Hotel of the Week: Explore a Beachfront Riviera Maya Retreat Where Barefoot Elegance Reigns

At Maroma, a Belmond Hotel, local craftsmanship and Mayan tradition merge with graceful interiors by Tara Bernerd & Partners

Cozy living room with elegant decor featuring wood furniture, woven wall art, and ocean view from patio.
Primary suite sitting area at Maroma, Maya Riviera. Photo: William Jess Laird

Sugar-white beaches and glinting turquoise seas may be enough to lure most to Mexico’s Riviera Maya, but Maroma, a Belmond Hotel, goes further by translating the character of the region into barefoot elegance. After undergoing a two-year renovation, the property, which feels like a lavish hacienda with its white stucco turrets and palapa rooflines, is embedded with authentic Mexican culture.

Designer Tara Bernerd drew from local artisans to fill the dreamy, neutral envelope with handwoven textiles from the states of Chiapas and Oaxaca, hand-painted clay tiles from Puebla, and decorated terra-cotta tiles from Guadalajara. The cuisine is just as transportive with quesadillas hot off the comal, a multitude of fresh ceviches, and chocolate cake rich with black mole. Another favorite local ingredient is honey from the Melipona bee; it plays a key role in the signature margarita and a decadent wellness ritual at the Guerlain spa.

See more photos below. 

Cozy bedroom with patterned floor, wooden accents, and a ceiling fan, featuring a bed with decorative pillows and a stylish headboard.
One of the guest rooms at Maroma. Photo: William Jess Laird
Beachfront restaurant interior with wooden ceiling, wicker chairs, and ocean view through large windows.
Photo: William Jess Laird
Tropical resort pool area with sun loungers and umbrellas surrounded by palm trees in warm evening light.
Photo: William Jess Laird
Pathway with water feature surrounded by lush greenery and tall trees leading to a wooden structure in a tropical setting.
Photo: William Jess Laird
Elegant boutique interior with wooden shelves and a stone table displaying beauty products, warm natural lighting.
Photo: William Jess Laird
Rustic kitchen with a large stone island, green cabinets, and unique pendant lights, featuring a vintage-style copper distiller.
Photo: William Jess Laird
Outdoor dining area with wooden tables and chairs under a pergola, overlooking a calm beach with clear skies and ocean view.
Photo: William Jess Laird

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2023 Collectors Issue under the headline “Pride of Place.” Subscribe to the magazine.