If your calendar reads like a cry for help, and you’re feeling fried, Palmaïa – The House of AïA has the antidote. This oceanfront sanctuary, hidden deep within 400 hectares of raw jungle, trades typical resort gloss for something substantive: wellness that actually works.
Location
The resort is about a 45-minute drive from Cancún International Airport. There are no marked roads or streets to Palmaïa, which adds a layer of security for those seeking privacy and anonymity. You access the property via the neighboring residential community of Playacar in Quintana Roo. From there, a golf cart transports you to the resort, which is situated at the edge of the Caribbean Sea.
Palmaïa draws a curious, conscious crowd of eco-minded creatives, spiritual seekers, wellness obsessives, and anyone craving something deeper than a detox. This is where you come to rebalance, physically and emotionally. You might find yourself downward dogging next to an entrepreneur on sabbatical, or a celeb seeking less hustle and more flow. Everyone’s here for a reset—one that starts in the body and goes far, far deeper.
Wellness
The resort’s AïA\Wellness program helps guests clear mental noise, reset internal rhythms, and reconnect with the body’s natural flow. The programming is integrated and boldly spiritual. There are no rigid rules; just space and time to realign. Daily practices include sound healing, movement classes, guided meditation, and cacao rituals. Some are familiar, others are a bit “out there.” A dedicated wellness concierge helps you to choose what fits your specific needs.
Food + Drink
If you care about where your food comes from, this is the place for you. The cuisine is mostly plant-based, but with real flavor and edge. (And if you need your meat or seafood, it’s available—just ask discreetly.) Each of the six dining venues has a distinct personality, from high-end Asian to beachy Mediterranean. Charly’s Vegan Tacos is especially popular; what began as a seasonal pop-up is now a permanent resort addition. In addition to the dining options, Palmaïa features several bars, including the Eolo Beach Club, Eolo Pool Bar, and Su Casa Pool Bar, each providing a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Accommodations
All 234 suites (in six different layouts) face the ocean—every last one of them. Interiors are minimal but warm, with neutral tones, stone floors, handmade details and animal-free products. Some have deep soaking tubs. You won’t find televisions or clutter. The sound of waves replaces white noise machines, and family suites add space without sacrificing style.
Additional Activities
Beyond the wellness circuit, you’ll find plenty to do: sunrise paddleboarding, jungle path biking, reef snorkeling, cenote swimming (these freshwater sinkholes are considered sacred by the Mayans), and excursions to Mayan ruins. Children are anything but sidelined; the resort’s Awen Children’s Center provides a screen-free program for children aged 3–12, focused on art and nature-based activities.
FAQs:
Q: Do I have to participate in wellness classes while at Palmaïa, or can I simply relax?
A: While the resort offers a comprehensive wellness program, participation in classes and activities is entirely optional. You will receive a daily schedule of classes, but there’s no obligation to attend any sessions.
Q: Is the resort all-inclusive, or do I pay for classes and meals?
A: The resort is all-inclusive, meaning your meals are included in the rate. This encompasses à la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the resort’s restaurants, as well as 24-hour room service. Additionally, premium domestic and international beverages are part of the package. You will, however, pay for some services, such as spa treatments and private sessions.
Q: Is the resort child-friendly?
A: Yes, the resort welcomes children and offers family-friendly accommodations and activities. Yet, during high season, they will limit the number of children in order to maintain the wellness-focused atmosphere.
