The Mahekal Beach Resort is a bungalow retreat among bustling Playa del Carmen—and it recently joined the Air Canada Vacations portfolio as an all-inclusive five-star property.
The name “Mahekal” is a play on ‘mágico’, the Spanish word for “magical,” and the vibes of this beachfront escape truly live up to its name.
“It’s a real different vibe, more low-key and quiet. Playa del Carmen is getting to be a big tourist city, but as soon as you get onto the property, it’s like you’re out in the middle of the jungle,” says Dave Emery, Sales Manager for Canada at Krystal Hotels & Resorts.
With Cancun International Airport an hour to the north, the new Tulum International Airport an hour to the south, and a future Mayan Train station just 15 minutes away, Mahekal Beach Resort is easily accessible, yet feels like a world apart. The resort’s allure lies in its ability to cater to travellers who appreciate a quiet retreat while keeping Playa del Carmen’s shopping, dining, and nightlife within arm’s reach.
“High-End Rustic” With a Side of Mayan Magic
Set across 7.7 hectares of lush, tropical terrain, Mahekal Beach Resort feels more like an eco-sanctuary than a traditional resort, with outdoor pathways and lush gardens winding through the property. Unlike the typical high-rise hotels and resorts often found in Mexico, this resort offers a charming alternative with 195 one, two, and three-story bungalows where thatched roofs, local décor, and traditional materials evoke the heritage of the Mayan culture.
“I call it high-end rustic,” says Emery. “When you look at the pictures of the rooms, they are very nicely furnished, but they have a rustic feel.”
A notable aspect is that some rooms don’t have TVs in them—by design. This is to encourage guests to indulge in an unplugged, carefree retreat (although free Wi-Fi is provided in case your clients need to stay connected).
Guest rooms are equipped with organic, Mayan-inspired premium bath amenities and insect repellant. Wood accents, wicker furniture, natural materials, and earthy tones and textures create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Accommodations range from intimate guest rooms to more luxurious options like the Ocean View Palapa King, a spacious retreat featuring a terrace with hammocks, a walk-in shower, and plenty of modern comforts. This room category is also conveniently located near the pools, restaurants, and lobby, and just a short stroll from the palm-lined beach. For families or larger groups, connecting rooms and haciendas offer flexible options.
Adult-Friendly Atmosphere at a Family-Friendly Price
Although Mahekal is an all-ages resort, it carries a laid-back, adult-friendly vibe without having the restriction of being an adults-only property.
“There is no kids club on property, so it isn’t really set up for kids—because of that, it tends to cater more towards adults. When I’ve been there, I haven’t seen many families,” Emery says.
One advantage of not being an official adults-only property is that Mahekal offers a similar adults-only experience at a more affordable price, as dedicated adults-only properties often come at a premium price point.
“Being categorized as a five-star resort by Air Canada Vacations and not having a kids club, that tends towards being an adults-only property, except it’s not quite adult-only,” Emery notes.
The Longest Stretch of Pristine Sand
If your clients are there for the beach, they’re in luck—Mahekal Beach Resort sits on the longest stretch of sand in Playa del Carmen. Shaded by thatched umbrellas and cozy cabanas, it’s an idyllic setting for unwinding, with attentive staff ready to serve refreshing cocktails and light bites. For those who prefer poolside relaxation, the property features four distinct swimming pools, from an infinity-edge pool to a lively lagoon pool with a full-service bar.
A fitness centre and the Revive Spa provide spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation, while wellness classes by FitBodies add that extra spark. For evenings under the stars, the beachside bonfire is a hip gathering spot as the ocean hums in the background.
The property’s natural setting is home to over 70 animal species and more than 100 plant varieties, creating an immersive experience of the region’s ecosystem.
Beyond the resort, the Playa del Carmen’s famed 5th Avenue is half a block away, and the wider Riviera Maya region beckons with archaeological sites, cenotes, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and more adventurous pursuits like zip-lining and aerial excursions.
Culinary Experiences Rooted in Mayan Tradition
Food is a cornerstone of the Mahekal experience, as traditional Mayan elements are woven into the cuisine and balmy open-air restaurants capture the essence of a tropical vacation.
The resort has three restaurants, four bars, and even an ice cream parlour offering something for every palate. Here’s a look at the restaurant options:
Casita Maya: An interactive culinary journey through Mayan traditions, showcasing ancient techniques and ingredients in a tropical rustic ambiance. This is an interactive and exclusive dining experience, with reservations required.
Fuego Restaurant y Cantina: The signature dining spot overlooking the ocean and beach, where the menu offers global flavours with a Mexican twist.
Las Olas: Poolside dining at its finest, serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner alongside panoramic ocean views. Daily Happy Hour at Las Olas is a highlight, where frozen margaritas overlook the infinity pool.
Through Air Canada Vacations, your clients enjoy all the comforts of an all-inclusive vacation experience.
A Sparkling New Addition
With Mahekal Beach Resort now included in Air Canada Vacations’ Mexico resort collection, travel agents have a simplified way to secure this property for their clients.
“I’ve been promoting Mahekal and taking agents there on FAMs for several years, but it’s so much easier for our travel agents to book things through the tour operators like Air Canada Vacations that they’re already working with,” notes Emery.
“Because of things like transfers, everything being included, being able to see the bottom-line price, commissions coming in regularly—all of those things make it easier than booking direct with a small, independent resort.”
The resort also comes with exclusive guest perks through Air Canada Vacations, which include a welcome cocktail, a 20% discount on Revive Spa, a 20% discount on a lobster dinner, and early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability) through 31OCT, 2025.
The Krystal Kash agent incentive program sweetens the booking process, allowing agents to earn an Amazon gift card in addition to their commission when they book Krystal Hotels & Resorts.
