Playa Del Carmen Hotel Guide
The 18 Best Hotels in Playa Del Carmen For Every Budget
Updated June 2023
Welcome to Playa Del Carmen
There are plenty of wonderful hotels in Playa Del Carmen. A fast growing Mexican Caribbean town halfway between Cancun and Tulum, Playa Del Carmen is known for its powdery white sand and crystal clear waters. Hotel options range from all-inclusive luxury resorts to budget-friendly boutique hotels and everything in between. So if you’re looking for the best Playa del Carmen hotels, you’ve come to the right place.
Playa Del Carmen Map
Contents
Where to Stay in Playa Del Carmen
The Top Neighborhoods
CENTRO
Centro is a can’t miss vital and lively tourist area in Playa del Carmen. Shops, restaurants, bars, hotels, nightclubs, and more dot the streets here. Everything is walkable, and the primary walking street is the broad La Quinta 5th Ave. It’s lined with vendors, tour shops, performers, tequila tasting rooms, and everything else you could imagine.
THE NORTH END
Following the beach north from Centro, you’ll enter the North End after passing Ave. Constituyentes. This residential, Airbnb and condo area is quieter and has a more relaxed vibe but still provides easy walking access to Centro. If you’re renting a vacation home for a large group, this is a wonderful area as it’s on the rise.
PLAYACAR
Playacar is a large-scale residential development south of Centro. Great beaches, a few hotels and restaurants, and a quieter, more laid-back vibe. Golf courses, parks, and shopping centers define these “suburbs” of Playa del Carmen. It’s a fantastic area to stay in and if you’re looking for tranquility you’ll love the quiet and calm ambiance here.
Budget Hotels
Lahun Suites
Price: $$ Pool Wifi Restaurant
Lahun Suites is a lovely spot in Centro, the heart of Playa del Carmen. You’ll find this hotel just one block from 5th avenue and two blocks from the beach. Just outside your door are the best restaurants, craft stores, bars, and nightclubs. Guests can cool off from the Caribbean sun in the rooftop pool while enjoying panoramic views of the city. For an affordable price, visitors can expect spacious, clean rooms with modern design and amenities.
La Pasion Hotel Boutique by Bunik
Price: $ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
La Pasion Hotel Boutique is a romantic hideaway in Centro, which boasts charm, great amenities, and outstanding service at an affordable price. You’ll feel right at home in clean, modern rooms with premium bedding, private balconies, and air conditioning. Make sure to check out the pool and rooftop garden and terrace before exploring the countless attractions situated right outside your door. La Pasion is in a great location only a 5 minutes walk to the beach and 2 blocks from Quinta Avenida.
Riviera del Sol
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Discover a more authentic Mexican experience at the unique and fun Hotel Riviera del Sol in the North End. Perfect for couples, honeymooners, or families the traditional hacienda style rooms are loaded with character and comforts. Guests enjoy king sized beds and private patios or balconies overlooking the beautiful gardens and pool. Several services are offered to help you further unwind, including massages and weekly yoga classes. You’ll be one block from Fifth Avenue where you can find amazing restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
The Palm at Playa
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
The chic adults-only Palm at Playa in Centro reflects the vibrancy of Playa with bold, colorful designs and resort-style amenities. Spacious rooms offer private balconies and trendy décor. Enjoy the onsite Mexican restaurant, Sabor a Mar, or make your way to the rooftop where the real fun begins. Cool off in the rooftop pool or relax in a cabana with a treat from the cocktail bar. The area transforms into a trendy gathering spot for guests to mingle and dance at night.
Hotel Casa Kaoba
Price: $ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Casa Kaoba is committed to comfort and relaxation for the whole family near Playacar. The individual “villa” style rooms and suites are nestled under the shade of sacred Mayan trees and designed with sleek, contemporary style. They offer amazing amenities such as private indoor pools, jacuzzis, kitchenettes, or two-story layouts. Additional amenities include a large pool with loungers and umbrellas, an onsite restaurant, and a play area for your youngest travelers. Enjoy this home away from home in Playa del Carmen.
The Fives Downtown
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Kick back in luxury at the chic Fives Downtown featuring all-inclusive amenities near Mamitas Beach Club in Centro. As one of the coolest hotels downtown, The Fives is an excellent spot for couples and singles alike with upscale rooms, premium bedding, and designer everything. In addition to the incredible rooftop pool, the establishment offers two restaurants and two bars so that you never go hungry or thirsty! Enjoy the full-service spa during your stay for some extra relaxation.
Antera Hotel & Residences
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Antera is a midsize hotel with an exceptional amount of character in Centro. The interior of the hotel has a simple, contemporary style to make guests feel right at home throughout their stay. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning at the in-house restaurant or in the privacy of your own terrace. Antera’s prime location in central Playa del Carmen puts restaurants and attractions right outside the door. The beach is only two blocks away, but feel free to take a dip in the rooftop swimming pool or hot tub.
Midrange Hotels
Magic Blue Spa Boutique Hotel
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Located just off the famous Fifth Avenue, Magic Blue Spa is an adults-only hotel situated steps away from the best nightlife, restaurants, and shops in Centro. The property hosts luxurious accommodations and first-class amenities including a beautiful pool, spa services, a jacuzzi, and a bar/lounge. Each spacious room includes a furnished balcony or patio, a pillow menu, and more. Once your mind and body are relaxed, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, and breakfast is included with your stay.
Porto Playa Condo Hotel and Beach Club
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
At Porto Playa, each of the 21 luxury suites is ideal for couples, families, or larger groups. Each condo has the amenities and space to accommodate all your loved ones without compromising style and luxury. This boutique-style hotel is located on Así Beach Club and is one block from the famous 5th Ave in Centro. Gorgeous and bright they are committed to offering a rejuvenating experience for guests. Enjoy swimming pools, an onsite restaurant, a health café, and a state-of-the-art gym.
Serenity Hotel Boutique
Price: $$ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Serenity Hotel Boutique is one of the more chic and luxurious spots in Playa del Carmen’s Centro. Each of their 30 suites are designed in a modern, minimalist style and decorated with elegant décor. One of the top features of the hotel is the Mexican fusion cuisine at the restaurant, rooftop bar, and pool. Located in the heart of it all, as soon as guests walk out the doors of the hotel, they’re immersed in the vibrancy of Fifth Avenue.
The Yucatan Playa Del Carmen by Hilton
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.4/5
The Yucatan is an all-inclusive, adults-only boutique resort located right on Playa del Carmen’s famous fifth avenue in Centro. In addition to elegant rooms, a Peruvian-Japanese restaurant, a rooftop pool, and a snack bar, all guests have access to the Yucatan’s sister resort, the Hilton Playa del Carmen. This includes a private beach, water activities, tennis, a luxury spa, and more. Everything is included with your stay at the Yucatan including unlimited dining, endless drinks, and a fun weekly rooftop DJ session.
Petit Lafitte Hotel
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Petit Lafitte is an oasis of beachfront rooms and bungalows in the North End. The sandy white structures are topped with thatched awnings and wooden accents, mirroring the exceptional beauty of the natural landscape. Whether guests opt for a large, spacious bungalow or a beachfront hotel room, Petit Lafitte is dedicated to providing top-notch hospitality through sustainable, eco-friendly methods. Located on the private Xcalacoco Beach, guests can enjoy the pool, beach, onsite restaurant, and wellness center in complete peace and privacy.
Mvngata Boutique Hotel
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.8/5
Immerse yourself in the scenic, natural beauty of Playa del Carmen at this unique boutique hotel in the North End. Mvngata sits on its own stunning private beach overlooking the Caribbean while being completely surrounded by verdant jungle. The rooms are exceptionally spacious, elegantly decorated, and packed with amenities. You’ll love the gorgeous rooftop bar overlooking the sea, an ultra relaxing beachside spa, bar and lounge, and even a fun nightclub.
High-End Hotels
Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Enjoy the best of both worlds at the Grand Hyatt with access to stunning beaches and the vibrancy and excitement of Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen’s North End. The vast infinity pool seamlessly meets the idyllic white sand beaches of the Caribbean. Take in the ocean breeze as you sip on a signature cocktail and savor the region’s local flavors at the gourmet restaurant. The most lively part of the city with restaurants, shops, and nightlife is just a few minutes away.
Mahekal Beach Front Resort and Spa
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Escape to the seaside outskirts of Playa del Carmen at this spectacular and exclusive resort and spa in the North End. The swimming pools alone will leave you breathless, yet there are countless touches throughout the resort that make this place an Instagram favorite. Mahekal honors the nearby Mayan ruins in its stunning design, creating a lavish yet meaningful aesthetic. Dip your toes in the private, white sand beach or take a swim in the turquoise waters of the sea.
Thompson Beach House
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
A bohemian oasis overlooking the Caribbean, Thompson Beach House is a stylish and contemporary resort offering luxury throughout. Ideal for couples and families alike, it is ideally located right in the heart of Centro. Giving guests the opportunity to experience a world class beach while nestled in one of the hotel’s private cabanas or day beds. Signature cocktails or freshly caught, wood fired seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine are readily available from the in house restaurant and bar.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
Price: $$$$ Average Reviews: 4.7/5
Hotel Xcaret pays tribute to the culture and history of the Mayan people in the art, food, and hospitality offered at this hotel just south of Playacar. In addition to the luxurious hotel experience, Hotel Xcaret has revolutionized “all-inclusive” with unlimited access to each of its adventure parks: Xcaret with its meandering canals you can swim through, incredible beach coves, cultural shows, and jungle hikes. Xplor with its caves, ziplines, rafting, and ATVs. Xel-Ha with its waterslides, snorkeling, mangrove tubing, and other water activities. Xplor Fuego nighttime torchlight adventure, Xenotes cenote experience, Xoximilco floating fiesta, and the oddly popular Xenses optical illusion park.
Fairmont Mayakoba
Price: $$$ Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Just north of the city, the Fairmont Mayakoba sits on 45 acres of lush greenery, white sand beach, and winding lagoons in the North End. Rooms, suites, and casitas offer guests access to the extraordinary property. In addition to 5 luxury pools, 6 restaurants, 3 bars, and a private beach, the Fairmont has a variety of recreational activities you won’t find at any other resort. Spend the day at the on-site golf course or enjoying a Mayan treatment at the spa.
Hey guys, great work and thank you for taking all the guessing out of choosing a place to stay. The info about the neighborhoods really helped.
Happy to help!
My best friend and I did a girl’s trip and stayed at the Magic Blue Spa Boutique Hotel. We loved it!
Glad you had a great time!
Great list of hotels and reviews. Do you have a top hotels list for Valladolid?
Not yet! We really focus on the Riviera Maya coastline. Glad you like the list!
Thank you for the great recommendations. Is Playa del carmen safe to travel to now?
Many people are visiting again with safety protocols in place. Take a look at our Covid-19 info page for all the info you’ll need. Thanks.
https://www.islandlifemexico.com/coronavirus-in-mexico/
It would be nice if you added a All Inclusive guide for Playa like you have for Cozumel. Thanks!
I always stay at Hotel La Semilla. Great recommendation.