What makes a resort the ideal spot for a group? Plenty of space, plenty of sunshine, and, if you’re a golfer, plenty of green. As part of a larger hotel complex in Mexico’s picturesque Riviera Maya—home to lush jungles, hidden cenotes, and turtle-approved beaches—Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal offers all three in spades. 

For the Golfers

An affiliation with the Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA)—Latin America’s first—is just the start of the perks the Riviera Maya by Bahia Principe golf course has to offer. Aficionados and casual tee-ers alike can take a quick transfer from the hotel, included roundtrip as part of the discounted green fee, to access 27 holes cut into a natural limestone quarry: a 7,272-yard 18-hole master course and an executive 9-hole course. 

The former, ranked by Golf Digest as one of the best courses in Mexico and the Americas, was designed by Robert Trent Jones II to complement, and sustain, the verdant beauty of the region while providing a challenging game. Native lakes, cenotes, and mangroves have been seamlessly integrated into the layout; an overall par of 72 includes nine holes set at par 3.

For an all-ages, all-levels experience perfect for groups, the executive course can be completed in an hour or two, offering an unintimidating introduction to the game that everyone can bond over.

Back at the resort, recount your successes over dinner at one of the family-friendly à la carte restaurants, taking your pick of KU’UK—celebrating corn as a staple of the Mayan diet—Dolce Vita’s Italian-Mexican fusion, Brazilian, Japanese, or a number of other choices. In the morning, unwind from time on the green with a tension-relieving athletic or invigorating Bio-Energy massage at the Bahia Spa. Hair-braiding and manicures let kids and teens get in on the relaxation. Then, catch a professional game on the TV at Pakal Sports Bar … and see how your score compares.

For the Sunseekers

Ask a group of travelers what their favorite part is of staying at an all-inclusive, and odds are at least half will say the pool or beach. Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal has everything sun lovers look for, providing three lake- and river-style pools throughout the grounds as well as direct beach access—the only property in the complex to do so. An assortment of pool and beach bars with wait service adds a satisfying touch of sophistication.

Live music and a roster of staff-led activities bring vibrancy to pool time for a change in pace … and even some friendly competition for family members or friends. But it’s the adults-only infinity pool that’s sure to hold a special appeal for parents, grandparents, and solo travelers in need of a little quiet time between meetups with the group. (Two adults-only junior suite room categories offer even more of it!)

For the Kids

Children should always feel like family trips are their trips, too. For the 4- to 11-year-old crew, that’s easily done thanks to the Bahia Scouts mini-club. Under the supervision of experienced staff, kids can play together, explore local culture—the inspiration behind the club’s design—and enjoy arts and crafts, games, and make new friends.

Over at Bahia Principe Grand Coba, a water park specifically for children opens up more fun. Slides, toboggans, and splash areas can keep them entertained for hours; included transfers between the hotels offer the convenience parents and guardians want.

Of course, activities with the whole family are a must for kids, and an extensive daily and nightly entertainment program—varying by resort—ensures your group has no shortage of ways to spend time together.

For the Mix-and-Matchers

If having a little bit of everything is how your companions like to play it, you can’t go wrong with complimentary access to an additional two resorts—three for adults—within the Bahia Principe complex. A full bevy of dining options, expanded collection of pools, and common areas like the nightclub allows everyone to come and go as they please, to do what they please. 

Perhaps that’s starting the day with the kids at the water park, then letting them hang out at the mini-club while the adults take a dance lesson and tequila workshop. Later, everyone can try something new at the Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant before signing up for karaoke in groups. Or maybe it looks more like a morning of water sports on the beach, followed by a round of golf in the afternoon and catching a live performance of Origin, a journey through Mayan legends, or Black Bird, an original show set to the music of The Beatles in the evening. 

Whatever their travel style, adults, kids, and teens can hit their spontaneous stride flocking between resorts, facilities, and activities.

For the Whole Group

The important thing to remember is that, as wonderful as group vacations are, you and your companions don’t need to spend every moment together; the beauty of traveling with friends or family is that everyone can make their stay their own and still get the fulfillment of having planned time and events together. The Bahia Principe staff can help personalize each member of the group’s experience on site, recommending activities, restaurants, and entertainment that speaks to each person or pairing.  

While Bahia Principe Luxury Akumal may not be able to promise your group will all beat par on the golf course, you can be sure their overall stay will be an absolute win. Plus, now through September 14, 2023, traditional groups of at least 6 rooms (12 guests) traveling between May 1 and December 15, 2024 for 7 nights or longer can benefit from:

• One guaranteed room upgrade for every 10 paid rooms, based on availability
• Private check-in and a refreshing welcome drink upon arrival (if your group arrives together) 
• Preferred rates—with a 40% discount—at the PGA Riviera Maya golf course
• 20% savings on spa services

Traveling under a different timeline? Ask your travel advisor about the best deals and added values available … and for custom suggestions for your group vacation!