Hidden within the protected mangroves of Kanai on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai offers a striking contrast to the Riviera Maya’s bustling beach towns. As EDITION’s first property in Mexico, the resort pairs Ian Schrager’s signature design philosophy with one of the region’s most ecologically significant landscapes, creating a destination where architecture and nature exist in remarkable harmony.
The Hotel
Occupying just a small footprint within a 620-acre protected nature reserve, the resort has been carefully conceived to preserve its extraordinary surroundings. Elevated above the mangrove canopy, the buildings appear to float above the landscape, allowing native wildlife, tropical vegetation, and natural waterways to continue uninterrupted beneath. Beyond the resort lies two miles of powder-soft Caribbean shoreline, while panoramic views extend across both jungle and sea.
Ian Schrager’s unmistakable vision is evident throughout the property, where pared-back interiors, warm natural materials, and sculptural architecture create an atmosphere of effortless sophistication. Bright, open spaces are softened with textured stone, timber, and subtle Mexican craftsmanship, allowing the surrounding landscape to remain the focal point. The 182 guestrooms and 30 suites continue this understated aesthetic, with expansive terraces and floor-to-ceiling glazing inviting the outdoors in. For those seeking the ultimate retreat, the Sky Villa — the largest penthouse suite in North America — offers exceptional privacy, dramatic entertaining spaces, and uninterrupted views across the Caribbean.
Amenities
The pace of life at Kanai is deliberately unhurried. Days begin with sunrise yoga overlooking the mangroves before unfolding between the lagoon-style pool, adults-only pool, and the laid-back atmosphere of SO’OL Beach Club, where hammocks sway beneath the palms and the Caribbean Sea is never more than a few steps away. Inspired by the sacred cenotes that define the Yucatán Peninsula, the spa combines hydrotherapy, locally inspired rituals, and restorative treatments within calming, cave-like spaces. Guests can also make use of the state-of-the-art fitness centre, spin studio, yoga pavilion, and neighbouring LUX Tennis Club, while curated excursions explore nearby cenotes, Mayan archaeological sites, coral reefs, and the region’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Dining is one of the defining experiences at The Riviera Maya EDITION. KI’IS, led by acclaimed Chef Francisco Ruano, presents refined contemporary Mexican cuisine through an inventive tasting menu that celebrates indigenous ingredients and regional flavours. At SO’OL Beach Club, Chef Tomás Bermúdez brings a Mediterranean perspective to the Riviera Maya, serving vibrant coastal dishes in a relaxed beachfront setting that effortlessly transitions from long lunches to sunset cocktails. The culinary offering continues with all-day dining at The Kitchen, handcrafted cocktails at the atmospheric Lobby Bar, and casual refreshments served throughout the day at the Pool Bar, ensuring every setting reflects EDITION’s signature blend of understated glamour and social energy.
Rather than competing with the Riviera Maya’s headline attractions, The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai embraces its remarkable setting, offering a quieter perspective on the destination. Here, protected wilderness, thoughtful design, and world-class hospitality combine to create a retreat that feels both deeply connected to the landscape and unmistakably EDITION.
