Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen: The Best Hotels and Resorts

You’re looking for the perfect hotel in Playa del Carmen for your next holidays?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the best hotels in Playa del Carmen. You will find all my favorite hotels organized by area and category.

You will see, there is something for every taste and budget, from kid-friendly hotels to adults-only, from all-inclusive resorts to appartments and from budget-friendly accommodations to luxury 5 star hotels.

• Don’t forget to check out my other comprehensive guides: What to Do in Playa del Carmen and 27 EPIC All-Inclusive Hotels in Playa del Carmen

So, ready to find the ideal hotel for your stay?

Let’s go!

My favorite hotels in Playa del Carmen

Here’s a quick summary of my favorite hotels to stay in Playa del Carmen.

If you don’t have time to read the detailed article, you can quickly find the perfect hotel here!

You just have to click on the hotel name in orange for more details and prices:

• Where to stay in Playa del Carmen close to the best beach: Fairmont Mayakoba
• The best appartment in Playa del Carmen: Casa Kaoba Hotel & Suites
• The best 5* hotel in Playa del Carmen: Andaz Mayakoba
• The best hotel near Cancun airport: Avani Cancun Airport
• The best romantic hotel in Playa del Carmen: Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun – Adults only
• Where to stay in Playa del Carmen with family: Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive
• The best all-inclusive hotel in Playa del Carmen: Palmaïa – The House of AïA Wellness Enclave All Inclusive
• The best beachfront hotel in Playa del Carmen: The St Regis Kanai Resort
• The Top Budget-Friendly Hotel in Playa del Carmen: Maya Vacanze Playa Natural

Best Family-Friendly Hotels

Playa del Carmen is a great family-friendly destination because it offers many attractions and activities that are suitable for children of all ages.

Here’s why Playa del Carmen is a top pick for family vacations:

• Pristine beaches offer a playground for swimming, snorkeling, and sandcastle building.
• Many resorts cater to families with clubs for kids, diverse pools, and playgrounds.
• Amusement parks like Ventura Park, Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor or Xavage provide kid-friendly thrills.
• Family tours abound, like the Jolly Roger Pirate Show and aquariums with marine life encounters.
• Plaza Las Americas mall presents a mix of shopping and entertainment.
• Parque las Palapas, a vibrant downtown park, hosts events and has play areas.

Here is my selection of the best family-friendly hotels in Playa del Carmen

• Barceló Maya Tropical – All Inclusive: this is a 5-star gem with an unbeatable value in the Riviera Maya! It offers 4 restaurants, mini-golf, videogames, bowling, and a Kids Club. Extensive facilities feature multiple sports options, 2 escape rooms, and a range of water sports, including snorkeling and diving. The resort features 8 pools, theaters, nightclubs, and a teen disco. Rates start at 265 $usd per night, all-inclusive.

• The Royal Haciendas Resort & Spa A beautiful and family-friendly resort with a colonial style and a beachfront location. A lovely hotel for people who want a home-away-from-home feeling. Many restaurants, bars and a kids club are among their atractives. Around 376$ usd per night, all inclusive!

• Palmaïa – The House of AïA Wellness Enclave All Inclusive: Luxurious and exclusive resort with a contemporary style and a secluded beach. It offers elegant and modern suites with balconies or terraces, some with ocean views or private pools. Wonderful place for a sophisticated and quietvacation with premium service, gourmet cuisine, and a stunning beach. Around 960$ usd per night, all inclusive!

• Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive: A spectacular resort with a unique design and a natural setting. It offers full free access to Experiencias Xcaret’s nature parks and tours, as well as restaurants, bars, pools, a spa, a theater, and a kids club. Amazing for adventurous travelers who seek prime outdoor entretainment. Around 1100$ usd per night, all inclusive!

Best Adults-Only Hotels

For those seeking an adults-only vacation experience Playa del Carmen for sure has something to offer!

• The city has several all-inclusive resorts that cater exclusively to adults, offering a range of amenities like swim-up bars, spa treatments, and poolside lounges.
• The city has some of the best beaches in the world, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing with a book.
• Playa del Carmen is brimming with amazing activities for couples, from touring the idyllic Isla Contoy to taking in the views on a Panoramic Helicopter Tour, experiencing the magic of Joya by Cirque du Soleil, or capturing love in a romantic photoshoot.
• At night, Playa del Carmen comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars, nightclubs, and music venues to choose from. You can dance the night away to the sounds of salsa, reggaeton, or perhaps electronic music. Maybe just, Playa del Carmen has it all.

Here is my selection of the best Adults-Only Resorts in Playa del Carmen

• Magic Blue Spa Boutique Hotel Adults Only: A charming and cozy hotel with a minimalist design and a lush garden. It offers comfortable rooms with balconies or terraces, a pool, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, and a beach club. Near famous 5th Ave. Around 130$ usd per night, breakfast included.

• The Reef 28: A modern and stylish hotel with a rooftop pool and bar. You can enjoy many ammenities and access to two sister hotels on the beach. A wonderful hotel for travelers who want to enjoy a chic and lively vacation with a rooftop vibe. Around 160$ usd per night, all inclusive.

• Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya Adults Only All-Inclusive: A romantic and intimate resort with a Mediterranean style and a tropical setting. It offers elegant rooms with balconies or terraces, a private beach, a pool, a spa, many bars and restaurants and unlimited activities and entertainment. A perfect resort for couples who want a serene athmosphere. Around 480$ usd per night, all inclusive!

• Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun – Adults only: A luxurious and exclusive resort with a stunning beach and a tropical landscape. It offers spacious and elegant suites with balconies or terraces. A superb resort for couples who want to indulge in a lavish and romantic vacation with world-class service. Around 820$ usd per night, all inclusive!

• La Casa de la Playa by Xcaret- All Inclusive Adults Only: An elegant hotel with a prime beachfront location and a bohemian charm. It offers luxurious and spacious rooms with balconies or terraces, some with ocean views or hammocks. Perfect for travelers who loves sophistication. You can enjoy the beach club, the gourmet restaurant, the cocktail bar, and the yoga classes. Around 2100$ usd per night.

Best All-inclusive Resorts

One of the biggest advantages of an all-inclusive resort is that it provides a hassle-free vacation, where you don’t have to worry about budgeting for meals, drinks, or activities. This can be particularly appealing if you’re traveling with family or a large group, as it simplifies the planning process and can help you stay worries-free.

Additionally, many all-inclusive hotels in Playa del Carmen offer exclusive perks, such as direct access to beaches, pools, and restaurants, as well as organized activities and entertainment.

An all-inclusive hotel in Playa del Carmen makes your visit easy and fun, giving you everything you need in one place.

Here is my selection of the best all inclusive hotels in Playa del Carmen

• Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort: A romantic beachfront oasis with elegant suites, jacuzzis, ocean views, and a variety of restaurants, bars, pools, spa, and entertainment. Around 380$ usd per night, all inclusive!

• Paradisus Playa del Carmen All Inclusive: A family-friendly resort with modern suites, some with swim-up access or jacuzzis, 14 restaurants, 16 bars, 4 pools, a spa, a kids club, a teens club, and activities and entertainment for all ages. Around 450$ usd per night, all inclusive!

• Xcaret Arte: this amazing hotel offers an immersion into art and culture with exclusive access to 9 parks and a variety of tours. Savor culinary excellence in 11 restaurants and unwind in 9 bars, or refresh in one of the 5 pools. Pamper yourself in the spa, take in a show at the theater, or get creative in an art workshop. Each room is a tribute to the artistic heritage of Mexico, inspired by the work of renowned Mexican artists and artisans. Around 800$ usd per night, all inclusive!

• Palafitos Overwater Bungalows at El Dorado Maroma: Immerse yourself in an enchanting experience reminiscent of the Maldives, right here in Mexico, with exclusive overwater bungalows that boast glass floors, private pools, and outdoor showers. Personal butlers and gourmet dining round out the luxurious offerings at this distinctive hotel, where every detail is a testament to sophistication. Priced from 1800$ usd per night, all-inclusive

Best Five-Star Hotels

If you’re planning a visit to Playa del Carmen, I highly recommend choosing a 5-star hotel for the ultimate luxurious experience.

After a day of beach adventures, diving into the vibrant Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, and enjoying fun activities, there’s nothing better than returning to a comfy and sophisticated luxury hotel.

These hotels offer top-notch amenities like spa treatments, fine dining restaurants, and personalized concierge services, ensuring that your stay is unforgettable.

You will not regret it, choosing a 5-star hotel in Playa del Carmen allows you to enjoy the local experiences by traveling in style at the same time.

Here is my selection of the best 5-Star Hotels in Playa del Carmen

• Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort: Experience the vibrant and chic atmosphere of this 5 star hotel on the famous Fifth Avenue. Stay in a bright and spacious room with a balcony and a bathtub. Enjoy the three outdoor pools, the spa, the fitness center, and the three restaurants. Around 310$ usd per night!

• Mvngata Beach Hotel: Spend your days relaxing in this 5 star hotel on the beachfront. Relax in your room with a terrace, a hammock, and an amazing sea view. You´ll have access to an outdoor pool, kayaks, bikes and a well-served breakfast service. You can also visit the rooftop restaurant and the beach club. Around 340$usd per night!

• Andaz Mayakoba by Hyatt: a luxury resort boasting great natural beauty between the beach and private lakes. Relax in your modern and stylish room with a balcony and a rain shower. Enjoy the private beach, the golf course, the spa, and the four restaurants. Around 430$ usd per night, breakfast included!

• Viceroy Riviera Maya: Treat yourself in a romantic and secluded stay in this hotel, nestled in the jungle and on the beachfront. Relax in a luxurious and elegant villa with a private pool, an outdoor shower, and a butler service. Enjoy the spa, the yoga classes, the restaurant, and the beach club. Around 550$ usd per night!

Best Beachfront Hotels

The soft, white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. For those who want to try something more active, Playa del Carmen have a variety of water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.

Beach volleyball is really popular, with several courts set up along the beach. Also, beach clubs are a must-visit attraction in Playa del Carmen. Chairs, umbrellas, and food and drink service will be provided, making them an ideal place to spend the day. With many of the beach clubs having pools and other activities available, you will find it hard to leave the beach!

Being near to the sand is a real luxury. You will be able to enjoy the sound of the waves and the sea breeze from your bed.

Here is my selection of the best Beachfront Hotels in Playa del Carmen

• Platinum Yucatan Princess Adults Only – All Inclusive: Have a fun and romantic stay in this 5 star adults-only resort on the beachfront. Stay in a modern and comfortable suite with a jacuzzi, a minibar, and a terrace. Enjoy the outdoor pools, the spa, the fitness center, and the six restaurants. Around 400$ usd per night, all inclusive!

• Fairmont Mayakoba: Treat yourself to a luxurious and relaxing stay in this 5 star resort surrounded by nature and beautiful lagoons. Stay in a spacious and elegant room with a balcony, a bathtub, and a Nespresso machine. Enjoy the private beach, the golf course, the spa, and the five restaurants. Around 500$ usd per night, breakfast included!

• The St Regis Kanai Resort Riviera Maya: Enjoy a sophisticated and exclusive stay in this resort on the beachfront. Stay in a stunning and spacious room with a balcony, a bathtub. Enjoy the outdoor pool, the spa, the fitness center, and the four restaurants. You can also experience the signature St. Regis Butler Service and the champagne sabering ritual. Around 1100$ usd per night!

Best Apartments

Renting an apartment in Playa del Carmen could be great if you want more room, privacy, and comfort, plus it can save you money.

Apartments offer your own space with a kitchen, living area, laundry machines, and fast internet, all to yourself.

You can pick a spot close to the beach, Fifth Avenue, or the city center. Many places have extra perks like pools, gyms, security, and parking. They’re often less costly than hotels, and you can relax without the busy hotel vibe.

Here is my selection of the best apartments in Playa del Carmen

• Departamentos K&B: If you want to experience the lively atmosphere of Playa del Carmen, with its beautiful beaches, shops, restaurants, and nightlife, these apartments are ideal for you. You will have a cozy and relaxing place to stay, with a friendly staff and free WiFi. You can also enjoy the garden, the shared lounge, and the terrace. Cycling is possible in the surroundings. Starting at 60$ usd per night!

• Arkana 9 Suites: Great choice for travelers who want to discover the charm and culture of Playa del Carmen, with its colorful streets, art galleries, and local markets. You will have a modern and comfortable accommodation with a pool and a terrace. The hotel is also close to the beach and the bus station. Starting at 75$ usd per night!

• Casa Kaoba Hotel & Suites: Enjoy a cozy and charming stay in this accomodation. Relax in a spacious and comfortable room with a kitchenette, a hammock, and a garden view. Enjoy the outdoor pool, the terrace, the restaurant, and the free parking. Around 90$ usd per night!

• Arrecife Studios: Just 300 meters away from the beach and the Fifth Avenue. Modern studio with kitchenette and balcony, from 100 $usd per night. Things to look up: the stylish design, the rooftop pool, the free parking.

• Fairmont Heritage Place Mayakoba: This hotel is one of the most exclusive and luxurious accomodation in the Riviera Maya, perfect for a family vacation or a romantic getaway. You will stay in a spacious and elegant villa with all the amenities you need. You will also have privileged access to the facilities of Fairmont Mayakoba, such as the natural trails, the boat rides on the crystal-clear canals, the white sand beaches or one of the five freshwater pools of the property. The three-bedroom villa starts at 1700$ usd per night!

Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Playa del Carmen

Indeed, you can enjoy an affordable stay in Playa del Carmen by using these savvy tips and tricks:

• Travel in the low season months of Playa del Carmen: Visit during the low season, from May to October, when the weather is hot and humid but the prices are lower and the crowds are fewer. Avoid the hurricane season, from September to November, when there is a risk of storms and floods.
• Pay in local currency and avoid card payments: Use ATMs to withdraw pesos or exchange money at reputable places, and avoid paying with credit cards or US dollars, as you will get a worse exchange rate and pay extra fees
• Book a hotel in downtown rather than the Hotel Zone: you can find cheaper accommodation options in downtown Playa del Carmen. 
• Explore the tourist spots on your own: Instead of joining an expensive tour, you can visit the nearby Mayan ruins, cenotes, islands and museums on your own. There are also some very good cheap tours to Chichen Itza or Tulum and Coba. 
• Take advantage of Playa del Carmen’s public transport: buses and colectivos make it easy and affordable to get around Playa del Carmen. You can also take a ferry to visit nearby islands like Isla Mujeres or Cozumel.

Here is my selection of the most affordable hotels in Playa del Carmen:

• Maui Hostel Playa del Carmen: Air conditioned rooms and a fully equiped kitchen at your disposition, just a 5 minutes stroll from the beach. . Terrace and pool ready for you to relax. Starting at 20$ usd in shared dorm.

• Bed & Breakfast Casaejido: Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, only 2 km from the beach. Simple and clean room with fan and private bathroom, from 30 $usd per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the relaxing atmosphere, the free shuttle service to the beach, the helpful hosts. This is my recommendation for a peaceful stay away from the crowds!

• Maya Vacanze Playa Natural: a small, charming and very quiet hotel, 5 minutes from the famous 5th Ave, with spacious rooms. From 37$ usd per night, breakfast and a hammock included.

• Apart Hotel Casaejiedo: Large and modern suite with kitchenette and balcony. You will enjoy the cleanliness and comfort, the free bikes rental and the shared pool. Ideal a family or group stay. From 40 $usd per night.

• Hotel Plaza Playa: Located 500 meters from the beach and the famous Fifth Avenue. Cozy and comfortable room with air conditioning and cable TV, from 60 $usd per night, breakfast included. What I like: the central location, the friendly staff and the good value for money.

Best Airport Hotels

Booking a hotel close to Cancun airport, the nearest airport to Playa del Carmen, is wise for early departures or late arrivals.

Hotels like these often offer a free shuttle service to and from the airport, so you don’t have to take a cab or, if you’ve rented a car, return it at the last minute.

In this selection you’ll find hotels with a quiet and relaxing atmosphere, ideal for starting your adventure or resting before returning home.

Enjoy amenities such as pools, gym, spa, or restaurants without having to leave the hotel and without being worried of losing your flight!

Here is my selection of the best hotels near Cancun Airport:

• Casa del Arquitecto: an affordable stay close to Cancun airport in a tranquil area, 25 minutes away. Enjoy a warm welcome from host Arturo, with rates starting at just 39$ usd per night.

• Avani Cancun Airport: this modern hotel boasts excellent value with amenities including a pool, terrace, gym, and indoor parking. Relax in the spacious lounge with breakfast included, all from 85$ usd per night.

• Casa Kin 33: A hidden gem near the airport offering a serene atmosphere with a lush garden, pool, kitchen access, and hospitable hosts. Enjoy breakfast with your stay from 150$ usd per night.

Playa del Carmen Accommodations: A Summary of the Best Hotel Options

Explore a concise roundup of the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen, categorized by price and type, for your convenience.

Hotel	Type	Price (USD)
Barceló Maya Tropical	Family-Friendly	265 $
The Royal Haciendas Resort & Spa	Family-Friendly	376 $
Palmaïa - The House of AïA Wellness Enclave	Family-Friendly	960 $
Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive	Family-Friendly	1100 $
Magic Blue Spa Boutique Hotel	Adults-Only	130 $
The Reef 28	Adults-Only	160 $
Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya	Adults-Only	480 $
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun	Adults-Only	820 $
La Casa de la Playa by Xcaret	Adults-Only	2100 $
Hilton Playa del Carmen	All-inclusive	380 $
Paradisus Playa del Carmen	All-inclusive	450 $
Xcaret Arte	All-inclusive	800 $
Palafitos Overwater Bungalows	All-inclusive	1800 $
Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort	Five-Star Hotel	310 $
Mvngata Beach Hotel	Five-Star Hotel	340 $
Andaz Mayakoba by Hyatt	Five-Star Hotel	430 $
Viceroy Riviera Maya	Five-Star Hotel	550 $
Platinum Yucatan Princess Adults Only - All Inclusive	Beachfront Hotel	400 $
Fairmont Mayakoba	Beachfront Hotel	500 $
The St Regis Kanai Resort Riviera Maya	Beachfront Hotel	1100 $
Departamentos K&B	Apartment	60 $
Arkana 9 Suites	Apartment	75 $
Casa Kaoba	Apartment	90 $
Arrecife Studios	Apartment	100 $
Fairmont Heritage Place Mayakoba	Apartment	1700 $
Maui Hostel Playa del Carmen	Budget-Friendly	20 $
Bed & Breakfast Casaejido	Budget-Friendly	30 $
Maya Vacanze Playa Natural	Budget-Friendly	37 $
Apart Hotel Casaejiedo	Budget-Friendly	40 $
Hotel Plaza Playa	Budget-Friendly	60 $
Casa del Arquitecto	Cancun Airport	39 $
Avani Cancun Airport	Cancun Airport	85 $
Casa Kin 33	Cancun Airport	150 $

Rent a car in Playa del Carmen

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Playa del Carmen and make the most of your stay!

While it’s not super useful to visit the city, having a car is a must to discover the rest of the country.

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

How to find a cheap flight to Playa del Carmen

Cancun international airport a large airport that receives many flights from Europe and North America, with the major known companies (Air Transat, Air Canada, Iberia, Aeromexico, Interjet, KLM, etc.). It will be very easy to find tickets at the date that suits you.

To find a cheap flight to Playa del Carmen (Cancun) as well as the best domestic flights in Mexico, I recommend using our flight comparison tool in partnership with Skyscanner. It is guaranteed to get you the best price!

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Yucatan Peninsula: Top 20 things to Do and See
• Riviera Maya: The 35 Epic Things to Do!

• Playa del Carmen: Top 30 Things to Do and See!
• 27 EPIC All-Inclusive Hotels in Playa del Carmen
• 1 day in Playa del Carmen – the best 24h itinerary
• 2 days in Playa del Carmen – An Epic Itinerary
• 3 days in Playa del Carmen – What to Do, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay
• Playa del Carmen on a Budget: All My Best Tips + Free Things to Do
• Playa del Carmen: 19 restaurants and street food for all budgets
• Xplor Park: The Definitive Guide
• The 12 Cenotes You Can’t Miss in Playa del Carmen!

• Where to stay in Cancun? The guide to the best hotels and resorts, for all budgets
• The Best Hotels near Cancun Airport

• Itinerary: 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary: 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico: The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month

• Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary: 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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