You’ve probably seen the photos. A massive pool that seems to bleed into the Caribbean Sea, exotic macaws perched on wooden railings, and that famous underground river snaking through the property. People call it the Occidental Grand Xcaret, though officially, the name shifted to Occidental at Xcaret Destination a few years back. Whatever you call it, there’s a massive misconception that this is just another cookie-cutter all-inclusive resort in the Riviera Maya.
It isn't. Not even close.
If you’re looking for a manicured, white-sand beach with zero seaweed and a DJ playing EDM by the pool all day, you’re going to be miserable here. Honestly. This place is carved out of a literal jungle. It’s rocky. It’s humid. There are iguanas the size of house cats roaming the paths. But if you actually want to feel like you’re in Mexico rather than a generic Marriott in Florida, this is one of the few places that delivers on that "lost in the Maya world" vibe without requiring a machete and a tent.
The Beach Situation at Occidental at Xcaret Destination
Let's get the "bad" news out of the way first. Most people arrive at an all-inclusive expecting a mile-long stretch of powdery sand. At the Occidental at Xcaret Destination, the beach is actually a man-made inlet.
Why? Because the coastline here is rugged limestone.
The resort created a cove by carving into the rock, allowing the Caribbean water to flow in. This is actually a genius move if you have kids or if you’re a weak swimmer. The water is calm, crystal clear, and full of tropical fish that get trapped in the inlet. It’s like a natural aquarium. You can snorkel right off the shore and see sergeant majors and parrotfish without fighting the waves of the open ocean.
However, if you want that "walking for miles on the sand" experience, you won't find it here. You'll find a private, sandy lagoon area with plenty of loungers, but it's enclosed. Some people hate it. Others realize it's the only way to swim safely when the rest of the Riviera Maya is dealing with sargassum (seaweed) or red flag wave warnings. The cove stays relatively protected from the brown seaweed drifts that plague places like Playa del Carmen or Tulum during the summer months.
Living in a Literal Jungle
The layout of this resort is sprawling. Expect to walk. A lot.
The resort is built around several natural "cenotes" and a section of the subterranean river system. Because the hotel is owned by the Barceló Hotel Group, they’ve maintained a very specific partnership with the neighboring Xcaret Park. The wildlife isn't just a marketing gimmick; it's everywhere. You will see spider monkeys swinging over the paths near the Deluxe rooms. You will see coatis—think of a long-nosed raccoon with a vertical tail—trying to sneak a snack near the snack bar.
Pro tip: Don't feed them. They look cute, but they're wild animals and can get aggressive if they think you’ve got a bag of chips.
The architecture reflects this "eco-archaeological" theme. The lobby is massive, open-air, and features a literal river running through the center where boats arrive to take guests into the Xcaret Park. It’s a bit theatrical, sure, but it sets a tone that most modern, minimalist resorts lack.
The Room Strategy
Not all rooms are created equal here. If you book the cheapest lead-in category, you’re likely going to be in the older sections of the resort. They are clean and functional, but they feel like 2010.
If you want the actual "Grand" experience, you have to look at the Royal Level.
The Royal Level is basically a hotel-within-a-hotel. It has its own check-in, its own high-end restaurant (which is significantly better than the standard buffet), and a private pool area. More importantly, the rooms are more modern and located closer to the ocean. Is it worth the extra $100 or $200 a night? Honestly, if you value peace and quiet and better food, yes. The main buffet can get chaotic during peak season—think hundreds of people trying to get omelets at 8:30 AM. The Royal Level avoids that "cruise ship on land" feeling.
The Xcaret Park Connection
This is the biggest selling point of the Occidental at Xcaret Destination. The resort is literally next door to Xcaret Park, which is often called the "Disney of Mexico," though that’s a bit of an insult to the cultural depth of Xcaret.
You can buy an "Unlimited Xcaret Xperience" package.
Basically, this gives you unlimited access to the park for the duration of your stay. Since a single day pass to Xcaret Park usually runs over $100 USD per person, the package pays for itself in about two days. You can walk into the park through a private entrance or take the boat from the lobby.
The beauty of staying here is that you don't have to do the park in one grueling 12-hour day. You can go in for three hours, swim the underground rivers, come back to the hotel for lunch and a nap, and then go back to the park at night for the "México Espectacular" show.
That show, by the way, is non-negotiable. It’s a massive production with 300+ performers covering the history of Mexico from the pre-Hispanic era to the present. Even if you aren't a "show person," the fire ball game (Ulama) and the horse exhibitions are objectively impressive.
Navigating the Food and Drink
All-inclusive food is always a gamble. At the Occidental, it’s a mix of "okay" and "actually pretty great."
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- The Buffets: Le Buffet and Sonora are the workhorses. They’re fine. The Mexican stations are always the best bet—stick to the chilaquiles at breakfast and the taco stations at lunch.
- A La Cartes: You usually need reservations. Los Olivos (Mediterranean) and El Pescador (Seafood) are the popular choices.
- The Secret Spot: Paco’s Tacos. It’s casual, it’s open late, and it’s arguably the most authentic food on the property.
The drinks are standard all-inclusive fare. If you’re at a regular bar, expect local brands. If you want the good tequila or name-brand gin, you’ll need to be in the Royal Level or specifically ask for "premium" and see if your wristband covers it. Don't expect craft cocktails with artisanal bitters. Expect a solid Margarita or a cold Dos Equis.
Things Most Travel Agents Won't Tell You
- The Humidity is Real: Because the resort is tucked into the jungle, it holds moisture. Your swimsuit will never dry if you leave it on the balcony. Hang it inside near the AC or bring two sets so you aren't putting on a damp suit the next morning.
- The "Concierge" Presentation: Within an hour of checking in, someone will likely offer you a "welcome gift" or a "discounted tour" in exchange for attending a breakfast. This is a vacation club (timeshare) pitch. If you aren't interested, a polite but firm "No, thank you, I'm just here to relax" is all you need. Don't waste three hours of your vacation for a free t-shirt or a $50 credit.
- Mosquitoes: It’s the jungle. Bring biodegradable bug spray. The resort sprays, but nature usually wins.
- The Sound of the Jungle: It’s loud. Not from people, but from cicadas and birds. If you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs. Personally, I find the sound of the jungle at 3:00 AM much better than the sound of traffic in a city, but it's an adjustment.
Is It Right For You?
This resort is a specific vibe.
It is perfect for families who want to explore Xcaret Park and want their kids to see wildlife. It is great for couples who like nature and don't mind a bit of walking. It is excellent for people who want a "base camp" for exploring the Riviera Maya.
It is not for people with mobility issues (the terrain is very uneven). It is not for "beach purists" who need a wide-open ocean view. It is not for those who want a ultra-modern, high-tech luxury experience like you’d find at the nearby Hotel Xcaret Mexico (which is significantly more expensive).
The Occidental at Xcaret Destination is a mid-range resort that punches above its weight class because of its location. You aren't paying for gold-plated faucets; you’re paying for the ability to wake up and see a family of monkeys outside your window before walking to a private cove for a swim.
Actionable Steps for Your Stay
- Download the App: The Barceló app allows you to see restaurant hours and sometimes book reservations. Do this before you land.
- Book the Unlimited Xcaret Xperience (UXX): If you plan on visiting the park more than once, call the resort or check your booking to ensure this is included. It’s much cheaper to bundle it than to buy it at the gate.
- Pack Water Shoes: The cove is sandy, but the surrounding areas and the park rivers are rocky. Your feet will thank you.
- Request a Room Away from the Theater: If you want to go to bed early, the nightly shows can be loud. Ask for a block that is "quiet" or further back in the jungle sections.
- Check the Sinking Fund: If you aren't doing the Royal Level, bring some small bills for tips ($1s and $5s). While tips are "included," the service level definitely shifts when you show a little extra appreciation to the bartenders and housekeeping.
The reality of the Occidental at Xcaret Destination is that it’s an older property that has been maintained well enough to keep its charm. It leans into its environment rather than trying to pave over it. If you go in knowing that the beach is a cove and the jungle is your neighbor, it’s one of the most unique stays in Mexico for the price point.
Just keep your balcony door closed. The monkeys are clever, and they definitely know where you keep the minibar snacks.