A recent study conducted by Destination Pickleball called 300 hotels and resorts in Cancun, Mexico, to determine the availability of tennis courts and assess traveler quality. The results showed that 3-4 star resorts might run to the latter option, and guests might need to find their own water sources. A minimum of a 4-star resort is recommended, but a 5-star resort will give you a more enjoyable stay.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between resorts and hotels, how star ratings work, and provide valuable information for pickleball enthusiasts looking for the perfect vacation spot in Cancun.
Resort vs. Hotel: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the distinction between resorts and hotels in Cancun is crucial for pickleball enthusiasts planning their perfect getaway. Let’s explore what each option offers:
Resorts
- Premium beachfront locations with direct access to Cancun’s pristine Caribbean beaches
- Extensive sports facilities including tennis courts, fitness centers, and water sports
- Multiple dining venues with international cuisine and 24/7 room service
- Comprehensive entertainment including nightly shows, cultural events, and activities
- All-inclusive packages covering meals, premium drinks, and most activities
- Dedicated concierge service for booking tours and arranging transportation
Hotels
- Flexible locations in downtown Cancun, near shopping and business districts
- Basic fitness facilities with potential access to nearby sports venues
- One or two on-site restaurants with room service during set hours
- Simple amenities focusing on comfortable accommodation essentials
- Pay-as-you-go model with optional meal plans available
- Front desk service for basic tourist information and assistance
Demystifying Star Ratings: How Do They Work?
Hotel and resort star ratings are designed to help travelers gauge the quality of accommodations before booking. These ratings range from 1 to 5 stars and are based on factors such as location, facilities, service quality, room size, cleanliness, and amenities.
Finding the Perfect Pickleball Destination in Cancun
When selecting a resort or hotel in Cancun for a pickleball vacation, consider these additional factors:
Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your pickleball vacation. We’ve carefully evaluated over 300 properties in Cancun to bring you this curated list of the best resorts and hotels for pickleball enthusiasts. Our rankings consider factors like court availability, maintenance quality, and overall amenities.
No. | Hotel Name | Star Rating | All-Inclusive | Adults Only |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Turquoise at Hyatt Ziva Cancun – Adults Only | 5.0 | Yes | Yes |
2 | Secrets Marina Beach Rivera Cancun – Adults Only | 5.0 | Yes | Yes |
3 | Hyatt Ziva Cancun | 5.0 | Yes | No |
4 | Moon Palace The Grand Cancun | 5.0 | Yes | No |
5 | Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa – Adults Only | 4.5 | Yes | Yes |
6 | Planet Hollywood Adult Scene Cancun – Adults Only | 4.5 | Yes | Yes |
7 | Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Casino | 4.5 | Yes | No |
8 | Paradisus Cancun | 4.5 | Yes | No |
9 | The Pyramid at Grand Cancun | 4.0 | Yes | No |
Click on any hotel to search for more information
Understanding Pickleball Court Availability in Cancun
When planning your pickleball getaway to Cancun, it’s crucial to understand the different types of court setups you’ll encounter. Through our comprehensive survey of over 300 properties, we’ve identified several distinct categories:
Dedicated Pickleball Courts (5% of Properties)
The cream of the crop – these resorts have invested in purpose-built pickleball courts with proper lines, nets, and surfaces. These courts offer the best playing experience and often come with additional amenities like:
- Professional-grade nets and equipment rental
- Proper court spacing and fencing
- LED lighting for evening play
- On-site instructors and organized games