A luxurious all-inclusive resort with an outstanding white-sand beach area (one of Cancun’s best, complete with cabana beds with butler service) and only upper mid-range prices, Panama Jack Resorts Cancun is one of the better high-end values in the area. The resort welcomes families with children, but especially caters to couples and singles with somewhat of a party vibe. There’s no swim-up bar, the relatively small swimming pools aren’t quite on par with the rest of the resort in terms of quality, on-site water sports are relatively limited, and the no-reservation policy at the a la carte restaurants can result in long wait times; but the property offers recently refurbished accommodations with tasteful Caribbean elements, great food (especially for an all-inclusive) with strong cuisine variety, a standout hotel staff praised by guests, a kids pool with a pirate ship, separate kids and teens clubs, a spa with couples massages and warm Mayan mud wraps, and an excellent fitness center with plenty of equipment and classes (yoga, Zumba, spin). Rooms come with light wood furnishings, marble floors, balconies, re-stocked minibars, and large flat-screen TVs; some have sunken living areas, infinity swim-up access, hammocks, jacuzzis, and/or bunk beds. Activities include parasailing, mini golf, wine and tequila tastings, culinary and cocktail classes, nightly entertainment and beach parties, beach volleyball (on a good court), guacamole-making classes, and a seasonal baby sea turtle release program from August through November. The Flamingo Mall, easily within walking distance, offers plenty of shops and places to eat, including Outback Steakhouse and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. The best of Cancun’s nightlife is also nearby, but not within walking distance.
Complimentary COVID-19 antigen tests are available for guests returning to the United States (minimum three-night stay required to qualify). In the event of a positive test, the resort offers up to a 50% discount for guests needing to quarantine until recovery, for up to 14 days (extended stays for up to 14 days are complimentary for guests that enroll in the resort’s Extended Stay protection program for $29 per person upon check-in).