Site Visit at Atelier Playa Mujeres

I visited Atelier Playa Mujeres in February of 2025, and escaping to Cancún in the winter was the perfect way to soak up the sun, sip some cocktails, and truly unwind. Located about 40 minutes north of the Cancun International Airport, Atelier sits on Playa Mujeres, an area known for its calmer vibe and noticeably nicer beaches compared to the Hotel Zone.

The resort’s layout is quite large and a bit unconventional, as it was originally two separate hotels that merged into one. It now consists of three distinct buildings, each offering a different atmosphere. Building 3 is the most peaceful and quiet, while Building 2 is where most of the activity happens. Your experience may vary depending on what kind of vibe you’re looking for.

Lobby

Lobby bar

Upon arrival, you’re greeted and guided through a smooth private check-in process before being escorted to your room, where a staff member walks you through everything you need to know about your stay. The rooms themselves are spacious and well-appointed, each stocked daily with a mini bar and complete with a beach bag you can use during your stay (though there’s a charge if you want to take it home).

Room

Bathroom

Atelier also offers INSPIRA suites, which aren’t drastically different in layout from the standard rooms but come with some great added perks. INSPIRA guests have access to a private lounge with snacks, drinks, and coffee, plus an exclusive beach section with towel service and complimentary sunscreen. One standout perk is daily access to the rooftop infinity pool and El Cielo Sky Bar, offering breathtaking ocean views. Each INSPIRA suite includes a personal butler, and one of the biggest advantages is the ability to book dinner reservations in advance, while other guests must wait until check-in.

View from Rooftop Suite

Swim-out rooms

View from the infinity pool

When it comes to dining, Atelier far exceeds the typical all-inclusive expectations. With 13 restaurants and two coffee shops on-site, the food overall was a highlight of the trip. While I didn’t try them all, the majority were genuinely delicious. One standout is Maria Dolores, the resort’s Michelin-rated restaurant (not included in the all-inclusive package but discounted for guests). It’s absolutely worth the extra cost, and although I didn’t try the tasting menu, the à la carte dishes I ordered were excellent. Drinks are generally included, unless you’re ordering premium wine or top-shelf liquor.

Beyond the usual resort offerings like water sports, beach volleyball, and pool aerobics, Atelier has some unique extras like ceviche-making classes, tequila tastings, and art workshops. At night, the energy picks up with live music at the Sky Bar and nightly shows in the theater, which transforms into a nightclub later on. Golfers can take advantage of discounted access to the nearby course, and the resort’s beautiful NUUP Spa® includes a complimentary hydrotherapy session with a full menu of treatments available.

Main pool

Cala di Luna was very good, and the taco food truck is a must.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Cancún page.