Aquamarine. Sapphire. Turquoise—the crystalline waters of the Caribbean Sea glisten like gemstones. Nowhere is this more apparent than at Palafitos, a luxe-year-old resort on the Riviera Maya’s Maroma Beach. As Mexico’s first and only overwater suites, Palafitos, from Karisma Hotels & Resorts, features 30 overwater bungalows.
The sparkling water serves as a soothing and constant background. Look in any direction, and the pristine mar is there—even down. Each thatched-roof suite has sections where the floor is glass bottomed. Guests can see fluorescent blue trumpetfish swimming in the sea while taking a shower. Lie in the massive bed, and the water’s reflection shimmers on the ceiling.
With such a serene setting at Palafitos, it’s impossible not to feel instantly relaxed—and insanely pampered. Suites boast the aforementioned king bed with plush bedding, indoor and outdoor showers, a two-person jacuzzi, and balcony with a miniature infinity plunge pool. There’s a platform with two lounge chairs and a ladder that leads directly to the water.
The bungalows are stocked with anything one might need—from snorkeling gear to a shaving kit—but if assistance is required, pick up the phone and dial O. Within seconds a private butler will be at your service. The friendly and welcoming majordomos can help with everything. Want to visit nearby Playa del Carmen to shop? Interested in taking a stand up paddleboard lesson? In the mood for a margarita and quesadilla? The butlers, almost magically, can do it all including sending you coffee in the morning, setting up the jacuzzi with steaming bubbles and chilled bubbly, and packing suitcases when it comes time to leave.
However, as is the case with most luxury hotels situated in a tropical paradise, you won’t ever want to leave Palafitos. Luckily, time slows down and the most important decisions of the day involve the spa (what type of massage to get?) and the resort’s restaurants (where to eat lunch?). Palafitos is a gourmet inclusive experience with an incredible overwater restaurant steps away from the bungalows. Here guests indulge in elegant preparations of international cuisine—think oysters Rockefeller, squid ink risotto, and beef tenderloin with blue cheese sauce.
Nearby El Dorado Maroma is home to six eateries that Palafitos guests have complimentary access to. Enjoy fresh sushi at Kiyoko, Peruvian tiraditos at Lima Limon, and upscale Mexican fare at Sabores. As you sip a refreshing dragonfruit margarita and scoop rich guacamole onto a crunchy tortilla, don’t forget to take in the gorgeous blue waters. From the food to the setting to the service, an experience at Palafitos is one for the memory books.
Photos courtesy of Palafitos – Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma By Karisma
