young explorers aged 4 to 12. From 9 am to 9 pm, they enjoy safe, supervised fun. But who needs a club when the terrace, beach, and pool beckon?
Rockaway Bay Water Park
One of the reason we choose Hard Rock Riviera Maya is for their Rockaway Bay Water Park. The ultimate family thrill awaits at the Rockaway Bay Water Park:
- Slides Galore: With 9 slides for children and teens, plus 8 slides for the little ones, everyone gets a splash of excitement.
- High-Speed Thrills: Six heart-pounding slides for teens and adults – adrenaline junkies, rejoice!
- Chill at the Snack Bar: Frozen drinks to beat the heat – because every water park adventure deserves a tasty treat.
Note: When we were there, the high speed slides were closed for renovation.
Entertainment Complex
Next to the water park, the Entertainment Complex at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya is a hub of excitement. Here’s what awaits you:
- Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club: Located within the complex, this safe haven offers activities for young rock stars aged 4 to 12. From 9 am to 9 pm, kids can explore, create, and make new friends.
- Laser Tag: Gear up for adrenaline-pumping battles in a futuristic arena. Compete with friends and family – the best team will win!
- Bowling: Strike! Roll your way to victory at the bowling alley. It’s a strike of family fun.
- Hyper X – Gaming Lounge: Gamers, rejoice! Immerse yourself in the latest video games, virtual reality adventures, and high-speed action.
- Ninja Obstacle Course (Coming Soon): Get ready to channel your inner ninja. The new obstacle course promises thrills and challenges. It was still in development when we were there.
- Escapology: If you’re a puzzle enthusiast, head to the Hacienda lobby for an escape room experience. Solve mysteries, beat the clock, and escape to victory.
Note: While these activities are not part of the all-inclusive package, they’re worth every penny for the memories they create.
Restaurants
One of the highlights of staying at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya is the dining experience. Imagine indulging in free meals at restaurants that use fresh and exotic ingredients! Here are some dining tips:
- Restaurant Variety: Both the Hacienda and Heaven sides of the resort offer a variety of restaurants. And guess what? They all have the same kids’ menu, so you won’t have to worry about picky eaters.
- Reservations: If you have specific restaurants in mind or are visiting during peak times, make dining reservations in advance. Trust me; it’s worth it!
- Zen: Our absolute favourite restaurant was Zen. Picture two distinct areas: à la carte dining and teppanyaki. Teppanyaki is where the chef puts on a theatrical show while cooking traditional Asian cuisine right in front of you. It’s a must-try! Just be sure to reserve your spot early because it’s incredibly popular. If teppanyaki isn’t your thing, Zen also offers regular tables where you can order a variety of Asian dishes—from sushi to stir-fry.
Conclusion
In summary, our stay at the Hard Rock Riviera Maya was nothing short of extraordinary. From the suite room to the stunning tropical views, this exclusive retreat offers a vacation experience like no other. Families with teens, tweens, and little ones alike will find endless activities to enjoy. And remember, whether you’re relaxing on the private white sand beach or dining at one of the fantastic restaurants, the legendary Hard Rock hospitality ensures that every guest feels like a rock star!
At the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, luxury meets satisfaction, and excess is the name of the game. Whether you’re jamming to tunes by the pool or indulging in gourmet dining, this resort promises an unforgettable vacation. Book your stay and let the good times roll!
Disclaimer: As members of the Legendary Vacation Club, we had the privilege of an onsite vacation planner. If you’re not, don’t worry—booking directly is just as easy!
The Travelling Wee 
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