Mexico

Why Choose Mexico for Your Golf & Spa Holiday

There is nowhere else in the world quite like the Riviera Maya for golf. The courses here aren't set in manufactured resort landscapes — they wind through genuine ancient jungle, where iguanas cross the fairways and ceiba trees form natural cathedral ceilings above some holes. The contrast with the turquoise Caribbean visible from the resort is dramatic, and the combination of lush tropical surroundings with serious championship golf is something no European destination can replicate.

The resorts that anchor the Riviera Maya have been built to match the setting. Playacar Palace's all-inclusive model means that once you arrive, the holiday is entirely taken care of — multiple restaurants, spa, pools and a stretch of Caribbean beach are all part of the package. For golfers who want a long-haul experience that feels genuinely different from European golf travel, Mexico delivers on every level.

The Riviera Maya

Playacar Palace, Playa del Carmen — Set in the heart of the Playacar development just south of Playa del Carmen, Playacar Palace is a five-star all-inclusive resort with direct access to Playacar Golf Club. The Robert von Hagge-designed course plays 18 holes through jungle terrain — wide fairways, strategic bunkering and the kind of scenery that makes post-round conversation inevitably turn to "did you see the iguana on the 7th?" The spa provides a full treatment menu for recovery and relaxation, and the all-inclusive format keeps everything refreshingly simple.

Beyond the resort, the Riviera Maya has some of the most compelling sightseeing in the Americas. The Mayan ruins at Tulum sit on a cliff above the Caribbean — about 90 minutes from Playacar. Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is approximately two and a half hours inland. For those who prefer water, cenotes offer memorable freshwater swimming and snorkelling, and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef runs just offshore from Cozumel.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time for a golf and spa holiday in Mexico?

November to April is the sweet spot on the Riviera Maya — dry season, temperatures in the mid-to-high 20s and low humidity. The shoulder months of May and October offer the same warmth with fewer visitors. July and August are hot and humid, and the Atlantic hurricane season runs June to November, though the Yucatán Peninsula rarely takes a direct hit.

What is the golf like on the Riviera Maya?

The Riviera Maya offers some of the most visually spectacular golf in the world. The Playacar Golf Club, designed by Robert von Hagge, winds through ancient Mayan jungle with resident iguanas and towering tropical vegetation lining the fairways. The combination of pristine playing surfaces, dramatic jungle scenery and the Caribbean coast just beyond makes every round genuinely memorable regardless of your score.

Is Mexico suitable for non-golfers?

Absolutely. The Riviera Maya is one of the world's great beach destinations independently of the golf — the Caribbean coastline, cenotes (natural freshwater sinkholes unique to the Yucatán Peninsula), Mayan ruins at Tulum and Chichen Itza, and reef snorkelling at Cozumel all provide compelling alternatives. Playacar Palace's all-inclusive format means non-golfers have the full resort — multiple pools, restaurants, spa and beach — without needing to plan their day around the course.

How long is the flight from the UK?

Approximately 10–11 hours from London Gatwick or Heathrow to Cancún International Airport. Direct flights operate with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and TUI. Playacar is around 70km south of the airport — transfers take approximately one hour along the coast road.

What does all-inclusive mean at Playacar Palace?

All meals, drinks (including premium spirits and wines), snacks and most activities are included in the room rate. Golf is an additional cost, which we package at competitive rates. The all-inclusive format suits long-haul holidays well — you land, settle in and don't think about your wallet again until you leave.