Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa

A sprawling property set on pretty beachfront grounds, this adult-only luxury resort is massive with over 500 suites, and offers a dizzying array of features and facilities as well as a lively atmosphere suited to the party-loving crowd. Stylish modern interiors waft between a minimalist look accented by rustic touches (think sleek clean-lined pieces mixed with stone walls and tree trunk seats in the lobby) to trendy spaces with cool decorative tiling and vividly hued accents or fun features like swing chairs. Everything's fresh and modern, with a hip and trendy feel. The grounds are rife with well-tended greenery and soothing water features. The attractive outdoor pools are peppered with chic purple seating, cabanas, and pods, and host to a lively atmosphere throughout the day -- there are even 24/7 DJs at one pool. Those wanting to party will certainly be occupied here, with plenty of events planned each week -- but the buzzy atmosphere is not pervasive enough as to be a problem for those seeking a quiet corner to relax. The resort doesn't require wristbands, which is a plus for those who care about tan lines. 

The resort occupies sprawling beachfront grounds on a stretch of coast dotted with other hotels and resorts. The port town of Puerto Morelos is about a 15-minute drive south, while Cancun and Playa del Carmen are a 40-minute drive north and south, respectively -- but there's not much in the immediate area and most guests tend to stay put at the resort. Area attractions include the Mayan ruins in Tulum (about an hour- and 20-minute drive from here), the Xel-Ha Park (around an hour away), and the Cancun Underwater Museum (40 minutes away). Cancun International Airport is less than a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

Suites here are divided into three categories that suit different needs: Xcelerate Party Zone Suites for those seeking a party atmosphere, the more relaxed Allure Suites, and Xhale Club Suites, which offer a higher level of luxury. The spaces feature fresh, contemporary decor that includes washed wooden floors and a soft neutral color palette accented by purple and pink pillows atop white bedding and white seating. Pale teal accent walls add a dose of soft color behind beds. They're full of natural light thanks to glass doors that slide open onto private furnished balconies or terraces. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, free minibars with Corona and Coke products that are replenished daily, coffee- and tea-making facilities, electronic safes, and free Wi-Fi. 

Sleek, modern bathrooms feature large walk-in marble showers with glass walls that separate them from the bedrooms (privacy curtains are provided). Bathrobes and slippers are provided, as are an array of individual toiletries, including toothpaste.

Xhale Club Suites have whirlpool tubs on their balconies or have direct swim-out access to the pool. These rooms come with extra perks, from personalized check-in/checkout to a private pool, hot tub, and lounge to upgraded minibars and toiletries. 

Features here focus on partying and the sunshine. There are 10 all-inclusive dining options on-site, including six a la carte restaurants (serving a variety of cuisines, such as French, Middle Eastern, Mexican, Italian, and Pan-Asian), as well as a buffet, beachside grill, and a hip cafe. Nine bars provide plenty of drinking options, including a sports bar, nightclub, Champagne bar, and a rooftop lounge. The hotel's all-inclusive plan covers pretty much everything, including a la carte dining, all alcoholic drinks (including top-shelf liquor), 24-hour room service, gratuities, and minibars that are replenished daily.

The lovely grounds include three attractive, heated pools (one of which is an optional topless one), which are surrounded by palm trees, chic loungers, and cabanas, as well as featuring in-water sunbeds and seating pods. Guests also have access to a stretch of beach lined with palapa-shaded loungers -- but note that it's not the greatest in Cancun and there's a lot of seaweed. There are also a couple of hot tubs spread across the property, including a giant whirlpool that fits up to 35 people and is host to afternoon Champagne parties complete with go-go dancers. The resort caters to the party-loving crowd with numerous events throughout the week and 24-hour DJs in the xcelerate Party Zone.

For guests that want to relax, the spa has 14 treatment rooms and offers a wide menu of massages, body wraps, facials, and other treatments -- plus there's a beauty salon. Other wellness features include a fitness center that's open 24/7 and equipped with a good selection of machines. Fitness classes like Pilates, Zumba, and yoga are available daily. A number of outdoor activities are also available on various sports courts, including tennis, beach volleyball, and golf, plus organized classes like dance, aerobics, and water aerobics are offered. 

Wi-Fi is free throughout the resort and there's a small business center with two desktop computers and a printer. Free international calling to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico is provided. The hotel's mobile app allows guests to view the schedules of events, activities, and restaurants at the resort.

Monthly rotating party themes can be found at the resort's website and on their mobile app. Past daily events have included live rock music, circus performers, fire dancers, and magicians. The all-night insomnia party has a live DJ, aerial performances, and live art. Foam parties and go-go dancers go hand-in-hand in the enormous whirlpool and Frisky Fridays bring a sensuality show. Most of the bars, including Fizz Iced Champagne Bar and Wink, are open until 2 a.m. Twenty-hour DJs keep the party going at the xcelerate Party Zone. All-inclusive rates cover premium alcohol and gratuities, with no limits.