Key Takeaways
- 2026 promises to be a thrilling year for vacationers as long-awaited new builds and rebrands formally open their doors in Mexico.
- The seven most notable new all-inclusive resorts in Mexico include both luxurious adults-only and all-ages properties, some of the latter featuring sections for both types of travelers.
- The bulk of the openings are concentrated on Mexico’s East Coast with one on the West Coast
New year, new resorts to get excited about and visit! Plans for renovations, expansions, reopenings, and brand-new, ground-up constructions begin months, even years, before doors formally reopen, which means some of these projects have been hotly anticipated by brand (and destination!) fans for quite some time. As far as the team at ALG Vacations® can seer, 2026 is shaping up to be an especially thrilling one for grand new properties. Here are the seven reasons why so far.
UNICO 20º105º Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
New Build! Adults Only
There are only 141 guestrooms built into this spectacular new property, but nearly all of them have ocean views. Even more ubiquitous: “the essence of México Moderno, where vibrant traditions meet contemporary sophistication,” the brand promises, where “local art, masterful craftsmanship, gastronomy, and bold design converge to create an immersive experience that reflects the region’s soul while embracing modern elegance.”
This is no exaggeration. This intimate, boutique escape is designed through the lens of Riviera Nayarit’s diverse spectrum of natural colors, textures, raw materials, and land and seascapes, creating a visual connection to the land while experiences like award-winning chefs and mixologists in four exceptional restaurants using locally sourced ingredients; live music and DJs; and art by the likes of Fidencio Benítez, Ismael Vargas, Sergio Bustamante, and local Wixárika works; connect guests to the culture. Guests start feeling it as soon as then enter, as art installations dominate these welcoming spaces.
For effortless detachment, there’s the ALTO 20º 105º Rooftop infinity-edge pool, bar and lounge, the fitness center, and the Esencia Wellness spa, which features a hydrotherapy circuit, custom beauty products, and luxury treatments with Nayarit-focused ingredients and techniques.
ALGVPro Tip: Make sure to dine at AUGAMADRE, the signature restaurant that offers two-year residencies to top-notch chefs, allowing them to create menus that speak to the time and place. The Local Host can help with that, along with other courtesies ranging from event, cabana, spa, and golf reservations to spa tub preparations, local cooking classes and tastings, and guided trips off-site.
Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya, Mexico
Renovated & Rebranded, Adults Only
Between clusters of mangroves and the Caribbean Sea, this hacienda has been reimagined as its own brand concept, the Royalton Reserve Collection, for its heritage-rooted, living narrative, truly bespoke focus. Originally built as an architect’s passionate tribute to his wife, the spirit of beauty, joy, and discovery finds its way into every corner, in details like a private pier and heliport for arrivals, exclusive open-air saltwater Thalasso pool, a garden-side temazcal, artist Luis Sottil’s works in the Naturalismo Emocional® gallery, and the Hope and Prosperity dragons in the Bonita Piano Bar. Epicurean Moments such as wine tastings and chef-led show cooking in open-air settings create even more magical moments on site, and intuitive, personal service in an effortlessly elegant atmosphere makes sure indulgence begins upon arrival.
As they’ve said, “Guests are invited to connect with nature, culture, and self through transformative wellness rituals, inspired cuisine, and moments of pure stillness beneath the tropical sun. This is a destination for seekers of meaning, beauty, and stories that linger long after the journey ends.”
ALGVPro Tip: Keep an eye out for Cosmo the peacock, the Guardian of Paradise, and Sofia, the property’s cherished macaw that has called the space a sanctuary for many years. Both are part of the soul of La Bonita.
Bahia Principe Grand Tequila, Tulum, Mexico
New Build! Adults Only
Mexican soul is also the inspiration behind this brand-new East Coast property, the latest addition to Bahia Principe’s collection is a tribute to the vivacity of its spirit. A high-energy vibe supported by themed parties, live music, and curated entertainment “designed for 18+ travelers who want a full-tilt experience,” the brand explains, it offers inclusions and access that extends beyond the norm.
First, it introduces unprecedented immersive spaces such as that of La Casita de los Despechados, a “temple of heartbroken madness where love, friendship, and pain turn into a party in a tribute to Mexican culture, flavor, and passion.” With the additional cost, guests are pulled into a world that exists only in this interactive performance dinner, and are served cantina-style snacks and creative cocktails designed to pull deep emotion out of each moment.
Then, there’s the new dynamic lineup of signature themed parties – Zenith, Kitcsh, and Abyss – for vibrant sensory events inspired by the artistic, festive, and nocturnal identities of Mexico and showcasing experiences such as mystical ceremonies and the bohemian spirit of nearby Tulum, vibrant energy of the region’s folk art, and dance nights that range from electronic festivals, neon nights, go-go dancer performances, and spirit-guided freedom.
ALGVPro Tip: Bahia Principe Grand Tequila guests are free to dine at the à la carte restaurants of sister resorts Bahia Principe Grand Tulum and Bahia Principe Grand Coba for a total of 12 restaurants and ten bars to choose from every day. However, our insiders say that the best tacos al pastor are found right on property at the Tequi-Taco area.
Riu Ventura, Cancun, Mexico
New Build! All Ages
Cancun’s Hotel Zone is, to understate it, well-established, making it even bigger news when exclusive ground is broken for new construction. This means this newly opened property in Playa Delfines is a must-go for those who want the most modern experience this legendary destination can provide, as this 700-room family-friendly all-inclusive resort has been built to the most contemporary standards.
For instance, it fulfills a high value demand with Friends & Family rooms that have up to three beds and a sofa bed, which is perfect for friend getaways and those traveling with two or more children or teens. And there are even pools and events for each of these groups: access to the famous RIU Pool Party events at Riu Caribe (transportation included!) and the adults-only Sky View pool and bar on the 6th floor or a splash pool and playground for little ones, plus main pools where young vacationers are more than welcome. And if that’s not enough pool, there are also 36 swim-up rooms, a new ocean view or oceanfront category that offers breathtaking views and direct access to private swim space.
The food and beverage options here are also optimized for today’s traveler, with eight culinary destinations that range from the brand’s new American Country concept to fine dining at Kulinarium or the steakhouse. Plus, Riu Ventura guests can visit Riu Caribe and Riu Dunamar during the day for lunch, pool, beach, spa, and gym access.
ALGVPro Tip: If planning to take advantage of the RIU Party options at nearby sister resorts, check the schedule first to see what themes overlap with the stay to really get in the spirit. There’s a White Party, Jungle Party, Pink Party, and Neon Party every week, and with four themes, guests are practically guaranteed to be able to attend at least one!
Secrets® Mirabel Cancun Resort & Spa, Cancun, Mexico
Renovated & Rebranded; Adults Only
Just 13 minutes from the airport in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupté Lagoon, the former Now Emerald Cancun has been recreated and elevated into an Unlimited-Luxury® property surpassing the already high standards for the Secrets® Resorts & Spas brand.
Its 487 rooms and suits now blend tropical minimalism with handcrafted décor, modern furnishings, and natural textures that reflects its surroundings. In fact, the barriers between inside and outside are blurred as, in some categories, king beds face the expansive furnished terraces just outside and public spaces spotlight the sea. Plus, the Preferred Club adds a private oceanfront lounge, rooftop Sky Bar and infinity pool, and options like swim-out or plunge pool perks to their stay. Above that, expansive, multi-bedroom Presidential and Penthouse create even higher levels of luxury.
Elevated culinary experiences such as an Asian restaurant, steakhouse, and private cellar experiences with a private chef add to the possibilities, and the full-service spa with state-of-the-art equipment and exclusive Mayan-inspired therapies designed just for Secrets Mirabel make this even more of a full reimagining of this prime location space.
ALGVPro Tip: Pack for casual elegance to dine at Blue Water steakhouse, which offers dry-aged cuts, and the signature Secrets French, Mexican, and Asian restaurant experiences. Poolside lunch, the 24-hour coffee and snack bar, and buffet are all casual, with the Preferred Club Mediterranean restaurant also casual by day.
Majestic Mirage Costa Mujeres, Cancun, Mexico
New Build! All Ages & Adults Only
Choose from two specialized sections of this new resort: the Family Club or Mirage Club for those 18 and up. Both are all Club-level accommodations, and all rooms at this premium property are suites that measure over 1,000 square feet. This means all guests get their own dedicated butler, concierge services, 24-hour room service, and enhanced in-room amenities, such as sparkling wine, pillow menus, aromatherapy options, and more. Swim-ups and oceanfront plunge pools make staying in tempting, but common amenities that go above and beyond lure everyone out to the rest of the resort.
For example, a premium all-inclusive dining and beverage program offers access to top-shelf drinks across the property, no upcharges for gourmet items like lobster and imported beef at restaurants that include focuses on Indian, Argentinian, steakhouse, and Japanese flavors, and an adults-only restaurant that features a live pianist nightly. Less formally, a sports lounge, coffee shop with patio seating, international buffet, and more make it top of the line.
Also for all ages, a water park divided into three distinct zones tailored for adults, teenagers, and children, plus complimentary bowling that’s open to all age groups. Kids and teens clubs are also fully operational here, making it a great resort for weddings, which start with free packages for bookings of 15 rooms for stays of 7 nights or 105 room nights. Three gazebos for ceremonies, two dedicated ballrooms, and additional outdoor locations make them easily customizable.
ALGVPro Tip: Complimentary honeymoon or anniversary packages are offered for those who hold their weddings at this resort. But if guests are in the stages of their romance before that, a long list of Majestic Extras are available to make a stay extraordinary, including Marry Me packages, the viral floating breakfast delivery, romantic dinners on the beach, and more.
Ocean Allure Costa Mujeres, Cancun, Mexico
New Build! Adults Only
This just-constructed 599-room resort channels its namesake – an alluring ocean – with décor and amenities inspired by it. For instance, a pool with a surf wave simulator, a lazy river as gentle as the path to an inlet, and soft furnishings the white of the nearby sands. Two infinity pools in the Rooftop Privilege area add swimming/sunbathing options to the mix, along with the long stretch of oceanfront the resort sits on.
Additional Privilege level amenities include butler service, private check-in and -out, a welcome gift, complimentary bottle of wine and treats upon arrival, stocked minibar with a bottle of liquor of the guest’s choice, 24-hour room service, in-room beach towels to start their shore time off with, and Rituals toiletries. There’s also a special lounge for Privilege guests, which houses an à la carte restaurant for three meals daily, an exclusive beach area and pool with Balinese beds and wait service at both. However, most
Most importantly, this resort catering to couples, honeymooners, anniversary trips, and adult friends’ getaways emphasizes a more relaxed (especially if you book services at the Despacio Spa Centre!), less crowded beachfront environment and more exclusive feel than the nearby Cancun Hotel Zone, while offering easy access to the latter, Isla Mujeres, and excursions throughout Riviera Maya.
The Bottom Line
This year promises to be full of opportunities to explore and indulge further for fans of all-inclusive properties, particularly on the east coast of Mexico from Cancun to Tulum, and a big headliner in Riviera Nayarit. As major developments open and refurbishments/rebrands are completed, the bar for value, luxury, and convenience at Mexican resorts continue to be raised.
ALVGPro Tip: For a blast from the past, check out what our picks from last year were! How did you think they stacked up in 2025?
