AVA Cancun Resort Review: Why This Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Wows Adults Too

Well recognized for its splendid beaches and steamy nightlife, Cancun has evolved beyond its reputation as the country’s party destination. While there are still plenty of options for adventurers who want to let loose, the vibrant city also offers a dazzling selection of all-inclusive resorts that cater to families and travelers who prefer a more holistic and relaxing vacation. Sitting in one of the most biodiverse areas of the country, Cancun is the perfect place to enjoy nature, the sun, and simply the joy of being.

I’ve had the opportunity to experience many of the Caribbean’s best resorts, and I’m not easily impressed, but staying at AVA Cancun Resort was a pleasant surprise, even for me. The hotel, which opened in June 2024, sits on the iconic Zona Hotelera and offers something for everyone. Whether you’re dreaming of a family-friendly all-inclusive that has plenty to entertain your little ones or wish to dance the night away just steps away from your suite, you’re bound to have a great time.

Here is my review of the AVA Cancun Resort and why I think it’s the perfect option for your next Mexican getaway!

Quick Facts About AVA Cancun Resort

• Available to: The resort welcomes travelers of all ages.

• Rooms: 1,622 rooms, suites, and villas.

• Restaurants: More than 17 restaurants, cafés, and bars (the hotel is often regarded as a foodie destination).

• Pools: Six swimming pools in total, including one adults-only.

• Location: Just south of Cancun’s Hotel Zone and a 15-minute drive away from Cancun International Airport.

• When to go: For warm, dry weather and low chances of hurricanes, plan your vacation between November and March. Avoid late spring and summer, since that’s when seaweed tends to be more prevalent.

• Who is it best suited for: The five-star hotel is geared towards families – there are plenty of kid-friendly amenities and activities available. But even if you’re traveling with your friends or boo, you’ll have a great time. Don’t let the family-friendly label fool you – AVA’s elevated dining, stylish design, and adults-only spaces make it an amazing pick for grown-up getaways too.

  
  

Atmosphere

There are plenty of hotels in Cancun that embrace subtlety. We’ve all seen it – soft color palettes, a chill vibe that lets guests unwind, and music that blends seamlessly into the background. But AVA Cancun Resort is the opposite (in the best way possible). This five-star resort is designed to be a showstopper. After all, there’s nothing subtle about 1,622 rooms and an artificial lagoon the size of a stadium.

As you’ll quickly learn, everything at AVA is grand (and beautiful). That’s also something you should keep in mind when thinking about vacationing here. Guests with mobility issues may find the long layout challenging to navigate.

While there is no official adults-only section in the resort, AVA is divided into two sides: North and South. Families tend to gravitate toward the North side, where the Kids Club, Teens Club, and daily entertainment provide plenty of excitement. The South side, meanwhile, offers a more elevated atmosphere with adults-only restaurants, stylish bars, and the resort’s lively nightclub. I loved being able to experience both atmospheres without leaving the property.

Accommodations

What’s better than waking up to the sound of the ocean? The five-star resort includes 1,622 rooms, all of which are oceanfront and offer breathtaking views of the Mexican Caribbean’s turquoise waters. Rooms at AVA Cancun are designed in a palette of soft neutrals and nautical blues, and all feature maritime-inspired details.

During my week at the five-star resort, I stayed in an Oceanfront King and absolutely loved it! Airy, elegant, and perfectly designed for unwinding after a long day in the sun, it really exceeded our expectations. The highlight of the suite was its bathtub on the balcony. The hotel even provides guests with bubble bath and bath salts – small details like these make the stay that much more special.

When traveling with friends or family, the Penthouse Suite is the ultimate splurge. It features two bedrooms (one king and two queens), a spacious living and dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a beautiful terrace with a plunge pool and loungers (perfect for lazy afternoons in the sun).

Restaurants and Bars

For many people, family-friendly resorts are associated with long lines at the breakfast buffet and brightly colored plastic slides. But AVA Cancun Resort is nothing like this! The hotel understands that a good meal is more than fuel. It’s an experience! 

When vacationing here, you don’t have to compromise on flavor or skills. Over the course of my visit, I tried over 10 restaurants, and every meal was a 10/10 (including room service). Here are some of my favorite picks.

Veranda: Craving a little taste of La Dolce Vita? Veranda serves incredible Italian food (and could definitely receive an award for its exceptional service). Make sure to try the sea bass and beef carpaccio.

The Butcher: A new steakhouse on property, we didn’t get to try it, but it’s said to rival Black Iron – so come hungry!

Copal: My absolute favorite. Copal serves elevated Mexican comfort food – think chicken enchiladas, melted cheese with chorizo, and birria quesadillas that hit the spot. Don’t skip the Copal Taco Stand for authentic street-style tacos!

Black Iron: A meat lover’s dream! The ribeye, creamed spinach, and bone marrow were perfection. Black Iron is ideal for a hearty, indulgent dinner.

Livo (Mediterranean): When craving Mediterranean, come to Livo! The appetizers, especially the borek and rakakat jibneh, were crispy and delicious, though the mains didn’t wow as much as those at other spots.

Kita (Teppanyaki): Dinner and a show! Kita’s interactive teppanyaki tables make it one of the most in-demand restaurants on the property. Even though I didn’t make it this time, it’s clearly a guest favorite.

Chez Moi (Adults-Only): My top pick for date night. From the cozy, Parisian-inspired décor to the French Onion Soup, Beef Wellington, and heavenly Crème Brûlée, every detail here is well thought out. Elegant, romantic, and worth dressing up for.

BAO (Adults-Only): BAO serves everything from sushi platters and bao buns to fried chicken with sweet-and-spicy sauce. Pair it with one of their signature cocktails – you’ll want to try everything.

Plaza MX & Food District (Buffets): The resort’s two main buffets are great for casual dining. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily, with a rotating menu that keeps things interesting. 

Konos Ice Cream: The north side serves frozen yogurt while the south side scoops up creamy, homemade gelato. I loved the gelato – it’s dangerously good.

Pool Eats: One of my favorite midday treats was grabbing beef empanadas, nachos, or a freshly made pizza by the pool and pairing it with a cocktail for the ultimate lazy afternoon.

Our Tip: Don’t miss the cocktails! Every restaurant has its own specialty menu, and every one I tried was just as impressive as the food.

Bars

Looking for the best spots in Cancun for a drink? You might just find them at AVA Cancun Resort.

Dez Nightclub: The ultimate late-night destination featuring live DJs, special events, and next-level cocktails. If you’re looking to dance the night away, this is where the energy peaks.

Digit Bar: A sleek, art-inspired lounge that showcases rotating digital works by global creators. Go there for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap (or karaoke!).

CJ Cantina by Casa Jugadores: This lively Mexican-style cantina offers tequila and mixology classes at 5 PM – ideal for anyone who loves a hands-on cocktail experience.

The Cocktail Bar: Stylish and energetic, the Cocktail Bar easily has the best atmosphere on the property. Expect amazing cocktails (try the Gold Bee – it was my favorite) and live music!

Amenities and Experiences

Staying in AVA Cancun Resort is all about experiences. In fact, it’s easier to list the activities you can’t do than those you can. The resort offers guests access to a championship-level course. Want to show off your bowling talent to your friends? Challenge your buddies to a game at the Alley. Prefer a little more adrenaline? Take on an F1 simulator or battle it out in a thrilling laser tag arena! As you can see, the options are endless.

The biggest highlight of the resort’s offerings is undoubtedly its massive 66,000-square-foot spa, which features hydrotherapy circuits, a beauty salon and barbershop, several treatment rooms, and even a two-floor fitness center. Although access to the hydrotherapy circuit comes at an additional cost, it’s worth every penny. After a long day of exploring, guests can unwind in the steam room, sauna, sensory shower, or mixed-use immersive experience pool.

Our Tip: Create your own exfoliating scrub during your treatment for a personal touch, or go all out with the AVA Signature Suite, a private spa room featuring its own sauna, steam room, and mini pool (both available at an additional cost).

Other exciting activities and experiences to try:

• Test your balance on the inflatable obstacle course at AVA Bay

• Channel your inner detective in the resort’s escape room experience

• Take part in a tequila tasting or mixology class and master a few cocktail tricks

• Paddleboard or kayak across the calm turquoise waters of AVA Bay

• Wind down with a peaceful yoga class

While the beach itself isn’t ideal for swimming – red flags and occasional algae can limit access – the resort’s stunning saltwater lagoon more than makes up for it, offering a safe and scenic alternative for a refreshing dip.

Weddings and Events

White-sand beaches, incredible food, turquoise waters – Cancun ticks all the boxes as the perfect destination wedding spot. If you’re thinking about celebrating your special day in the Mexican city, AVA Cancun Resort has many options.

Couples can choose from seven ocean-facing terraces for ceremonies and receptions (each with postcard-worthy views of blue waters), along with a ballroom available as a rainy-day backup. Note that beach weddings aren’t permitted – but the oceanfront settings are every bit as breathtaking.

In Summary: AVA Cancun Resort Review

Family-friendly resorts sometimes get a bad rep, but AVA Cancun Resort proves that you can travel with kids and still enjoy a premium, five-star experience. Don’t let its family-friendly title discourage you – AVA is just as perfect for couples, girls’ getaways, or a fun trip with friends. With gorgeous accommodations, elevated dining, stunning design, and next-level hospitality, it’s the kind of resort you’ll want to come back to again and again.

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If you’re dreaming of luxury suites, amazing food, and awe-inspiring ocean views, the AVA Cancun Resort is the place to be. Get in touch with our expert planners at Travel Queen LLC –  we’ll help you plan your perfect Mexican getaway!

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