Park Royal Cancun

Smaller than many of the mega-resorts in Cancun, this all-inclusive hotel is situated in just two eight-story pyramid-shaped buildings. Thankfully, this means that guests don't have to walk too far to reach dining, activities, and the pool. It also means that -- when there isn't ongoing construction -- the hotel stays a bit quieter than its party-hard neighbors up and and down the coast of Cancun. From a style perspective, there isn't much to say -- the hotel is plain and, depending on where guests find themselves, it can feel modern or dated. Salmon- and yellow-colored leather sofas provide places for guests to sit in the more contemporary lounge area, while the rooms and pool area are a bit more downmarket. Additionally, maintenance complaints aren't entirely unheard of, especially involving the elevators. This place isn't fancy, but it has a beautiful beach and enough activities to keep guests entertained. Most of the action takes place around the two pools and on the beach. The hotel draws an equal mix of couples, families, and groups looking for an affordable all-inclusive option in the heart of the action. 

The hotel is located between the beach and the main tourist road, surrounded by all sorts of hotels and resorts. La Isla Shopping Mall can be reached in about seven minutes on foot, as can the Interactive Aquarium Cancun. The ancient ruins of El Rey Zona Arqueologica are about 10 minutes away by car, and Cancun International Airport can be reached in about 25 minutes by car. Those wanting to explore a bit farther afield will find Playa del Carmen, another popular beach town, an hour away. Ferries to Cozumel are available from there. 

Rooms are spacious and simple, with color schemes featuring shades of the Caribbean. Up to four guests can be accommodated in Standard Rooms, and six in suites. A turquoise accent wall and draperies highlight the otherwise mostly white decor. However, the blend of rattan and white wood veneer furniture can't help looking dated, despite more upmarket details like white marble floors and cornflower throws. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, safes, and air-conditioning. Coffeemakers are only available by request, as are irons. Also disappointing is the lack of free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature tiled shower/tub combos, marble countertops, hairdryers, and toiletries, and hand-painted mirrors hanging above the sinks -- one of the few decorative touches. Ambassador Suites are larger and offer two double beds plus a Murphy bed to accommodate up to six guests. A separate living and dining area features a sofa and dining table. Presidential Suites are the largest and add a kitchenette plus a balcony or terrace with an outdoor whirlpool. Most rooms are quiet, which is a blessing in Cancun, though there were reports of construction noise throughout 2016.

The hotel's all-inclusive rates include all food and drink, plus activities, taxes, and gratuities. Given the hotel's size, there are just enough places to dine and drink to keep most guests happy, though food gets mixed reviews. La Veranda is the main restaurant, and serves buffet meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, which features a different theme each night. It's a big open space with a mosaic tile wall featuring a tropical scene. The higher-end El Mirador serves Mediterranean fare for dinner nightly. The lobby bar is open around-the-clock and has two flat-screen TVs for entertainment. Seating is in cushy leather sofas or at small tables and chairs. La Suna serves guests at the upper pool, and there's also a swim-up bar. One of the two pools is for adults only, and the other is where the activities take place. One overlooks the sea, and the kids' section has slides and water fountains. Water sports are offered on the Nichupte Lagoon and include snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, paddle boating, and windsurfing -- all non-motorized water sports are part of the all-inclusive rates. Other activities including pool aerobics, beach and pool volleyball, beach soccer, and physical conditioning classes. Kids get their own arts and crafts and games, as well as an outdoor play area. The wide sandy beach is beautiful, and there are lounge chairs and palapas for relaxing on the sand. The fitness center has a variety of cardio and weight-training equipment, and is well-liked by previous guests, but requires a fee. Wi-Fi is not free, as well. While there is no spa, in-room treatments can be arranged.