Just came back from Elan Resort & Spa in Cancun with a few friends and we had a terrific time. Arriving in Cancun's Hotel zone, we were somewhat weary of the crowd and noise, but Elan is something different: it is on its own private part of the Laguna, so it is isolated from the frenzy going in on elsewhere in Cancun.
The premises are simply fantastic, food was great, and service was very nice. We went there to relax and get a few days of sun and that's exactly what we got.
Be advised that Elan is not directly on the sea, but on the Laguna: this makes for a more peaceful experience, a private beach, and a possibility to go canoing or kayaking in the laguna. However, there are no waves, the beach is more limited and access to the sea is a little bit more complicated. (if you check Elan's location on a map, you'll see what I'm talking about).
On the down note, we had minor difficulties with room service: messages did not always go through and our room was not made on one of the days. We still however had a great time and found the staff friendly.
Simon

When we arrived we were given cold drinks and cold towels that felt great on a warm, summer day. Check in was quick and we were escorted to our room.

Your first glimpses are this beautiful Mexican colonial architecture village, with cobblestone streets, fountains, and bright beatiful flowers and landscaping.

Our room was spacious and the decor was lovely. Our meals at La Palapa and Mare Nostrum were excellent, and the service was outstanding. The staff at The Elan catered to our every need, by bringing us drinks by the pool, serving our meals, and looking after our luggage at arrival and departure. Dining in both restaurants was very nice. The massage was relaxing and the Mayan Sauna looked like an interesting experience for the Winter months.

Both beaches and pool areas were beautiful, and the location of this resort is excellent: about 4 miles from the Convention Center and 5 miles from downtown.

I would definitely recommend this hotel to someone who wants to have a relaxing vacation.

We spent a few days at Elan to celebrate our 25th Anniversary. The resort is lovely. Very different from all the large cookie cutter hotels in Cancun. Elan is a breath of fresh air. You really get the flavor of Mexico. The grounds are beautiful. Attention to detail is important here. The rooms are well appointed, and the staff if very accommodating.

Elan has many options for dining, and the food is excellent. We felt as though we were dining at a fine gourmet restaurant every night. The Spa is lovely. My massage was wonderful. All of the classes at the spa were free, and the instructors were terrific.

Elan is close enough to all the shopping and nightlife. A five minute bus or taxi ride brings you right into all the action.

We would highly recommend The Elan Resort and Spa to anyone looking to enjoy the Mexican culture and relax in the lap of luxury.

I stayed for a week in August. Considering the main strip in Cancun is quite wild Elan offered a peaceful and relaxing experience away from the crowds but close enough to the strip should you want to experience it.
Arriving after a long flight and stop over we swept through big iron gates along an avenue of palm trees. The staff immediately took our bags to our room, we were swiftly bought a drink and cold towels while we checked in. It was a great start and everything else throughout our stay was of the same high standard.
Hurricane season was approaching so there were less guests than maybe they usually have however the layout of the hotel around courtyards meant that it felt quiet and private; I can't imagine it ever feeling crowded. There are plenty of sunbeds, choice of restaurants and a couple of swimming pools and the lagoon. Saw a couple of large stingrays in the lagoon as well as lots of bird and wild life.
We also had a massage in the new spa; didn't see the whole spa but the treatment room for my massage was suitably calming and all their products are local mayan inspired and smelled great.
Food was also excellent; a good choice of international and mexican inspired cooking.
All in all the service and treatment we received at Elan was fantastic. It offers tranquility and relaxation but if you really want the night life you can hit the strip in 5/10 minutes. Great combination.