Hotel Spotlight: Design-Forward Luxury at Etereo in Riviera Maya

I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit Etereo, an Auberge property in Riviera Maya, just 40 minutes from Cancún Airport. It is located within the new Kanai development, which also houses the Edition and St. Regis properties, similar to close-by Mayakoba. While on the beach, the resort is surrounded by mangroves and greenery.

Upon arrival on property, we were immediately greeted by their resident Shaman, who engaged us in a welcome ceremony, which helped set the tone and intention for our stay. If you are traveling with children, the Shaman will modify the ceremony to immerse them as well.

Etereo's welcome ceremony, led by a resident Shaman.

The spacious rooms incorporate Mayan design-elements, allowing guests to feel true sense of place.

The beach is a short walk from the pools.

Some unique elements of Etereo:

• Boutique-style property: There are only 75 keys total, providing an element of exclusivity and calmness, in what can sometimes feel like a very busy part of Mexico.

• Service and hospitality: Each client(s), regardless of room category, is introduced to their personal Guia (a concierge member), who can be accessed for support or guidance throughout their stay via text message or WhatsApp.

• Beach: There is just a short walk to the beach—perfect for those with young children. Beach service, including food and drink, along with a sargassum net (to “catch” as much seaweed as possible) allows for a comfortable experience on the soft white sand.

• Cuisine: Etereo’s two Michelin stars speak for itself! The onsite restaurants, including Itzam and Che Che offer elevated, but comfortable meals. With the two other properties just a golf cart ride away, there are plenty of options without having to leave the Kanai development. Not to mention—the onsite chef leads cooking classes filled with local ingredients -- fresh salsa, tortillas, and ceviche.

• Wellness: They’ve paid close attention to detail here, incorporating Mayan elements in a very intentional way. From the welcome ceremony to their offerings of sound baths and yoga to spa treatments at SANA, the practitioners lead these sessions in both a passionate and mindful manner.

• Family-friendly: The kids club on property has a splash pad, kids wading pool, and activity center led by professionals. While parents spend time relaxing and reconnecting, children can look forward to a fun-filled day at a nature-inspired club.

Etereo's two pools overlook the mangroves with the ocean in the near distance.

Itzam's chef leading a cooking class, featuring fresh tortillas cooked directly on the restaurant's comal.

Etereo's architecture and design creates interest. It's simplicity, but modern lines with Mayan elements, encourage guests to pause and admire.

While the above may all “shout” adult-oriented, the property team has paid special attention to ensuring all family members, including children, feel welcomed and at home.

Visit Chu Chu, the pastry and coffee truck in the morning for the best piece of banana bread you’ll ever have!

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