A detailed guide including 11 unique places to stay in Playa del Carmen that offer white sand beaches, all-inclusive packages, picturesque ocean views, and more.
Nestled along the Yucatan Peninsula’s Riviera Maya Playa del Carmen is a vibrant slice of paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear cenotes, and lively nightlife.
Just 1-hour drive from Cancun makes Playa del Carmen an ideal choice for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. My favorite spot to stay is the Che Playa Hostel, where the vibe is laid-back and the price is unbeatable for those on a budget!
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen to explore beaches, diving, and exploring cenotes, or for those looking for more all-inclusive vacation relaxing resorts that you won’t want to leave!
11 Best Hotels in Playa Del Carmen
Let's jump into the best hotels to book in Playa del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen offers a range of areas to stay my favorite being anything along Playa del Carmen Beach or the famous Fifth Avenue due to its unbeatable location that offers many restaurants, cafes, shopping centers, and water sports activities.
Here's my quick list below if you're in a hurry otherwise read on for 8 more epic options.
1.
A luxury choice for those looking for ultimate relaxation with unbeatable ocean views and 5-star service.
2. Thompson Beach House Mid-Range
Did someone say pet-friendly? This is a great choice for those looking to holiday with their pets as they're welcomed as guests.
3. Che Playa Hostel Budget
Looking to save money? This budget hostel offers great communal activities along with a rooftop pool that offers awesome views over Playa del Carmen.
1. Fairmont Mayakoba Riviera Maya - All Inclusive
When it comes to the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen, it's easy to see why Fairmont Mayakoba Riviera Maya - All Inclusive makes the list!
This all-inclusive luxury resort features an outdoor swimming pool, free bikes, water sports facilities, and free wifi.
All of the luxurious guest rooms are fitted with flat-screen TVs, a coffee machine, and a private bathroom. Certain units also feature stunning lake views.
Each morning, guests can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast. Meals throughout the day can be enjoyed at the on-site restaurant, which serves delicious Asian cuisine.
2. Magic Blue Spa - Best boutique hotel
Located in the heart of the city, Magic Blue Spa is one of the best Playa del Carmen luxury hotels in terms of location.
Only steps away from the famous 5th Avenue, this 5-star resort features an outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a new spa facility that offers a sauna, steam room, hydrotherapy, and massage treatments.
Being in such a great location, guests can spend their days by the pool or exploring the attractions nearby, or take a 1 hour drive to Casa Cenote.
With fantastic restaurants and nightlife in the area, it's easy to see why this hotel is a favorite in Playa del Carmen.
3. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
If you're looking for one of the best all-inclusive adult-only resorts in Playa del Carmen, you've found it!
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun has six on-site restaurants that boast a range of specialties, including Mexican cuisine, French dishes, and Italian specialties.
The resort also offers a range of on-site facilities such as 13 swimming pools, a beach club, and activities such as yoga and scuba diving lessons.
The suites at this adults-only resort have hot tubs, beautifully furnished private terraces, and jaw-dropping ocean views.
Whether you choose to spend your day by the pool, on the beach, or participating in one of the many activities on offer, you'll never run out of things to do at this spectacular resort.
4. Meliora by Bunik
Centrally located in the heart of the city, Meliora by Bunik is another great place to stay in Playa del Carmen.
This 4-star hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a 24-hour front desk, a concierge service, and free wifi. At the hotel, each guest room features air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom.
For those wanting to relax, there is an amazing outdoor rooftop hot tub and terrace.
And for those wanting to get out and explore there are popular attractions worth visiting near the hotel including Playacar Beach and the Church of Guadalupe.
If you're looking for an even bigger adventure I suggest a day trip to the unmissable Chichen Itza.
5. Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen - The best luxury choice
If you're looking for the ultimate luxury, Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen is one of the best all-inclusive resorts in Playa del Carmen for ultimate relaxation.
This 5-star beachfront resort features multiple outdoor swimming pools, a spa, a 24-hour fitness center, and its very own restaurant.
Being in such a fantastic location near the beach, popular activities for guests include snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing. For those wanting a child-free night, babysitting services can be arranged.
Each morning, guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading to the beach or pool to spend their days relaxing away.
6. Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Looking for Playa del Carmen hotels where you can experience world-class service? Look no further than Banyan Tree Mayakoba, one of the best resorts in the area!
Located 10 km from downtown Playa del Carmen, this is one of the best luxury resorts in the city. The 5-star resort features luxurious villas, which each boast their own private pools and manicured gardens. All villas feature free wifi, a flat-screen TV, a walk-in closet, and a large bathroom.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba also offers eleven specialty on-site restaurants and three bars.
Guests can enjoy activities such as hopping on mangrove forests boat tours, working out in the gym, or relaxing at a spa and massage treatment.
The nearest mainland airport is Cancun International Airport, which is a 45-minute drive from the resort.
7. Thompson Beach House - Pet-friendly Choice
Located right on the Caribbean Sea in the heart of Playa del Carmen is Thompson Beach House, a great place to stay in Playa del Carmen for people traveling with pets.
This beautiful hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant. Just a short walk from the beach, one of the best things to do at the hotel is to spend your day on the white sands and swimming in the azure sea. Other activities guests can enjoy at the hotel include rooftop yoga and Tequila or Mezcal tastings.
All of the spacious rooms feature air conditioning, free wifi, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Some units boast sea or pool views.
Ado Playa del Carmen International Bus Station is 600 meters from the hotel.
An ideal place for a furry friend's vacation.
8. Hotel Kinbe
Walking distance from one of the best beaches, Hotel Kinbe is one of the best low-cost places to stay in Playa del Carmen with private rooms.
This 4-star hotel features a relaxing lush garden setting and an outdoor swimming pool with a unique waterfall. You can even book your own in-room massages.
With shopping, dining, and nightlife nearby, there are plenty of things to do around the hotel that will make for an exciting stay all at a reasonable cost.
9. La Casa de la Playa by Xcaret - Top all-inclusive
If you've got money to spend and want to have the ultimate all-inclusive adult-only experience in Playa del Carmen, book a stay at La Casa de la Playa by Xcaret.
Each morning, you can indulge in a buffet, continental, or à la carte breakfast before starting a day full of adventures. The hotel restaurant serves Mexican, Peruvian, and Steakhouse cuisine.
This resort features an incredible outdoor swimming pool with panoramic ocean views, a fitness center, free bicycle hire, and its very own on-site hairdresser.
The spacious rooms at this luxury hotel each have views over the ocean or beachfront and boast ultimate comfort.
Guests can spend their days lying on the beach, snorkeling, canoeing, relaxing by the pool, or adventuring to Cenote Azul which is a short 18-minute drive from the property.
10. Che Playa Hostel - The best budget choice
If you're looking for places to stay in Playa del Carmen on a budget, Che Playa Hostel is an excellent choice.
Located 200 meters from Playa del Carmen's main square, 600 meters from the beach, and a 14-minute drive from the Xcaret Water Park you couldn't find a more central location for a budget hotel!
This hostel boasts ten private bedrooms and dormitory rooms with air conditioning, free wifi, and private lockers. Other facilities included at the hostel include shared bathrooms, a terrace, a 24-hour front desk, and a rooftop pool and bar.
Some of the activities guests can participate in include karaoke, beer pong championships, happy hour, and workshops.
The best part about this hostel is it offers an all-you-can-eat menu including burgers, tacos, and pizza.
11. Chablé Maroma
Looking for a luxurious stay right on the beach? Located in north Playa del Carmen, Chablé Maroma is another great pick for those looking for ultimate relaxation.
This stunning resort features an infinity pool, three on-site restaurants, a spa, a gym, and a private beach area.
All of the beautifully designed rooms at the resort include air conditioning, fantastic views, a flat-screen TV, and a spacious private bathroom. Certain rooms also include a terrace and a private plunge pool.
Each morning, guests can enjoy an à la carte breakfast before spending the day by the pool or beach.
My Hotel Selection Process
- Accommodation Criteria: Having stayed in Playa del Carmen, my personal experiences heavily influenced my selection process. Additionally, I considered pricing, location, and other traveler reviews.
- My Experience: Priority is given to hotels where I have personally stayed, ensuring a firsthand understanding of what guests can expect. This experience allows me to assess the price, location, and overall quality of service.
- Top Reviews: The hotels featured in this guide receive exceptional ratings on reservation sites such as Hotels.com, Expedia, and Booking.com. I regularly revisit and refresh my selections to guarantee that every hotel consistently upholds a high-quality standard.
- Local Insights: I engage in conversation with hotel staff. This allows me to gain insights to help me gauge the value-for-money aspect of the chosen hotels.
Read more about how I review & select hotels & accommodations.
I'm Olly, a full-time traveler for the past 5 years. Each accommodation option in this guide is handpicked by me. Read my travel review ethics statement.
FAQ About Accommodation in Playa del Carmen
Is it worth staying in Playa del Carmen?
It certainly is! If you're looking for a laid-back Mexican destination that has stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and endless activities on offer, Playa del Carmen is the place for you!
When is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen?
The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is between December and March when the days are warm, there is little rain, and the conditions are near perfect.
Can you swim at the beaches in Playa del Carmen?
The jaw-dropping beaches along the coast of Playa del Carmen are safe to swim at. Enjoy swimming in the Caribbean Sea at any of the beaches, I enjoyed Punta Esmeralda Beach on my trip!
More Mexico Accommodation and Travel Guides
I hope that this guide to the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen has been useful in helping you plan where to stay!
Make sure you check out more of my guides below!
- Things to do in Tulum - ultimate travel guide with 25+ fun things to do
- Tulum Cenotes - the most comprehensive Tulum cenote guide you'll find online
Plan Your Tulum Accommodation
Still in the planning stages of your trip? Perhaps you're booking on the fly. The below accommodation guides will help you plan where to stay in Tulum.
