Grand Mayan Water — Hotel in Quintana Roo

I chose to stay at the Grand Mayan Water Hotel to be close to my friends who were staying at an all inclusive resort nearby, while avoiding staying at an all inclusive resort.

I'm glad for my choice, as the quiet location and jungle wildlife appealed to me far more than overpriced and under-flavoured food surrounded by screaming children.

The hotel is a secondary business attached to the water-skiing park. There are only eight rooms, along with a rooftop terrace. For the first couple of days, there was only one other guest, who was part of my group. The quiet was amazing. The only day that anyone was using the water park was on the morning that I left.

The rooms are modern and comfortable. I slept well each night. The hot water takes a decent while to make it to the showerhead, but that wasn't a huge concern on the hot and humid days. The wifi was only weak on one day, and I enjoyed sitting in the restaurant area enjoying the climate rather than being in my room (stronger wifi there).

The staff were friendly and accommodating. I didn't eat at the restaurant, but I enjoyed coffee there in my downtime.

One of the staff told me to get up before 7 and go on the roof, as the toucans are often out. He also told me where the spider monkeys could be found.

I spent my free time in the mornings, before my friends were up, taking wildlife photos. I had arrived at the hotel in the heat of the day, and was pleasantly surprised by the birds and iguanas on full display then.

I organised transport from the Cancun Airport ahead of time and used local taxis to get around the area. The front desk was happy to call them when needed.

For the price and quiet, along with the wildlife, you can't beat this location. It would almost be worth booking for birders who had little intention to explore...

Super awesome experience. Everyone on the staff was amazing to work with and very welcoming. The wakeboarding lesson was so fun, and the instruction was excellent - we both stood up and were able to take full laps in the lesson - despite it being our very first time. Really cool & patient instructors that gave us a great first experience. The room was modern, clean, and quiet. Would recommend to anyone nearby looking for a more...

Such a great price for this area, have been searching for somewhere to stay that’s close to JOYA. Local taxi is 300pesos to get to the show. Room is lovely and clean and the staff are really friendly and attentive. I would...