Welcome to Heaven.
This is where you’ll find blue ocean waters, a private beach, palm trees swaying in a gentle breeze, unlimited food and drinks, swim-up rooms on the ground floor, and good ol’ rock music.
Heaven is the adults-only side of Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, an upscale, all-inclusive sprawling resort nestled on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, a little over an hour south of Cancun, not far from Playa del Carmen.
The side for adults and kids is called Hacienda, and while you are free to roam back and forth, many areas of Heaven are strictly for those ages 18 and up, including the pool and several restaurants.
Hard Rock recently unveiled several new luxurious experiences in Heaven, including three new restaurants, poolside cabanas, the swim-up rooms, and a new pool.
I stayed in a deluxe swim-up room, which was 482 square feet and as luxurious as they come. After I arrived, it took only a few minutes for me to open the sliding door to my patio and settle into the hammock hanging outside. Perfection.
Of course, the pool beckoned, too.
Heaven’s pool—aptly named Eden—is surrounded by lounges and cabanas and features a popular swim-up bar.
Although the area is for adults only, it’s far from dull. The music plays, and cheers go up as the staff wades into the pool handing out drinks and shots brought out on a float. There’s a party to be had if guests want, or pure relaxation if that’s the preference.
For those who prefer the sea—which comes up almost to the pool—there are private beaches along the length of the resort, with water areas roped off from the rest of the sea so you can swim or wade safely.
While the endless ocean views are plenty, so are the food options. There are multiple dining locales, from buffets to specialty restaurants spanning steak, Italian, Asian, pizza, and more.
Three of the newest options are located in Heaven. Umo features Mexican Yucatan-inspired fare (try the handmade tortillas!), while Wai features Thai food. Faro is a food hall showcasing various stations with different cuisines, from sushi to Mexican.
Between meals, I often stopped at Cafetto, a quick walk-up cafe with snacks, coffee, and ice cream.
And bars abound, as well.
Of course, Hard Rock doesn’t forget the entertainment and experiences.
The night I visited the Club Heaven nightclub, the new light-up LED floor flashed as people danced. In the lobby, karaoke took place with a live band behind the singer, making it a true rock star experience.
Other resort activities include a spa, an on-site water park (included), golf, laser tag, a bowling alley, and the Hyper X gaming lounge. Some experiences have extra fees.
The resort also held its popular Glocal Food + Wine festival during my stay, which was part of the all-inclusive experience. There were beverage master classes, poolside culinary events, special dinners, and more.
Indeed, Heaven all around.
Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
An all-inclusive experience
Km 72, Carretera Cancun-Chetumal,
Puerto Aventuras, Mexico 77710
+52.984.875.1100