The eagerly anticipated St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya opened recently, offering guests an oasis in the Mayan Riviera.
Inspired by the neighbouring 620-acre nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Sian Ka’an Reserve – the resort breathes life into the Kanai region with avant-garde architecture, inviting interiors, and bespoke service. A short drive from both Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, the resort offers a gateway to explore the region, from the natural beauty and biodiversity of the parks and cenotes, to the vivid blues of ocean and the cultural richness of the archaeological sites.
“Kanai is a vibrant oasis yet to be discovered by many global travelers, but with its striking natural surroundings, rich cultural history, and inherent connection to the land, it is set to take its place among the world’s most coveted leisure destinations,” says George Fleck, Vice President and Global Brand Leader for St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “We are thrilled to welcome The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Rivera Maya to our expanding global portfolio of legendary hotels and resorts. The St. Regis brand’s founding family, the Astors, were known for seeking out exquisite locations around the globe for their collection of homes, hosting luminaries and vanguards of the day in the most breathtaking natural surroundings. With The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya, we are continuing the legacy of that timeless era of luxury, offering our guests a glamorous hideaway and escape to the extraordinary.”
Avant-Garde Architecture and Inspired Design
Designed by Mexican architectural firm Edmonds International with interiors by Toronto-based Chapi Chapo Design, the resort features an exceptional circular exterior design inspired by the constellation Pleiades, resulting in unrivaled ocean views from nearly every vantage point. Designed with a minimal construction footprint aimed at protecting the natural reserve, The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya is suspended above a mangrove forest with the different elements of the hotel connected by elevated walkways. Guests of the resort are immediately transported into the magic of Kanai with a multi-story open air water installation leading into the main lobby. Floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of the mangroves give way to lush gardens and an expansive outdoor lawn with direct access to two miles of undisturbed white sand beach.
Drawing inspiration from ancient Mayan artistic and ceremonial manifestations, the hotel’s sophisticated aesthetic features a rich palette of limestone, walnut, and layered textiles. Elegant décor and contemporary interiors are accented with bespoke elements including custom furniture and artwork from local artisans. The Mayan Calendar is recreated through textiles within the public areas and guestrooms, with elements inspired by ceremonial Mayan garments.
The resort boasts 124 guestrooms and 19 suites including a 2,300 sq. ft. Presidential Suite, each offering ocean views and a private terrace or plunge pool. Guestrooms feature custom hanging mirrors, bedside tables, ceramic light pendants, and intricate walnut wood-carved headboards. Guests of all room categories will also have access to the St. Regis Signature Butler Service.
Incomparable Culinary Experiences
The resort invites guests to embark on unique gastronomic journeys with eight incredible culinary venues. The hotel’s signature restaurant TORO by Chef Richard Sandoval is a bar and restaurant with a Latin-inspired menu led by the esteemed chef. Chaya features a menu that uniquely combines local ingredients and regional touches of Riviera Maya with culinary elements rooted in Eastern Mediterranean history. Located along the beautiful beachfront, Riviera seamlessly blends the South of France with the Mayan Riviera. A tea and chocolate salon, The Library is the perfect back drop to experience St. Regis’s signature ritual of afternoon tea and enjoy a tasting of Mexican chocolate. The intimate St. Regis Bar, designed to feature views of the night sky, offers the Kanai Mary, a local take on the brand’s signature Bloody Mary cocktail, which incorporates ingredients from the ancient Maya diet including corn, peppers and cucumber. Additional dining venues include Jack’s Club, a hidden speakeasy; Pik Nik, a grab-and-go deli, and The Beach Club for light bites while relaxing seaside. Honouring a signature tradition among St. Regis properties around the world, The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya will mark the transition from day to night with a celebratory champagne sabering each evening.
For more information stregis.com/kanai