Hotel Rancho Encantado is one of the best-reviewed places to stay on the lagoon, with a 9.4 rating from about 1,000 guests and a class 4 rating on its page. It has a private beach and lagoon dock with complimentary kayaks and paddle boards, an outdoor pool and hydromassage tub, a full-service spa, and a restaurant called Los Hechizos with a pool bar. Accommodation runs to about fourteen room types, from garden and lagoon-view rooms to casitas, traditional cabins, bungalows and a villa for up to nine guests. The grounds are tropical gardens beside the water, and the pace is quiet. Cooked-to-order breakfast is available for a fee.
Location and getting around
The property is on Highway 307 at about kilometre 24, a three-minute walk from the lagoon and about four minutes by car from the Ecological Park. Cenote Azul and Cenote Cocalitos are each about eight minutes by car, and Chetumal airport is about 38 minutes away. An airport shuttle is available on request for a fee. You will want a taxi or hire car to reach the town centre and the fort, but the dock and gardens keep most guests busy.
Rooms
The mix of cabins, suites, casitas and a villa means you can choose between a simple garden cabin for two and a larger family unit. Rooms have air conditioning, a ceiling fan, a safe, premium bedding and a rainfall shower. Wi-Fi is free in public areas, and parking is free. Lagoon-view and lagoon-front units cost more, so decide whether you will spend your time on the dock before you pay for the view.
Good to know
The rare complaints concern poor lighting, especially in bathrooms, and noise from leaf blowers. Breakfast is charged separately, a breakage deposit applies per stay, pets are not allowed and children under twelve need supervision in the hot tub. The hotel suits couples, friends and families who want a quiet lagoon stay with free kayaks. Check-in starts at 4 pm and check-out is before noon.
Why stay here
- ✓Lagoon dock and private beach
- ✓Free kayaks and paddle boards
- ✓Outdoor pool and hydromassage tub
- ✓Full-service spa
- ✓Restaurant and pool bar
- ✓Air conditioning and ceiling fans
- ✓Free parking
- ✓Airport shuttle on request
Good questions
Are kayaks included?+
Complimentary kayaks and paddle boards are listed for guests at the lagoon dock. Check the current terms on arrival.
Is breakfast included?+
Cooked-to-order breakfast is available for a fee rather than included. Prices vary, so ask when you reserve.
Can I get an airport transfer?+
An airport shuttle is available on request for a per-person fee. Chetumal airport is about 38 minutes away.
