Thinking about staying at the Moon Palace hotel, but need an honest review?
I’ve stayed and worked in 100’s of all-inclusive hotels over the years.
You’ll like this review if you:
- appreciate sheer honesty
- like being prepared
- want to make the most of your stay
I was lucky enough to spend a few days at the Moon Palace recently.
First was for a girly weekend getaway, and second with my 10-year-old son – so I have 2 perspectives of my stays at the Moon Palace Cancun.
My Moon Palace Review includes:
The Moon Palace Cancun has to be one of the largest resorts in the Riviera Maya and Cancun area.
With over 2000 rooms and 4 complexes, it offers something for everyone.
1. Location and Layout
The quick overview is that the resort is fabulous, but not for beach lovers. Read on for more details…..
The site is enormous! Take the map given to you at time of check-in and familiarize yourself with the layout if you want to take full advantage of what is available.
There are 3 lobbies
- Sunrise
- Nizuc
- The newly re-opened and more luxurious Grand.
When you stay at the Sunrise, Nizuc all services are interchangeable. This means you have access to all restaurants, bars, and services in both resorts.
For those guests staying at the Grand, you have access to all services at the Grand plus the services at the other two resorts.
Only about 10 minutes from the Cancun Airport, the hotel is fabulous for a quick getaway if you don’t want to spend a lot of time on transfers once you arrive.
2. Beach
The Moon Palace property sits along the beach. The beach is long and wide enough, but you need to know that the water offshore is quite dark.
There were very few people swimming (I did not go in either). It is swimmable but far from the typical Caribbean water you would expect.
However, as guests of the Moon Palace, you can visit other Palace resorts in the area.
Transportation is not included, but if you want to spend the day at any of the following sister resorts, you can enter with your existing wristband and use their services and beach.
In Playa del Carmen, you can visit the Playacar Palace which is located on a fabulous stretch of beach.
If you want to take the ferry over to Cozumel, you have access to the Cozumel Palace. This resort has no beach, but there is a lovely dock area where you can swim and snorkeling is close by.
If you prefer to head into Cancun, the Sun Palace and Beach Palace are also available for use and both have great beaches.
If you want a little adults-only time, guests aged 18+ can also visit the Isla Mujeres Palace.
3. Food and Drink
I was very impressed with the range of selection and the quality of the food.
Over 10 restaurants, 24-room service (I always feel like this is a treat!), a coffee/ dessert bar, and snacks galore. There are buffet options as well as a-la-carte restaurants most of which do not require reservations.
The drinks are top-shelf alcohol, and there are at least 8 bars to choose from, from the lobby bars featuring live music to the pool bars with swings where you can enjoy a few drinks.
You have options out the wazoo.
If anyone complains about not having enough to eat or enough options at this resort, I will have a hard time believing them.
4. Rooms
The rooms are great. You can get either a king bed or 2 double beds and all feature a double Jacuzzi.
They all have balconies with varying views.
Mini-bar with liquor dispenser (yeah), coffee maker and 24-hour room service is included, so you never have to leave the room ?.
The square footage of the room is not that big, so families of four may find it a little tight.
The Moon Palace does offer the option for Family Suites, which connect one king-bed room with one room that has two double beds. This is a great option for families that want more living space or have 3 children.
5. Internet
We can’t live without it even when trying to getaway.
Wireless is available and included resort-wide including the rooms. A business center is also available in the Sunrise lobby.
6. The Kids Clubs
KIDS CLUB
The kids club on site is available for your little ones that are aged from 4-12.
Offering activities ranging from arts and crafts to a small movie theatre, the kids will not want to leave.
The Nizuc Playroom is open daily from 10 am until 10 pm and the Sunrise Playroom is open daily from 8 am until 10 pm.
TEENS CLUB
I spent a lot of time here with my son. Located in the Sunrise lobby, the teen lounge has a video game center, a small area for movies, games such as air hockey, pool tables, and foosball.
It also has an arcade and an ice cream parlor. My kid never wanted to leave. Open daily from 9 am until 10 pm.
NIGHT CLUB
Guests 18+ can enjoy the on-site disco. Open 4 days per week from 10 pm through until 3 am, you can dance the night away and drinks are all-inclusive.
7. Activities
Flowrider – Surf Simulator
This awesome addition allows kids and adults to attempt surfing. They also have a boogie board open for those that prefer it. Open daily from 9 am until 6 pm.
Mini-Golf
They have a game of 18-hole mini-golf available as well.
It can get very hot midday, so aim for early morning or late afternoon/evening if you plan on playing.
Equipment is provided. Located between the Sunrise and Nizuc lobbies. Open daily from 8 is until 10 pm.
Swimming Pools
The swimming pools at the Moon Palace are enormous and cover most of the property between the ocean and the buildings.
They have a kids pool area, which includes water slides. Activities such as water aerobics and volleyball take place at various times throughout the day.
You can easily find food and drink close by, but they do have waiter service so you never have to move from your beach chair.
Fitness Centers
Both the Sunrise and Nizuc have fitness centers open daily from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Sports Areas
Tennis and basketball courts are available at both properties. Bicycles are also available at the mini-golf so you can explore the grounds.
Daily Activities & Nightly Entertainment
Activities take place both at the beach and pool areas. Nightly entertainment including live music and shows are varied.
8. Wheelchair Accessibility
Having audited this hotel for accessibility, I can safely say that it is one of the most accessible in the Riviera Maya.
There are ramps for access to every service in the hotel.
They have 16 rooms that have been fully adapted.
Accessible toilets are spread throughout the resort, which makes things easier and the resort is quite large.
The golf cart transport, which is available to guests from the lobby to lobby or to the golf course area/ spa area, has no special adaptation.
9. Resort Credit
The Palace Resorts offer each booking of 3 nights or more resort credit.
The credits can be used towards tours (they do have a selection), spa services, golf and even put towards wedding packages.
All guests have to pay a 16% tax on the total amount of credit used, but in the long run, this amount works out to much less than you would have paid for the services.
As of today, resort credits are allotted in the following amounts:
- 3 night stay $500
- 4 night stay $750
- 5-8 night stay $1500
- 9-11 night stay $2000
and if you stay 12 nights or more you receive $2500 in resort credit.
10. Spa
The Awe Spa is just that! With a wide range of amazing services and a hydrotherapy circuit, it is a great way to wind down and really relax during your getaway.
My secret spot: right outside the spa there is a swimming pool area overlooking the golf course.
It is very quiet and the best place to lounge by the pool if you want to get away from the main pools at the resort. But, this will be our little secret.
There are also two additional a la carte restaurants here: The Italian Trattoria and the Mayan Cuisine.
Reservations are required (see Public Relations), but going here for dinner will almost feel like you are leaving the resort. Well worth a visit.
11. Golf
The Moon Palace also has the infamous 18-hole Moon Palace golf course on its grounds
This course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and is in a 7,165-yard 72-par course. It offers 27 holes and was built in compliance with USGA and PGA regulations.
The gorgeous course includes landscapes typical to the region including jungle, lakes and dunes. Resort credit can be used towards golf green fees.
If you are a golf group, we can help you book a group golf package, where the entirety of your resort credit can be used towards unlimited golf.
12. Weddings and Groups
If you are looking to have a destination wedding, the Moon Palace offers many options for you and your guests.
From free wedding ceremonies to great group discounts and perks.
As mentioned, the resort credit can be used towards your wedding package.
They offer garden, beach and gazebo venues. They even have a horse-drawn carriage and other options you cannot find at other all-inclusive resorts.
We can also help you organize your destination wedding in Playa del Carmen at the Moon Palace.
13. Convention Center
The Moon Palace Convention Center has a surface area of over 140,000 square feet of multi-functional space and can host events with up to 10,000 attendees.
Offering services from audio, lighting, projection, and equipment, this venue is an excellent choice for your corporate event.
The ballrooms have the capacity for up to 3600 people and several smaller breakouts are available in either banquet, school, horseshoe and theater-style events. Catering is available for cocktails, banquets and more.
Being the largest convention center in Cancun and the Riviera Maya, it has been used to host events from Mexico Showcase & Travel Expo to COP 12 and Mainstreaming Biodiversity Expo.
You can also get help organizing your corporate event.
14. Day Passes at Moon Palace
Want to check out the resort for the day? Day passes are available at a cost of $107 per adult and $51 for children. This allows you access to all their services with food and drinks from 7:00 am through until 11:00 pm.
15. Conclusion
2 Things I didn’t like
- This resort offers and pushes timeshare. I do know many people that are happy with their timeshare. However, I know how bothersome it can be when you are walking around a resort and you are constantly being pushed and invited to a presentation/breakfast/ whatever they are trying to call it to get you signed up. Not a deal-breaker, as the resort is great, but you should be aware of it.
- Dolphin swims. We (PlayaDelCarmen.com) don’t promote it. We don’t sell it, ever. Being a leader in the industry, Palace Resorts should think twice about having this facility on-site and promoting this type of activity. There are so many other fun activities to discover without needlessly pushing activities that are morally questionable.
As long as you can forego the ocean swim (which can easily be solved but taking a few excursions or visiting a sister resort), this resort is fabulous. Fantastic food & drink options, a great range of services.
They have really found a way to have enough for every time of vacation: family, singles, weddings and groups, golf and spa vacations….
There are very few resorts in the area that have successfully offered this range of services and maintained excellent quality throughout.
Save on the Moon Palace
Thinking of booking the Moon Palace?
I’m part of a team of agents here at PlayaDelCarmen.com. Get the best prices on this hotel with us!
We’ll help you organize and book your flight, transportation, hotel, and activities + answers all your questions 😉
Reach out to us, toll-free at 888-537-9797 or customercare@playadelcarmen.com.
Hope you enjoyed my review of the Moon Palace Cancun!
Have you stayed at this resort or have questions?
Comment below!
My Moon Palace Review Cancun
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Layout
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Beach
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Food
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Rooms
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Internet
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The Clubs
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Activities
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Wheelchair accessibility
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Resort credit
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Spa
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Golf
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Weddings and Groups
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Convention Centre
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Day Passes
Summary
As long as you can forego the ocean swim (which can easily be solved but taking a few excursions or visiting a sister resort), this resort is fabulous. Fantastic food & drink options, a great range of services.
They have really found a way to have enough for every time of vacation: family, singles, weddings and groups, golf and spa vacations….
There are very few resorts in the area that have successfully offered this range of services and maintained excellent quality throughout.
Comments (229)
Jensays:
July 24, 2017 at 8:31 pmI just booked Moon Palace without reading reviews and now i am upset and second guessing it. Hopefully u can help.
Sarah Barlowsays:
July 25, 2017 at 6:22 amHi Jen,
How can I help? Feel free to email to customercare@playadelcarmen.com and I am happy to try to help you…
Sarah
Juan Carlossays:
July 3, 2018 at 3:56 pmHello,
I will be staying at the Moon Palace next week and would like to know If my family and I can also visit PlayaCar Resort and use the facilities as in Moon Palace.
Sarah Barlowsays:
July 4, 2018 at 10:19 amHello Juan, thank you for reaching out 🙂 yes you can but there is no transportation. If you would require our help getting from one help to another contact me at sarah@playadelcarmen.com and I can give you a quote. Have a wonderful trip.
bboosays:
December 22, 2017 at 8:58 pmHas anyone gotten sick from the water or ice in the drinks?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 8, 2018 at 4:01 pmHola! 🙂 great question, no, the only rare case is when people have mistakingly drunk the tap water. Something which is definitely not recommended in all of Mexico. All of the hotels in the Riviera Maya and Cancun have strict policies on only using bottled water for their guests. Regardless of whether they use it to wash your salad or the ice for your drinks, the water will have been treated or will be bottled. Hope this helps to ease your worries. 🙂
tanyasays:
December 20, 2018 at 1:46 pmDON’T PLAN YOUR WEDDING HERE
The worst place to get married. Do not plan your wedding here. From the start I had a horrible experience. Their event planners do not respond in a timely fashion, they try to nickle and dime your for everything.
The call center folks who pre-plan the wedding could care less about your day. They can take up to a week to respond and do not care if you are getting a service you are paying for. They were the worst part about planning and made my day so negative.
When I got onsite, I didn’t trust anything would be done. Even the day of my wedding I had to double check on a song because I didn’t trust that things were being done properly and thank goodness I did because it was wrong. They even still got my father/daughter song wrong even after I corrected it and had text messages to prove that this was confirmed.
I specifically asked in my planning meetings that the food be warm because all the food on the property especially room service had been served cold. Our food was served cold. I asked to meet with the pre-planning team because the consistently ignored my requests and they didn’t take any responsibility of their wrong doings.
They didn’t meet with me till the day I left and of course they just ignored my emails after when they stated they would let me know what the resolution was. What kind of people just ignore a client who’s upset and is asking to be compensated for all the things that weren’t done properly.
I had to hear it from my on site coordinator who wasn’t even involved in all of this. How disrespectful to your guests to just think you can ignore us and we would go away. How disrespectful to say you fulfilled your contract when it wasn’t and you think you can just get away with it. I have asked for your GM’s contact several times and still am ignored.
I will continue to write these reviews till someone from your hotel takes responsibility for making what should have been an easy and fun day a disaster.
Ladies if you are looking for an easy and fun place to plan your wedding….LOOK ELSEWHERE
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 2, 2019 at 7:16 amHey Tanya,
Thank you so much for reaching out and for all of this new information.
A few things:
We are NOT directly affiliated with the Moon Palace. We are a local travel agency in the Playa del Carmen area and also have a dedicated wedding team. We review hotels and tours like this to give people a well-informed depiction before they book with us.
I am SOOO sorry to hear you had a horrible experience with this hotel. This is why companies like ourselves offer to take the reins on the wedding planning process ESPECIALLY when it comes to communicating with the hotel directly as we understand how frustrating it can be.
I agree when handling the hotel event planners directly it can feel somewhat like you are just a number. However, that is what we are here for. Our dedicated weddings team here at PlayaDelCarmen.Com are passionate about creating bespoke weddings for people like you. We go above and beyond to ensure our customers and clients don’t experience anything like you did. It’s a shame you didn’t find us sooner, but we will always be here in future if you do decide to visit this side of paradise any time in the future. ? We will make sure you have a much better experience all round, I promise.
I will be sure to pass on all of your comments about the food and service to our team here at PlayaDelCarmen.Com so we can arrange a site inspection and advise our customers appropriately. Your feedback is certainly noted.
tanyasays:
December 20, 2018 at 1:46 pmDON’T PLAN YOUR WEDDING HERE
The worst place to get married. Do not plan your wedding here. From the start I had a horrible experience. Their event planners do not respond in a timely fashion, they try to nickle and dime your for everything.
The call center folks who pre-plan the wedding could care less about your day. They can take up to a week to respond and do not care if you are getting a service you are paying for. They were the worst part about planning and made my day so negative.
When I got onsite, I didn’t trust anything would be done. Even the day of my wedding I had to double check on a song because I didn’t trust that things were being done properly and thank goodness I did because it was wrong. They even still got my father/daughter song wrong even after I corrected it and had text messages to prove that this was confirmed.
I specifically asked in my planning meetings that the food be warm because all the food on the property especially room service had been served cold. Our food was served cold. I asked to meet with the pre-planning team because the consistently ignored my requests and they didn’t take any responsibility of their wrong doings.
They didn’t meet with me till the day I left and of course they just ignored my emails after when they stated they would let me know what the resolution was. What kind of people just ignore a client who’s upset and is asking to be compensated for all the things that weren’t done properly.
I had to hear it from my on site coordinator who wasn’t even involved in all of this. How disrespectful to your guests to just think you can ignore us and we would go away. How disrespectful to say you fulfilled your contract when it wasn’t and you think you can just get away with it. I have asked for your GM’s contact several times and still am ignored.
I will continue to write these reviews till someone from your hotel takes responsibility for making what should have been an easy and fun day a disaster.
Ladies if you are looking for an easy and fun place to plan your wedding….LOOK ELSEWHERE
Lizethsays:
April 2, 2019 at 4:49 pmWOW!! How scary.
Unfortunately my nephew and bride to be just booked their wedding in this place. Hope they don’t go thru all the frustration you went. I will surely made it public aswell.
Thanks for the warning.
Debbiesays:
August 2, 2017 at 4:07 amHello Lisa
Wondering if you can give me some more info on moon palace.
Sarah Barlowsays:
August 2, 2017 at 6:13 pmHi Debbie,
What information would you like? Feel free to reach out with your questions, or give me a number where I can give you a quick call, I am happy to help.
Sarah
Tracysays:
August 10, 2017 at 4:09 pmHi, I love the beach and swimming when on holiday.
Is the beach at the moon palace really as bad as I have read?
Sarah Barlowsays:
August 16, 2017 at 1:26 pmHi Tracy!
Thanks for getting in touch, pardon the delay!
The beach at Moon Palace can be rocky in some areas, and water shoes are encouraged.
One of our fabulous Travel Specialists will be in touch with you shortly, to assist you any more questions you may have on that property, and any other all inclusive in the area. Let’s help you find a resort, that is just right for you!
Mark Morningsays:
September 19, 2019 at 12:39 pmAfter all the hype of the moon I was very disappointed, kids pool closed ,chainsaws running every day around pool area ,music far too loud ,over half of our 28 party fell Ill myself being the first after 6 days so the rest of my holiday I spent throwing up and hungry with frequent visits to doctor fo injections ,foye staff rude and unhelpful and all inclusive food was just like any other hotel at 3 star ,my holiday was ruined with illness even though I followed recommendations from tour operator .the pools were dirty and being offered drugs by staff was pretty intimidating to think it was advertised as 5 star ,I’ve been to playa and was 10 times better than the moon palace .
Traceysays:
September 2, 2017 at 10:59 amHi I have a very typical faddy 12 year old who likes plain English child meals, before booking moon palace what sort of meals do they do for children, also regarding meal reservations i.e. Steak house do they get booked up, went away once and struggled to get reservations?
Many thanks tracey
Sarah Barlowsays:
September 4, 2017 at 1:40 pmHi Tracey,
Thanks for reaching out. The restaurants do have a lot of options so I am quite certain even the pickiest of eaters will find something. I suggest you speak with the front desk upon arrival in regards to reservations. Most of the restaurants do not require any reservations but at the time of check in they will be able to advise how and where to make your reservations for the few that do.
Have a lovely holiday!
Sarah
David Smithsays:
September 19, 2017 at 8:04 amHi we are booking soon and would like some info before we decide hotel and room. How does resort credit work? Is it for all rooms or just some? We will either stay in the golf room at moon palace Cancun or a room In the Grand what would be the equivilent room in the grand? I will play golf and bring my clubs if we stay in the golf room with buggy is there any other charge than the fee for the courses? Do you pay a fee to be in the speciality restaurants?
Thanks in advance
Sarah Barlowsays:
September 19, 2017 at 2:30 pmHi David,
Thanks for reaching out. Resort credit applies for all room types, but the amount you get is determined by the number of nights you book.
The Grand is the newest wing of the hotel and does not have any golf rooms, however your resort credit can still be used to golf. The fees charged to play the course ($220) can be deducted from your resort credit, so there is nothing to pay. However, you must pay a 16% tax at time of check out on the total amount of resort credit used. There are no fees for the specialty restaurants.
Please let me know if you have any other questions and I am happy to help get you booked. I also provide free round-trip private airport transportation 🙂
Sarah
janetsays:
September 30, 2017 at 1:39 pmHello The info in your blog is so helpful! Thank you. We are a family of 5 with kids aged 13, 15 and 16. Thinking of booking the Grand section of Moon Palace. We are not concerned with connecting rooms but at least having them close together. If rooms 2 rooms are booked on one invoice how likely do you think they would be near one another. I am also trying to figure out the difference between resort view (cheaper) and garden view (slightly more $). We don’t really want to be looking at a parking lot and we don’t want to be in the building the furthest from everything. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks again for such a great blog!
Sarah Barlowsays:
October 2, 2017 at 12:49 pmHi Janet,
Thanks for getting in touch!
I see one of our dynamic Travel Specialists was in touch with you over the weekend. Let us know if you have any more questions about your upcoming vacation here in paradise, AKA Playa Del Carmen!
Dannysays:
October 22, 2017 at 6:45 pmHi, may be a silly question, but how did you find this resort for mosquitoes and bugs!? I stayed in Xcarett a few years back and it really out me of riviera maya …. how did you find it?
Thanks
Sarah Barlowsays:
October 23, 2017 at 8:47 amHi Danny,
Thanks for getting in touch.
The Riviera has an increase of mosquito during the rainy season, June-October. I hope that helps! Bring an environmental friendly bug spray while you are here and have a fabulous time!
Tammy Juliussays:
October 25, 2017 at 11:02 pmI am wondering how you go about arranging transportation that is safe to visit the other resorts that the all-inclusive bracelet works at and what resorts are on that list that you would have free access to
Sarah Barlowsays:
October 26, 2017 at 9:24 amHi Tammy!
Thank for getting in touch! The Moon Palace provides a free shuttle that goes from lobby to lobby, to the other properties within the resort 🙂 You can also walk if you’d like. One of our savvy Travel Specialists will contact you shortly with some additional information on this awesome resort!
Tammy Juliussays:
October 25, 2017 at 11:03 pmI am asking the above question in regards to staying at the moon palace after reading your review
Sarah Barlowsays:
October 26, 2017 at 9:24 amGot it, thanks Tammy 🙂
Janetsays:
October 31, 2017 at 7:50 amI understand that if you stay at Moon Palace Sunrise, Nizuc or golf villas and want to go for dinner at Moon Grand you have to pay for a day pass. Is this correct and how much is it?
Sarah Barlowsays:
October 31, 2017 at 1:54 pmHi Janet!
Thanks for getting in touch!
For access to The Grand at Moon Palace (a day pass from 7am-7pm ) the cost is 200 USD per person. This pass allows full all inclusive access to the Grand section. If staying at the GRAND Moon Palace, you have access to the entire resort. One of our awesome Travel Specialists will contact you shortly with additional information on The Moon Palace!
Samsays:
November 1, 2017 at 2:23 pmHi Sarah, I Just booked a 6 night stay at The Grand. Is there a dress code for fine dining restaurants? Do we need to bring formal dress to be able to enjoy restaurants like Le Chateau? As the review above says to enjoy beach we should go to other palace properties, do you have free shuttle service for Playacar palace or beach palace? how advance we need to book SPA services?
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 4, 2017 at 12:42 pmHi Sam.
Okay, for the restaurants that require a dress code, the rule is long pants for men, no open-toed shoes, and collared shirts. For women, it’s easier. Just a cute sundress and shoes. None of their restaurants require formal attire. As far as the shuttle, you need to check with the concierge once you arrive, and they can arrange it for you. I am not sure if it is complimentary, you would need to check directly with the hotel. For the spa, book as soon as you can to ensure you get the day and time you want.
If you would like to book any excursions, let me know. We have some great ones!
Katie Zsays:
November 2, 2017 at 4:07 pmIs there a way to get a deluxe family sweet that is on the lower level with your own mini pool outside? Either at the Grand or at the Moon Palace? We need 2 rooms but are hoping for our own private pool or at least being able to pick a room close to everything. Thanks
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 3, 2017 at 3:09 pmHi Katie!
Thanks for getting in touch 🙂 One of our Travel Specialists will contact you shortly, with information on the room categories along with a description for this fabulous hotel. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We love to chat!
1 888 537 9797
Josh Fsays:
November 7, 2017 at 12:30 pmPlease have someone call me regarding a December trip I want to book, 215 603 5383
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 7, 2017 at 12:59 pmHi Josh,
Thanks for getting in touch!
One of our awesome Travel Specialists will call you now.
Kraigsays:
November 8, 2017 at 2:33 pmWhen are we expecting the Waterpark to be opened? I have 4 kids and it’s a game changer…………
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 10, 2017 at 1:18 pmHi Kraig!
Thanks for getting in touch 🙂
The Grand at Moon palace has a waterpark that will be fully finished by November 30th 2017. One of our awesome Travel Specialists will contact you shortly with more information on this awesome family friendly resort.
Joesays:
November 14, 2017 at 6:08 pmHi Sarah, My wife and I only have one child, a boy who will just have turned 7 by the time we go. We went to the Hyatt Ziva last year when it just opened and the kids club was not great. We are really hoping to find a place where he can play with other kids and interact with the counselors, not sit around and play video games. What is your take on the Moon Palace?
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 16, 2017 at 1:40 pmHi Joe!
Thanks for getting in touch 🙂 The Moon Palace is an incredible family friendly resort. Yes, they have arcades and video games. They also have tech-free activities for kiddos. There are plenty of resorts that boast a kids club with tech free entertainment like scavenger hunts, arts and crafts and athletics. One of our Travel Specialists will contact you shorty with more information family friendly resorts.
Stephanie Weerensays:
November 15, 2017 at 11:51 amHi. Can you recommend a different all inclusive resort that has the beautiful white sandy beach I envision PLUS all the great amenities of Moon Palace? Thank you very much. Moon Palace sounds ideal, except for the beach/water.
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 16, 2017 at 1:43 pmHi Stephanie,
Thanks for reaching out. Great question! The beaches at Playacar are incredible, white sand and blue Caribbean waters. Luckily, there are several awesome all inclusive hotels located in the beautiful gated community of Playacar. It’s a favorite among our guests, not only for it’s beautiful beaches, but because of it’s location near 5th avenue. One of our spectacular Travel Specialists will contact you shortly with information on all inclusive with awesome amenities and a gorgeous beach.
Johnsays:
November 20, 2017 at 3:52 pmI totally agree with you about the dolphins. In fact I think travelers should put serious pressure on “Palace” (even boycott, write letters, leave notes like this one) imploring them to stop the practice. In place they could arrange boat trips where people might see non-enslaved dolphins in their natural glory. (Sometimes some dolphins will even volunteer to come say “hello” up close — of course you can’t guarantee it.)
I was a guest at Moon Palace for a convention last week. I watched the resort tv channel and I was impressed by their behind the scenes environmental awareness and practices.
An increasing number of people are eating an all or majority plant-based diet both for the planet and for their personal health. I am leaning this direction myself. This is becoming increasingly popular due to advocates like the former CEO of “Whole Foods” (and the Fire House diet) and popular films Forks over Knives. While I found great food to eat, I’d love to see the Moon Palace restaurants, with what are clearly amazing facilities and resources, prepare more excellent high end and imaginative 100% plant based offerings. One glaring example of their weakness in this realm: I was at a buffet that included beans “frijoles” and the label on the dish clearly warned “no vegetariano / not vegetarian” meaning the beans no doubt had something like pork or chicken mixed in. That’s great to let people know so they can choose to avoid it if they want, but the crazy thing was that they did not offer another pot of “vegetarian” beans for those who preferred that. If you are not going to offer vegetarians even BEANS (a staple of plant based eating), then you are pretty much losing them as diner. In this particular buffet (which was catered at a convention event) there was literally nothing for a non-animal parts eater, once they cut out the beans, except may chips, salsa and green salad (non-animal eaters can not subsist purely on these things).
I’d also suggest the resort realize that not everyone, even adults, these days is so into boozing it up all day. I’d suggest some cool adult athletic activities, along with trainers, in addition to the simulated surfing, like slack lines, traveling rings, trapeze, and an outdoor fitness area with luxurious athletic turf for yoga, dance, stretching, fitness classes, cross fit lite, olympic rings. Include excellent trainers for those who want to learn. Personally I’d like to do these things outdoors while in the Caribbean rather than an indoor mall-like “fitness center.” Free SUP boars on the beach, with instructors / monitors, would also be awesome.
For future building projects I’d like to pressure Palace and all other developers to build farther from the beach.
At least several hundred yards/meters back from the waterline. The word’s coastlines need dune and grass systems or erosion is inevitable (Playa del Carmen and Cancun know this all too well). Elevated wooden boardwalks (over dunes/grass) are beautiful and can bring people to the sand and waves in an elegant manner, and they are romantic to walk on in the moonlight.
Robert Bottsays:
November 21, 2017 at 12:58 pm“HOWEVER, as guests of the Moon Palace you can visit other Palace resorts in the area. Transportation is not included, but if you want to spend the day at any of the following sister resorts, you can enter with your existing wristband and use their services and beach.
In Playa del Carmen, you can visit the Playacar Palace which is located on a fabulous stretch of beach. If you want to take the ferry over to Cozumel, you have access to the Cozumel Palace. This resort has no beach, but there is a lovely dock area where you can swim and snorkeling is close by.
If you prefer to head into Cancun, the Sun Palace and Beach Palace are also available for use and both have great beaches. If you want a little adults-only time, guests aged 18 can also visit the Isla Mujeres Palace”
So I am booked to go to Moon Palace in February and I am now getting a little freaked out about the whole beach situation. So to be clear, the beaches at MOON PALACE are pretty much so-so at best and it appears fro what I am reading, it’s really not possible to just walk into the clear blue water. You do say that we can get to the other resorts that are run by the same company I am assuming but they don’t provide transportation. Whats the best way to get there? Cab or bus? I hear the bus system is easy and is only like 1.00 per person. Is Playacar Palace part of this as well or is it a totally different resort? Thanks and I look forward to your response and I am looking forward to seeing more questions and answers about Moon Palace on this page. Hoping I made the right decision about going here.
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 21, 2017 at 2:00 pmHello,
Thanks for getting in touch! Playacar Palace is one of those hotels and has a beautiful beach. Click on this link to see a list of all the Palace Resorts in our area. You can take a cab or bus from the highway. If taking a bus: once you would arrive in downtown Playa Del Carmen you than take a short 5 minute cab ride to the Playacar Palace. I would personally recommend taking a cab OR, better yet, arranging private transfers (private van). Believe it or not, a private transfer from Moon Palace to Playacar palace will cost much less than a cab!
Michael Phillipssays:
November 28, 2017 at 5:07 pmMy wife and I are already booked to visit Moon Palace (Nizuc) mid Jan. 2018. What is a ‘private transfer’ and how do we arrange for one?
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 29, 2017 at 4:44 amHi Michael, that’s great news, you picked a great hotel! 🙂 A private transfer is a private pick up that will take you from one place to another. For example, from the airport to your hotel. I will have one of the team reach out to you about arranging one for January. Keep an eye on your emails.
Brendasays:
February 8, 2018 at 2:09 pmI would appreciate the information on the private transfer as well. There will be 8 of us, 4 adults and 4 children staying at the Grand in March and we are hoping to go on some outings to the sister resorts.
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 9, 2018 at 4:44 amHola Brenda, one of our expert Travel Specialists will be with you shortly to discuss booking your private transfer and the different options for outings in the region. 🙂 In the meantime, if you have any questions you’d like answering right away call us at our toll-free number 888-537-9797 we’d be happy to answer them for you.
Shannonsays:
March 22, 2018 at 11:33 amSarah, will you please send me the information on the private transfer?
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 22, 2018 at 4:39 pmHello Shannon! 🙂 Here’s a list detailing prices. If you’d like to book call us on our toll-free number 888-537-9797 or contact me at customercare@playadelcarmen.com https://playadelcarmen.com/information/before-you-arrive/airport-transport
Tracysays:
November 24, 2017 at 7:27 pmHello, thank you so much for your review it was very helpful! We just booked a trip to Moon Palace Cancún for March of 2018. I’m nervous about all the issues there have been with tainted alcohol in resorts in and around Cancún. Has Moon Palace or any sister resorts had issues with bad liquor? Any advice!?
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 26, 2017 at 8:44 amHi Tracy.
I wouldn’t worry about that, it was quite some time ago, and there haven’t been any issues since as far as I know. Just come down and enjoy your vacation. You will love it here. 🙂
If you haven’t booked any excursions, check out our page, we have a ton of great ones.
Michael Phillipssays:
November 28, 2017 at 5:26 pmThis was an excellent review. My wife and I are already booked for a 5 night stay at the Moon Palace, Nizuc this coming January. I was really hoping to spend some time in the ocean at the beach and am sorry to hear that its not that great. I am now planning to visit Playacar Resort for the beach alone.
I have a few other questions if you don’t mind:
Is there Uber or Lift or other similar transportation opportunities available in Cancun?
What is the cell service like at these resorts? AT&T?
Should we exchange money prior to coming, do it there or not at all?
Thank you!
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 29, 2017 at 4:58 amHi Michael! We are so happy you liked the review. Yes, there is Uber available for usage in Cancun, however, it may be cheaper to get yourself a local taxi, but for those, you would need cash so it would mean converting some money into pesos. Cell service is excellent in Cancun and at the hotel. In regards to money, it really depends on what type of trip you want to have if you plan on leaving your hotel to go on excursions or have a wander around the city I would recommend exchanging money before you get here. You’re more than welcome, and if you have any other questions be sure to let us know, we would be happy to answer them for you 🙂 Have a great day!
Robert Bottsays:
November 30, 2017 at 1:41 pmMichael, Please plan on giving a review when you get back. I am going the following month to Moon Palace and based on recommendations I too am planning on going to Playacar for my beach time. I hear cell service is good with At&T as I have them as well. Sarah seems to have a great grasp on the landscape and once I fill my wife in on the trip, I am sure to have more questions for her. I do hear that using American money is the way to go but I will exchange some money for convenience for sure. Have a great trip and please let us know how it was. Enjoy!
Kadysays:
December 6, 2017 at 10:06 pmWondering if there is loud air traffic overhead of this resort given its proximity to the airport?
Sarah Barlowsays:
December 7, 2017 at 7:50 amHello Kady,
Great question. None of our visitors have ever complained about it before, and I just asked some of our Travel Specialists who have stayed here before, and they never heard anything. Hope this helps. 🙂 One of our awesome Travel Specialists will contact you shortly,with more info on Moon Palace 🙂
Ericsays:
December 15, 2017 at 2:31 pmHello, we will go to Moon Palace next week with six other families (all families have small kids, e.g. 3-8 years old). What is your recommendation on which section is appropriate for kids: sunrise, nizuc, or grand?
Sarah Barlowsays:
December 18, 2017 at 6:13 pmHi Eric.
Thanks for getting in touch. Have you booked this yet? If not, I am happy to send a quote if there is availability.
I think the Grand would have the most for families, because of the water slides, plus it’s the newest section.
Let me know if you need rates.
Greg Reimchesays:
December 18, 2017 at 4:14 pmGreat review, thanks! If our room is not at the Grand location of Moon Palace, is the waterpark accessible for us without any extra cost (family of 4)?
Sarah Barlowsays:
December 18, 2017 at 6:19 pmHi Greg.
Thanks for getting in touch.
If you are not staying at the Grand, there is a surcharge for the waterpark, although you would need to contact the hotel directly for those rates.
If you are planning on taking any excursions, let me know. We have a lot of great ones at nice discounts. 🙂
Jimsays:
December 18, 2017 at 8:58 pmThanks for the view, I am booked to go in January! Out of all the excursions, are there some that you would highly recommend? Maybe perhaps a few that could be considered a “MUST SEE”.. going for 10 days so have $2000 to work with. Also – Is the SPA subtract off the 2000 or is it a separate 400? Just from what I was reading made it a little confusing. Also if I am taking a shared shuttle from the airport, how many stops away is the moon palace – one of the closer resorts?
Thanks!
Jeff Lannosays:
December 20, 2017 at 12:02 pmHi Jim!
We can get you tours if you want but we are not the Moon Palace, so we can’t accept resort credit. I can send you details and prices if you would like. As for the 400, I am unsure what you are talking about. If it is resort credit, you would need to check with the Moon palace directly. For the shuttle, it could be any stop. Depends on who they will have and who you booked with. Enjoy!
Brigham Kerrsays:
December 28, 2017 at 7:01 amHi, is true that anyone staying at the Beach Palace has access to a free shuttle to Moon, but at Moon Palace you must be a member to use the shuttle to visit the Beach Palace. Thank you.
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 9, 2018 at 5:48 amHey Brigham, Unfortunately, no, the shuttle is only available for premium guests. However, you can take a taxi which is 400 pesos one way, roughly $20.
Paolasays:
December 28, 2017 at 7:08 pmHello
Do you know if the waterpark is open? Also do you know which of the building #s are considered to be the new Grand and not the renovated Grand?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 9, 2018 at 5:53 amHola Paola, thank you for getting in touch, I am pleased to inform you that the waterpark is now fully open. 🙂 We aren’t fully sure about which buildings are considered them to be new grand and not the renovated, your best bet would be to contact the hotel directly to ask them about it. Hope this helps. 🙂
Nikkisays:
December 30, 2017 at 6:47 amWhich affordable resort would you recommend for a family with teens that would have a better beach than the moon palace
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 8, 2018 at 3:29 pmHey Nikki. The Iberostar Quetzal in Playacar is a great option for families, and the beach there is simply stunning! The connecting room options are an awesome idea especially for teens who like their own space. The hotel has an incredible animations team, providing the best activities all day and throughout the evening. Another option could be the Sandos Caracol resort although the beach is a little rocky in parts it’s definitely a great affordable option to think about. You can read our recent review here…https://playadelcarmen.com/blog/sandos-caracol-hotel-review/
Wendi Rudnickisays:
January 1, 2018 at 11:52 amI have heard that the water park at Moon Palace Grand is closed due to safety concerns. We are considering going in July 2018 in a group with 6 children. The water park is our main reason for considering this resort and we would probably not choose it if the park was closed or not safe. Can you explain what is going on with the water park? We are dealing with an agent who has recommended this resort. Thanks.
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 9, 2018 at 6:05 amHola Wendi, thank you for getting in touch! I’m pleased to inform you that the waterpark is now finished and fully back open. 🙂
Siva Raosays:
January 2, 2018 at 11:49 pmI am hearing that the Grand water slides and flow Rider are closed from 09/11/2017 to 12/23/2018, if we go for grand looks like there is no point during that period. Please advise as we are coming with kids and they are looking forward to play in the warm water.
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 9, 2018 at 6:04 amHola Siva! I totally understand how important it is to keep the kids entertained on vacation, that’s why I’m pleased to inform you that the waterslides are now fully back open. 🙂
Aprilsays:
January 7, 2018 at 3:41 pmIs it worth it to upgrade to the Grand? We are coming to the Moon in July with 2 kids (13 & 15). Will there be enough for them if we do not upgrade or pay to visit the Grand? Also, what is the average cost to go from Moon to another palace to visit their beaches?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 9, 2018 at 6:02 amHola April! The hotel boasts tons of activities to keep children entertained and the resort has an extremely fun and hard-working animations team. They can expect all kinds of pool games, activities such as windsurfing, paddle boating, kayaking, and more! However, if you do choose to upgrade to Grand, of course, you would have the waterslides at no extra surcharge which is always a bonus for keeping them entertained. To get to the Beach Palace, for example, would cost you roughly around 400 pesos in a taxi equivalent to around $20 one way. If you order a taxi from the lobby you can find out there exactly how much you will pay to avoid any surprises. 🙂
Dimplesays:
January 8, 2018 at 4:59 pmHi,
I am booked for August this year and am travelling with 14 year old have told boys. I booked Moon Palace and wanted some more advice on which resort is best for teens. Although they are old enough to go around on there own I don’t want them to have to travel around too much to access the facilities that they want to use or for me to have travel for ever to get to them.
Is sunrise or the other resort at the palace better for teens and also how much are day passes to go overt the Grand? I have booked for 14 nights.
It was difficult to find a holiday which has something for everyone but some of the reviews are worrying. I thought I would be able to access the waterpark as well but have read that I will have to pay to use this.
Any info and advice would be gratefully received.
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 10, 2018 at 5:26 amHola Claudette. The whole resort is awesome for teens as we detailed on the blog there are plenty of activities happening day and night, so don’t worry about that. If you’re staying in Nizuc or Sunrise both sections are totally interchangeable. You will have to pay to access the waterslides, unfortunately, as they are a part of the ‘grand’ complex. Day passes cost $100 for the whole day.
Dimplesays:
January 10, 2018 at 2:36 pmThank you for your advice Sarah. Can I use the resort credit to pay for day passes?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 11, 2018 at 4:44 amYou’re more than welcome, just happy to help. You can indeed. 🙂 and don’t forget if you would like any advice on different tours in the area to make the most of your time here with us be sure to get in touch. Have a great day!
Dimplesays:
January 11, 2018 at 1:49 pmOk will do, thank you 🙂
Tajendra Singhsays:
January 9, 2018 at 9:38 amhello I booked for January 13 to 20Th at the moon palace. first timer going there with my family. we are vegetarians . would there be food options for us?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 9, 2018 at 10:30 amHey there Tajendra, yes the Moon Palace prides itself on their wide range of dining options, rest assured you will find something to satisfy your tastes. 🙂
Nataliasays:
January 9, 2018 at 4:41 pmHi , My friends and I ( two couples ; age -23-27) just booked Moon Palace and we are planning on visiting Cancun this year in November but it comes to our attention that The Grand could be a better option. Which of them two would you recommend better ? If we would of upgrade to The Grand can we also use a Moon Palace without an extra costs ?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 10, 2018 at 12:39 pmHola Natalia, thank you for reaching out to us. 🙂 Yes, if you upgrade to Grand you will be able to use all the facilities at Moon Palace for no additional cost. It’s the better option if you enjoy premium amenities. Hope that helps. If you have any other questions feel free to give us a call on our toll-free number 888-537-9797
Nataliasays:
January 10, 2018 at 9:10 amHi , I am visiting in November with my partner and friends(age-23-27). We’ve booked Moon Palace but thinking of upgrading to The Grand. What would you advise ? Which option would you recommend ?
If you are staying at The Grand can you use Moon Palace without an extra costs ?
Fred H.says:
January 10, 2018 at 12:46 pmHello,
We were invited with another couple to the Grand at Moon Palace, we said yes, they planned the trip, did the research, and we were happy to get away for a long weekend with them. This is the best review I’ve read and I appreciate it.They have since cancelled. We are wondering about swimwear dress code? We are coming as a couple, both very much into fitness, my wife likes to wear smaller bottoms, not thongs but not cheeky style, is this acceptable at the adult only pool? Thanks
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 11, 2018 at 4:42 amHey Fred, thank you for getting in touch. You’re in for a treat if you booked a long weekend away in paradise. 🙂 Yes in terms of swimwear, that’s fine, as long as it’s not TOO revealing when you’re around children it shouldn’t be an issue. Hope that helps, don’t forget if you need any advice on tours or want to take advantage of our special discounts so you can make the most of your time here, let us know, we would be happy to help.
Fred H.says:
January 10, 2018 at 12:50 pmsorry, not thongs but cheeky styles*
heidisays:
January 11, 2018 at 10:17 pmthis is a great site – thank you!
i’m travelling to moon palace with my parents and kids (3 and 6 years old). can you please give me advice on how to make sure that our rooms are close together? we didn’t book the family suite. as well, is there a way to request a quieter area of the hotel? it looks like the nizuc rooms are quieter, but the kids stuff is closer to sunrise – which do you think is better for kids that need some quiet?
i’m really excited about the food – it’s one of the most important aspects of staying somewhere for me!
also, we’re renting a vehicle – is there a place to park the vehicle at the resort? we’ll be heading out for day trips to coba, tulum and isla blanca. is it still safe to drive by ourselves to these places?
great site. thanks!
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 12, 2018 at 9:06 amHola Heidi! Glad you love the site, we work hard to provide our customers with honest, relevant, and up-to-date information. If you book with us we can help contact the hotel and request rooms together. However, it is never guaranteed unless you book the family suite, but we will do our best. All of the buildings are pretty much the same in terms of quietness. They do have parking available, you can inquire about any pricing that may apply upon booking. I and many of the team have drove in this area for many years and never encountered any problems. If it is a huge concern for you, we can always price a private shuttle for you and your guests. Hope this helps. 🙂 If you would like our help booking please contact us via customercare@playadelcarmen.com or call us on our toll-free number 888-537-9797
Heathersays:
January 14, 2018 at 5:19 pmI was wondering how do you recommend that you pay for the resort credit? Do we get money exchanged or use a debit or credit card? What would be your recommendation for what we bring for money?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 15, 2018 at 6:34 amHey Heather, it really depends on what the exchange rate is and what works out as the best value for money. You can check with your bank or different exchange places. Usually, banks offer the best deals. You can pay either cash or card. I’d recommend bringing a little of both. If you plan on getting taxis around bring smaller bills like 20-50 pesos as it’s just easier to manage, cab drivers don’t always have correct change. Hope that helps. 🙂
Ellensays:
January 15, 2018 at 12:36 amWe are planning to stay at moon palace Feb 10-15 it is a couples trip are there any adult only areas? I am concerned, based on your review that while the on site golf is very attractive that we may have made a mistake. We are at the Reef Playacar before Moon Palace. Is there any area we should request rooms in?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 15, 2018 at 6:31 amHey Ellen, yes there are a few areas in Nizuc, Grand, and Sunrise that are adults-only. I wouldn’t worry too much about thinking you ‘made a mistake’. This hotel is extremely popular with our clients and overall gets really great feedback. We hope you have a wonderful trip. Don’t forget if you need any help arranging tours or things to do while you’re here we are privileged to boast the best rates so don’t hesitate to get back in touch.
Ellensays:
January 16, 2018 at 10:07 amDo you have any advice for our 5 days at the Reef Playacar?
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 17, 2018 at 6:57 amSure! You’ll be in walking distance from downtown Playa so definitely check that out, stroll along 5th Avenue, but also be sure to venture off the main street as you will find many hidden (perhaps better) gems. Check out beach clubs like Lido (super cheap and great food). The rooms at your hotel have been recently renovated and they are very nice. Simple yet chic. There is plenty of lush vegetation at this hotel so you’ll definitely get the tropical jungle vibe from it. The beach here is magnificent! It is called Playacar and it’s simply stunning you will LOVE it. There are plenty activities for all the family. If you’d like to read our review check it out here…https://playadelcarmen.com/blog/reef-playacar-hotel-review/ Enjoy your trip! 🙂
Clintsays:
January 16, 2018 at 8:11 pmHi
We are heading down to the Grand at the end of the month with Kids ages from 4-10 years old .is there a certain building you would recommend to stay at since we want to be close to the water park and lobby if that’s possible. Also is it possible to have a king bed with 2 roll beds in a room ? I’ve heard most of the pools are heated is that true ? I was worried that the water park was not open but reading previous replies you said it’s open which I was glad to hear. This is the best site of reviews so far .
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 17, 2018 at 6:48 amHi, Clint in terms of wanting to choose a room close to the hotel water park and lobby it is best to contact the hotel directly and confirm this with them ASAP as it is high season right now and they will be allocating rooms quickly. In terms of the roll beds, it depends on which room category you selected, again you can contact the hotel to confirm this for you. 🙂 You will have an amazing time staying at the Moon Palace. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget if you need any help with tours, or transfers during your stay call us on our toll-free number
888-537-9797 or email us at customercare@playadelcarmen.com to ensure you get the best rates.
Clintsays:
January 16, 2018 at 8:13 pmIs the Grand at moon palace in Cancun or in Maya Riviera?
I like to check the weather forecast before we head there .
Thanks
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 17, 2018 at 6:43 amHola Clint! It’s in Cancun. However, the weather here changes so fast you can never truly predict it. So, don’t worry if it says rain, it won’t stick around long.
Cynthia Flanigansays:
January 21, 2018 at 3:24 pmHi, we are planning a 4-5 night getaway with our teens, age 18 (son) and 16 (daughter). Would you recommend staying in the Grand section or other parts of Moon Palace? They love beach volleyball, karaoke, dancing, etc. thanks!
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 22, 2018 at 7:27 amHola Cynthia, this resort prides itself on boasting the best activities no matter which section you stay, however, many people choose the Grand section because it means they have access to the waterslides without an extra surcharge so it depends on how your children feel about that, whether it’s something they are interested in or not? To discuss in detail with one of our expert Travel Specialists (completely free of charge) about this hotel and which area would benefit you most contact us on our toll-free number 888-537-9797 we’d be happy to assist you with your booking.
Lizsays:
January 29, 2018 at 4:06 pmWe have a holiday booked for moon palace on july it says all inclusive but now ime reading that you need too buy credits too eat and drink etc also whats the weather like
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 30, 2018 at 5:30 amHola Liz no the hotel is all-inclusive and the credits can be used for different spa treatments or tours they will explain what’s available when you arrive at the hotel. The weather is always sunny and warm here, however, July is considered the rainy season so you may get one or two days with an hour of rain here and there. Nothing to worry about.
Shanasays:
February 1, 2018 at 12:25 pmWe are staying at the Moon Palace in June 2018 and I have a few questions. How do we book our tours and use the resort credits for them? Is the Flowrider part of the grand hotel? Is there another dolphin swim close to the Moon Palace? What other things are there to go see close to the Moon Palace Resort?
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 2, 2018 at 6:42 amWhen you arrive at the hotel they will explain the resort credit to you, along with the different options for tours. Yes, the FlowRider is part of the grand luxury section. 🙂 If you are interested in swimming with dolphins Ventura Park (an awesome waterpark and amusement park) in Cancun has a dolphinaris attraction on site for an additional cost. The Ventura Park ticket is around $40 and to swim with dolphins is $60 but is subject to change based on availability. It’s also much cheaper if you book with us or online.
Lucindasays:
February 20, 2018 at 9:33 pmHi. I’m coming to the resort in August with a friend. She goes every year, I don’t know much any info u can offer is appt. all meals r free? Do we tip or is that already covered? Tip room service ? What things aren’t coved and u would need money for? Thank you
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 21, 2018 at 4:53 amHola Lucinda as this is an all-inclusive everything is included. You don’t have to tip room service but some people do. $50 pesos a day is more than enough, it equates to around $2 USD. It’s just a nice gesture and not something you HAVE to do. You will need money if you plan on going outside of the hotel. 🙂
Wensays:
February 23, 2018 at 6:09 pmThank you for the wonderful tips. I’d like to ask about airport transfer. The all-inclusive indicates that we are entitled to a free airport transfer since we are staying for 5 nights. Do we book for it or it’s automatic that they have transportation available at the airport going to the Grand Moon Palace?
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 25, 2018 at 6:35 amThis is something you will have to confirm with the hotel directly or the travel agents that you booked with. 🙂
Janissays:
March 7, 2018 at 8:48 pmCan you explain resort credit to us. We are staying for 7 nights. I believe we have 1,500 resort credits. Is that per person or for the family? If we want to go on some excursions that accepts resort credits, would you recommend that we book ahead of arrival, or when we arrive?
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 8, 2018 at 3:42 amHola Janis, I believe that’s per family but it’s worth checking with the hotel directly. Yes, I recommend booking ahead of time if you can as it’s high season. If you need any help with other excursions be sure to let us know as we are a local agency and can get you the best deals. We hope that helps.
Victoriasays:
March 9, 2018 at 12:19 pmBeautifully written review and question and answer section! Our family has a Palace membership and we have traveled to several of the Cancun resorts. We booked a trip in May for the Grand and are bringing 2 guests, however are very concerned about the terrible acts of violence that have been going on since February in the Playa Del Carmen area. The US is recommending no travels to 4 states of Mexico- For now Cancun is on a use caution list. However I did see that Playa is only about 2 1/2 hours away from Moon Palace. Since you live there, can you please share with me what you are seeing and hearing? We absolutely love Cancun but won’t travel there if there is a threat of safety.
Or, would you recommend staying closer to the Beach Palace side?
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 11, 2018 at 11:21 amHola Victoria, thank you for reaching out to us. According to our sources, the ferry company ‘Barcos Caribe’ belongs to the ex-governor of Quintana Roo who is currently in jail now for stealing millions of dollars from the state. Was it a terrorist attack? Probably not. Election season is coming up. Its been 5 years (in a row) that the US warns tourists about this region which includes Cancun before spring break. Coincidence? It certainly keeps millions of American dollars in the U.S.A for one of the busiest seasons of the year. We all live here in Playa del Carmen and don’t feel in danger, but there have been no reports in Cancun so the news shouldn’t put you off having an amazing vacation. It’s well worth visiting Playa del Carmen as it offers a different more relaxed and chilled out vibe. Let me know if you want us to help you arrange any tours while you’re in the region. Have the best time! 🙂
Jessicasays:
March 12, 2018 at 11:14 pmMy family is planning a visit to Moon Palace in April. We’ve been reading about tainted alcohol deaths and violent blackouts at All-Inclusives in Mexico. Your thoughts?
https://projects.jsonline.com/topics/mexico-blackouts-investigation/
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 13, 2018 at 5:16 amHello Jessica, this time of year every year we always see an increase in media like this. The truth is, we’ve never had any of our clients give us any such bad feedback in regards to alcohol consumption at this hotel. Moon Palace is extremely popular with our existing clients. I think it goes without saying that you should drink responsibly the same as you would at home. If there’s anything else or you need help booking tours feel free to email us via customercare@playadelcarmen.com
Adamsays:
March 13, 2018 at 7:01 amI’m thinking about going to Cancun the week of 7/1 with my wife and kids (ages 13 and 15). We’ve stayed at Gran Caribe Real three times in the past. Gran Caribe Real recently changed to Panama Jack Resorts Cancun. They consider adults from 13 years old and it’s not possible to accommodate 4 adults in only one room. I don’t want to spend money for 2 rooms, so I’m checking this one off the list.
Moon Palace Cancun appears to be a great family and teen friendly all-inclusive resort. A few negatives I’ve read:
-Huge resort: golf cart required to reach the other buildings in the hotel
-Beaches aren’t that great
We spend majority of time at pool, but nice beaches are always a plus. Thoughts?
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 14, 2018 at 5:17 amHey Adam, we understand your dilemma. It happens a lot here in the Cancun and Riviera Maya. I will have one of our expert Travel Specialists reach out to you to begin discussing the best options for your trip. Should you need anything in the meantime you can contact me at customercare@playadelcarmen.com
Jessicasays:
March 13, 2018 at 4:06 pmThank you for your response Sarah.
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 14, 2018 at 4:59 amDe nada 🙂 Have a wonderful day!
G. Wmssays:
March 17, 2018 at 2:33 pmI have been looking for the perfect all inclusive resort for about a month now…I have 2 kids (14, 10) and I think an all inclusive would be perfect since they love to eat – constantly!
But I have not been able to find a perfect match that I am comfortable with.
In my opinion this review sounds like a cut and paste from the website. With so much money being spend on a vacation like this, I do not expect everything to be perfect but I feel as though this review (as extensive as it is) does not give a personal or individual feel. I have read a lot of good reviews (like yours) and some negative ones. The negative ones concern me…if the complaints were all different, I would chalk it up to it being specific to that person’s experience… but because the complaints I have read are the same complaint over and over again….that’s what concerns me.
For example: Waiting hours for space at a reservation only restaurant, asking for towels or room basics and waiting hours for them, the food not being up to par for a resort of this magnitude, the resort credit not being as awesome as they make it sound. The credits barely cover anything in the spa or excursions so you have to still pay out of pocket AND you have to pay taxes on them at the end of your stay. The biggest one was that IF there is an issue there doesn’t seem to be a recourse in getting it resolved…either you get the run around or just “sorry” and no compassion. It’s like “they have your money, so we really don’t have to resolve any issues”.
I want to make a sound choice on a family vacation but I can’t seem to find the best resort for that.
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 18, 2018 at 8:57 amHey Chris, we’re here to help you make the best decision. I will have one of our expert Travel Specialists reach out to you to begin discussing the best options for you. We offer free, unbias advice, and can help you book and save you money. Rest assured my review was personal and I have stayed here several times. By the sound of things, I feel you and your family would benefit from a smaller and more intimate resort where service is personalized. In the meantime, if there’s anything else contact us via customercare@playadelcarmen.com or call us on our toll-free number 888-537-9797 we would be happy to assist you.
Lara Donatosays:
March 30, 2018 at 11:54 pmDo you have any pricing information for the spa? I’m having a lot of trouble finding details. Thanks!
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 4, 2018 at 6:50 amHey Lara, here’s a link to their website. https://www.moonpalacecancun.com/en-us/activities/spa hope that helps. 🙂
Jorge R. Gonzalezsays:
April 1, 2018 at 2:27 pmHi Sarah,
Your review is absolutely lovely! Thanks.
We will be arriving at the Moon Palace next week and for one week. YAY!!
Since a dark/murky beach might not appeal to us and we could go to another of their properties, we have this silly question: will we also allowed to enjoy drinks / food In these other facilities as part of the all-inclusive package?
Thank you in advance.
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 4, 2018 at 7:32 amHey Jorge, that’s not a silly question at all. 🙂 But the answer is yes. So glad to hear you loved the review and I hope you’re very excited for your trip. Paradise awaits you…
Eddiesays:
April 9, 2018 at 1:06 pmHey Sarah
I’m booked to stay in the Moon Grand in October. There will be 8 of us in total, including 4 kids, ages between 12 and 15. We’ve been to the Moon Palace before and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. However, one of the main reasons we decided to return was due to the water park. I appreciate you’ve been asked and answered questions about the opening of the water park before and you’ve stated the park is fully open, but this differs from information on the actual Palace website. They are stating the water park is not open and can’t confirm when it will be. Apparently, the water park cannot open due to code violations and as the original contractor has gone bankrupt, another contractor will have to re-design and re-build. This being the case, can you confirm one way or another if the water park at the Moon Grand is fully open. If not can you confirm when they expect this to be open?
I appreciate your assistance.
Kind regards, Eddie
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 10, 2018 at 6:19 amHey Eddie, I do believe the waterpark is now back open. However, for absolute clarification on this matter, you need to confirm with the hotel directly. If unfortunately, the park has closed again you can always make a splash at places like Xcaret and Xel-Ha with which we can assist you while booking to make sure you get the best deal. 🙂 Let me know if I can help.
Eddiesays:
April 10, 2018 at 12:31 pmHey Sarah, thanks for your prompt response. I’d originally emailed the hotel, but as they have not replied I assume the park is not open, hence my email to you. Given your lengthy review of the resort, I had hoped you’d actually been recently or at least had a contact who could confirm either way, but maybe not? I appreciate your offer to help me make a booking elsewhere, but I’m reluctant to spend money unnecessarily on another water park, when one of the reasons I booked The Grand was for this facility. I’d at least need confirmation about when the park is due to open before I would consider booking something else.
Regards, Eddie
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 11, 2018 at 6:07 amHey Eddie, leave it with me I’ll try phoning the hotel today and get back to you via email with the answer they give me. 🙂 Speak soon.
Clairsays:
April 12, 2018 at 2:35 pmHello. We are booked as family of four (children age 7 & 12) to stay at Moon Palace in July to attend a friends wedding.(travelling from the UK) I am really concerned about safety in the area and specifically at the hotel due to the many recent shootings etc in the Cancun area. Can you pls advise on the current situation and actually how safe is it to travel and stay there? Thx!
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 13, 2018 at 7:09 amHey Clair, I understand concerns but we have not heard anything about shootings at resorts. The only violence in Cancun is that between drug gangs, it’s far removed from tourists. You shouldn’t be worried about your vacation, you’re going to have a wonderful time, especially if you are staying at the Moon Palace. 😉 Have a wonderful time and if you need any help booking tours or arranging day trips just let me know. As a local agency, we can offer you the best deals.
Clairsays:
April 13, 2018 at 8:49 amThank you very much Sarah. That does help explain things a little – one other thing I forgot to ask is safety at the airport both when we arrive and depart as there was some mention of risks there. Also should we expect to be asked to make any kind of entry or exit payments to anyone at the airport? I don’t want to get caught out with this If we shouldn’t be paying anything and end up getting scammed… thx again and thank you for such a quick response. We are all very excited about our hol ?
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 15, 2018 at 8:23 amYou’re more than welcome, I’m glad to be of help. 🙂 Safety at the airport isn’t an issue. You will just find taxis and the ADO bus service outside. 🙂 you don’t have to pay anything entering or leaving.
Jasonsays:
April 15, 2018 at 6:51 pmI am truly concern about the security. With the death of at least 55 people in 60 days I would like to know what is done to prevent the spill over of violence onto the resort. What are the procedures for security if violence breaks out and what training do they receive?
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 16, 2018 at 7:09 amHey Jason, I am unsure where you are getting these numbers from but I assure you safety in the resort is of the hotel’s priority. It is EXTREMELY unlikely that violence will occur in the resort but rest assured all staff members will have been briefed on how to handle such situation should it arise. Violence in Cancun is far removed from tourists and involves drug cartel members only. We are always on hand to help when we can so if you’re interested in booking any day tours or excursions get in touch via custmercare@playadelcarmen.com 🙂
Jonathansays:
April 20, 2018 at 12:16 amHi. We’ll be heading to moon palace, a group of 8, mainly for a golf vacation. From our booking, it doesn’t seem to mention in which of the 3 sections we’ll be located. I would be surprised if it would be in the GRAND as I would assume it would be specified in the booking since it seems to be a bit separated from the to others and more high end. Therefore, is there a big difference between the Nizuc and Sunrise and would there be a better pick for us between the two? Is there one considered more quiet than the other one or lets say one with more animation by the pool during the day.
Also, I read that if we want to try the services and amenities from the GRAND, we can buy a one day pass, and access the waterpark and those kind of stuff. Would you happen to know what is the price for such daily pass. Finally, do you know if we have acces to restaurants of GRAND, and if not, how many A La Carte do we have acces to, on site of Sunrise/Zuric ? Thank you so much. 🙂
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 22, 2018 at 8:24 amHey there Jonathan, the grand is a separate booking entirely so unless you booked there you won’t be allocated there. As far as I’m aware all other areas get allocated depending on availability. In my opinion there Nizuc and Sunrise are of the same standard 🙂 I suggest you talk to the provider you booked your trip with to gain more insight and if you wanted to request a specific area. 🙂 Once you speak to your provider they can tell you how much resort credit you have. You can always buy day passes to the other areas with your resort credit too, so it’s worth checking. 🙂 I hope that helps have a wonderful trip and let me know if you’d like to get booked in on any tours.
Tinasays:
May 12, 2018 at 1:58 amHi Sarah I have emailed you but I will ask on here as well as I haven’t got a reply now and our trip is coming up very soon. To our disappointments of review we read the beach at the Grand is not the best. We are hoping to use one of our days of stay to visit a different resort with a very nice beach. we are wondering on the fees of private round trip to and from that resort and also if we will still have All inclusive at that resort when we visit. we are also concerned on the weather as it show thunderstorms our entire stay in May we are really hoping for some sunshine.But I guess thats not up to you lol
Sarah Barlowsays:
May 12, 2018 at 10:56 amHey Tina, which resort (with the beach) were you thinking of visiting from the moon palace? I’ll get a quote over to you ASAP. 🙂 Also, the weather here changes super quickly so you are guaranteed to see some sunshine, I wouldn’t worry too much. 🙂
Tinasays:
May 12, 2018 at 2:00 amAlso was wondering is it worth Visiting Tulum & Beach? Is it safe with Little kids we will have 9,7 and 4 year old with us.
Sarah Barlowsays:
May 12, 2018 at 10:57 amHey Tina, YES I would absolutely make it your mission to visit here, it is absolutely stunning a lot different from Cancun it’s gorgeous and super easy to get to either on the ADO bus or private transport. 🙂 You may find my recent blog on Tulum useful. https://playadelcarmen.com/blog/1-day-guide-to-tulum/ If you need anything else whatsoever email me personally at sarah@playadelcarmen.com I’d be happy to help.
Tarasays:
July 6, 2018 at 8:40 amHi Sarah! Thanks for the info! I own a timeshare and am thinking of trading a week to stay here. Since it’s an all-inclusive, we’ll have to purchase that from the resort. I can’t find information anywhere that says how much that costs. Any idea where I can find that information? Thanks again! – Tara
Sarah Barlowsays:
July 6, 2018 at 9:15 amHey Tara, you would have to contact the hotel directly. 🙂
Amandasays:
July 10, 2018 at 10:38 amHello, Thank you for this review! It was very informative! How ever I did have one question regarding the time of travel from the airport to the grand moon place resort. Your review says its is a 10 minute drive. I have read other reviews stating it it like 45 minutes? Wondering if this is a for sure fact?!
Sarah Barlowsays:
July 15, 2018 at 11:56 amYes, it’s not far from the airport at all. 10 mins. 🙂
mairasays:
July 25, 2018 at 6:05 pmWe are planning on staying at the Moon Palace and was wondering if we can use the resort credit to eat at the Grands restaurants?
Sarah Barlowsays:
July 26, 2018 at 5:39 amHi Maira, yes I do believe you can. 🙂
Lisa Costasays:
August 2, 2018 at 7:58 pmwhats the seaweed situation like there right now?
Sarah Barlowsays:
August 3, 2018 at 5:08 amHey Lisa, the seaweed in Cancun is minimal right now. 🙂 you can keep a live eye on the situation in Cancun here… https://www.hrhcancun.com/webcam.htm , I hope that helps.
Reinasays:
September 14, 2018 at 9:16 amWhat is the prettiest beach (clear blue water and white sand) to access if staying in Cancun near airport and what is the safest mode of transportation to get there for 4 people?
Sarah Barlowsays:
September 18, 2018 at 6:23 amHey Reina, it depends, do you have children? If so Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach) is a great option the water is shallow and beautiful here so you don’t have to worry about them getting swept up in a wave, and dolphins are regularly spotted from the shore. Playa Tortugas is also a great option where you will have direct ferry access to Isla Mujeres if you choose to visit. The safest mode of transport will be a taxi, you can ask someone at reception to call one for you and determine the price. 🙂
Reinasays:
September 14, 2018 at 9:16 amWhat is the prettiest beach (clear blue water and white sand) to access if staying in Cancun near airport and what is the safest mode of transportation to get there for 4 people?
Sarah Barlowsays:
September 18, 2018 at 6:23 amHey Reina, it depends, do you have children? If so Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach) is a great option the water is shallow and beautiful here so you don’t have to worry about them getting swept up in a wave, and dolphins are regularly spotted from the shore. Playa Tortugas is also a great option where you will have direct ferry access to Isla Mujeres if you choose to visit. The safest mode of transport will be a taxi, you can ask someone at reception to call one for you and determine the price. 🙂
Jackiesays:
September 22, 2018 at 9:56 amHi, I will be visiting Moon Palace early next year. I have difficulty walking long distances so to make my holiday more enjoyable I am considering hiring a mobility scooter – do you know if this is something that Moon Palace can accommodate and arrange or should I book my own? If so, can you recommend any companies. TIA
Jackiesays:
September 22, 2018 at 9:56 amHi, I will be visiting Moon Palace early next year. I have difficulty walking long distances so to make my holiday more enjoyable I am considering hiring a mobility scooter – do you know if this is something that Moon Palace can accommodate and arrange or should I book my own? If so, can you recommend any companies. TIA
Sarah Barlowsays:
September 25, 2018 at 6:14 amHey there Jackie, thank you reaching out! 🙂 The moon palace should have some sort of mobility equipment onsite, but it may not be the best. This is a company in Cancun where you can rent mobility scooter by the day. https://scooter-cancun.com/en/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwuafdBRDmARIsAPpBmVURJB83lRyUFgKzB_oJPZmtcb6Bwc2JueZX_GPd3VmBmTy53UWT16YaAl_NEALw_wcB I hope it helps.
Sarah Barlowsays:
September 25, 2018 at 6:14 amHey there Jackie, thank you reaching out! 🙂 The moon palace should have some sort of mobility equipment onsite, but it may not be the best. This is a company in Cancun where you can rent mobility scooter by the day. https://scooter-cancun.com/en/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwuafdBRDmARIsAPpBmVURJB83lRyUFgKzB_oJPZmtcb6Bwc2JueZX_GPd3VmBmTy53UWT16YaAl_NEALw_wcB I hope it helps.
Kimsays:
October 30, 2018 at 3:51 amHi! We have stayed at Beaches Tutks and Caicos and Negril. Trying to find another NICE all inclusive so that we can explore more spots without revisiting the same resorts. Considered The Grand at Moon Palace, but concerned about the beach and how busy/large the resort sounds (we have boys who are 8, 12 and 14 who could comfortably take off and do their own thing at the Beaches properties). Have also heard nice things about Dreams resorts (Mujeres… Tulum). My husband and 12 year old are certified in scuba diving… and my 14 year old likes to wind surf. And all like a water park feature or other fun amenities (simulated surfing, climbing wall, Eurobungee, biking…). Where can we get the best of all of these worlds??? How do Dreams, The Grand, Beaches all compare? Is there an even better option (without spending a complete fortune)? Hoping for a quick response due to promotions ending Oct 31st.
Jason Wrightsays:
October 30, 2018 at 7:22 amHi Kim,
Thanks for reaching out.
I totally understand, having to please everyone isn’t easy but very doable 😉
I’ll have someone from our team reach out to you asap. They’re local and know these hotels and region better than anyone.
You’ll be in good hands very soon. Sit tight.
Kimsays:
October 30, 2018 at 3:51 amHi! We have stayed at Beaches Tutks and Caicos and Negril. Trying to find another NICE all inclusive so that we can explore more spots without revisiting the same resorts. Considered The Grand at Moon Palace, but concerned about the beach and how busy/large the resort sounds (we have boys who are 8, 12 and 14 who could comfortably take off and do their own thing at the Beaches properties). Have also heard nice things about Dreams resorts (Mujeres… Tulum). My husband and 12 year old are certified in scuba diving… and my 14 year old likes to wind surf. And all like a water park feature or other fun amenities (simulated surfing, climbing wall, Eurobungee, biking…). Where can we get the best of all of these worlds??? How do Dreams, The Grand, Beaches all compare? Is there an even better option (without spending a complete fortune)? Hoping for a quick response due to promotions ending Oct 31st.
Jason Wrightsays:
October 30, 2018 at 7:22 amHi Kim,
Thanks for reaching out.
I totally understand, having to please everyone isn’t easy but very doable 😉
I’ll have someone from our team reach out to you asap. They’re local and know these hotels and region better than anyone.
You’ll be in good hands very soon. Sit tight.
Dennissays:
November 3, 2018 at 1:32 pmWhat is the difference between the Gand and the other two buildings. Also we would like king bed.
Dennissays:
November 3, 2018 at 1:32 pmWhat is the difference between the Gand and the other two buildings. Also we would like king bed.
Marisays:
November 11, 2018 at 2:26 pmThis is a great source of information, but now I’m a little nervous about having booked at the grand in December due the comments about the beach. I wasn’t aware of the difference in the beach water, my family of four was hoping to be within walking distance to beautiful white sandy beaches now it seems we’ll have to leave the resort to find them. I’m wondering how much time will we waste traveling to a sister resort and if we will miss out on the all inclusive amenities at the grand.
Marisays:
November 11, 2018 at 2:26 pmThis is a great source of information, but now I’m a little nervous about having booked at the grand in December due the comments about the beach. I wasn’t aware of the difference in the beach water, my family of four was hoping to be within walking distance to beautiful white sandy beaches now it seems we’ll have to leave the resort to find them. I’m wondering how much time will we waste traveling to a sister resort and if we will miss out on the all inclusive amenities at the grand.
Juliesays:
November 13, 2018 at 11:59 amGreat, informative review. We stayed at the Grand a couple of years ago, when there was a soft opening. It was very nice! I’m thinking of staying in the Nizuc section and was wondering if I can use my resort credit to pay for a day or night pass to the Grand section? Any idea if this is possible?
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 14, 2018 at 6:34 amHey Julie, thanks for your kind words. Really glad you enjoyed the Grand. Excited to hear you’re thinking of coming back soon. Yes, you should be able to pay for a day pass to the grand with your resort credit. 🙂 If you book the hotel with us we will ensure you get the best deal and be able to answer any questions you may have about the hotel more efficiently. Our Travel Specialists here at PlayaDelCarmen.Com will be happy to help you. Contact them at customercare@playadelcarmen.com
Juliesays:
November 13, 2018 at 11:59 amGreat, informative review. We stayed at the Grand a couple of years ago, when there was a soft opening. It was very nice! I’m thinking of staying in the Nizuc section and was wondering if I can use my resort credit to pay for a day or night pass to the Grand section? Any idea if this is possible?
Sarah Barlowsays:
November 14, 2018 at 6:34 amHey Julie, thanks for your kind words. Really glad you enjoyed the Grand. Excited to hear you’re thinking of coming back soon. Yes, you should be able to pay for a day pass to the grand with your resort credit. 🙂 If you book the hotel with us we will ensure you get the best deal and be able to answer any questions you may have about the hotel more efficiently. Our Travel Specialists here at PlayaDelCarmen.Com will be happy to help you. Contact them at customercare@playadelcarmen.com
Abhinavsays:
November 25, 2018 at 12:05 amHello,
I am planning to visit towards the end of December 2018 with my wife and 2 year old. Are there any activities for my daughter? Is there a waterpark close-by and is the beach kid friendly?
Thanks
Abhinavsays:
November 25, 2018 at 12:05 amHello,
I am planning to visit towards the end of December 2018 with my wife and 2 year old. Are there any activities for my daughter? Is there a waterpark close-by and is the beach kid friendly?
Thanks
Monicasays:
December 26, 2018 at 8:03 pmHi – I’m planning a trip with my 15 year old so. He’s a very picky eater. Will it be difficult to find typical American food at the resort like hamburgers and pancakes?
Sarah Barlowsays:
December 27, 2018 at 10:59 amHey Monica, thank you for reaching out. Absolutely not, you have to remember most the hotels here are built with the American travelers in mind. Hamburgers and Pancakes will not be hard to find. I hope that helps.
Stesays:
January 18, 2019 at 5:14 pmHi, I have jst booked 2 weeks at the moon palace and was told tha you can use the resort credit for things like swimming with dolphins etc. Can you please confirm wether that’s is correct. Thanks ste
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 21, 2019 at 9:47 amHey Ste, yes this is correct. The hotel will advise you upon arrival. All the best, Sarah
airbnb property management sydneysays:
January 27, 2019 at 10:18 pmThis place is needed fantastic! A great destination to visit someday. Thanks for the reviews.
Howardsays:
March 12, 2019 at 3:59 pmRegarding Dolphin swims
Hi Sarah,
Why are you not recommend Dolphin swims? I read some review about the over charging pictures, but other than that, what are the other problems?
Thanks,
Howard
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 13, 2019 at 7:38 amHey Howard, thank you for reaching out. We don’t recommend dolphin swims because of the moral implications. That’s also why you won’t find any dolphin tours on our website. As a company, we don’t support capturing these majestic animals for entertainment purposes.
Rochellesays:
April 3, 2019 at 5:24 pmHi there, just doing my research on Moon Palace. It sounds like a great place so far! I will be travelling the 1st week of Dec 2019 with my husband, 10 year-old & 13 year-old.
I would like to know the differences between Sunrise and Nizuc. Which one is more preferable to stay at?
Also, can the resort fee be used for a day pass at the Grand?
Thanks!
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 23, 2019 at 6:35 amHey Rochelle, please find the brochure below which details everything you need to know about how resort credit can be used. https://www.palaceresorts.com/rcbrochure Sunrise and Nizuc all depends on your personal preferences and the type of room or view you want. If you have any further questions one of our Moon Palace experts will be able to assist you at customercare@playadelcarmen.com. I hope that helps.
Clara Diezsays:
June 7, 2019 at 10:36 pmMy vacation at the Moon Palace Cancun will be over tomorrow. The food at the restaurants was pretty good. The beach was full of seaweed and the smell of rotting seaweed was terrible. My decision to go to this resort was enticed by the possibility of using $1500 as resort credit. It was advertised as usable anywhere in the resort. What they failed to mention was that it was limited by category. For example: $300 max at the spa, and most spa services were close to the max. Literally in a six night stay it is next to impossible to spend the resort credit. Plus there is a 16% charge on everything. Not disclosing the way the resort credit can be used is misinformation and I will not be a returning guest. Travelers beware: what is offered is not what you get.
Sarah Barlowsays:
June 10, 2019 at 5:21 amHey Clara, thank you so much for reaching out and your feedback on the place. Sounds as though things have changed since our last visit here. We will be sure to mention this in the blog itself and do some update based on your response… We have no affiliations with this hotel, our review is independent so it’s important that we state the facts. Thanks again for your two cents. If you would like to return to the region again be sure to contact us at customercare@playadelcarmen.com to ensure we help you pick the best hotel for you next time. Always better booking with a company that is local and has there ears to the ground based on what’s going on here.
Adrianasays:
July 1, 2019 at 11:14 pmHello! I was planning to stay at the Grand in November, but I was really concerned about it having dolphins in captivity, I asked two travel agents and also asked on Google maps questions and all of them said that the place doesn’t have a dolphinarium, however I have been reading some other reviews and they do mention “dolphin swim”, my question is: are the dolphins inside the actual facilities of the hotel or it is just like an optional tour that they promote and they take you to another place outside the hotel to see the dolphins? I would be really angry if I decided to stay there believing in what the travel agents said and once being there finding out that they do have dolphins in captivity. Thanks for your response in advance! 🙂
Sarah Barlowsays:
July 5, 2019 at 9:04 amHey Adriana,
No, the Moon Palace doesn’t have a dolphinarium they only sell tours with dolphins so you don’t have to worry about that. Hats off to not supporting this awful practice, as a company we too do not support them due to the moral implications.
I hope that helps.
Adrianasays:
July 2, 2019 at 1:38 amIf this hotel does have dolphins, are there any other resorts that you could recommend that have both water park and games (what we liked about this one is that besides the water park it has an arcade)?
Sarah Barlowsays:
July 3, 2019 at 8:07 amThe Sandos Caracol Eco Resort is spectacular!
nassays:
August 20, 2019 at 8:10 pmHi
how is the food choices for vegetarians? and how about non alcohol drinkers? does the resort gives concessions for non alcohol guests.
Sarah Barlowsays:
August 26, 2019 at 6:18 amHi Nas, food is great for veges, and there are plenty of drink options for nonalcoholic drinkers. 🙂 However, at all inclusives it’s very rare that the hotel offers concessions for non-alcoholic guests.
Trevorsays:
October 5, 2019 at 10:12 amSarah,
We are trying to book something fro middle of feb. We have 4 kids ages 11 – 6. Looking for the best family resort. Basketball and tennis courts/ Good beach to boogie baord, and big enough rooms for the kids. Any suggestions?
Thanks
Trevor
Sarah Barlowsays:
October 8, 2019 at 6:52 amHi Trevor, thank you for reaching out and for reading my article. I’ve passed your inquiry on to our dedicated travel team here at PlayaDelCarmen.Com, they will be able to advise you better with what you’re looking for. Moon Palace wouldn’t be at the top of my list, I would go for somewhere like the Paradisus in Playa del Carmen or The Royalton Riviera Cancun. 🙂 We’ll be in touch. 🙂
Carolsays:
October 8, 2019 at 3:18 pmWe stayed at Moon Palace many years ago after it was first built. Looking to return with three generations, ranging from 5 y.o. to 75. Are the pools warm enough in January or February for a young child swimming? We are flexible in our time and could do Jan through May. Looking for golf, spa, swimming and good food. Would Moon Palace be a good choice for us? We are concerned about safety so like the idea of staying at an all inclusive where we are more isolated rather than an in-town hotel.
Sarah Barlowsays:
October 15, 2019 at 8:44 amHey Carol, thanks for reaching out and for reading my article it means the world. The pools will 100% be warm enough for swimming this time of year as January onwards is actually the extremely dry season here. I am personally not a huge fan of the Moon Palace as of recently just because of the client feedback we have been getting (some of which you can see in the comments section below). I can assure you that staying at any good AAA* resort is extremely safe. Isolated hotels are the best in terms of getting that sense of seclusion my recommendations would be any of the hotels listed in this blog…https://playadelcarmen.com/blog/the-6-best-playa-del-carmen-hotels-for-kids/ I hope that helps.
Alan wilsonsays:
January 14, 2020 at 5:45 pmMy son is having a marriage ceremony at either The Sunrise or Nuzac and we will also be there for two weeks. My partners son and wife would like to fly in from Florida to attend. Can they get a day pass to these two resorts? How much are they? What do they include? Thank you so much for your patience.
Sarah Barlowsays:
January 16, 2020 at 9:57 amHey Alan, you have to contact the resort for the day pass rate, also 80% of your son’s guests have to stay onsite for the resort to do the wedding. Have you booked yet already? If not, we can quote you. Contact us at weddings@playadelcarmen.com we will be happy to help. 🙂
Shagun Raosays:
February 6, 2020 at 3:45 pmWe visited Cancun 2 years back and stayed at the Paradisus. We like resorts that are family friendly but still luxurious enough for adults to enjoy. The beach and pool area are important to us. We were considering Moon Palace for this years visit but just read your review on the beach. My daughter loves to go in the water and jump with the waves and it seems that is a no go here. Are there any resorts that you would recommend that fit our requirements? Thanks! 🙂
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 7, 2020 at 3:54 pmHey Shagun, reach out to our travel team at customercare@playadelcarmen.com and they will help you find the best deal best on your vision for your vacation. Plus, we’ll get you all the perks and discounts you are entitled to. Paradise awaits…off the top of my head I’d say any of the Secrets hotels are great for both kids and adults. 🙂
Tammysays:
February 20, 2020 at 11:52 amHi there, can you tell me how much a day pass for the Grand would be if we stayed at Sunrise?
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 20, 2020 at 4:09 pmHey Tammy, the rates vary and they are not always available during peak season so please contact your accommodation for more info.
Farsays:
February 21, 2020 at 11:50 amHello there,
I am staying there for 4 nights next week. Can I book things, in advance and before arrival, with their credit? also, I noticed their SPA doesn’t allow resort credit for main treatments. do you know anything about it?
TIA
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 21, 2020 at 3:04 pmHello Far, paradise awaits! I would recommend contacts the person you booked directly for the correct information as a policy does tend to change. Cheers,
Jason Noblessays:
August 31, 2020 at 5:19 amYou’re lucky.
Sarah Barlowsays:
September 14, 2020 at 6:13 amHard life, right? 😉
Shelleysays:
February 16, 2021 at 3:33 pmHi, this is great info – but I don’t see anywhere on their website the resort credits you note in the above that is dated January 2021, based on length of stay. Can you tell me where to find that info?
Sarah Barlowsays:
February 17, 2021 at 5:15 amHey Shelley, how strange I literally just got news this morning that all Palace resorts are scrapping resort credit. Updating as we speak. apologies for that.
Molly Zemeksays:
February 28, 2021 at 4:51 pmSarah, are you still not recommending Moon Palace? If so, why?
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 1, 2021 at 3:28 amHi Molly, I would recommend to people with kids. Also, just FYI… they have completed recently scrapped resort credit. If you would like to speak to one of our travel liasons who recently stayed here let me know I will put you in touch. 🙂
Williamsays:
March 8, 2021 at 10:47 pmHi Sarah. We are traveling with a group of eight to Moon Palace Sunrise March 28 – April 5. We were sent information on how to use our $1,500 resort credits. My brother booked this vacation for everyone, and he has some sort of membership with Palace Resorts. Is this why we are awarded and entitled to resort credits, or is there something we are not being told? I am researching our activities options now, based on the information we were sent. Can you tell me more about this scrapping of credits and where you got this information from? Thanks.
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 9, 2021 at 4:43 amHi William please let me check for you and I’ll report back later today, as I was informed that resort credit at Palace resorts had been terminated.
Missysays:
February 27, 2021 at 10:04 pmAre both the Nizuc and Sunrise currently open? I had heard that Nizuc was previously closed but maybe that was recently changed?
Thank you!
Sarah Barlowsays:
March 1, 2021 at 3:31 amHey Missy, Nizuc is open please contact us at customercare@playadelcarmen.com for the best deals/perks/discounts.
Johnsays:
April 21, 2021 at 4:47 pmHi after reading this I talked to a friend who had been down the Moon Palace Nizuc and said it was great. He also said he is hearing that they will be closed most of September and October. Are you hearing this as well and if so what do you think about the Grand?
Sarah Barlowsays:
April 23, 2021 at 9:45 amHi John, great question our Travel Liasons are in content with the hotels directly and are the best people to ask on this. Please email us at customercare@playadelcarmen for all the deets. Happy Friday! 🙂
LEEsays:
June 13, 2022 at 11:49 amHi, can you help clear something up for me. Does the Moon Palace still offer room credits. I have stayed here previously and loved it, stupidly booked again without checking and now I cant see any mention of room credits. As a keen golfer the price of 303 usd per round is pretty high without the credit offset.
Sarah Barlowsays:
June 16, 2022 at 4:37 amHi Lee, yes they do. Did you book through us?
Thomas Gruglesays:
June 15, 2022 at 12:39 pmWe stayed 6 nights, got $150 in resort credits which were highly restricted (only $30 can be used at the spa) and subject to 20% fee to use them. Very few items in the gift shops are eligible. So it’s basically a discount plan for very limited goods and services. We didn’t plan any excursions, so perhaps it’s a better deal there. We love the resort, it really is all inclusive – but I wouldn’t count on resort credits making much of a difference.
Kirstensays:
July 27, 2022 at 7:37 pmThis place looks amazing! The reviews make me a little nervous though lol.
Marksays:
November 27, 2022 at 1:58 pmSarah:
We’ll be staying at The Grand for Hootiefest in April and normally only stay at adults-only resorts. Obviously, that’s not the case here. However, we’re hoping that the adult pool advertised carries over to a few areas as well. Is that the case?
And my bride tends to wear fairly skimpy bikinis (strings, thongs, etc.). Will she have any issues with those?
Thanks very much.
Chasesays:
January 26, 2023 at 6:58 pmSo I’m confused. Is this a good place to go or should I look somewhere else? The pictures look amazing but the reviews are not very good.
Mattsays:
October 18, 2023 at 6:56 pmLooks like a fun place, not sure if I would want to deal with people trying to get me to timeshare. Especially if I’m going to relax.
Sarah Barlowsays:
October 26, 2023 at 2:00 pmHi Matt, we hear you and me either to be honest! There’s plenty of other great options we can recommend. Reach out for a chat!
[email protected]says:
February 26, 2025 at 11:21 amVery disappointed people who work here great but place is awful in terms of service half ass at best no love