Renovations Completed
Excellence Riviera Cancun recently wrapped up a major renovation project that touched nearly every aspect of the property. All guest rooms received new beds, linens, curtains, and décor updates. Swim‑up terrace suites were upgraded with double loungers, and 40 two‑story rooftop terrace suites with private plunge pools were added. Earlier enhancements included a new tapas restaurant, sports bar, and coffee shop
What this means: Noise and inconvenience from construction are now in the past. Guests can expect refreshed accommodations and enhanced amenities, perfect for those seeking comfort and luxury.
Guest Feedback: Mixed Reviews
Positive Highlights
Exceptional Service & Amenities: Many TripAdvisor reviews praise standout staff like Salim (front desk) and Omar (concierge) for going above and beyond to accommodate guests
Diverse Dining & Spa: Restaurants such as The Kitchen Table and Magna earn high marks. A well‑equipped gym and the Miilé Spa’s hydrotherapy circuit receive frequent praise
Entertainment & Activities: Evening shows, silent discos, water sports, and fitness options keep guests engaged
Areas of Concern
Seaweed (Sargassum) Accumulation: Guests — including Redditors — continue to report occasional seaweed buildup on the beach, mainly in wetter months like spring and summer. Though daily cleaning helps, some find it detracts from the experience .
Redditor (Jan 26, 2025): “Currently at Excellence Riviera Cancun and the beach is supper disappointing. Lots of seaweed and water is not clear at all”
Inconsistent Service Quality: A few TripAdvisor reviews mention uneven service—some guests felt overlooked or experienced poor handling of room service requests
Room Standard Variations: Some long-time visitors report signs of wear in room furnishings, inconsistent cleaning, and maintenance problems .
Food & Amenities Critiques: A couple of guests lamented mediocre food quality, dry fish dishes, watered‑down drinks, and limited coffee shop desserts .
Health & Safety Watch
Significantly, certain guests have raised health-related issues—particularly concerning food safety. One troubling TripAdvisor review recounts a case of severe food poisoning (salmonella) that required hospitalization, along with dismissive/responsive experiences with staff
While these instances appear isolated, they warrant consideration, especially when planning travel during high‑season dining periods.
Environmental & Promotional Drivers
Sargassum Season
Seaweed accumulation in Caribbean waters is a natural, seasonal phenomenon—often peaking from March to September. Its presence depends heavily on weather and currents. Though resort staff clean the beaches daily, timing your visit during drier months (e.g., November–February) could offer clearer seas .
Promotional Rates
To combat slower bookings amid mixed reviews, Excellence Resorts is currently offering discounts up to 46% for stays through September 30, 2025.
Final Thoughts
Excellence Riviera Cancun is at a turning point. With renovations now complete and many guests still raving about service, spa, food, and entertainment, it retains strong appeal. However, concerns around seaweed, occasional service lapses, and critical health incidents suggest a need for thoughtful guest planning and expectations.
Recommendations
If you’re considering a stay:
Opt for the Excellence Club upgrade, especially for quieter areas, exclusive perks, and better service—highly recommended by frequent guests
Choose travel dates carefully—avoid wet seasons (March–September) to minimize seaweed impact.
Request updated rooms post‑renovation (e.g., the new rooftop plunge suites or updated swim‑up terraces).
Stay vigilant with food safety—especially if you’ll dine at buffets or restaurants during peak periods.
Monitor resort promotions, as current discounts may offer excellent value for upgraded rooms.
Summary
Excellence Riviera Cancun has reinvented itself with a top-to-bottom renovation and continues to deliver luxury experiences, outstanding spa services, and vibrant entertainment.
Still, natural seaweed influx, occasional service inconsistencies, and varying food and health experiences mean it’s a destination best enjoyed when well-prepared and informed. With strategic choices—like booking an upgraded room during low seaweed months—it remains a compelling option for adults seeking an upscale Costa Maya getaway.
