The oceanfront sanctuary floating above Riviera Maya’s mangrove forests – Etéreo Auberge Resorts – has captured the attention of the world’s most discerning travellers. Built within the protected 680-acre Kanai development, the resort draws its name from the Spanish word for “ethereal” – something spiritual and heavenly.
This philosophy runs deep through every aspect of the property, from its Mayan-inspired design to its commitment to fostering connections between guests and the natural world. Just 30 minutes from Cancun airport, Etéreo Auberge Resorts offers an intimate escape where luxury meets ancient wisdom.
A design that honours Mexican heritage
View this post on Instagram
New York-based studio Meyer Davis crafted the resort’s aesthetic around regional culture, incorporating raw materials like natural stone, copper, and indigenous Tzalam wood. Works by celebrated Mexican artist Manuel Felguérez complement the design, creating spaces that feel both grounded and weightless. The floating effect is enhanced by thoughtful touches including hammocks, swings, and stargazing nets positioned throughout the property.
The 75 ocean-facing rooms each feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors opening onto private terraces suspended above the mangroves. Guests can choose from 16 categories, with select accommodations offering private plunge pools, hot tubs, and sky-deck roof terraces. Modern minimal design blends seamlessly with Mayan inspiration, featuring luxury amenities like one-touch Bluetooth speakers and glass rainfall showers that create an atmosphere more reminiscent of a sophisticated home than a traditional hotel.
Culinary excellence with Mexican soul
Executive chef Carlos Segura leads the culinary programme at Etéreo Auberge Resorts, creating a distinctly Mexican gastronomic journey. Itzam, the main restaurant, serves Mexican cuisine with Mayan influences against stunning ocean views for breakfast and dinner. Che Che specialises in Nikkei cuisine, blending Japanese and Peruvian flavours with sushi available poolside.
The charming beachside shack Changarro provides fresh fish dishes including ceviches, tostadas, and their highly praised shrimp tacos. Guests can also enjoy refreshing iced lattes and conchas from the Chu Chu coffee cart or poolside smoothies from Quéchulada. The standout dining experience remains the “Abuela Dinner” – a tasting menu featuring favourite dishes from the chefs’ grandmothers across Mexico, such as beef birria from Claudia’s grandmother Carmelita’s recipe from Guadalajara, offering an authentic culinary journey through the country.
Wellness rooted in ancient traditions
View this post on Instagram
SANA, the resort’s Auberge Spa, combines ancient Mayan beliefs with contemporary wellness trends. Treatments range from deep tissue to hot stone massages using obsidian, often preceded by a traditional copal cleanse. The unique pre-treatment “cleanse” involves natural clay, hot and cold experiences, sensory showers, saunas, and a mini sound bath, all centred around a cenote-inspired pool.
The spa experience at Etéreo Auberge Resorts extends beyond individual treatments to encompass the resort’s entire wellness philosophy. Guests can participate in spiritual jewellery workshops and explore the Yucatan Peninsula’s cenotes and natural wonders, deepening their connection to the region’s ancient healing traditions.
Family-friendly sophistication
The resort maintains its sophisticated ambience while welcoming families through thoughtful design choices. Distinct family-friendly and adults-only pools ensure tranquillity for all guests, while the Chavitos Kids Club offers a “junior explorer’s paradise” with nature adventures and cultural discoveries. Families enjoy snorkelling, hands-on cooking classes, and poolside relaxation, with children eating complimentary from kids’ menus throughout the summer months.
Each guest receives a personal ‘guía’ who can be reached via WhatsApp for assistance with transportation, bookings, and personalised recommendations. This attention to service ensures a seamless stay while maintaining the intimate, boutique resort experience that defines Etéreo Auberge Resorts.
Commitment to environmental stewardship
View this post on Instagram
As part of the protected Kanai development, environmental responsibility remains central to the resort’s operations. The property is built around five types of mangroves, supported by a dedicated biologist and an internal Green Team responsible for beach and mangrove cleaning and animal relocation. A property-wide water filtration system eliminates the need for plastic water bottles, with guests provided large reusable water bottles and glass bottles refilled throughout their stay.
The resort’s recognition by prestigious publications reflects not only its luxury amenities but also its authentic commitment to sustainable tourism practices. This balance between indulgence and environmental consciousness positions Etéreo Auberge Resorts as a model for responsible luxury travel in Mexico’s most treasured natural settings.
