Grandest of Getaways

Cancún is often characterized as a spring break destination for college kids because of its hopping nightlife and endless supply of tequila, but the Mexican hotspot boasting paradisiacal beaches with pristine sand and turquoise waters has much to offer travelers in any age bracket. 

For those in search of a luxurious resort with family-friendly pools, an alluring beach and nightlife to spare, The Grand at Moon Palace beckons. The all-inclusive resort has earned the prestigious AAA Four Diamond designation and takes pride in its extensive offerings that include 1,300 guest rooms, 24-hour room service, a contemporary lobby, nine pools, five swim-up bars, a beach club, gymnasium, children’s waterpark, spa, teen lounge and arcade. That’s not all, The Grand at Moon Palace has a chic day club, a nightclub (Unique), Cancún’s first speakeasy (The Library), a glow-in-the-dark mini-golf course and a six-lane bowling alley. There’s also the gorgeous 27-hole golf course designed by none other than Jack Nicklaus. In other words, if you can’t find something to do here, you really aren’t looking.

Of course, there are times when doing nothing is a vacationer’s main goal, and, when that’s the case, you’ll find nirvana here as well. Consider stretching out on a chaise beneath a beach umbrella while listening to the gentle lapping of waves or luxuriating in one of the spacious and stylish guest rooms, which come with plenty of perks. Some offer swim-up suites, some feature whirlpools and many have terraces serving as the ideal venue to relax with a drink in hand.

Those who visit The Grand at Moon Palace would be wise to pack a healthy appetite as the property is known for its extensive array of gourmet restaurants.

Hungry for Italian fare? Follow the alluring aroma to Tavola, a laid-back eatery that will start you off with warm bread rolls followed by a trattoria-style menu. Couples who fancy something more elegant will want to dine at Le Chateau, an adult-only restaurant preparing traditional French dishes like Escargots à la Bourguignonne, Magret de Canard à la Framboise (Duck Breast with Raspberry Gastrique) and Entrecôte Bordelaise. Meat lovers craving a good steak and a casual setting will want to head to JC Steakhouse, known for its extensive selection of meat. Pair your steak with a side order of fries (with truffle mayonnaise) and one of six sauces such as red wine, mushroom and aged mustard, before ending with a decadent slice of cheesecake. You’ll be sure to leave content and ready for a moonlight stroll. The resort spoils diners with the choice of 10 restaurants with varied cuisines like Mexican, Japanese, Peruvian and Lebanese. All-day dining includes brick-oven pizza, sweet treats and gourmet snacks.

One can easily make a visit to The Grand at Moon Palace all about the diverse and delicious meals, but for those willing to schedule some well-worth time beyond the superb cuisine, here are some not-to-miss suggestions: 

Time For You:

Treat yourself to serious pampering at Awe Spa. With 64 treatment rooms, two Golden Suites, VIP and hydrotherapy facilities that include hot and cold plunge pools, a steam room, sauna and a sensory pool, you’re bound to leave restored and relaxed. The adventure can begin with a cinnamon-infused sauna, followed by a light misting and a full-body shower leading up to a detoxifying session in the starlit steam room. 

Kid Fun:

Direct the kids (actually, they won’t need prompting) to The Playroom, a world of wonder with activities like Neon Mini Golf, a three-floor labyrinth, arcade, bumper cars, laser maze, interactive sports, a mirror maze and bowling alley. 

Cheers!

Settle in for a few hours at The Library, billed as Cancún’s first speakeasy. Inspired by the Prohibition Era in the Roaring ’20s, this adults-only hangout serves craft cocktails reminiscent of the bootlegging days. A hidden entrance adds to the allure.

Explore:

Book a tour to explore the Mayan ruins, go on an off-road adventure in an ATV, visit the nearby bohemian beach town of Tulum or take the family on a luxury sailing experience on a yacht.

Long before you leave, you’ll likely be thinking how grand life is at The Grand at Moon Palace, and, without a doubt, you’ll already find yourself dreaming about returning. 

The Grand at Moon Palace is located at Chetumal KM 36.5, Riviera Maya, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico. For more information, call 800-817-1792 or visit thegrand.moonpalace.com.