Best Hotels in Cancun: Kempinski Hotel Cancun Review

The Kempinski Hotel Cancun is one of the most iconic Cancun hotels. In fact, it was one of the very first Cancun resorts I ever visited when I first went to the destination in 2009. Back then, it was actually the Ritz-Carlton Cancun — the first in Mexico, believe it or not. But recently it has changed management and is now the first Kempinski flag in continental North America. 

Devotees to the Ritz-Carlton may be wondering what this Cancun resort is like now that it is a Kempinski. I am here to report that the Cancun hotel you love is still here, and has been slightly upgraded for an even better experience. Yes, the Kempinski Hotel Cancun is alive and well, and it is thriving.

I would recommend this resort to people who are looking for an elegant (but approachable) beach experience. Keep in mind that the Kempinski Hotel Cancun is not the modern, trendy aesthetic that has been so common among beach resorts. You won’t find any hanging wicker egg chairs here. No blonde wood. No gauzy white curtains. It’s all about being stately, refined, and classic. 

The property has been a Mexico institution for 30 years and continues to bring European style to the beaches of Mexico. So if you’re looking to stay in one of the best luxury resorts in Cancun, look no further than Kempinski.

And if you're so inclined to book it for yourself, you can do so right here.

Kempinski Hotel Cancun Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

Cancun Hotels: The Vibe of Kempinski Hotel Cancun

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

The vibe at the Kempinski Hotel Cancun can be summed up in two words: classic elegance. It’s not what you would expect from a beach resort these days — the vibe here will take you back to a more refined, golden age of travel. Think grand staircases, chandeliers, plush carpets, and antiques. It’s a departure from the modern-day aesthetic of clean lines and minimalism. But that’s what makes this property such an icon after three decades.

Kempinski managed to keep the stately elegance that people loved about its former title but has brightened things up with a lighter color palette and fresh paint. Much of the staff has been at the hotel for more than 20 years, which is incredible and a testament to how much they love being a part of the family. New employees are equally excited to be part of such a Cancun icon — and the enthusiasm shows. That makes all the difference to me, sometimes. When there is a positive attitude, a friendliness, and a genuine care to deliver a fantastic hotel experience, it truly changes the game.

Cancun Resorts: The Amenities at Kempinski Hotel Cancun

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

I really loved the amenities here, from the oceanfront pools to the prime stretch of pristine white beachfront. No one can argue that Cancun has the very best beaches in Mexico when it comes to that idyllic Caribbean aesthetic, and the Kempinski Hotel Cancun definitely maximizes its beach asset.

You'll find plenty of chaise lounges and cabanas on the sand, plus tons of seating around the pool. I was partial to the poolside cafe for food, but more on that later. 

Best Hotels in Cancun: The Rooms at Kempinski Hotel Cancun

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

The rooms at Kempinski Hotel Cancun are supremely plush and comfortable. Each room has a balcony and a view of the ocean, as well as Ferragamo toiletries in the marble bathrooms. The beds are extremely comfortable and the room has plenty of outlets, which is a big win for me.

My hot water was a little bit hit-or-miss, but I mentioned it to the front desk and they had it fixed immediately. Again, the furniture is not the “trendy” beach resort furniture you see today. The design is definitely classic versus modern, but it’s all very high quality and undeniably elegant.

Cancun Hotels: The Dining at Kempinski Hotel Cancun

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

I can say with certainty that I ate extremely well at the Kempinski Hotel Cancun. The first meal we had was at Fantino, the fine-dining restaurant. Think lovely piano music, white-glove service, and a refined Mediterranean menu. The filet mignon with gnocchi was incredible — perhaps one of the best meals I’ve had this year.

I also swooned over the Caribe Bar & Grill, which overlooks the beach. The shrimp tacos were so good that I had them two days in a row. Order a spicy margarita, as well. Delicious!

Breakfast was solid. A made-to-order omelet station can make all kinds of eggs, while a Mexican breakfast station whips up tacos and quesadillas. You also have traditional American-style breakfast buffet items like scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, etc. There’s also a Bloody Mary and Mimosa station. 

Cancun Resorts: The Wellness at Kempinski Hotel Cancun

Overall Score: Extremely Memorable

The gym! I loved the gym at Kempinski Hotel Cancun. That’s another area where the new management has outdone itself. The gym is complete with brand-new Life Fitness equipment and it’s all beautiful. As far as machines, it didn’t have as many as I like, but I’m insane and need *all* the machines. It did have a Smith Machine and that’s rare for hotel gyms, so I was very impressed.

The spa is small, but the Signature massage was fantastic, with deep tissue techniques and hot stones. The spa has separate facilities for men and women, including whirlpool tubs and steam rooms. There are also separate relaxation areas where they bundle you up with a warm blanket and it’s all very relaxing and delicious.

Stay at the Kempinski Hotel Cancun

Have I convinced you yet? If you want to book a stay for yourself, you can do so right here. Note that I may earn a small commission if you book through my blog.