- Mexico Holidays
- Riviera Maya
- Occidental at Xcaret Destination

Enjoying a fantastic location frontline to the powder-soft white sand and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the exclusive Occidental at Xcaret Destination hotel is ideally situated, surrounded by an ecological and historical preserve. It is a perfect luxury 24 hours all inclusive refuge at 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen and offers a lovely garden and pool landscape as well as a wide variety of first class amenities and services. All a la carte restaurants, requiere prior booking, subject to availability and with restrictions.
Due to the surrounding area and the number of steps around the hotel, it may not be suitable for those with mobility difficulties.
The hotel itself was good, surrounded by nature and located with easy access to Xcaret park, it offers a different experience. Service staff were very respectful and helpful - they really made the place great. unfortunately, the same cannot be said for those at reception or concierge. Often guests were made to feel like every ask was one too many. Main objective of the concierge service was to upsell. For an inclusive resort, meal times became a hassle. Restaurants had to booked for dinner two days in advance, the one open buffet that served all meals was disappointing at breakfast and dinner. Dishes were not replenished (running out of staples like bacon constantly) and if you tried to enter after 7:30 expect to wait for a table. It was odd not to have the coffee bar included - so really it was not as inclusive as it was made out. Multiple areas throughout the resort were set aside as “exclusive access” - these areas were often empty and under utilised. Signage throughout the hotel could be improved. One restaurant was out near the pool which no one seemed to be able to provide directions to.
If you stay here, you are staying here because you plan to visit Xcaret Park on multiple days. Travelling into downtown Playa del Carmen is expensive if you are a tourist - expect to pay a premium. We were quoted 50 USD for a 15 mins taxi ride!
We throughly enjoyed our vacation and love traveling to Mexico but would not recommend this place.
The property itself was beautiful, and we really enjoyed our stay. Loved seeing animals crossing through the area. Unfortunately food was disappointing and did not meet our expectations. Another downside was that we were repeatedly approached by staff trying to sell us Barcelo membership, which took away from the relaxing vacation experience.It also felt like if you weren't a membership owner, you received a different level service, and that was disappointing. Overall, the resort is stunning and the natural surroundings are amazing, but the food constant membership sales pitches, and the noticeable difference in service made the experience less enjoyable than it could have been.
Loved all of the wildlife and grounds. The food was average, and the service was always great except if you have a birthday or anniversary. They don't do anything special oh wait my bad 3 chocolate strawberries and that's it. When i came 9 years ago they did acknowledge it but not anymore. We were there for 24th anniversary and was going to be back for the 25th anniversary and family and friends but not now. We will find a hotel that cares a little more. I did speak to a few people including the wedding manager.They were no help.
This was my first all inclusive resort. The trip in July was hot, and every place to eat is open air and hot. But, I was there in July. The only AC is in the room. The beach was dissapointing. I was expecting some good sandy beaches to walk. The staff is great. Everyone was very helpful and friendly
Rooms were outdated, the tank on the toilet stopped working , the phone in the room never worked , request were not fulfilled and customer service was bad
