The Ritz-Carlton brand will be making a return to Cancun, though we’ll have to be patient…
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New 131-room Ritz-Carlton coming to Cancun
Marriott has announced plans for the Ritz-Carlton Cancun, Punta Nizuc, to open in 2027. The property is expected to feature 131 hotel rooms plus 126 branded residences, in a project that’s a collaboration with three different Mexican real estate developers (which… this seems like a recipe for drama, so let’s see how it plays out).
As of now, details about the property are limited. The hotel will feature an oceanfront pool complex, a destination spa, and six gourmet restaurants. Beyond that, we just know that it will offer “all the pleasures of one of the world’s most coveted beach destinations, set on an exclusive peninsula that boasts over a private shoreline,” and “guests will enjoy unparalleled ocean views and access to world-class amenities.”
Here’s what’s Marriott’s President of the Caribbean & Latin America, Brian King, had to say about this development:
“Marriott is thrilled to bring The Ritz-Carlton brand back to Cancun, as we continue aiming to meet the growing demand for luxury travel experiences and world-class branded residences. As one of the most important tourist destinations in Mexico and Latin America, Cancun and the Riviera Maya attract nearly 30 million visitors each year, drawn by stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. While this property is conveniently located 10 minutes from the airport, it feels a world away. Punta Nizuc offers an unmatched gateway to the beauty of the Riviera Maya. Cancun’s unique blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and a diverse range of activities—from exploring ancient Mayan ruins to enjoying world-class dining—make it a truly extraordinary destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.”
This marks the return of Ritz-Carlton to Cancun
As many may be aware (and as Ted Cruz can famously attest to), this marks the return of the Ritz-Carlton brand to Cancun. Up until 2022, there was the Ritz-Carlton Cancun, which opened all the way back in 1993. This was a mega-resort, at 373 rooms. So while it often represented a good value in terms of the rates, it was hardly a competitive luxury property, given how the hotel landscape has evolved.
As of 2022, the property was rebranded as the Kempinski Cancun. That was an interesting branding choice, as Kempinski no doubt has more appeal with a European consumer base than a US consumer base (and in fairness, many Europeans travel to Cancun as well).
So while we’ll have to be patient for the new Ritz-Carlton, it definitely sounds like a more modern and boutique property. Well, at least the hotel portion, though with the number of residences, I guess it might still feel like a mega resort.
I’ve gotta say, I can’t help but chuckle a bit at how this project is described, ranging from “world-class,” to “unprecedented,” to “setting a new standard of design and sophistication.” If there’s one thing the Cancun area has no shortage of, it’s solid luxury resorts. Yet every new opening loves to pretend that it’s setting some new standard.
Bottom line
The Ritz-Carlton brand is expected to make a return to Cancun, with the opening of a hotel and residences in 2027. Ritz-Carlton had a property in Cancun up until 2022, but that was rebranded as a Kempinski. I imagine this new property will be significantly more luxurious, though we’ll have to stay tuned to learn more details.
What do you make of plans for the new Ritz-Carlton Cancun?
Another option for Canadian born Raphael Cruz.
That’s an extremely small hotel. The rates are going to have to be sky high to be profitable. Cancun is a very tough market for true luxury because customers are price sensitive and many prefer all-inclusive or timeshares.
Do we know if Marriott is managing or is Marriott licensing Ritz-Carlton?