Senses Riviera Maya by Artisan

Senses Riviera Maya is an adult-only boutique that was originally intended to be condos, hence the larger-than-usual rooms and location inside of a private subdivision. This spot is popular with couples for its mostly reclusive and sexy vibe. There are naked statues on the grounds, porn channels on the TVs, and a nude sunbathing area on the rooftop. At first glance, guests usually notice a large abstract sculpture in a water fountain that seems more fitting for a mega resort than a boutique. Instead of a sprawling property, the hotel is one single three-story building where rooms are stacked in rows of 12. There are no grounds, save a narrow infinity pool and small restaurant to the back. Flanked on one side by a condo property and the other by a 2,400-room Iberostar resort, the hotel is usually quiet during the day, but can absorb much of the nightly entertainment noise from the resort next door. 

Though this chic boutique opened in 2015, two years later it's already showing signs of wear. The limestone tile floors betray scuffs, wood laminate furniture is chipping, and fabrics on the couches pucker. Still, the space manages to feel fresh, stylish, and hip. For such an intimate hotel, the wristband requirement seems unnecessary -- though these are made from silk string and not clunky plastic.

Senses Riviera Maya is located in a private subdivision off the main highway, just north of Playa Maroma. There's nothing within walking distance (apart from an Iberostar resort), so it's best to rent a car or take the hotel's free shuttle for the 30-minute drive down to Playa del Carmen. Tulum is over an hour's drive south. Cancun International Airport is 30 minutes north. The local Cirque du Soleil show is a 12-minute drive. 

All 38 rooms here are the same huge size, but each room sports individual decor elements with an overall stylish and modern look that's subtly sexy. For instance, some rooms have black four-poster beds with sheer black curtains hanging from the beams, along with gray chaise loungers and pops of purple in rugs and throw pillows. Limestone tile floors show some wear. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, Bluetooth clock radios, Nespresso machines, 60-inch flat-screens with a decent number of channels in English and a few porn channels,  ironing facilities, and automated window shades.

Kitchenettes in the Master Suite were disabled and had no dishes, pots, or glasses (though we were told these items and amenities are still available on request). Master Suites have a dining room table and a microwave, lightly stocked free minibar, and now-defunct glass stovetop with four burners.

In the middle of the rooms are luxe peekaboo glass bathrooms whose highlights with quadruple-sized rainfall showerheads and separate jetted tubs. Guests will  find L'Occitane products in the bathroom, though there's no bubble bath, dental kits, shoe shine, or vanity kits like in the past. We also found the advertised robes and slippers to be missing.

Each of the units get lots of natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that lead to a private terrace. Out here, guests have great pool and ocean views, a private jetted plunge pool, and a set of loungers. 

As an all-inclusive property, there are tons of excellent freebies included in the rates. There's beach access on two sides of the property, either sharing with a small condo community or large resort, and chairs can be set up on request. A narrow infinity pool overlooks the ocean and has contemporary loungers on the deck. Three Bali-style beds rest on wooden peninsulas over the pool provide places to relax. The open-air restaurant and bar serves drinks along with breakfast, lunch, and dinner -- plus snacks. A few nights have themed menus, and overall the food, while presented well, receives mixed reviews. Drinks are also included, though the selection isn't huge and premium wines cost extra. Free room service is available from morning to late evening. Private dining can be arranged for an extra fee. 

There's a lobby lounge area set up with a few sets of couches and TVs, though is rarely used. This is also where the ATM and small gift shop cases can be found. The 4th floor rooftop area is home four whirlpools separated by a large palapa that was under construction during our visit. One set of whirlpools is located in a nude area. Yoga classes are free. 

The hotel also has in-room massages on request, an on-site rental car service, and free roundtrip transportation to Playa del Carmen (once per day) via an air-conditioned shuttle van. Wi-Fi and parking are included in rates.