
Occidental at Xcaret
All-inclusive retreat nestled in a lush jungle, featuring wildlife, private beach, multiple pools, and diverse dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy themed dinners

Occidental at Xcaret
Best Time
Enjoy themed dinners
Highlights
Must-see attractions
All-inclusive retreat nestled in a lush jungle, featuring wildlife, private beach, multiple pools, and diverse dining.
"The natural surroundings are breathtaking – the bay, wildlife, jungle atmosphere, and clean pools make this destination special."

👟 Pack Comfy Walking Shoes
The resort is large and spread out, set in a jungle. Be ready for lots of walking!
🐒 Watch for Wildlife
Monkeys and other animals roam freely. Keep your distance and enjoy the unique encounters.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jungle Trails & Wildlife
Throughout the resort
Wander through lush jungle paths and encounter resident monkeys, coatis, and exotic birds. A truly unique natural setting.

Private Beach Cove
Resort's beachfront
Relax on a small, picturesque beach with calm waters, perfect for a dip or enjoying the Caribbean breeze.

Multiple Outdoor Pools
Various locations
Cool off in one of the resort's five outdoor pools, offering different vibes from lively to tranquil.

Specialty Dining Experiences
Various restaurants
Explore diverse culinary options, from Mexican to Oriental cuisine, with some guests highlighting exceptional service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Jungle Vibe
Dining Reservations & Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Pack Comfy Walking Shoes
The resort is large and spread out, set in a jungle. Be ready for lots of walking!
🐒 Watch for Wildlife
Monkeys and other animals roam freely. Keep your distance and enjoy the unique encounters.
🍽️ Reserve Specialty Dining
Popular restaurants can fill up. Book your preferred dining spots in advance to avoid disappointment.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own reusable water bottle. While available, room restocking can be inconsistent.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Pack Comfy Walking Shoes
The resort is large and spread out, set in a jungle. Be ready for lots of walking!
🐒 Watch for Wildlife
Monkeys and other animals roam freely. Keep your distance and enjoy the unique encounters.
🍽️ Reserve Specialty Dining
Popular restaurants can fill up. Book your preferred dining spots in advance to avoid disappointment.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own reusable water bottle. While available, room restocking can be inconsistent.
💰 Consider Royal Level
For enhanced service and amenities, some guests recommend the Royal Level experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Occidental at Xcaret Destination offers a unique jungle setting with abundant wildlife and beautiful natural surroundings. Guests appreciate the friendly staff, good food variety, and multiple pools. However, the resort's large size necessitates significant walking, and some visitors have noted inconsistencies in service and dated room conditions. The beach is also described as small with limited loungers.
"This is a very large resort with a lot of beautiful trails surrounded by trees and bushes. Animals roam around everywhere which is a cool sight to see.
However. Due to the beauty and jungle aspect, the resort is large and spaced poorly. You will be walking a lot. Be prepared to walk at least 10 minutes to wherever you would like to go. Majority of the main resturants are located in the main building and not spread out throughout the resort like some places.
The food was great, I did not get sick at all while we stayed with a lot of selections.
The rooms were used. But we expected that.
The staff was friendly and helpful.
The Beach was small with limited loungers.
All in all it was a solid resort."
Tyler Sushelniski
"Alberto, Samuel, Maximile, and Raguel at the Royal level restaurant were incredible. By day 2 they had already memorized our favorite drinks and food preferences. Our group of four felt so welcome and taken care of by these gentlemen.
This was our 4th time here and the service at the Royal restaurant was exceptional every time. If I had to say anything negative it would have to be that the recent change to the dinner menu was not something any of us enjoyed. We loved the nightly themed menus from 2 years prior and the absolute best menu was in 2020 and 2021.
Overall ALL the staff at this resort are very friendly and make your enjoyment their priority.
Rooms are clean and well kept every day with a great turndown service by the ladies."
Angela Kusk
"We stayed at Occidental at Xcaret and while the natural surroundings are breathtaking – the bay, wildlife, jungle atmosphere, and clean pools make this destination special – the service unfortunately did not match the beauty of the place.
From the moment we arrived, we encountered issues. Our luggage was taken with assurance it would be delivered immediately, yet we waited in our room for more than 45 minutes until we had to return to the front desk ourselves. We asked several times to have extra water delivered to our room and were completely ignored. Housekeeping didn’t come the first day, and the minibar wasn’t restocked.
The most concerning part was when our son experienced food poisoning. We informed the staff and were promised a special menu with broth to be delivered. No one ever came or followed up.
Many requests were met with “yes, of course,” but nothing was ever done. Even simple activities like mini golf became frustrating because staff did not know where to get equipment or operating hours. It took us three days before we were finally able to play.
We also felt unwelcome in certain restaurants, particularly El Pescador and Las Olivas, where staff seemed irritated that we walked in. It did not create the atmosphere where guests feel comfortable or valued.
In addition, the push to sell expensive club memberships was extremely aggressive. Saying “no” did not seem to be an acceptable answer for them.
To be fair, a few employees at the buffet and the Oriental restaurant were exceptional – kind, attentive, and professional. These are the people who truly deserved tips and appreciation.
This resort is built in an unbelievably beautiful location and has so much potential, but the consistency and quality of service need significant improvement to match the experience the place visually promises."
Oleksandr Starik
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways to reach Occidental at Xcaret Destination from Cancun International Airport (CUN) are via pre-booked airport shuttle, taxi, or private transfer. Shuttles are often the most economical option for solo travelers or couples, while private transfers offer more convenience. The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops if using a shared shuttle.
While direct public buses to the resort are not common, you can take a public bus (colectivo) from Cancun or Playa del Carmen towards Xcaret Park. From the Xcaret entrance, you would likely need a short taxi ride or a longer walk to reach the Occidental at Xcaret Destination.
Occidental at Xcaret Destination is located approximately 10-15 minutes south of Playa del Carmen by car. This makes it convenient for day trips into town for shopping, dining, or exploring.
Some booking packages for Occidental at Xcaret Destination may include airport shuttle services. It's best to check with your travel provider or the resort directly when booking to confirm if this is included or available as an add-on.
Yes, its location makes it a good base for exploring the Riviera Maya. You can easily arrange transport to nearby attractions like Xcaret Park, Xplor, or cenotes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Occidental at Xcaret Destination is an all-inclusive resort, meaning your stay typically includes meals, drinks, and many activities. Always verify the specifics of your package.
Staying at Occidental at Xcaret Destination does not automatically include entry to Xcaret Park. While the resort is adjacent to the park and shares its name, park tickets are usually a separate purchase. However, some packages might offer combined deals.
Standard check-in time is usually around 3:00 PM, and check-out time is around 12:00 PM. It's advisable to confirm these times directly with the resort upon booking, as they can sometimes vary.
As an all-inclusive resort, most costs are covered. However, be aware of potential extra charges for premium drinks, certain specialty restaurants, spa services, or optional excursions. Some guests have also noted aggressive sales tactics for club memberships.
Day passes for Occidental at Xcaret are sometimes available, especially for guests who wish to experience the resort's amenities for a single day. It's best to inquire directly with the resort or a reputable travel agent for current availability and pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Occidental at Xcaret Destination offers a range of rooms, including standard rooms, junior suites, and Royal Level suites. Room amenities can vary, and some guests have noted that certain areas might feel dated.
Yes, the resort features five outdoor pools, offering various atmospheres from lively to more relaxed. The pools are a popular spot for guests to cool off and enjoy the tropical surroundings.
Included activities often encompass non-motorized water sports, fitness classes, nightly entertainment, and access to the resort's pools and beach. Some guests have mentioned challenges in accessing equipment for activities like mini-golf.
Yes, Occidental at Xcaret Destination has a spa offering various treatments. Some guests have highlighted exceptional service from specific spa staff members.
The resort has a private beach area, described as small with limited loungers by some guests. The coastal front is largely fossilized coral, with a few man-made sandy areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Occidental at Xcaret Destination offers a total of 11 restaurants, providing a wide variety of dining options for guests.
The resort features a diverse range of cuisines, including Mexican, Oriental, and seafood. Some restaurants offer themed nights, though recent menu changes have received mixed feedback.
Guest reviews on food quality are generally positive, with many reporting they did not get sick and enjoyed the selections. However, some recent menu updates have been less popular with returning guests.
Yes, as an all-inclusive resort, drinks are included. However, some guests note that premium spirits might be limited in certain areas, and recommend the Royal Level for better drink options.
Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations for the specialty restaurants, especially during peak season, to ensure you get a table at your desired time.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush jungle surroundings, the private beach cove, and the resort's pools offer beautiful backdrops. Keep an eye out for the resident wildlife, like monkeys, for unique photo opportunities.
Yes, wildlife such as monkeys and coatis are often seen roaming the resort grounds. Remember to maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens if possible for clear shots without disturbing the animals.
While the resort is nestled within the jungle, the beachfront areas can offer lovely sunset views over the Caribbean Sea. The natural light filtering through the trees also creates picturesque scenes throughout the day.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture both the expansive resort grounds and any wildlife encounters. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the lush jungle scenery.
Drone usage policies can vary and are often restricted at resorts and natural parks to ensure guest safety and protect wildlife. It's best to check with the resort management directly before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the resort itself offers activities, consider the proximity to Xcaret Park for a full day of family-friendly entertainment, though park tickets are an additional cost. The variety of restaurants can cater to different tastes, but it's a good idea to check menus in advance or opt for the buffet for broader appeal.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons for potentially lower rates. While the resort is large, embracing the included activities and enjoying the natural surroundings can provide a fulfilling experience without needing to spend extra on off-site tours.
💑 Couples & Honeymooners
Consider booking a couples massage at the spa for an extra touch of relaxation. While the resort is family-friendly, the expansive grounds and diverse dining options allow couples to find quieter spots and enjoy their time together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Sprawling Resort
The jungle setting is a major draw, with lush vegetation, winding paths, and the constant presence of local wildlife. You're likely to encounter monkeys, coatis, and various bird species right on the resort grounds. This natural integration is a highlight for many, offering a unique backdrop to your vacation. However, it also means that some areas might feel less manicured and more wild, which is part of its charm but also contributes to the sense of scale.
Dining Experiences: Variety and Expectations
It's advisable to make reservations for the specialty restaurants, particularly during busier periods, to secure your preferred dining times. Some guests have reported inconsistent service in certain dining venues, while others highlight exceptional attention from specific staff members, especially in the Royal Level restaurant. Drinks are included as part of the all-inclusive package, but the quality and availability of premium spirits can vary across different bars and restaurants.
The Royal Level: An Elevated Experience
While the main resort areas are beautiful, some reviews suggest that the Royal Level provides a more consistently high-quality experience, particularly regarding room service and dining. If you're looking for a more pampered stay with dedicated attention, exploring the Royal Level upgrade might be worthwhile, though it comes at a higher price point.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit