Inside AVA Resort Cancun: My Experience, Insights, and Takeaways

Travel Smarter | AVA Resort Cancun Collection 

Learning Path:

You're Here — Guide #1: Inside AVA Resort Cancun: My Experience, Insights, and Takeaways 

Coming Next — Guide #2: Is AVA Resort Cancun Right for Your Vacation? 

When I visit a resort, I ask myself one important question: Would I feel comfortable recommending this property to my clients? 

I recently stayed at AVA Resort Cancun while attending a travel industry convention. Although I was there for work, I had the opportunity to experience the property firsthand. 

And I have to tell you, I was impressed! 

Would I return? Yes. Would I bring my family? Absolutely. 

My personal rating: 8 to 8.5 out of 10. 

But here's what I want you to understand: a wonderful resort isn't necessarily the right resort for everyone.

Ocean Views, Beautiful Rooms, and One Very Large Resort 

One of my favorite features at AVA is that every guest room faces the Caribbean Sea. 

I loved sitting on my balcony, enjoying the ocean view, and relaxing after busy convention days. My balcony even had an outdoor tub! 

According to AVA's official fact sheet, the property features 1,614 rooms and suites. 

However, there's something important to consider. 

This resort is BIG! 

I estimated it to be approximately a mile long. Although there are plenty of elevators, you'll still do considerable walking between restaurants, pools, and entertainment areas. 

For some travelers, that's perfectly fine. For others, it could affect their enjoyment. 

Let's Talk About the Food! 

The dining was one of my favorite parts of AVA. 

You'll find steakhouses, teppanyaki grills, Italian, Mexican, Mediterranean, and casual dining options. 

I didn't experience every restaurant because I was attending a convention, but everything I tried was delicious. 

The breakfast buffet was excellent, the smoothies were wonderful, and the drinks were very good. 

One evening, I wasn't feeling well and ordered room service. 

I had guacamole, chips, and a margarita pizza. 

That pizza was honestly one of the best I've enjoyed at a Caribbean-area resort! 

And I've visited plenty of resorts over the years, including Sandals and Dreams properties. 

AVA offers something for travelers who appreciate elevated dining and those who simply want a great pizza after a long day. 

Dining reservations are managed through the resort's app. 

Travel Smarter Tip: Restaurant variety matters, but so does understanding reservation procedures and whether the dining options match your preferences. 

Pools, Entertainment, and Extra Costs 

AVA offers multiple pools, including lively family areas, quieter adults-only spaces, children's water attractions, and the AVA Bay saltwater lagoon. 

My room overlooked a family pool. Even when I had a headache and wanted to rest, the activities weren't particularly bothersome. 

There's also bowling, escape rooms, arcade games, laser tag, and sports simulators. 

But here's something worth knowing. 

Some activities cost extra. 

An all-inclusive vacation doesn't always mean absolutely everything is included. 

Understanding those additional expenses helps you plan a realistic vacation budget. 

Location: Convenient, but Consider
Your Plans 

AVA is approximately 10–15 minutes from Cancun International Airport, depending on transportation conditions. 

That's wonderful if you want to begin your vacation quickly! 

However, you may hear airplanes overhead. 

And if you're planning multiple excursions throughout the Riviera Maya, you could spend considerable time traveling to attractions. 

Location matters, especially when deciding how you want to spend your vacation days. 

Why This Matters to Your Vacation 

AVA impressed me with its dining, accommodations, ocean views, and variety of amenities. 

But I wouldn't recommend it automatically to everyone. 

If you enjoy large resorts with numerous activities and restaurants, AVA deserves consideration. 

If you prefer smaller properties, minimal walking, or frequent excursions, we should explore whether another resort might be a better fit. 

The right resort should match your travel style—not the other way around. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does every room have an ocean view? 

- Yes. Every guest room faces the Caribbean Sea. 

Is AVA family-friendly? 

- Yes! There are family pools, children's activities, a kids club, and a teen lounge, along with adults-only spaces. 

Is everything included? 

- No. Certain entertainment activities, spa treatments, and premium experiences cost extra. 

Would I stay again? 

Absolutely! I enjoyed my experience and would happily return with my family.  “This resort was so wonderful and welcoming for even my extended family.  I could see taking my mom and my sister here as well.  There is something for everyone.  And if you need a scooter, it was friendly to get around with them as well.” ~ Tina Moczyski, Travel Specialist, Shores And More Travel.  

Why Work With Shores And More Travel? 

My job isn't simply to recommend resorts I personally enjoy. 

It's to understand what makes a vacation meaningful to you. 

Through my Discovery Conversation and LIVE Method, I learn about your priorities, travel style, expectations, and budget before recommending an experience. 

Because choosing the right vacation starts with understanding the traveler. 

Continue Your Travel Smarter Journey 

Next Guide: Is AVA Resort Cancun Right for Your Vacation? What to Know Before Booking 

Related Topic: Choosing the Right All-Inclusive Resort 

Let's Keep Traveling Smarter Together! 

Ready to explore your next vacation? 

Schedule your complimentary Shores And More Travel Discovery Conversation. Let's discover which vacation experience is right for you. 

Join Me in the Departure Lounge! 

Want to see more of my AVA Resort Cancun experience?

Join my Facebook group, [Departure Lounge | Live Your List with Tina], where I share behind-the-scenes resort experiences, upcoming adventures, group trip opportunities, travel tips, and inspiration. 

It's also a wonderful community to connect with fellow travelers and ask questions. I'd love to see you there! 

My final thoughts? AVA gets a thumbs-up from me! 

But remember, the best vacation isn't necessarily the most impressive resort. It's the one that fits you. 

Because life is too short for bucket lists—live them.