If you’re looking for a tropical getaway that blends relaxation, adventure, and great food, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun is a fantastic choice. Unlike the Margaritaville property we visited in the Dominican Republic, this family-friendly resort is completely separate from the adults-only version, located about 5 minutes apart. Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun delivers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and family fun. Whether you’re making margaritas, kayaking along the coast, or enjoying a delicious meal, this resort provides everything you need for an unforgettable vacation. Grab your flip-flops, and get ready for paradise!
What We Loved about Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun
Family-Friendly Fun
From the moment we arrived, it was clear this resort was designed with families in mind. One of the highlights was the Blender Bike—watching my husband pedal for his cocktails while the kids made their own smoothies was both hilarious and memorable.
Spacious & Thoughtful Accommodations
The resort features 148 guest rooms and suites, all designed with a carefree island vibe and high-end comfort. Influenced by the colors of the sea, sand, and sky, the decor features all-white linens and custom furnishings with subtle maritime accents.
The benefit of upgrading to a swim-up room is that it’s on the first floor and naturally has a ceiling, providing protection from the sun and rain. This means you can still enjoy the patio and have a swim (you’re wet anyway). The second-floor rooms do not have a covered patio.
Calm & Shallow Beach
The beach here is perfect for families. The waves break by the reef, making the water near the shore much calmer—ideal for young swimmers. No worries about riptides! If the current is strong, figure out which way it’s flowing and start at the end of the beach so you can drift along with it rather than swim against it—unless you’re up for the challenge!
Activities for Everyone
The resort’s activities team curates a fantastic weekly itinerary; most activities are included in your stay. We especially loved the bracelet making class—it’s a fun and creative way to take home a souvenir. You don’t have to make reservations for activities; just show up at the listed location. Be sure to check the app when you arrive to plan ahead. We only realized the painting activity was available when we saw a group halfway through their session!
Water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are free, though guests need to purchase a $5 wristband (per person, for the entire week) since the area is protected by the government.
Margarita Making Contest
For the adults, the margarita-making contest on Wednesdays was a blast! The winner during our stay received a 2-for-1 hydrotherapy session at the spa—a great prize for a little friendly competition.
Where to Eat at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun
We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food and wine at this resort. Every specialty restaurant went above and beyond. Every day, there was a special food set up for lunch at the beach or the bar across from the Beach House.
- The Beach House: Perfect for breakfast and lunch, offering delicious and fresh options.
- Rita’s Taco Bar: You must go here for lunch at least once on your trip.
- Latino Restaurant: The best surprise of our trip—flavorful dishes with a Latin twist.
- Frank & Lola’s: If you enjoy wine and food pairings, this is a must-visit for a divine dining experience.
Relaxation: The Spa
There are two spa options:
- Outdoor Spa Area – Overlooks the ocean, allowing you to enjoy your treatment with the sound of the waves below.
- Indoor Spa – This option includes hydrotherapy, which is included with your treatment.
We opted for the indoor spa so we could experience the full hydrotherapy circuit. If you go, arrive an hour before your treatment to take advantage of the entire hydrotherapy process. The spa also features a couples suite and a bridal area.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun
- Book an Early Morning Flight: Flight delays are common these days, but arriving early still allows you to enjoy most of the day at the resort.
- Download the Resort App: Check the activities schedule when you arrive so you don’t miss out on experiences like the painting class.
- Reserve a Bali Bed: These are available for an extra cost and should be booked in advance.
- Hydrotherapy at the Spa: If you’re booking a spa treatment, arrive an hour early to enjoy the full hydrotherapy experience.
Things to Do Nearby
Since this is a gated resort, it’s not the easiest to just exit the resort and explore on your own, which we didn’t do. Booking a taxi is very expensive, but the concierge at the resort can help you with whatever you need. The resort offers many tours, and they can also make arrangements ahead of time with you if there is somewhere you really want to visit.
- Swim with sea turtles in Akumal: Take a short trip to Akumal, where you can snorkel alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat—a magical experience for the whole family.
- Visit Isla Mujeres: Hop on a ferry to this charming island, known for its stunning beaches, snorkeling spots, and laid-back atmosphere. Rent a golf cart to explore Playa Norte, Punta Sur, and the island’s vibrant local shops.
- Snorkel or dive at Puerto Morelos Reef: Head south to Puerto Morelos, home to one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Riviera Maya. Explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world, teeming with colorful coral and marine life.
- Explore cenotes and Mayan ruins: Discover the crystal-clear waters of Cenote Verde Lucero or Cenote La Noria for a refreshing swim. History lovers can take a short trip to El Meco Ruins to experience the remnants of an ancient Mayan civilization.
- Enjoy shopping and nightlife in Cancun’s Hotel Zone: Visit Cancun’s famous Hotel Zone for high-end shopping at La Isla Shopping Village, local markets filled with souvenirs, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Important Note for Families with Young Children: There is a clothing optional beach to the right of the resort, so if this isn’t something you want your children to see, be mindful of where you walk. Additionally, since the beach is public, some topless sunbathers may be present, though we only saw one during our stay.
Editor’s note: This trip was hosted by Margaritaville but all opinions belong to the writer.
