A Taste of Paradise: My Hosted Stay at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya 🌴🍹

As a travel advisor, I’m always seeking out firsthand experiences so I can confidently recommend the best destinations to my clients. This past week, I had the incredible opportunity to be hosted at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya — a vibrant, adults-only, all-inclusive resort by Karisma — and let me tell you, this one is a tropical daydream for those looking to relax, indulge, and unwind in true Margaritaville fashion.

Functional seating throughout the lobby made for a welcoming experience throughout the stay.

First Impressions Matter

From the moment I stepped out of my airport transfer and into the breezy, flower-filled lobby, I knew this trip was going to be special. I was greeted with the most on-brand welcome — a margarita popsicle — and surrounded by fresh tropical décor that instantly transported me into vacation mode.

Check-in was seamless. My room was ready, easy to find, and best of all? The wristbands act as your room key — think Disney MagicBand meets Caribbean chic! No bulky plastic cards to fumble with — just swipe and relax. The staff was beyond welcoming; three separate employees greeted me in the elevator alone, and one even escorted me directly to my room.

Dining Highlights: Frank & Lola’s + JWB Steakhouse

Frank & Lola's at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya

That evening, I dined at Frank & Lola’s, one of the two restaurants on property that requires a reservation. It’s an intimate Italian eatery with romantic vibes and some seriously good food. I sampled several appetizers, including their signature Margarita pizza and crispy calamari — the calamari was my hands-down favorite. For my entrée, I enjoyed a perfectly cooked seafood risotto. The shrimp and clams were absolutely delicious. I did give the oysters a try, but they’re just not for me — oyster lovers will likely disagree!

Mango Mezcalita

I passed on the mango mezcalita (not a big drinker), but the rest of my table had more than one — so I think it’s safe to say it was a hit. I opted for a mango mojito mocktail, and it was everything I needed after a long day of travel. After dinner, I wandered into Landshark Brewery, where live karaoke added a fun, lively vibe to the evening.

Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya Resort Overview: Who It’s Perfect For

On day two, I got the chance to dive deep into everything this resort has to offer — and let me be upfront: if you’re looking for a traditional, beachy, toes-in-the-sand experience, this may not be the best fit. The beach is non-existent and not ideal for swimming or lounging.

But for someone like me — who prefers a spectacular pool scene, world-class dining, and chill vibes — it’s perfection.

Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer from JWB Steakhouse on Night Three

Foodie Paradise

Whether you're craving casual bites or elevated cuisine, Margaritaville Riviera Maya delivers.

• The Boathouse offers a hearty buffet-style breakfast — eggs, French toast, pancakes, and more.

• Joe Merchant’s became my daily go-to for pastries and custom cappuccinos. Don’t skip the cinnamon roll!

• Lunch options are everywhere: pop-up stations, Landshark Brewery, License to Chill, and more. My favorites? The nachos and Cheeseburger in Paradise at Landshark and the fish tacos at License to Chill.

• Dinner at the award-winning JWB Steakhouse (reservation required) was so good I went twice! Their five-course menu is included and absolutely worth it.

They’ve also got swim-up and poolside bar service starting at 10:00 AM, Salted Rim Lobby Bar from 12:00 PM–11:00 PM, and Landshark Brewery, which serves food until 10:00 PM and drinks until 1:00 AM. Plus, 24-hour room service is included — shout out to the quesadillas I had more than once!

Poolside Fun + Floating Tacos

One of the most unique experiences was the Floating Avocado Boat — a floating taco bar for up to six guests. Yes, tacos in the pool. It’s an extra charge, but includes four tacos per person and a relaxed afternoon vibe you won’t forget. It isn’t available to swim-up suites, but you can enjoy it in the quiet pool, which was less crowded than the main pool.

Avocado Boat near the SOS Swim Up Bar

Activities & Amenities

Beyond the food and pool lounging, this resort has:

• Two rooftop pickleball courts

• Serene spa with a phenomenal hydrotherapy circuit

• Plenty of hammocks, shaded lounge spots, and chill zones

The hydrotherapy circuit was one of my favorite experiences — the hot-to-cold transitions left my muscles feeling amazing and my mind refreshed.

Rooftop Pickleball Courts

This stay truly gave me a sense of what makes Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya so special. While it’s not for beach lovers, it is a phenomenal choice for foodies, adults seeking a more laid-back all-inclusive experience, and anyone who wants to be pampered without the fuss.

🎉 Want more? Be sure to check back soon for my reviews of two fantastic family-friendly sister resorts I toured while in destination — Margaritaville Island Reserve Cancun and Nickelodeon Resort Riviera Cancun!

Until then, grab your flip flops and remember: It’s always five o’clock somewhere! 🍍🍹