The 214-room Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya is a hip luxury resort within the sleek Mayakoba complex along the coast in Playa del Carmen. Stylish, modern rooms have local touches, rainfall showers, Bluetooth speakers, and furnished terraces, plus some add tubs and private pools. However, many are far from the beach, so use of free bikes or golf cart rides are necessary. Two outdoor pools -- one by the beach -- four tasty restaurants serving Mexican and international cuisines, a swish spa, window-filled gym, and kids' club provide plenty to do on-site, plus guests can take free lagoon boat tours, golf, and eat at neighboring resorts. All-inclusive packages are available. The vibe here is trendy and relaxed, with low-key entertainment consisting of live music at night. Couples wanting a luxe, adults-only property should consider the all-inclusive Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel.
The 214-room Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya is a hip luxury resort within the sleek Mayakoba complex along the coast in Playa del Carmen. Stylish, modern rooms have local touches, rainfall showers, Bluetooth speakers, and furnished terraces, plus some add tubs and private pools. However, many are far from the beach, so use of free bikes or golf cart rides are necessary. Two outdoor pools -- one by the beach -- four tasty restaurants serving Mexican and international cuisines, a swish spa, window-filled gym, and kids' club provide plenty to do on-site, plus guests can take free lagoon boat tours, golf, and eat at neighboring resorts. All-inclusive packages are available. The vibe here is trendy and relaxed, with low-key entertainment consisting of live music at night. Couples wanting a luxe, adults-only property should consider the all-inclusive Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel.
The 320-room mid-range Ocean Maya Royale is an all-inclusive adults-only resort located on a private beach 15 minutes from the center of Playa del Carmen. The resort is quiet and colorful, with plenty of sports and games, as well as ample opportunity for chilling out by the ocean or one of the two pools. The on-site restaurants offer a variety of world cuisines, and reservations are never required at the à la carte dining rooms. Rooms are clean, comfortable, and modern but lack the rustic, Mexican character and coziness of many neighboring resorts. That said, the Ocean Maya Royale is definitely doing something right, as it gets a great deal of repeat business.
The 320-room mid-range Ocean Maya Royale is an all-inclusive adults-only resort located on a private beach 15 minutes from the center of Playa del Carmen. The resort is quiet and colorful, with plenty of sports and games, as well as ample opportunity for chilling out by the ocean or one of the two pools. The on-site restaurants offer a variety of world cuisines, and reservations are never required at the à la carte dining rooms. Rooms are clean, comfortable, and modern but lack the rustic, Mexican character and coziness of many neighboring resorts. That said, the Ocean Maya Royale is definitely doing something right, as it gets a great deal of repeat business.
The 286-room Allegro Playacar is a beachfront all-inclusive that's a good bet for travelers on a budget. Situated on a gorgeous white-sand beach, this mid-range resort has two large pools -- one lively with a 10-person-strong animation team and the other a designated quiet pool -- plus a disco, theater, kids' club with its own mini pool, tennis courts, and beach volleyball. There are several restaurants and bars, including a swim-up bar at the main pool. Rooms are small, but they have stocked minibars, air-conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. Some have ocean views and kitchens. A big drawback is that Wi-Fi costs a daily per-person fee. For a family-friendly Playacar pick with free Wi-Fi and even lusher landscaping, consider Iberostar Tucan Hotel, though rates there are generally higher.
The 286-room Allegro Playacar is a beachfront all-inclusive that's a good bet for travelers on a budget. Situated on a gorgeous white-sand beach, this mid-range resort has two large pools -- one lively with a 10-person-strong animation team and the other a designated quiet pool -- plus a disco, theater, kids' club with its own mini pool, tennis courts, and beach volleyball. There are several restaurants and bars, including a swim-up bar at the main pool. Rooms are small, but they have stocked minibars, air-conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. Some have ocean views and kitchens. A big drawback is that Wi-Fi costs a daily per-person fee. For a family-friendly Playacar pick with free Wi-Fi and even lusher landscaping, consider Iberostar Tucan Hotel, though rates there are generally higher.
Hotel Riu Lupita is a mid-range, all-inclusive hotel that's far from the beach and could use a major re-haul in terms of maintenance and policies. Guests have complained about everything from coatis climbing up the balconies and stealing food, to low-quality restaurant food, to paying extra for unreliable Wi-Fi and brand name booze. For vacationers who want to keep costs relatively low and don't mind riding a shuttle 15 minutes to the beach club, this is a solid enough option. Rooms can sleep up to three (with bunk beds) and have liquor dispensers and minibars. Two outdoor swimming pools (plus another one at the beach club), a kids' club, and free bikes keep guests entertained. But it may be worth paying a little more to stay at Riu Playacar All Inclusive, which is right on the beach.
Hotel Riu Lupita is a mid-range, all-inclusive hotel that's far from the beach and could use a major re-haul in terms of maintenance and policies. Guests have complained about everything from coatis climbing up the balconies and stealing food, to low-quality restaurant food, to paying extra for unreliable Wi-Fi and brand name booze. For vacationers who want to keep costs relatively low and don't mind riding a shuttle 15 minutes to the beach club, this is a solid enough option. Rooms can sleep up to three (with bunk beds) and have liquor dispensers and minibars. Two outdoor swimming pools (plus another one at the beach club), a kids' club, and free bikes keep guests entertained. But it may be worth paying a little more to stay at Riu Playacar All Inclusive, which is right on the beach.
The luxury, 501-room Paradisus Playa Del Carmen La Esmeralda is one of the best family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Playa del Carmen. Its Family Concierge section includes a private pool and lounge, butler service, private beach area, and tons of in-room perks for children. But even those who book a standard all-inclusive package have plenty of options, including two pools -- one of which has a pirate ship with water slides -- a wonderful spa with a serene outdoor hydrotherapy pool, and a full range of daily activities, from wine and tequila tastings to workshops to fitness classes. Contemporary rooms have sitting areas, free minibars (restocked daily), free Wi-Fi, and furnished balconies. Many also feature outdoor hot tubs, and some offer swim-up access. Dining and drinking options include everything from a great buffet to Mexican and Asian a la carte restaurants. Couples can be happy here but may want to check rates next door at the adults-only Paradisus Playa Del Carmen La Perla.
The luxury, 501-room Paradisus Playa Del Carmen La Esmeralda is one of the best family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Playa del Carmen. Its Family Concierge section includes a private pool and lounge, butler service, private beach area, and tons of in-room perks for children. But even those who book a standard all-inclusive package have plenty of options, including two pools -- one of which has a pirate ship with water slides -- a wonderful spa with a serene outdoor hydrotherapy pool, and a full range of daily activities, from wine and tequila tastings to workshops to fitness classes. Contemporary rooms have sitting areas, free minibars (restocked daily), free Wi-Fi, and furnished balconies. Many also feature outdoor hot tubs, and some offer swim-up access. Dining and drinking options include everything from a great buffet to Mexican and Asian a la carte restaurants. Couples can be happy here but may want to check rates next door at the adults-only Paradisus Playa Del Carmen La Perla.
The 672-room Grand Riviera Princess All Suites Resort and Spa is a large hacienda-inspired resort outside of Playa del Carmen. There are a plethora of amenities shared between the hotel and its sister property Grand Sunset Princess: nine bars, seven restaurants, 12 pools, and a variety of sports including tennis, scuba lessons, and a fitness center. The resort is meticulously manicured and laid out around a network of pools and outdoor lounge areas. Multiple guests have noted that upgrading to platinum status can significantly cut check-in time and provide access to more desirable rooms. Rooms are modern, and the best have beach views or swim-out pool access. The spa and fitness center are nice, but there's a fee for internet and the buffet restaurants receive mixed reviews. There is no significant difference between the Grand Sunset and Grand Riviera as all features are shared, so book at whichever side has cheaper rates.
The 672-room Grand Riviera Princess All Suites Resort and Spa is a large hacienda-inspired resort outside of Playa del Carmen. There are a plethora of amenities shared between the hotel and its sister property Grand Sunset Princess: nine bars, seven restaurants, 12 pools, and a variety of sports including tennis, scuba lessons, and a fitness center. The resort is meticulously manicured and laid out around a network of pools and outdoor lounge areas. Multiple guests have noted that upgrading to platinum status can significantly cut check-in time and provide access to more desirable rooms. Rooms are modern, and the best have beach views or swim-out pool access. The spa and fitness center are nice, but there's a fee for internet and the buffet restaurants receive mixed reviews. There is no significant difference between the Grand Sunset and Grand Riviera as all features are shared, so book at whichever side has cheaper rates.
Viva Wyndham Azteca is an upper-middle-range, all-inclusive option for families and couples who want an easy beach vacation in Playa del Carmen. Daily rates are generally low, but guests are nickel-and-dimed for Wi-Fi and premium alcohol. Plus, there are restrictions on how many times guests can visit the non-buffet restaurants here and at the sister property. The outdoor pool is shallow and often overrun with kids. A metal gate in the water sectioning off the kids' area doesn't do much for the ambiance. One saving grace is the gorgeous white beach with sun loungers and umbrellas. VIP guests can get drink service on the sand. You may want to spend a little more money at BlueBay Grand Esmerelda for bigger pools and no restaurant limits.
Viva Wyndham Azteca is an upper-middle-range, all-inclusive option for families and couples who want an easy beach vacation in Playa del Carmen. Daily rates are generally low, but guests are nickel-and-dimed for Wi-Fi and premium alcohol. Plus, there are restrictions on how many times guests can visit the non-buffet restaurants here and at the sister property. The outdoor pool is shallow and often overrun with kids. A metal gate in the water sectioning off the kids' area doesn't do much for the ambiance. One saving grace is the gorgeous white beach with sun loungers and umbrellas. VIP guests can get drink service on the sand. You may want to spend a little more money at BlueBay Grand Esmerelda for bigger pools and no restaurant limits.
The 350-room Iberostar Quetzal Playacar is an all-inclusive, family-friendly beach resort located at the southern end of Playa del Carmen, and it shares facilities with the Iberostar Tucan Hotel for added restaurants and common areas. Resort life revolves around the large white-sand beach and the enormous main pool, which meanders through the center of the property with enough space for sun-worshippers and water polo players to peacefully coexist. The resort has its own rainforest, with lush trails and resident wildlife, including monkeys who visit guest room balconies. In addition, there is an adults-only pool, seven eateries, six bars, a kids' club, spa, fitness center, and plenty of water sports. Like most all-inclusive beach resorts in the area, it's a perfectly pleasant and well-equipped place to bliss out for a vacation, but little annoyances include reservation and dress code requirements at some restaurants and a lack of elevators.
The 350-room Iberostar Quetzal Playacar is an all-inclusive, family-friendly beach resort located at the southern end of Playa del Carmen, and it shares facilities with the Iberostar Tucan Hotel for added restaurants and common areas. Resort life revolves around the large white-sand beach and the enormous main pool, which meanders through the center of the property with enough space for sun-worshippers and water polo players to peacefully coexist. The resort has its own rainforest, with lush trails and resident wildlife, including monkeys who visit guest room balconies. In addition, there is an adults-only pool, seven eateries, six bars, a kids' club, spa, fitness center, and plenty of water sports. Like most all-inclusive beach resorts in the area, it's a perfectly pleasant and well-equipped place to bliss out for a vacation, but little annoyances include reservation and dress code requirements at some restaurants and a lack of elevators.
Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel is an excellent option for couples looking for a more intimate and luxurious all-inclusive option outside of the hustle of Cancun. The four-and-a-half pearl property is spread out over gorgeous grounds that are partially manicured and artistic and partially jungle-like and wild so the overall ambiance is natural and feels almost isolated. No kids allowed means the two swimming pools, sandy beach, and plethora of restaurants are generally quiet and relaxing. Adult-friendly facilities include a sleek spa (free access to use the steam room and pool), cigar lounge, and one of the best equipped gyms in Mexico. Suites and casitas come standard with private outdoor bathtubs and minibars stocked with free drinks.
Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel is an excellent option for couples looking for a more intimate and luxurious all-inclusive option outside of the hustle of Cancun. The four-and-a-half pearl property is spread out over gorgeous grounds that are partially manicured and artistic and partially jungle-like and wild so the overall ambiance is natural and feels almost isolated. No kids allowed means the two swimming pools, sandy beach, and plethora of restaurants are generally quiet and relaxing. Adult-friendly facilities include a sleek spa (free access to use the steam room and pool), cigar lounge, and one of the best equipped gyms in Mexico. Suites and casitas come standard with private outdoor bathtubs and minibars stocked with free drinks.
The all-inclusive Grand Velas is one of Riviera Maya’s most sophisticated properties, offering 491 impressive suites and extensive features across over 80 acres of mangroves that meet a postcard-perfect beach. Suites are spread out in three different buildings (two family-friendly, one adults-only), with their own stunning pool complexes, gyms, and restaurants. All suites have jetted tubs, rainfall showers, and furnished terraces – some with ocean views and plunge pools. The property is so huge guests will need to take a three-minute shuttle ride from the farthest building to the beach, but the hotel’s spotless service, outstanding food, luxurious spa, and wonderful amenities make it a great pick for discerning (and well-heeled) travelers. Couples wanting a completely adults-only property should consider the chic Royal Hideaway Playacar.
The all-inclusive Grand Velas is one of Riviera Maya’s most sophisticated properties, offering 491 impressive suites and extensive features across over 80 acres of mangroves that meet a postcard-perfect beach. Suites are spread out in three different buildings (two family-friendly, one adults-only), with their own stunning pool complexes, gyms, and restaurants. All suites have jetted tubs, rainfall showers, and furnished terraces – some with ocean views and plunge pools. The property is so huge guests will need to take a three-minute shuttle ride from the farthest building to the beach, but the hotel’s spotless service, outstanding food, luxurious spa, and wonderful amenities make it a great pick for discerning (and well-heeled) travelers. Couples wanting a completely adults-only property should consider the chic Royal Hideaway Playacar.