THE 10 BEST Hotels in Playa del Carmen, Mexico for 2023

THE 10 BEST Hotels in Playa del Carmen, Mexico for 2023

Playa del Carmen is one of the popular beach towns in Mexico. It lies in the Riviera Maya and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

In fact, it boasts pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Aside from that, this town is known for its rows of hotels that suit all kinds of travelers. From budget-friendly to all-inclusive ones, the options here are amazing. 

What You Need to Know About Playa del Carmen

The beach town of Playa del Carmen is on the eastern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula. It sits between Cancun as well as Tulum. This makes it the perfect place to start your Mexico adventure. Aside from that, this town is a good starting point if you want to see Cozumel island. There are ferries that head out to the island each hour. 

Playa del Carmen’s weather is quite predictable. This is why it is easier to make plans when traveling here. But when is the best time to come here, you ask? Well, the weather remains the same most of the year. What you need to watch out for is the rainy season. Here’s what you need to know about the weather in Playa del Carmen. 

1. January to April

Weather conditions are perfect during these months. This also means that more tourists flock here. Since it is the peak season, expect those beach towns will be crowded. Also, hotels can get packed during these months. If you are visiting in any of these months, you should get your hotel accommodation as early as possible. 

2. May to October

The weather during these months is the hottest and the wettest in the country. Water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving are ideal during these times. Take note that the hurricane season starts in September and ends in October. You should check out the weather report before heading out. One of the advantages of traveling to Playa del Carmen during these months is that there are fewer crowds.

3. November to December

Most tourists prefer traveling to this beach town during these months. It’s because the hurricane season is already done. Not only that but the humidity levels are low. You should bring a coat or wrap with you since the nights can get chilly. 

Getting to Playa del Carmen

There is no international part in Playa del Carmen. Your best option is to fly to the nearest airport which is the Cancun International Airport. From here, you will travel an hour to reach Playa del Carmen. This airport is the largest in the state of Quintana Roo. In fact, around 20 million passes by this airport each year. How to get to Playa del Carmen from here? 

1. Airport Shuttle Service

Group shuttles are available at the airport that will take you to your hotel. This will take longer since other passengers will be dropped off in their accommodations. If you want, you can go for a paid airport shuttle service instead. This will take you directly to your hotel. 

2. Rental Cars

This is the most convenient way to get from Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen. In fact, renting a vehicle is the best way to get around the beach town too. This depends on how much exploring you will do during your stay. It will take an hour from the airport to get to the beach town. 

3. Buses 

If you want to go local, then ride the bus from the airport. This is the cheapest way to get to Playa del Carmen. A bus ticket will only cost you $10 one way. However, these buses don’t stop directly at the hotels. 

4. Taxis

Another option to get around is riding a taxi. You can have your hotel call you one if you plan on exploring. The normal rate for a taxi ride is between $4 to $7 locally. Just make sure that you discuss the rates with the driver first. 

Best Hotels to Stay in at Playa del Carmen

There is no shortage of inclusive hotels in this beach town. This makes it a bit challenging when it comes to deciding where to stay. One way to narrow down your choices is to consider the vibe that you are aiming for. Here are a few options that I want to recommend that you should stay in. 

1. Banyan Tree Mayakoba 

If you are looking for the best luxury resort in the area, Banyan Tree Mayakoba fits the bill.  The air-conditioned rooms here are spacious and beautifully decorated. Each room has a combination of Asian and Mexican decors which add to the overall beauty of the space. They even come with 5-star resort features too. 

There are several high-class on-site restaurants on the property. They serve both local and international dishes to the hotel guests. Other amenities include a Thai spa and also a golf course. The latter hosts PGA events from time to time. What’s great about this resort is that it is away from bustling areas. This means that you will be able to relax and unwind throughout your stay. 

Banyan Tree Mayakoba is a huge all-inclusive resort that you can explore on foot. But the hotel does provide golf carts, free bikes, and even boats. Aside from that, you can also talk to any staff member about anything that you need. Expect a five-star service here which makes this hotel stand out among the rest. 

Aside from that, there are bars and clubs on the property too. A good example is the Reflections Bar. they serve snacks and cocktails even at the communal outdoor swimming pool. Spend a few hours at the fitness center to keep up with your training. The hotel offers easy access to its private beach. But their main pool is a nice place to relax as well. 

2. Playacar Palace

Another Playa del Carmen hotel you should consider is the Playacar Palace. This iconic hotel is near downtown Playa del Carmen. Also, it is next to the ferry pier heading to Cozumel. In fact, you should book a room here if you want to have access to modern amenities. This is also a great choice if you want to be closer to the action in this town. After all, it is just walking distance from the town’s nightlife. 

There are 201 suites on the premises that come with whirlpool tubs. Aside from that, their concierge service is superb. Hotel guests love spending time at the huge outdoor pool on the property. Aside from its size, it is also facing the beach giving you a great view of the ocean. 

If you are itching to explore the area, you can start at the animal reserve next door. Here you will find several local wildlife that you can view up close. Speaking of animals, this hotel is pet-friendly! This is one of the handfuls of resorts in this beach town that allows pets. 

Playacar Palace is a great place for families. The guest rooms here are spacious and come with modern amenities. Not only that but there is free WiFi too. If you want to be close to the action, you should book a room here. 

3. Hotel Xcaret Mexico

Meanwhile, Hotel Xcaret Mexico is the perfect choice for families. It is just a few miles from Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal making it accessible for those on boats. Also, it is near ADO International Bus Station. With these two alone, you know that it is a great location already. After all, transportation to and from this hotel is relatively easy. 

This All Parks All Fun Inclusive boasts numerous amenities. Among these are an outdoor swimming pool, a private beach area, and a tennis court. There is an on-site restaurant here that serves great food. Also, it is close to Kool Beach Club if you want to join beach parties. You should also check the rooftop pool. Here you can lounge by the pool while admiring the view. 

Most of the rooms here come with balconies. Each room has a private bathroom along with toiletries. Depending on the room that you choose, you might have sea views to admire. Aside from that they have air conditioning and free Wi-Fi too. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet to fuel them for the day. 

You can spend some time at the hotel’s wellness center. You can enjoy the hot tub here or work up a sweat at the fitness center. Aside from that, you can also go hiking in the nearby forest or go snorkeling. Feel free to approach the front desk to ask the staff if they can recommend any activities. On a good note, guests will have free access to the different water parts under the Xcaret brand. 

4. Rosewood Mayakoba

This hotel is on the same property as Fairmont Mayakoba. It’s a 620-acre property surrounded by a tropical forest. It’s the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation! There are 129 suites as well as private residences here that you can choose from. Their open area plans help create a cool space for guests to enjoy. Aside from that, they have private terraces where you can view the jungle or the sea. There are eight restaurants here that will satisfy your hunger. Whether you are looking for local Mexican dishes, fresh seafood, or international cuisine, you’ll find them all here. 

Aside from that, this hotel focuses more on its guests’ wellness. The on-site spa is on a beautiful island with a freshwater lagoon. Apart from the usual massages and facials, you can also try traditional Mayan treatments too. You can even book an appointment with the resort’s own local shaman. What better way to pamper yourself than spending time in a spa? 

Rosewood is also known for its sustainability efforts. They are taking steps to reduce their use of plastics. Also, they source fresh ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. In addition, the hotel often provides eco-tours to its guests around the complex. This is to show the local flora and fauna of the forest. Your tour guide not only provides detailed information about the wildlife here but also shares the hotel’s conservation efforts too. 

5. Hotel Xcaret Arte

Meanwhile, if you are looking for an all-inclusive adults-only resort, you can start here. This is a relatively new hotel under the Xcaret hotels. Xcaret is known for its theme parks and gorgeous resorts in the state of Quintana Roo. Xcaret Arte is quite different from its sister companies in terms of target customers. After all, this hotel resort focuses on adult customers only. 

There are six casas on the property with each one having its own theme. For example, one is more on music, another is for painting, and so on. I suggest that you get a room at the Casa Los Artistas. One of the reasons is that it is one of the two casas with ocean views. In addition, this casa has the best rooms on the property. Also, you will have easy access to the private rooftop pool and bar. 

Hotel Xcaret Arte has a wonderful spa on-site. It is a cenote-inspired spa which is one of its main attractions. Check out their hydrotherapy pools inside grottoes. Also, the spa treatments are done inside a cave. This is a unique experience that you don’t want to miss. 

Of course, with all the exploration and activities you’ve been doing, you will go hungry. Fortunately, the restaurants at the hotel offer delicious meals. Take your pick from the local dishes that they serve here. There is free WiFi too so you can keep in touch with your family back home. 

6. Viceroy Riviera Maya

Viceroy Riviera Maya lies 10 minutes outside of Playa del Carmen. It sits on Xcalacoco Beach which means that you have a pristine white sand beach at your disposal. In terms of accommodations, the villas come with a kidney-shaped private pool. Aside from that, each room has its own flat-screen TV and air conditioning. In addition, there is free WiFi plus room service too. Their concierge service can help you book tours in and around Playa del Carmen. This includes ordering a vehicle for you if you want to explore the area. 

Viceroy is also one of the pet-friendly hotels in this town. You can bring your pet with you to enjoy the beach. Additional features of this hotel are a spa and wellness center. They have a steam room, hot tub, and personal massages to name a few. Guests can also join yoga classes being held on the beach. This is the perfect spot to stretch those muscles while admiring the view. There is also an outdoor pool and gym on the premises. 

If you are looking for other activities to do, why not go on a day trip to Cozumel? This hotel is near the ferry terminal that will take you to the island. Aside from that, you can check out the Xcaret Eco Park which is just 20 minutes away. This hotel is quite popular with couples who are looking for a romantic getaway. 

7. Chablé Maroma

Chable Maroma is a luxury 5-star hotel where wellness takes center stage. In fact, it is one of the most talked about five-star hotels in the town. It is a relatively new resort but it is making a big splash already. Chable Maroma has 70 suites on the property with private balconies as well as private pools. 

As mentioned before, this hotel focuses on wellness. The on-site spa here offers traditional Mayan treatments. This is a unique experience that you should try yourself. What other daily activities are available here? Chable Maroma offers yoga and meditation classes. They can help you re-align your mind, body, and spirit. 

For those who want to do something exciting, why not go on a jungle tour? This tour will take you to some of the highlights of the jungle nearby. Keep an eye out for local wildlife that is living here. Aside from that, you can also do water sports. You can go swimming, scuba diving, or paddle boarding. 

This is one of the best places that you can stay in Playa del Carmen. It doesn’t matter if you are traveling solo or with your partner. This luxury hotel is not a bad place to spend your time in. After all, tourists give rave reviews about this hotel. 

8. Mahekal Beach Resort

Meanwhile, this boutique hotel is another popular choice among travelers. It gives off that secluded beach vibe to it that you will love. If you are not a fan of crowds, you will want to stay here. Just because it is secluded doesn’t mean that you’ll get poor service. In fact, the dining area is impressive. Also, the beddings here have a higher thread count making them extra soft to the touch. 

The bungalow-inspired rooms here have thatched roofs just like in the old times. But they do have modern features like private terraces equipped with hammocks. Most of the bungalows here are facing the ocean which is a plus. Others are hidden among the swaying palm trees and the jungle. Whichever room you choose, you are going to fall in love with it. 

One of the reasons why you should consider this hotel is its location. After all, it is just a block away from the bustling Quinta Avenida. This means that you are near the attractions in town. On the other hand, if you prefer to spend your day by the pool, you will not be disappointed. There are large outdoor pools here where you can swim in. Don’t forget to check out the hotel’s private beach here which you can access through the beach club. If you are looking for one of the best luxury hotels, this is not a bad option. 

9. Andaz Mayakoba All-Inclusive Package

The upscale Andaz Mayakoba resort is an impressive hotel in Playa del Carmen. There are 5 a la carte restaurants on-site as well as a free private parking area. In addition, there are two outdoor pools where you can lounge or swim in. You can also work up a sweat at the hotel’s fitness center. 

What other amenities are available here? There is a bar with an extensive list of wines, and a garden for you to stroll on. There is also a private beach area for guests to enjoy. Take advantage of the room service if you want to spend your time in your room. Also, there is a 24-hour front desk where you can ask for assistance. 

Aside from that, all the rooms here come with air conditioning. The flat-screen TVs come with cable channels so you can watch your favorite shows. In addition, each room has its own private bathroom. Toiletries are free to use too. In terms of food, the hotel offers a la carte or continental breakfast. If you are going to go exploring the attractions nearby, I suggest that you get a continental breakfast. 

Among the activities that you can do here are snorkeling and cycling. You can also on a canoe to explore the coastline. Stretch out on the beach and enjoy the sun. Take advantage of the spa and wellness center here for a bit of pampering. Take your pick of the treatments and just sit back and relax. 

10. El Dorado Maroma

Meanwhile, El Dorado Maroma has two beachfront locations where you can stay in. There is also a beachfront wedding chapel for destination weddings. Do you want to get rid of your tight muscles? Feel free to try their full-service spa. Aside from massages, you can take your pick among their spa treatments. If you want to indulge, why not get a special massage or use their beauty salon? This is for an extra fee but worth the price. 

As for their rooms, you will get amazing views of the tropical gardens. The Caribbean-style design of the rooms is quite inviting. Among the features that they have are air conditioning, satellite TV, and a mini-open bar. The rooms here also have ceiling fans and coffee makers too. Each room has its own private bathroom complete with toiletries. There is also a safety deposit box where you can place your valuables. 

If you want to stay here, I suggest that you book their Gourmet All-Inclusive Package. This lets you sample the dishes served at the restaurants. Take your pick from fusion dishes like Mexican-Caribbean food or international cuisine. You can even order street food-type of dishes that will give you a taste of traditional food. 

El Dorado also has swim-up bars and a lounge bar. There is also a 24-hour front desk service in case you need anything. 

Additional Resorts to Consider

Most of the hotels here have amazing views of the Caribbean Sea. This is not surprising given that they are usually facing the beach. Beachfront resorts provide easy access to these gorgeous beaches. Aside from the hotels mentioned above, there are more options available. In fact, I want to add these two to this list of best hotels in Playa del Carmen. 

• Grand Velas Riviera Maya

If you are willing to splurge a little, why not book a stay at Grand Velas Riviera Maya? This all-inclusive resort has numerous suites to accommodate all kinds of travelers. Not only that, but the pristine white sand beach is perfect for sunbathing or water activities. Among the popular points of interest in this hotel are the private plunge pools and personal concierges. In addition, the hotel offers complimentary hydrotherapy with spa treatments. 

Grand Velas boasts 539 suites that are spread throughout the property. There are three areas where the suites are in this hotel. The first two are on the water while the other is in the jungle. What you’ll love about this place is that each area feels like a mini resort. They have infinity pools, restaurants, and various activities too. 

Aside from that, there are areas that are exclusive for adults. Meanwhile, children and teens will still have a place of their own on the property. There are Kids’ and Teens’ Clubs here where they can mingle with other guests. 

• Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen 

Meanwhile, if you are looking for a hotel near the city center, the Grand Hyatt is a good option. It sits on the Playa del Carmen beach at Fifth Avenue and is near various attractions. In fact, the bars and nightclubs are just a short walk from the hotel which is a plus for party-goers. 

Book a stay at their beachfront executive suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. Not only that, they come with private terraces and plunge pools that you will not want to get out of. They also have a seating area for entertaining guests.t  Don’t worry if you book their standard rooms. You will still get more space with amazing views from your window. While you are here, why not upgrade to swim-up rooms? This is one of my favorites in this hotel. 

You should also check the cenote spa in the middle of the hotel. This is a unique feature that you should try out. Other amenities include a large gym, several restaurants, and infinity pools. Explore the grounds on foot so you can see the art installations. Everything blends perfectly here. The best part is that it is near downtown Playa del Carmen where more attractions are. 

Playa Del Carmen is the best spots in Mexico!

Playa del Carmen is one of the best spots in Mexico to visit. It has gorgeous beaches with crystal clear waters. Aside from that, this beach town boasts several hotels that you can stay in. There is La Casa Hotel, Hotel Riu, and others. White walls decorated with local artwork or traditional Mexican decorations are mostly seen among these hotels. In addition, most of the accommodations here come with modern amenities. 

Among these are laundry facilities, infinity pools, and beach bars. Take advantage of their concierge services if you need help booking tours or getting a vehicle. Aside from that, these hotels have their own selection of restaurants. You can sample local and international cuisines here which will satisfy your hunger. If you want, you can check out the restaurants near the city center or around the hotels for more options. 

Playa del Carmen is also known for its nightlife. Although it is not as wild as that Cancun, it is still an enjoyable place to party. Bars and nightclubs pepper the beaches. Live music blares from them onto the beach thus creating that party vibe. Whether you are staying in a hotel on 5th Avenue or on the outskirts of the town, you will find nightclubs to party in. 

What I like about this beach town is that it welcomes all kinds of travelers. There are cheaper accommodations in the city for budget travelers. On the other hand, if you have extra money, a stay in an all-inclusive hotel is worth it. After all, you don’t have to worry about anything else because you will be taken care of. 

The next time you plan on visiting Cancun, head to Playa del Carmen. It has all the makings of another Cancun minus the crowd. The best part? You will enjoy the pristine beaches and blue waters here.