Mexican Paradise ~ Ceiba Del Mar Beach & Spa Resort

About a 30-minute drive from the Cancun airport, Ceiba Del Mar is a rather boutique, cozy and highly personalized resort with enthusiastic hospitality. Greeted by an airport shuttle and a Ceiba champagne cocktail once I arrived at the resort, I felt as if I had just walked into my own private slice of paradise.

This resort on the Riviera Maya in Mexico is gorgeous, with breathtaking views, fantastic spa services and high-quality, ocean-view accommodations. I loved the expansive view from my room, my balcony and private sitting area with my own hammock, not to mention the authentic, charming decor.

Ocean views and spectacular food

During my stay I awoke every morning to room service (slid into a special delivery “slot” so it’s there when you awake). I’d sip coffee and watch the sunrise before taking a morning dip in the ocean, so warm it was bath-like. The water felt so amazing that I took a guided snorkeling tour for some breathtaking sights. Oh, and bicycles, snorkel equipment and kayaking are all complimentary.

Part of a getaway experience is the food, and I had probably some of the best fresh grilled fish ever—spectacular. I occasionally indulged in signature Mexican dishes, all part of reveling in the authentic experience.

I wasn’t sure whether to lounge beside the pool or enjoy the shade under the large umbrellas on the beach, so I did both. I’d listen to meditations on my iPod while watching the ocean waves crash just a few yards from my feet. I felt my soul breathe while I felt more at peace than I can recall, and isn’t that what we need on a spa getaway?

Signature chocolate treatment a favorite

At the time of my visit, the spa was offering “unlimited” treatments, which was just incredible. Though “boutique” in size, Ceiba Del Mar offers it all—massage, body treatments, facials, manis and pedis as well as salon services. My favorite, without a doubt, was the signature “chocolate” treatment.

This was made fresh with cocoa beans, honey and milk blended into a bowl—pure and edible (not products)—and then massaged all over your body. (I ate quite a bit from the bowl!) Spa staff are very observant of the Mexican traditions (burning sage or an energy wand to select aromatherapy oils for your specific needs) and their care was from the heart. Ahhh, I am ready to go back!

Ceiba Del Mar Beach & Spa Resort

~ Mary Blackmon, Editor-at-Large, Spas of America

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