Hyatt acquires Playa Hotels to boost all-inclusive portfolio in a move that cements its position as a leader in luxury beachfront hospitality across Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica. With the acquisition finalized, Hyatt takes ownership and control of 15 resorts previously managed and owned by Playa Hotels & Resorts N.V.
Among the acquired resorts are some already operating under Hyatt’s all-inclusive brands Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara, as well as new additions like Secrets La Romana and Dreams La Romana in the Dominican Republic, Dreams Rose Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Hyatt Vivid Playa del Carmen and Sunscape Cancun in Mexico. This latest expansion enhances Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, fulfilling growing traveler demand for elevated all-inclusive experiences.
Strengthening a Decade-Long Relationship
Hyatt’s relationship with Playa began over a decade ago with the launch of the Hyatt Ziva and Zilara brands in 2013. This partnership laid the foundation for Hyatt’s rapid growth in the all-inclusive sector, which was further accelerated by the 2021 acquisition of Apple Leisure Group (ALG) and a 2024 joint venture with Grupo Piñero for Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts.
Now, by acquiring Playa Hotels & Resorts outright, Hyatt is reinforcing its commitment to the all-inclusive model and doubling down on popular beachfront destinations. This strategic move is designed to expand Hyatt’s geographic reach, guest offerings, and management capabilities.
Leadership Statements on the Acquisition
Hyatt President and CEO Mark Hoplamazian described the acquisition as a transformative step in the company’s long-term vision for leisure travel. “Playa’s all-inclusive management platform complements Hyatt’s global scale and brand strength, enabling us to deliver compelling experiences for guests and members while driving strong performance for owners,” he said.
Javier Águila, President of Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing a “deep cultural alignment” with Playa. “Spending time with the Playa team over the past several months has confirmed a shared commitment to excellence,” Águila noted, citing the synergy between Hyatt’s loyalty and vacation platforms and Playa’s commercial strengths.
Departing Playa Chairman and CEO Bruce Wardinski called the acquisition a natural evolution of their existing relationship with Hyatt, stating confidence in the resorts’ future growth under Hyatt’s leadership.
What the Acquisition Includes
The following table summarizes the key resort properties involved in the acquisition:
| Resort Name | Location | Brand |
|---|---|---|
| Secrets La Romana | Dominican Republic | Secrets Resorts & Spas |
| Dreams La Romana | Dominican Republic | Dreams Resorts & Spas |
| Dreams Rose Hall | Montego Bay, Jamaica | Dreams Resorts & Spas |
| Hyatt Vivid Playa del Carmen | Mexico | Hyatt Vivid |
| Sunscape Cancun | Mexico | Sunscape Resorts & Spas |
In total, 15 properties are part of this acquisition, with eight already under Hyatt branding and operations. The acquisition brings these resorts fully under Hyatt’s ownership, aligning operations, branding, and loyalty offerings under one umbrella.
Building on a Multi-Platform Strategy
This acquisition strengthens the integration of Hyatt’s World of Hyatt loyalty program with its all-inclusive vacation distribution networks. Hyatt now has a stronger grip on end-to-end guest engagement, offering tailored experiences through ALG Vacations and Unlimited Vacation Club, two of the most visible vacation platforms in the Americas.
Moreover, Playa’s well-established sales and marketing infrastructure will enhance Hyatt’s reach in key North American and European source markets. The all-inclusive model has grown in popularity due to its value, simplicity, and appeal to both families and couples seeking seamless resort experiences.
Advisors
In support of the acquisition, Hyatt was advised by BDT & MSD Partners as the lead financial advisor and Berkadia as the real estate advisor. Legal services were provided by Latham & Watkins LLP. Hyatt plans to release more financial details about the deal during its second-quarter 2025 earnings report.
With this acquisition, Hyatt’s leadership in the all-inclusive travel sector is further solidified. The company’s strategy of expanding through acquisition and partnership reflects ongoing confidence in the resilience and profitability of the resort travel segment.
As travelers seek more inclusive, experiential, and premium resort options, Hyatt’s growing footprint across the Caribbean and Mexico positions it well to lead the next chapter in vacation hospitality.
The photo shows an aerial view of the Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica, surrounded by lush green hills and turquoise Caribbean waters.
