About Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo is the real gem of the Yucatán Peninsula. With its spectacular Caribbean coastline of white sands and bright turquoise waters made all the more impressive by the scattering of Mayan Ruins. Despite its obvious attractions, the tourist industry doesn’t feel overdone here. Hotels tend to be of high quality with everything from smart contemporary hotels to natural eco-resorts. So, the only choice you need to make to pick from the best places to stay in Quintana Roo, is whether you want a beach or a jungle location.

Some of our Quintana Roo Collections:

The region is home to the famous beach holiday destinations Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel and Tulum - which has its own impressive Mayan archaeological site built into the coastal cliffs. While Quintana Roo’s jungle interior has some wonderful Maya-Mexicano communities, as well as the spectacular ancient sights at Coba.

As you might imagine the majority of the best places to stay in Quintana Roo are in the tourist hot spots, but our Gurus have found some real treasures. If you’re looking for a peaceful jungle escape or a chance at secluded barefoot luxury then there’s plenty to choose from in our Guru’s list.

The best places to stay in Quintana Roo

For barefoot luxury

  • If you like the idea of a small property right on the beach then Encantada Tulum is for you. There are just eight rooms and you’re set directly against a pristine stretch of white sand. The large terraces have incredible sea views and inside the decor is simple and chic with plenty of wood.
  • The Papaya Playa Project is a collection of 73 sustainable boho-chic rooms and cabanas on a secluded stretch of white sandy beach. The decor is hip and Mayan, while the beach club is hip and Mexican.
  • Playa del Carmen’s Viceroy Riviera Maya is 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.
  • Nomade Tulum is a 38 room hotel in a stunning, beachfront spot. The accommodation is in a range of rustic tents, villas and suites. There’s a retreat feel to the place and a great vegetarian restaurant.

For a beach break

  • There are plenty of hotels right on the sand in Tulum, but Ana Y Jose Hotel is in a great location even for Tulum’s standards, close to one of the best sea swimming spots along this stretch of coast. There are 23 rooms and an exotic spa to top it off.
  • Tulum’s The Beach demands to be included in this section of the list, with 28 boho-chic, white-on-white rooms and lovely views just steps from a secluded stretch of white sandy beach.
  • 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.
  • The Nizuc Resort & Spa has a beachfront spot on the Punta Nizuc, which is just out of Cancún proper, and offers panoramic views of the Caribbean. This is a big hotel - with 274 rooms and suites - with chic, contemporary decor, a luxurious spa and a choice of six onsite restaurants.

To relax

  • Hidden within the jungle, Be Tulum is a collection of 20 atmospheric suites with rustic chic decor and free-standing baths. The romantic restaurant blends Mediterranean and Mexican flavors and there’s a pool and spa as well as the beach right on your doorstep.
  • Tulum’s Mezzanine is a nine room, eco-friendly resort beside a secluded beach. There are tropical gardens and breathtaking sea views, plus plenty of activities on offer.

For romance

  • Tides Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen is a secluded collection of 41 beautiful private villas surrounded by tropical forests - the only thing between you and the perfect white beach. As well as the beautiful beach this resort has private pools with beach views and an incredible spa which draws heavily on Mayan traditions. The restaurant is a fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican.
  • The Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa is a 64 room hotel sitting between one of Playa del Carmen's best beaches and the jungle. Maroma has amazing facilities including numerous pools, a beautiful spa and access to yoga, snorkelling, diving, windsurfing, kayaking, riding, fishing, surfing and everything you need to get married.
  • Tulum’s Casa de Las Olas is a seven suite boutique hotel on its own private beach. Rooms are traditional and decorated in white and the atmosphere is one of intimacy and peace. No children under five.
  • Also in Tulum, Jashita is a luxurious beach-side property overlooking glittering turquoise waters. There are 26 indulgent suites decorated all in white, plus spectacular views and an excellent Italian/Mexican fusion restaurant.

For peace and quiet

  • The Hotel Secreto is on the Isla Mujeres, just off the coast of Cancún, and is a luxurious, 12 room boutique hotel in an extremely private spot overlooking its own beach. The rooms have floor to ceiling windows with views over the infinity pool and the beach and are decorated with original art works. Apparently the bar serves dangerously good Margaritas.
  • Just outside Tulum, in a beautiful beachfront spot, Sanara is a low-key hotel with 19 rooms and suites and a great spa. There’s also a superb restaurant perfect for before or after your sunset-beach-stroll.
  • La Zebra is a 16 room boutique style hotel on a quiet stretch of beach. The decor is contemporary with plenty of natural light. There’s a great seafood restaurant and a lively tequila bar if you need a bit of a kick.
  • Lake Bacalar’s Rancho Encantado is a collection of 12 chic cabins nestled right in against the lake. The terracotta tiles, muslin-draped beds and white-washed walls give a rustic feel but there’s plenty of luxury, including a beautiful spa.

For fun!

  • Tulum’s Casa Malaca is a trendy private-beach-side hotel with 40 rooms and suites, three pools and a lively bar. The decor is white on white and contemporary fabulous.
  • Soho Playa is in just the right district of Play del Carmen, 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.

For best value

  • Playa del Carmen’s Casa Ticul is a relatively new 20 bedroom hotel with traditional decor and all the mod. cons.. There's a small outdoor pool and you're well located for exploring town and the beach.
  • Also in Play del Carmen some of Hotel La Semilla's nine rooms are great value too. This is a more stripped-back and fashionable property with well chosen flea-market furniture and no TVs.
  • The Zamas Hotel is a laid-back 20 room property on one of Tulum’s most beautiful stretches of beach. The decor is rustic chic with wooden furniture in sort-of-tile-floored-huts! There is a private villa for families and the restaurant has great traditional Mayan fare.
  • Tulum’s Hotel Tiki Tiki is a 15 room boutique hotel in leafy surrounds. The decor features plenty of glass and minimalist design.
  • Be Playa in Playa del Carmen is a chic boutique property with contemporary rooms with wood floors, hot tubs and excellent views. There is a rooftop pool, a hip bar and a creative seafood restaurant.

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option this holiday, visit our online partner Booking.com for a great selection of coastal properties ideal for making the most of the golden beaches.

Travel information

  • Fly to Cancún International Airport - the largest airport in the region located only 17km (10.5 miles) outside of Cancún. The airport serves a range of domestic and International connection and has bus connections to downtown Cancún.
  • If you'd like to rent a car to explore the beautiful coastline of the region - for prices visit our online partner Rentalcars
  • Best time to visit - from December to April typically provides fantastic weather, perfect for enjoying all the beaches and outdoor activities. It can get busy though, especially from March to April when the springbreakers arrive. You should also be aware that hurricane season runs from June to November, though they are historically quite rare.

Still not sure?

Weather

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

The best hotels in Quintana Roo

AlmaPlena Beach Resort

Quintana Roo

A secluded and peaceful stretch of paradise, on the stunning Costa Maya. White on white suites offer sumptuous beds, private balconies, splashes of local art and colorful Mexican tiles. An excellent restaurant serves Mediterranean-Mexican food overlooking the crystal clear waters.

  • Eco break - The clever design of the buildings uses shades and the seabreeze in place of AC and electricty comes from their own wind turbine
  • Wildlife Area - Between the jungle and the sea this is a wildlife rich area, eagles, tapirs, coatis, deer and dolphins are commonly sighted
  • Beach Life - A beach-chic retreat with everything from turtle watching to beach volley ball and private terraces for soaking up the sun
  • Great walks - Set on the powder white sands of a private beach, with jungle on one side and turquoise-blue seas to the other
from $85 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Coqui Coqui Papholchac Coba Residence & Spa

Quintana Roo

Hidden and romantic jungle chic boutique hotel beside a tranquil lagoon and an ancient ruined city. Rooms are wonderfully atmospheric with a mix of antiques, local artefacts, and unpolished cement. The best are accessed by a rope bridge and have outdoor bathrooms. Discrete and attentive service.

  • Romantic Break - Pick one of the atmospheric suites with gorgeous outdoor bathrooms for a romantic hideaway
  • Local exploring - Coba is really all about the ruined Maya city which is easily explored from the property
  • Restaurant - Fusion food in the restaurant includes Mexican, Argentinean and Italian influences
  • Sights nearby - The pre-Columbian Coba ruins are on the doorstep and are (of course) a must visit
from $348 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Esencia

Quintana Roo (Pedio Rústico Xpu-Ha Lote 18)

Boutique at its best, Esencia has it all: direct access to Xpu-Ha beach and two pools, you will have no end of places to sun yourself. That is if you can find the time with all the activities on offer! Simply yet stunningly decorated with an excellent menu. One for the entire family!

  • Gym
  • Local markets - Nearby X-plor activity park for kids and the young at heart
  • Sights nearby - Visit the famous Mayan ruins of Tulum
  • Kayaking - through the mangroves at Sian Ka'an
from $497 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Unico 20°87°

Quintana Roo (Km 260 Kantenah)

A stylish all-inclusive adults-only hotel set on a long stretch of white sand beach. Sleek interiors feature local artwork, sharp lines, and plenty of glass. The most luxe have plunge pools or whirlpool tubs. Dine in one of the five restaurants and unwind in the spa. A glamorous beach getaway.

  • Spa breaks - Treatments at the spa are a serious affair. Guests start with the water system and finish with a sauna, steam, then cold room
  • Luxury - With plunge pools, private decks, pop-up bars, live artistic demos & fine dining this is modern luxury with a touch of glam
  • Romantic Break - Pick one of the first floor rooms with massive spa tubs on the terrace for a romantic base
  • Sights nearby - Located 30 minutes from the Mayan ruins and deep-water cenote pools near Tulum
from $499 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai

Quintana Roo (Quintana Roo)

A sleek beachfront retreat in Playa del Carmen, blending modern luxury with the region's natural beauty. With a cenote-inspired pool, vibrant dining options, and a serene spa, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and indulgence. Ideal for a peaceful, upscale getaway.

  • Sights nearby - Venture into the jungle to discover the Ruta de los Cenotes, a scenic route with over 60 natural sinkholes, perfect for swimming
  • Other Activities - Embark on a private tour to Cenote Sac Actun, one of the world's longest underwater cave systems; a surreal swimming experience
  • Beach Life - Enjoy the tranquility of a private beach with palm-fringed cabanas and oceanfront dining at this tropical oasis
  • Snorkelling - Take a short trip to Akumal Beach, where you can snorkel with friendly sea turtles in their natural habitat
from $673 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Hotel Esencia, Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo

A serene beachfront retreat in Mexico's Riviera Maya, this hotel offers a perfect balance of luxury and privacy. With elegant decor, it evokes timeless opulence. Guests can indulge in world-class dining, a golf course, and access to snorkelling and private villas. Ideal for a tranquil escape.

  • Yoga - Participate in complimentary morning yoga sessions held in a stunning pavilion, enhancing your wellness journey
  • Snorkelling - Just a short walk from the hotel, discover a hidden lagoon where you can snorkel alongside gentle manatees
  • Beach Life - Unwind on pristine shores where sea turtles nest, or paddleboard in the crystal-clear waters nearby
  • Back to Nature - Explore the second-largest coral reef and dive with sea turtles just steps from the hotel’s beach
from $903 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees