Ever find yourself daydreaming about a vacation where the only sounds you hear are the gentle lapping of waves and a perfectly shaken martini? If so, it might be time to put El Dorado Royale on your travel list. Nestled along the sun-drenched shores of the Riviera Maya, this all-inclusive, adults-only resort is a haven for couples and friends seeking a sophisticated and serene escape. It’s more than just a hotel; it’s an entire experience designed for romance, relaxation, and above all, exceptional dining.
This is a deep dive into what makes El Dorado Royale a standout choice for an unforgettable getaway.
The “Gourmet Inclusive®” Difference
What sets El Dorado Royale apart from a standard all-inclusive resort is its commitment to the “Gourmet Inclusive®” concept. This isn’t your typical buffet-style vacation. Instead, every meal is treated as a culinary event. With a focus on quality, fresh ingredients, and artful presentation, dining becomes a highlight of your stay. The resort even has its own 76,000 sq. ft. hydroponic greenhouse to ensure the vegetables and herbs used in the kitchens are as fresh and sustainable as possible.
You’ll find an impressive selection of 9 à la carte restaurants, each offering a distinct and delicious experience. From the authentic Mexican flavors at Rincón Mexicano to the fresh Caribbean seafood at the beachfront JoJo’s, there’s a world of cuisine to explore. For a truly unique night out, the Fuentes Culinary Theatre offers a five-course meal where dinner is a choreographed show, complete with a sommelier providing expert wine pairings.
Accommodations Designed for Two
The luxurious accommodations at El Dorado Royale are crafted with romance and comfort in mind. With over 470 suites, there’s a perfect room for every couple, but what they all have in common is an in-suite whirlpool tub for two and a private terrace or balcony, often with a hammock for lazy afternoons.
For those who want to be steps from the sand, the Beachfront Junior Suites offer breathtaking ocean views and easy access to the Caribbean Sea. If you prefer to be closer to the action (or just a cocktail), a Swim-Up Junior Suite is a fantastic choice, providing direct access to a lazy river or pool right from your private terrace. For a truly elevated experience, the Premier Suites are a newly renovated option with modern décor and updated amenities, ensuring your stay is as stylish as it is comfortable.
Endless Activities (or Perfectly Zen Nothing)
One of the great things about El Dorado Royale is that you can be as active or as relaxed as you wish. If you’re a couple who loves to stay busy, the resort offers an extensive list of complimentary activities:
- Water sports: Kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding are all available.
- Fitness and Wellness: Enjoy yoga on the beach, spinning classes, CrossFit, or a run on the weekly 5K route through the resort’s beautiful grounds.
- Unique Experiences: Take a guided bike tour, learn some Spanish, or even get hands-on with a cooking class.
For those who simply want to de-stress, the resort’s 12 pools offer plenty of opportunities. You’ll find main pools with swim-up bars for socializing, quieter pools for peaceful sunbathing, and even a natural saltwater pool. The beach is lined with romantic Bali beds and beach waiters ready to bring you a cold drink. And for the ultimate indulgence, the on-site Náay Spa offers everything from detoxifying mud massages to the signature Beachfront Sky Massage, where you can unwind under the Riviera Maya sky.
The Best of Both Worlds: Access to Sister Resorts
A stay at El Dorado Royale grants you full access to the amenities and dining options at the neighboring El Dorado Casitas Royale and Generations Riviera Maya. This means you can venture over for dinner at a different restaurant, explore new pools, and essentially enjoy the services of three resorts for the price of one.
Summary
El Dorado Royale is the embodiment of a five-star, all-inclusive, adults-only vacation. It strikes a perfect balance between vibrant activity and tranquil relaxation, all while delivering a gourmet experience that elevates it far beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a well-deserved escape, this resort provides the perfect backdrop for making lasting memories with the one you love. It’s a place where every detail is taken care of, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying a beautiful slice of paradise.
Our Experience
We stayed for a week at this resort in 2021. This is a sprawling resort consisting of 3 different resorts within the El Dorado Riviera Maya complex. If you want to spend time in adults-only sections, choose Royale or Casitas Royale. For a family-friendly resort, book at Generations Riviera Maya. The Royale pools included both lively and relaxing great at Royale, so you can stay entertained there. The lazy river is really nice, but it is family-friendly so you will likely encounter kids splashing around.
Royale is the resort with the most restaurants, and so we only traveled to Generations for Jade restaurant which serves Pan-Asian dishes. The food was very good and the facilities were well maintained. Even though the resort is sprawling, they provide shuttles that constantly circulate making getting from Royale to Generations quite easy.
