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Playa del Carmen

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About Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has a great central spot on the Riviera Maya, about 70kms south of Cancún and just across the waves from Cozumel. It doesn't have the perfect waters of those resorts or sand quite as soft and perfect as the beaches further north, but Playa del Carmen is hip. And packed with Europeans who know this is where to find the chicest boutique hotels. The best places to stay in Playa del Carmen are, well most importantly, beachside, but they are also designed around relaxation with contemporary boho style and many of our picks also have outstanding spas.

For those who want to do a bit more than relax it's worth exploring Playa del Carmen's underwater world. Dive if you can, or snorkel if you don't fancy it, and you've a good chance of meeting sea turtles, giant eels, graceful rays and a rainbow of fish, all backed by some extraordinary corals. Playa del Carmen is also about an hour’s drive from Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a large area of protected forest and mangrove, with more amazing snorkelling opportunities and all sorts of exotic animals to spot.

We recommend you plan your trip well ahead, the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen are busy year-round!

The best places to stay in Playa del Carmen

For a Beach Break

  • The Thompson Playa del Carmen is a chic beach property with 120 contemporary, minimalist rooms with large terraces and epic views. Their Mexican restaurant is right by the beach, but there’s also a hip rooftop bar serving memorable cocktails.
  • Book the Andaz Mayakoba if you'd like a slick beachside property with contemporary accommodation and stunning seaviews. Plus there are several restaurants to choose from and activities for all.

For a Special Occasion

  • Rosewood Mayakoba is a secluded luxury property just to the north of Playa del Carmen. This stunning resort features a range of suites and residences most with private plunge pool. There are endless dining options, championship golf course, and a huge range of children's activities.
  • Playa del Carmen’s Viceroy Riviera Maya is a a stunning collection of 41 rooms and villas surrounded by tropical forest and white sand. The restaurant specialises in exceptional seafood and there’s a fantastic Mayan spa. Great if you want to relax on the beach or try every watersport under the sun.

On a budget

  • Casa Ticul is a relatively new adult's only, 20 bedroom boutique hotel with traditional decor but all the mod. cons.. There's a small outdoor pool and you're well located for exploring town and the beach. 
  • Some of the Hotel La Semilla's nine rooms start from around £110 per night, but this is a more stripped-back and fashionable property, with well chosen flea-market furniture and no TVs.

For a lively atmosphere

  • Soho Playa is in just the right district, surrounded by cool bars, good shopping and a hip vibe - and all just a few steps from the beach. They help you get into the right frame of mind with yoga and meditation in the mornings.
  • Be Playa is a chic boutique property with contemporary rooms with wood floors, hot tubs and excellent views. There’s also a rooftop pool, a hip bar and a creative seafood restaurant.

For a private apartment or beach house

  • Browse the options at our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • The nearest airport to Playa del Carmen is Cancun (37 miles).
  • For car hire, visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best rates.
  • The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is from December to April. The rainy season lasts from May to September, and hurricane season runs from June to November.

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Playa del Carmen

Best Hotels in Playa del Carmen

  • KAYAK Luna Playa del Carmen Playa del Carmen (Gonzalo Guerrero) 20 rooms from £69

    Beach Life  -  Located less than a mile from Playa del Carmen's famous stretch of beach — days here are generally spent on the sand
    Lively  -  With its hip roof terrace cocktail bar, this is a popular late night hangout for both guests and locals
    Contemporary  -  Expect sharp lines, pared back hues, and well chosen modern art in this chic contemporary stay
    Close to nightlife  -  For those who are here for a party, the nightlife of Quinta Avenida is within walking distance
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming Pool
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A stylish adults-only hotel set in a buzzy area of Playa del Carmen. Interiors are chic and contemporary; rooms are decorated in soft grey hues with clean lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and modern art. However, it is the vibey rooftop with a pool, restaurant, and cocktail bar that steal the show. See More

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  • Newport House Playa Playa del Carmen (Q.R.) 15 rooms from £69

    Families  -  Luxe apartments are a great option for families with fully equipped kitchen, lounge, two balconies and ability to sleep four
    Value chic  -  Boutique accommodation at incredibly reasonable prices!
    Swimming Pool  -  Small rooftop pool surrounded by daybeds — a great escape from the heat of the beach
    Boutique  -  Curated artworks and bespoke designed furnishings ensure a boutique feel
    Air conditioningSwimming Pool

    Boutique self-catering apartments in the heart of Playa del Carmen, with kitchens, lounges and balconies. Locally inspired decor and custom furniture give each apartment character. It boasts a small breezy rooftop pool with great views, and a discounted local beach club, 1km away. See More

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  • BE Playa Playa del Carmen 23 rooms from £101

    Beach Life  -  Boasting a rooftop pool, seafood restaurant and located just minutes beach.
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A chic boutique property in Mexico's beach resort town of Playa del Carmen. Contemporary rooms feature crisp white linen, clean lines, wooden floors and the best have hot tubs with a view. A rooftop pool, hip bar and creative seafood restaurant really make this hotel stand out. See More

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  • Hotel La Semilla Playa del Carmen (Gonzalo Guerrero) 9 rooms from £113

    Beach Life  -  Hotel La Semilla is a stunning beach-chic property right on the coast so you can spend your days lounging on the beach
    Romantic Break  -  Beautiful accommodation, divine cuisine and long sunset walks on the beach -the ideal romantic getaway
    Sights nearby  -  The historic Muyil Mayan and Xelha archeological sites are a must-visit
    Diving  -  There are plenty of local companies who organise scuba diving tours
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    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    The adult-only Hotel La Semilla is located in the coastal town of Playa del Carmen, just 200 metres from the beach. With romantic rustic accommodation, furnished in a shabby-chic style. Enjoy splendid buffet breakfasts each morning and relax in the terrace with a drink! Intimate and boutique. See More

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  • Casa Ticul Playa del Carmen (LT 08 MZ 151 Col Zacil-Ha) 20 rooms from £133

    Romantic Break  -  An adults only hotel built for romance, the palatial suites come with private terraces and hot tubs.
    Swimming Pool  -  Small outdoor plunge pool
    Restrictions on children  -  Adults only.
    Traditional
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    Intimate, adult-only boutique hotel combines traditional looks with contemporary comforts. Bright rooms and the courtyard swimming pool make this an ideal place for exploring by day, and relaxing in the evening. Breakfast is served poolside and is the perfect way to start the day. Great beach spot. See More

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  • Soho Playa Playa del Carmen (Quinta Roo) 23 rooms from £140

    Restaurant  -  Bistro serving local and international dishes, seafood, Mango Guacamole and tasty salads, plus a detox menu
    Lively  -  The district has a cool vibe with trendy bars, restaurants, good shopping and plenty happening on the beach
    Beach nearby  -  Mamita's Beach Club is a short walk form the hotel with a great atmosphere
    Beach Life
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Urban hip hotel in cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Playa del Carmen, sprinkled with good restaurants. Close to the beach, with roof top pool. Start with early mooring yoga or meditation on the terrace with ocean views. Pretty colourful Mayan style rooms, with balconies and hammocks. See More

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  • Mahekal Beach Resort Playa del Carmen (PLAYA DEL CARMEN) 195 rooms from £169

    Romantic Break  -  For a romantic stay book the Beach House King Plunge Pool Palapas which (as the name suggests) are beachfront with plunge pools
    Lively  -  While the hotel is laidback Playa del Carmen’s beach is lively. Ideal for those who want to lounge by day & party by night
    Barefoot Luxury  -  Set within tropical grounds & boasting thatched palapas & open-air buildings, the hotel has a barefoot luxury feel
    Beach Life  -  Set right on Playa del Carmen's powder white sands — this hotel is all about its beach setting
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendly

    A characterful beachfront property set within tropical gardens on lively Playa del Carmen. Thatched palapas are decorated with bright Mexican colours and feature private decks with hammocks. The best have plunge pools. Despite the intimate feel, there are four pools, a spa, and beach dining. See More

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  • Thompson Playa del Carmen Playa del Carmen 119 rooms from £185

    Beach Life  -  A stunning beach, lively nightlife scene and plenty of sunshine. The perfect Mexican experience.
    Diving  -  The nearby island of Cozumel offers excellent scuba diving opportunities.
    Sights nearby  -  Explore the Mayan remain in the ruined city of Coba.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A chic beach property with a youthful energy. Contemporary rooms are minimalist in style with epic views, large terraces and luxurious bathrooms. Dine on Mexican cuisine by the beach or on the hip roof terrace. The bar is also on point and serves superb cocktails. A beach haven. See More

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  • Andaz Mayakoba Playa del Carmen (Playa del Carmen-Solidaridad) 214 rooms from £228

    Total relaxation  -  A 'has it all' property placed on a gorgeous stretch of beach.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the majestic archaeological ruins at Chichen Itza and Tulum.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A slick beach side property offering contemporary style in a truly tropical setting. The Andaz stamp assures quality and this property does not disappoint. Cleanly designed rooms make the most of the epic sea views. A handful of restaurant will keep everyone happy and the activities are boundless. See More

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  • Viceroy Riviera Maya Playa del Carmen 41 rooms from £302

    Beach Life  -  Whether it's sitting sipping a cocktail on the white sands or kite surfing across the bay- this is a beach bums paradise!
    Private villas  -  Private luxury villas only.
    Swimming Pool  -  Pools looking on to beach
    Luxury
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Kiwi Collection, Fodors

    Stunning private villas surrounded by tropical forest and white sands. Watersports abound, delicious fresh fish restaurant, and fantastic Mayan spa to top it all off. A thrill for spa-junkies and beach seekers alike. See More

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  • Banyan Tree Mayakoba Playa del Carmen 161 rooms from £546

    5* Luxury  -  Set inside the Mayakoba area — a complex of luxury hotels — this property has a distinctly exclusive feel
    Families  -  Villas with up to three bedrooms plus a kids club make this an easy choice for families
    Foodies  -  It is worth booking alone for the hotel’s signature Thai restaurant, Saffron
    Romantic Break  -  Rooms with expansive rainshowers and outdoor bathtubs lend a romantic air
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParking

    A classic Banyan Tree offering with slick Asian-inspired design and even slicker service. Rooms, suites, and villas are minimalist in style with sharp lines and plenty of wood. With three very good restaurants (the Thai Saffron is the real star), a spa, and a secluded spot — this is luxury defined. See More

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  • Palmaia The House of Aia Playa del Carmen (Playacar) 234 rooms from £850

    Spa breaks  -  The spa is a modern space set amidst the jungle offering ayurvedic treatments, Temazcal ceremonies, steam room sessions, & more
    Beach Life  -  Set on its own private stretch of white sand beach and with all suites offering ocean views - this is beach perfection
    Wellbeing  -  Wellness rituals include cacao ceremonies, multivibrational sound healing, meditation, yoga and plant ceremonies
    Families  -  Family suites, a kids' aqua park, and kids' activities make this very family-friendly
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    Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

    A luxury wellness resort set on a private stretch of beach. Room all have private terraces, natural materials, & luxe bathrooms. Soak up transformational classes, rituals and spa treatments drawn from ancient Mayan practices. Feast on plant-based or carnivorous menus. This is a rejuvenating stay. See More

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  • Etereo Playa del Carmen (Quintana Roo) 75 rooms from £907

    Restaurant  -  Delight in upscale Itzam for contemporary Mexican cuisine, enjoy beach style food at El Changarro or go alfresco at Che Che
    Total relaxation  -  Rejunevate at the spa, follow the hotel's mind and body programme or simply enjoy the Carribean Ocean at your leisure
    Families  -  Spacious suites (up to 3 bedrooms), family dining and a kids programme to keep youngsters entertained all day long
    Barefoot Luxury  -  Aesthically pleasing interiors, with authentic decor, soothing colour scheme and views of ocean and forest
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyViewsParking

    With stunning views of the ocean and forest, this stylish hotel's rooms and suites are rustic yet sleek, with earth-inspired decor and contemporary touches. Luxurious additions include plunge pools, terrace and a butler service. A variety of restaurants and wellness treatments on offer. Total bliss. See More

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  • Rosewood Mayakoba Playa del Carmen Km 298 128 rooms from £1405

    Beach Life  -  A chic luxury property based on a gorgeous white sand beach with crystal clear waters.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the famed Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A secluded luxury property set away from lively Playa del Carmen. Stunning suites are simply designed with large floor to ceiling windows, enormous contemporary bathrooms and dark wooden furniture set against white walls. Easy access to white sandy beaches and superb cuisine. Beachside perfection. See More

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