Hyatt Ziva Cancun Review: Why We've Returned 5 Times in 10 Years
- Kristin Hughes
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
There are thousands of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico.
We've stayed at dozens throughout the Caribbean and Mexico over the years.
Yet somehow, we keep coming back to the same place.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun.
Our first visit was in 2016 for a destination wedding shortly after the resort's major renovation. Since then, we've returned four more times, watched the property evolve, discovered our favorite restaurants, found our favorite room category, and learned exactly why this resort continues to rank among our top recommendations.
Is it perfect? Pretty close. 😎
But after five visits spanning nearly a decade, I can confidently say Hyatt Ziva Cancun remains one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun for couples, families, groups, and even adults looking for a more elevated experience through the Turquoize Tower.
Here's everything you need to know before booking.
Why We Always Book the Adults-Only Turquoize Tower
While Hyatt Ziva Cancun is a family-friendly resort, we personally stay in the adults-only Turquoize Tower.
After trying it once, there was no going back.
Some of our favorite perks include:
✔ Adults-only rooftop infinity pool
✔ Butler service
✔ Complimentary airport transfers
✔ Daily hydrotherapy access at the spa
✔ Premium in-room liquor bottle
✔ Aromatherapy amenities
✔ Priority reservations at Tradewinds Steakhouse
✔ Adults-only atmosphere while still having access to the entire resort
Our favorite room category?
The Turquoize Sky Oceanfront King, ideally on a high floor. We especially love the corner rooms on the upper levels because the views are absolutely incredible.
And yes, every balcony includes a hot tub.
We'll dive deeper into whether Turquoize is worth the extra cost in a separate review.
My Hyatt Ziva Cancun Restaurant Rankings
🥇 The Moongate — 10/10
Our favorite restaurant at the resort.
We usually book the hibachi experience one night and then return another evening just for sushi. If you're a sushi fan, don't skip this place.
🥈 Habaneros — 10/10
Beachfront tacos. Strong margaritas. Ocean views.
Enough said.
Bonus tip: Ask for premium tequila. We typically order Don Julio margaritas and spend an embarrassing amount of time here or in our cabana.
🥉 El Mercado — 9/10
The buffet that doesn't feel like a buffet.
This is our go-to breakfast spot.
Highlights include:
Fresh fruit
Made-to-order stations
Omelets
Mimosa cart
Bloody Mary station
This is where we fuel up before a day in the sun.
Chevy's — 8/10
The perfect casual lunch.
Burgers. Fries. Milkshakes.
Sometimes simple wins.
Tres Cervezas — 9/10
If you're still awake after dinner, you'll probably end up here.
Pool tables. Wings. Pretzels. Beer. Live music.
Great late-night atmosphere.
Tradewinds — 8/10
Beautiful steakhouse.
Order:🥩 Steak🐟 Fresh seafood
And absolutely sit outside if weather allows.
Lorenzo's — 8/10
One of the most consistently good restaurants on property.
Whether you're craving pizza or pasta, it's hard to go wrong.
La Bastille — 7/10
The most elegant restaurant at the resort.
While French cuisine isn't necessarily our favorite, this makes for a fantastic date night and many guests absolutely love it.
Our Favorite Things To Do Around Hyatt Ziva Cancun
Jet Ski Rentals
Easy to book directly on the beach.
Scuba Diving
Great option for certified divers.
Whale Shark Tours
Get up close and personal and swim with whale sharks! Once in a lifetime!
Cenote + ATV Tours
Fun day trip. Our cenote was not one of the best.
Jungle Tour Boat Adventure
(And yes, ours sank. Not our fault. That's a story for another day. 😂)
Hyatt Ziva Cancun vs Other Cancun Resorts
With so many options to consider, I thought I'd compare to some top resorts:
Hyatt Zilara Cancun vs Hyatt Ziva:
Hyatt Ziva is better for travelers wanting flexibility (families + adults-only Turquoize section), while Hyatt Zilara is fully adults-only and generally quieter. Note that if you stay in Turquoize, you do have access to the resort amenities as and restaurants at Hyatt Zilara and it is about 15 minutes away via shuttle. I have personally booked a Bachelorette Party at Hyatt Zilara for 15+ women in their 30s and they had a wonderful time and it was very accommodating to the group.
Live Aqua vs. Hyatt Ziva:
Live Aqua offers a more sophisticated adults-only atmosphere, but Hyatt Ziva provides better beaches, more dining options, and more activities. I have had clients stay at Live Aqua and they had a wonderful time there.
Secrets The Vine vs Hyatt Ziva:
Secrets The Vine feels more modern and romantic, while Hyatt Ziva offers more amenities, better beach access, and greater flexibility for mixed groups versus adults only/romantic focus.
Dreams Sands Cancun
Dreams Sands Cancun offers a great location and family-friendly atmosphere, but Hyatt Ziva Cancun provides a larger property, more dining options, better beach variety, and a more premium overall experience. Dreams is part of the Hyatt portfolio, so is also a higher level of service and quality, so you won't be disappointed with this Dreams property by any means... I just prefer the Ziva. 😉
Ready to Plan Your Cancun Vacation?
I've personally stayed at Hyatt Ziva Cancun five times over nearly ten years and would be happy to help determine whether it's the right fit for your vacation.
Whether you're planning:
🌴 A couples getaway
💍 A destination wedding
👨👩👧👦 A family vacation
🍹 An adults-only escape in Turquoize Tower
I can help compare options, explain room categories, and share the little insider tips you won't find on a booking website.
👉 Click the button below to fill out the form on my Contact Page to get started today:
Kristin & Will
