Banyan Tree Mayakoba – 11 Fun Things to Do
Looking for fun things to do while staying at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba?
Elijah and Karly Cohen contributed to this article.
Nestled along the stunning Caribbean coastline in Playa del Carmen, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is a true oasis of tranquility and luxury. Banyan Tree Mayakoba is a 5-star resort, where local Mexican traditions are blended with Asian culture and serenity.
With its pristine beaches, lush mangroves, and world-class amenities, this exquisite resort offers a remarkable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
My wife and I spent four nights at the resort for our honeymoon and we couldn’t have been more pleased. The privacy provided by our luxurious accommodation along with the peaceful beauty of our surroundings and the top-notch hospitality was exactly what we needed after a busy few weeks of wedding planning.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba – 11 Fun Things to Do
Banyan Tree Mayakoba Resort offers a wide range of activities to ensure unforgettable and diverse experiences for each guest. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration, the resort provides options to suit every preference. And each villa has multiple bicycles at your disposal to ride around the resort.
1. Beach and Water Sports
While we loved our private pool, we wanted to get some beach time in as well. Sands Beach Club is part of the resort, so you can walk, ride your bike, or call a golf cart to get there. Upon arrival, the staff will provide you with a free lounge chair or sunbed if you would like one.
You can order food and drinks from your chair while taking in the music – live bands go on and off throughout the day. Choose from going into the sea or enjoying the infinity pool that looks out on the beach. There is always the option of taking a walk down the beach and passing by the neighboring resorts.
On this walk, you will pass the water sports sign up center where you can book various water activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and paddle boarding. They also have a kids club, called The Rangers Club.
2. Reflections Pool
The resort also has a larger pool in a more central location. This pool has a smaller children’s pool next to it with less seating, while offering a swim up bar.
3. Nature Trail
There is a scenic path that is accessible from the resort. It is peaceful and primarily shaded, weaving through the trees on the grounds (don’t worry – you don’t go deep into the woods and are always near either the road or the golf course).
We enjoyed starting our days with a walk, run, or bike ride along the nature trail path. It is three miles long and offers scenic views and bird sighting opportunities.
4. Spa and Wellness at Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Even though we did not book any spa experiences, we were told that skilled therapists offer a variety of treatments inspired by traditional Asian healing techniques. They offer several massage packages as well as a Rainforest Indulgence hydrothermal therapy experience.
5. Golf
Banyan Tree Mayakoba provides access to the El Camaleón Mayakoba Golf Course, designed by renowned golfer, Greg Norman. We saw the championship golf course from our walks and rides around the resort.
As a golfer, I can say the course was in great shape and I wish I could have played it (figured I shouldn’t be golfing alone during the honeymoon though). The course rates can range from $200-$300 depending on the time of day you choose to play.
6. Free Boat Tour
Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers a complimentary boat tour that runs through the canals of the resort. The tour is 45 minutes in length and is a great way to see other areas and villas/houses on the property. You can book your tour at the front desk.
7. Kayaking
Kayaks are available for rent from the front desk. They are perfect for exploring the canals and lagoons in Mayakoba.
8. Tennis, Sports Facilities and Fitness Center
There are plenty of ways to stay active during your stay at Banyan Tree Mayakoba by taking advantage of the resort’s tennis courts, sports facilities and fitness center. The resort offers four tennis courts and a pickleball court to enjoy with family or friends. Other recreational activities include archery, volleyball or jogging along the resort’s scenic pathways.
9. Ecotours and Nature Explorations
The resort’s location within the Mayakoba nature reserve presents a unique opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty. You can explore the mangrove forests and lagoons through guided boat tours or eco-friendly electric boats. It is a great way to see the diverse flora and fauna and learn about the efforts of the resort in preserving the environment.
10. Cultural Excursions
Banyan Tree Mayakoba also offers cultural excursions for guests to explore the rich history and heritage of the Riviera Maya. The resort can arrange trips to visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum or Chichen Itza. Other cultural experiences can be arranged, such as traditional cooking classes, tequila tastings, or visits to local markets and villages.
11. Cooking Classes and Culinary Experiences
For food enthusiasts, the resort provides cooking classes where you can learn to prepare authentic Mexican dishes under the guidance of skilled chefs. Additionally, the resort hosts special dining events and themed nights, offering guests a chance to savor diverse flavors and indulge in unique culinary experiences.
Where to Stay at Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers an array of luxurious accommodations that combine elegance with a sense of Mexican charm. The resort features private pool villas, each beautifully designed and equipped with modern amenities. These secluded villas provide a sanctuary of serenity, offering a perfect balance of comfort and privacy.
We stayed in a Bliss Pool Villa, and it was perfect for two people. The villa was over 3,000 square feet (including the outdoor portion), and consisted of a king bed, a couch, a minibar, a chair, a desk and chair, a walk-in closet, a private toilet, two-bathroom sinks, a walk-in rain shower, and a large outdoor bathtub.
Outside of the villa, we had views of the lagoon, with a hammock, a large pool (heated to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and able to be adjusted), and two lounge/day beds. There were large sliding doors that opened right to the pool so you could sit inside the villa while dipping your feet in the pool.
Water bottles are provided for no charge and are replenished daily by the housekeeping staff. If you need more water bottles sooner, you can call the front desk and they will quickly bring them to you. We had the staff clear out our mini bar of all alcohol and snacks and load it up with water bottles.
We got a chance to see other types of villas on our adventures around the resort. While the Bliss Pool Villa was perfect for us, there were plenty of larger and even more luxurious options.
There are two- and three-bedrooms villas, with multiple floors, kitchens, and various views. You can opt for an oceanfront view, a lagoon view, or a golf course view. Every option comes with a private pool, so you can’t go wrong.
A week before your stay, you will receive a survey where you can select preferences such as pillow type, room location, and more. The options for location, for example, allowed you to indicate whether you prioritized privacy versus proximity to the restaurants. This was a great feature as it allowed you to personalize your stay.
Where to Eat at Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Banyan Tree Mayakoba is known for its exceptional culinary offerings, with a diverse selection of restaurants and dining venues, including kosher options. Each restaurant delivers a unique gastronomic experience.
We tried most of the restaurants at the resort and enjoyed every one of them. The bill can be expensive, but the entrée sizes are generous, and we were given free appetizers at every meal.
Oriente
For breakfast, we went to Oriente every day. They have 3 options: all you can eat buffet with unlimited mimosas, continental buffet, or a la carte. We ordered a la carte once and were happy with it. Twice we had the all you can eat buffet and were even happier with it (and I’m not a big breakfast guy). The cost was $52 per person, which might seem like a lot, but we felt it was worth it.
The all you can eat buffet options included quesadillas with your choice of cheese, chicken, beef, pork, or veggies. There were plenty of egg options, as well as bagels, breads, donuts, muffins, and other pastries. There were fruits, meat and cheese boards, tortilla chips, salsas, guacamole, and a crepe station.
A variety of fresh juices, smoothies, and unlimited mimosas and bloody Mary’s were also available. With a dish costing $20+ on the a la carte menu, it is easy to make the buffet worth the money.
Cello
Cello is the resort’s Italian restaurant. We got a pasta dish with shrimp and chicken parmigiana, plus a bottle of wine. The food was good, and we had a nice seat looking out to the lagoon. We had no complaints here, but it was the least exciting restaurant in our opinion, which says more about the other restaurants than it does Cello.
Saffron
Saffron, offering Thai cuisine, is the signature restaurant at Banyan Tree Mayakoba. We began our meal with some refreshing cocktails and then got spring rolls, pad Thai, and a chicken curry dish.
It was all delicious and we recommend going to Saffron at least once during your stay. Unfortunately, they had to move the restaurant’s seating indoors due to rain in the forecast that evening, but the restaurant’s normal location offers outdoor seating overlooking the lagoon.
La Copa Mexican Terrace Bar
La Copa is the Mexican bar at the resort. On Saturday nights they host a Mexican night. For $119 per person, you get access to various Mexican food stations that include tacos, quesadillas, chips, salsas, guacamole, steak, chicken, pork, and more, plus desserts.
The cost also includes unlimited margaritas and beers. It is well worth the price given the cost of dinners and drinks at the other restaurants in the resort. There is a mariachi band to provide entertainment and a pinata for the kids.
Ixchel
Ixchel is a dining experience rather than a typical restaurant. We booked a romantic dinner for two on this dinner cruise, which was a sunset cruise around the lagoon. There are two seatings per night (5:30 and 8:00) and reservations must be made in advance.
You can choose your preferred menu (Italian, Thai, or Mexican) and you can make alterations to the menu based on your preferences. Two staff members are on board with you – a captain and a chef/waiter. This was our best meal during our stay and was a nice, romantic way to have a private dinner and take in the nature of the area.
The Ember – Kosher Option
Though we did not dine there, The Ember is Banyan Tree Mayakoba’s Kosher restaurant. Having a restaurant that offers Kosher meals sets this resort apart from many of the others in the area, and we did see a good number of people dining there.
Other Dining Experiences at Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Other dining experiences that are offered but we did not have time to try including Tomahawk Open Fire Latin Grill serving steaks, a Tapas Cruise, Haab serving authentic Mayan cuisine in a jungle-like setting, and an in-villa barbecue.
FAQ – Banyan Tree Mayakoba – Things to Do
What is the dress code at the resort?
All the restaurants are resort casual. Wearing nice shorts, jeans, or pants with any type of sleeved shirt is acceptable.
Is it an all-inclusive?
No, the resort is not all-inclusive. Meals are on the pricey end, with entrees ranging from $30-$50 and drinks priced around $20-$25 for a cocktail and $7-$12 for a beer. Note that a 16% tax is included in all pricing.
How can I get around Banyan Tree Mayakoba?
If you do not want to walk or ride your bicycle around the resort, you can call the concierge to send a golf cart, or a boat if you need to cross the lagoon.
Is Mayakoba a gated community?
Yes, it is a private gated community surrounding 595 acres of beaches, jungles, and lagoons.
What airport do you fly into?
Banyan Tree Mayakoba is located 30-40 minutes from the Cancun airport. Private shuttles are offered to transport you between the airport and the resort. The shuttles are safe and easy to find given the clear instructions provided.
Is the water safe to drink at Banyan Tree Mayakoba?
It is recommended to not drink the tap water at the resort. Bottled water is complimentary, and the staff will bring you water bottles as often as they are needed.
Does Banyan Tree Mayakoba have a loyalty program?
Yes, they are part of the ALL – Accor Live Limitless loyalty program. If you want to earn points on your first stay, make sure to create a loyalty program account before booking your stay and book your stay while logged into your account.
Final Thoughts: Banyan Tree Mayakoba – Fun Things to Do
Is Banyan Tree Mayakoba worth visiting? Definitely!!! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would love to return there. This is where nature’s beauty intertwines with luxurious amenities to create an unforgettable experience.
Our accommodation was incredible and perfect for a relaxing getaway. There was variety in the food offerings, and it was all delicious, and the staff was extremely friendly and welcoming.
While the resort is on the more expensive end, you get what you pay for and more, including plenty of complimentary food and drinks. And there is a guest appreciation night once a week, where you can get free food and drinks and the masseuse offers complimentary massages.
We highly recommend going to Banyan Tree Mayakoba and look forward to further exploring the Banyan Tree resorts.
If you are looking for more ideas on where to go on your honeymoon, I would suggest Queenstown New Zealand. My wife and I spent 3 weeks in New Zealand during January. It was fantastic!
If you would like assistance in planning your trip to Mexico, we would be happy to help. Please refer to our Travel Planning services for further information or send us an email.
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