We jus got back from an amazing long weekend at the Hard Rock Cancun in Mexico. We went for a destination wedding, but it was a much-needed getaway and vacation for mom and dad!
The Hard Rock Cancun was a dream (especially for us parents who don’t get to travel very often) and I’m here to give you my honest opinion and review on the hotel.
Although we were there for a kid-free vacation, of course I couldn’t help but to check out all the kid’s amenities and activities in case we want to come back in the future.
Hard Rock Cancun Review
The Hard Rock Cancun was a wonderful experience for both a parents trip away, and would be just as perfect for a family-friendly vacation. Read on to hear my honest review of the Hard Rock Cancun as a family-friendly destination or a couples getaway.
All Inclusive
We love an all inclusive resort! Not having to worry about money for an entire vacation is priceless to me.
Hard Rock Cancun has transformed the typical All Inclusive vacation into a rock star paradise, which reflects the Mexican setting and cosmopolitan flair.
Aside from delicious meals and alcoholic beverages, other included amenities are: Snacks, 24/7 in-room service, Land sports, Fitness center, Pool & beachside service, Daily activities, Nightly entertainment, Live entertainment, Wi-Fi in-room & resort-wide, Parking, Unlimited phone calls to the Continental US and Canada, Private function concessions, Music Lab, Gratuities, Video Games, Air Hockey Table, and Poker Table.
Food and Dining
There are several restaurant and food options available at Hard Rock Cancun. What I love most about all-inclusive is that you can order everything on the menu without question!
We each were able to get a salad, appetizer, entree and dessert- sometimes two appetizers! It was more than enough food and everything was delicious.
The Hard Rock Cancun has 5 specialty restaurants, including:
- Asiatic-themed, fine dining, hot spot with hibachi
- Italian one dining
- Elegant, authentic steakhouse experience
- outdoor pool cafe, including brick over pizza oven
- festive buffet
The food was pretty good everywhere we went, but I loved the asian hibachi restaurant the best!
Drinks
Unlimited drinks made for a fun vacation! There are two swim up bars by the pool and the cocktails were made to perfection.
Of course you also have alcoholic beverages stocked in your mini fridge and you can visit one of the many lobby bars for drinks during the day as well.
Pools
The location of the infinity pool was ideal with beautiful views and easy access to the ocean. It was very lively with live music, games, exercise, and activities going on daily.
During our stay, there were plenty of seats available for lounging, but it’s important to get there in the morning to claim a chair if you want to be closer to the pool.
Each end of the pool had it’s own pool bar which made it easy to get a drink wherever you were swimming. We definitely noticed that the north end of the pool was more upbeat and loud (as this was where the DJ plays) and the south end was a bit quieter.
I did think that the water was a bit chilly despite it being in the sun all day. It definitely could have been warmer, but I’m unsure if the pool is heated.
There is also a more private pool on the roof deck.
Service
Throughout our stay at the Hard Rock Cancun, we experienced great customer service. Everyone was friendly and responded quickly to our needs.
Activities
The resort had a calendar of activities all day every day! It was fantastic! If you’re like me and need to be constantly entertained, this is the place for you!
From live bands and djs to aquarobics and foam parties, there really was something for everyone.
Here is a sample schedule of the activities when we went. These are subject to change and ever week is different, but just to give you an idea of all the events that take place throughout the day.
If you can’t read the small print, some activities include: ZUMBA, trivia, workouts, mystery box, tournaments, LED shows, pool parties, bands, and more! Here is a PDF of the activity schedule as well.
One of the coolest activities here is the Hard Rock Music Lab. Guests can live out their fist-pumping guitar-shredding fantasy with expert instruction and accelerated stage training.
You can be a DJ or in a rock band- Have fun creating your own music (no experience necessary) and get the whole session recorded as a keepsake.
Rooms and Accommodations
The view from our room was beautiful. You can’t beat seeing the ocean from your own personal balcony! However, I honestly was not too pleased with our accommodations.
The room was very outdated and needed some work, but that doesn’t typically bother me because we don’t spend much time in the room on vacation.
That being said, they have renovated a huge portion of the rooms at this resort. Several of our friends that were staying there said that their room was updated and they were very pleased.
So request an updated room if possible!
Kids Club and Kids Pool
Although we didn’t have our kids in tow, I had to make sure to check out the kids club and kids pool at the resort in case we’d come back in the future.
The Kids Club provides a wide range of crazy fun activities for children aged 4 to 12 with an exciting kids’ pool and slide, a trampoline, and even a video and game room stocked with an Xbox 360, movies, a mini-cinema, and so much more.
While the kids are off in the ultimate hangout place making friends, forming bands, and having the time of their lives, parents can relax knowing their little legends are in good hands.
Proximity to Airport and Attractions
Hard Rock Cancun is located in the Hotel Zone of Cancun. This area is about 20-30 minutes from Cancun International airport and one of the closest areas with beautiful resorts and beaches.
You can set up a car service with the concierge of the hotel beforehand for roundtrip transportation. They make it really easy to find your transport at the airport, as well as get the service when you leave.
From water and non-water excursions to shopping and sight seeing, there is no shortage of things to do in Cancun. At Hard Rock Cancun you’re walkable to Place Las Americas with tons of options for dining and shopping.
Check out these 12 Best Things to Do in Cancun with Kids to really elevate your trip.
Although we didn’t particularly choose this resort (it was chosen for us), it was the perfect choice for all of our needs. I would certainly go back with or without kids any time!
