Our Stay at the St. Regis Kanai

Each Spring Break, we love to combine two luxury resorts—balancing unique experiences while keeping our travels fresh and inspiring. This year, the first on our itinerary was the St. Regis Kanai. We were drawn to it for its distinctive blend of modern luxury, architectural brilliance, and serene coastal setting. Suspended above a protected mangrove forest and framed by the Caribbean Sea, the property had an immediate sense of exclusivity and calm. We’ve stayed at some truly exceptional resorts over the years, but there was something about the refined design, thoughtful integration with nature, and effortless elegance of Kanai that felt uniquely compelling. It promised the kind of stay we seek out as a family—where every detail is considered, the setting inspires relaxation, and the overall experience feels elevated from start to finish.

When choosing a resort, we always aim for an easy, well-paced arrival—and for us, that means a transfer time of no more than 90 minutes from the airport. We’ve been to the Riviera Maya a few times, and we always arrange a private transfer in advance. This trip was no exception: immigration and baggage claim in Cancún took less than 30 minutes from disembarkation to stepping into our car. Our driver was waiting with a sign, escorted us to the vehicle, and had chilled towels and cool drinks ready for the ride. The transfer to the St. Regis Kanai took just about 45 minutes—a smooth, comfortable journey to the start of a truly luxurious stay. We always use this private transfer service*, they’re amazing.

Arriving at the St. Regis Kanai feels like stepping into a sanctuary suspended between sea and sky. The open-air concept of the lobby immediately invites in the ocean breeze, creating a sense of calm and expansiveness the moment you step out of your car. Lush greenery surrounds the walkways, with native plants and perfectly placed palms blending seamlessly with sleek, modern architecture. Orchids in soft whites and delicate purples are thoughtfully placed throughout, adding elegance without overwhelming the natural aesthetic. The grand circular structure of the lobby draws your eyes upward and outward, offering a breathtaking view of the ocean framed by organic curves and flowing lines. Every detail feels intentional—from the neutral tones and textures to the soft lighting that bathes the space in a golden glow. As we took our first steps through the property, we found ourselves instinctively slowing down, taking deeper breaths, and soaking in the serenity that radiates from every corner. The sound of water features, the openness of the design, and the gentle rustling of the mangroves below create a sense of harmony that instantly sets the tone for your stay. The boys were delighted to discover a beautifully presented candy cart tucked to the side, a playful touch that made them feel just as welcomed as the adults. It’s a rare thing for a resort to feel both grand and grounding at once—but the St. Regis Kanai manages to do exactly that.

A quick look at their room, a deluxe double queen.

Dining at the St. Regis Kanai was an experience in itself—relaxed, flavorful, and deeply tied to the region’s culinary heritage. One of our favorite moments was joining one of their culinary classes, where we had the chance to learn the secrets behind the perfect guacamole. It was hands-on, fun, and led by a passionate chef who made even the simplest ingredients feel elevated. Mornings began with laid-back breakfasts that catered to every craving, whether we were in the mood for traditional Mexican dishes, familiar American favorites, or delicate French pastries that tasted like they came straight from a Parisian boulangerie. The setting was always stunning, whether seated under open skies or beneath a shaded terrace overlooking the mangroves. Another thoughtful delight came in the form of surprise treats delivered directly to our sun loungers throughout the day—fresh fruit skewers, refreshing granitas, or beautifully plated bites that felt both spontaneous and special. It’s those small moments—the unexpected indulgences—that made each day feel personalized and cared for. At every meal and in every bite, the culinary program at Kanai never missed a beat.

Our time at the St. Regis Kanai was everything we hoped Spring Break would be—restorative, luxurious, and filled with moments that allowed us to slow down and simply enjoy being together. The resort’s peaceful energy, paired with its striking design and exceptional service, created the perfect backdrop for a few days of true relaxation. Whether we were floating in the pool, savoring an early evening cocktail, or just watching the sky change colors over the mangroves, every moment felt intentional and beautifully unhurried. The balance of elevated experiences and warm hospitality made it easy to disconnect from the day-to-day and reconnect as a family. After a wonderful stay, it was time to pack our bags and head off to the second resort on our Spring Break itinerary—feeling rested, grateful, and already talking about when we might return to Kanai.

For rates and availability, check out the St. Regis Kanai linked here*.

*Affiliate links will take you to our preferred vendors, where if you decide to book, we may receive a small commission but at no extra cost to you.

The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riveria Maya