Sunscape Sabor Cozumel

Guests pull up on a paver-lined driveway under a thatched porte cochere to a partially open-air lobby that overlooks the main pool. The lobby includes low white couches topped with orange and blue cushions. Fish paintings and mosaics line the walls and coffee and cookies are set out so guests can help themselves. Outside, the pool leads to the ocean, and garden grounds are well-maintained and swept. Tropical plants, palm trees, and trimmed hedges look upscale, but the buildings themselves, whitewashed and thatch-roofed, are a bit worn -- probably a combination of age, salt, and relentless Mexican sun. During our visit, the restaurants, lobby, beach, and pools were busy, but never felt crowded or chaotic. The vast majority of guests here are families on vacation who don't leave the resort. Couples are here too, as rates are cheaper than the adult-only hotel next door, Secrets. It's worth noting that guests at Secrets can use the facilities at Sunscape, but guests at Sunscape aren't allowed on the Secrets side of the property, which is more high-end. Past guests have complained about unwanted time-share pitches from staff. 

Sunscape Sabor's isolated location on the southern edge of Cozumel is a blessing for some and a curse for others. On the one hand, the private beach and remote location means quiet and privacy, and on the other hand, it's a 20-minute drive to San Miguel and there's little chance to explore the island without a car. Parking is free and staff is on-hand to assist with valet services.

• Eight-minute drive to Dolphin Discovery Cozumel
• 20-minute drive to San Miguel
• 22-minute drive to Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville
• 26-minute drive to Senor Frog's
• 29-minute drive to Cozumel International Airport

The 218 rooms at Sunscape Sabor are divided into Deluxes and Suites, with views overlooking the pool, gardens, or ocean. Each room has the same decor scheme: tile floors, beige walls, light wood furniture, and a muted color palette. Art can include oil paintings of vibrant beach scenes. Each comes standard with a free refrigerated minibar (though getting it restocked can be a problem), bottled water, flat-screen TV, coffeemaker, and balcony or terrace furnished with cheap white plastic chairs. First floor rooms that overlook the ocean don't have much privacy, as their outdoor areas are basically on the beach. Simple tiled bathrooms include a shower/tub combo. Dispensers and individual bottles of hotel brand toiletries are provided. Some rooms include a wet bar and the Honeymoon Suite has an outdoor jetted tub, which offers zero privacy. The Family Suites clock in at over 1,200 square feet and include a sofa bed, along with a kitchen. Cleanliness isn't an issue here, but the rooms look dated and there are maintenance issues like chipped paint and worn tubs. Wi-Fi is supposedly free, but basically nonexistent in many of the rooms. 

The features truly stand out at Sunscape Sabor. There are two outdoor swimming pools that provide ocean views. One overlooks the lobby, and hosts a variety of fun activities from aerobics to a foam party. The second pool is on the opposite end of the property and is quieter. There are ample metal sun loungers set around both pools, along with the occasional thatch umbrella for shade. Food and drinks services aren't provided at the pool and there isn't a swim-up bar.

Smaller children can make use of supervised activities at the Explorer Club, which provides indoor art activities and toys and an outdoor playground. There's an enormous outdoor trampoline. Older kids can use Core Zone Teens Club for video games, karaoke, and organized socials. Babysitting services can be arranged at reception. 

Parents can utilize the enormous and relaxing spa. Men's and women's locker rooms have a hot tub, steam room, and sauna. There are treatment rooms for couples and singles, plus a relaxation lounge and free tea. A full salon does nails, hairs, and bridal makeup. A chocolate body wrap and sea facial are a few of the more creative treatment options. The spa is quiet and decorated with luxurious elements such as large gemstones. Look for the fish pedicure in the reception area. 

The large fitness center doesn't overlook the ocean, as it's near the front entrance of the hotel. It includes Lifefitness cardio and weight machines, but they're not the newest models. Flat-screen TVs, water, and towels are provided. Just across the hallway are a variety of gift shops that sell everything from sunscreen to cigars. 

There are meeting rooms for rent and Wi-Fi is free in the lobby. Staff can arrange everything from adventure tours to car rentals at the front desk, for an additional cost. 

Cozumel isn't known for it's sandy beaches, but Sunscape has a long private expanse of sand that's set with neat rows of blue sun loungers. Shade is provided under palm trees or the same thatched umbrellas found around the pools. The water is calm and clear enough for snorkeling. Volleyball nets are set up and there's an area where guests can check out kayaks, life preservers, hobies, snorkel equipment, and paddles. A souvenir stand sells necklaces, Mexican blankets, and souvenirs. Just like by the pools, food and beverage service isn't offered on the sand. Guests can sign up for scuba lessons and excursions, for an added cost. Dive trips depart from the on-site pier. 

Drinks, food, and gratuities are all-inclusive 24-hours a day at Sunscape, though what's available and when it's available can be a bit confusing. Reservations are not required, which is a relief. Overall, the food quality is good, but not astounding. There are no limits on how often can guests can eat or how much they can drink. 

Da Mario serves Italian cuisine, but only in the late morning until the early evening. The ambience is relaxed and the focus is on simple pizzas and pasta dishes. El Patio provides Mexican fare for dinner. Men are required to wear long pants. La Cava has a private wine cellar and is available only for private events and parties. 

Portofino is the all-day dining restaurant, for breakfast buffet, lunch, and dinner. A kids' area provides standard chicken nuggets and there are highchairs. There's both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the ocean, plus a private pier that guests can reserve (for an additional cost) for romantic sunset suppers. 

Seaside Grill, next to the main pool, serves casual fare like burgers and nachos. It's open for lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks. 

There are three bars, including two right on the sand, that serve unlimited juice, soda, alcohol, wine, and beers. The booze isn't top quality, but it's decent. Desires Music Lounge, just off the lobby, provides musical entertainment and karaoke. Guests from Secrets often come to Sunscape in the evenings.