Mariachi music, vivid colors, beachside palapas, vibrant bougainvillea and tequila all come to mind when you think of Mexico. It is a place where you can immerse yourself in the culture as you savor the rich flavors of Mayan cuisine and feel the beat of the Latin music.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico is often associated with expansive high-rise resorts, but Mahekal Beach Resort stands alone in that you will never need an elevator. The palm trees are the tallest things on the property and the feeling is one of a jungle escape.  So, pack your flip-flops and beach gear and join me at this amazing Mexican resort.

Mahekal’s history dates back 50 years and started with a few thatched-roof palapas. Now it’s a Mexican retreat that does not spare the luxury amenities ranging from the 4 crystal clear pools to the details found in the palapas including some with private plunge pools and outdoor showers.  To ensure you get unplugged you won’t find TV’s in the guest rooms, but there is plenty to do with local shops, bars and restaurants along nearby Quinta Avenida (5^th Avenue) and the onsite Revive Spa where you can indulge in a culturally inspired treatment to balance your mind, body and spirit.

Finding and featuring the unique is something we love to do, and Mahekal Beach Resort offered us two experiences that you can’t miss. First is the Mayan Culinary Casita where an intimate jungle garden sets the stage for an epicurean journey. Mahekal’s culinary team prepare an authentic Mayan lunch in a thatched-roof hut with an earthen fire pit. Sipping xtabentún, an authentic Mexican liqueur, and savoring the flavors of Fish Tikin-Xik and traditional lime and chicken soup were memorable, to say the least. 

Mahekal also takes “fish to fork” to a new level when local fisherman pull their boats right on to Fuego beach twice each week and Chef Nerey chooses his menu items moments from when they were plucked from the sea. It doesn’t get fresher!

Whether for a romantic getaway, honeymoon or beachside destination wedding, Mahekal Beach Resort provides a perfect blend of relaxation and play, nature and culture in a setting of romance and luxury.