Top Beach Hotels in Playa del Carmen
Mahekal Beach Resort
A beachfront boutique property with thatched-roof villas, Mahekal offers a lush, village-like feel with direct beach access—ideal for those who want a break from the high-rise resort style.
Why it’s unique:
- Rustic-luxury with beachfront hammocks
- No TVs; focus is on nature and tranquility
- Located near Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue)
- Two pools, yoga studio, and beachfront restaurant
The Fives Beach Hotel & Residences
A contemporary, family-friendly beachfront resort just north of central Playa del Carmen. It combines suite-style accommodations with resort-style features.
Top features:
- 1- to 3-bedroom suites with kitchens
- Multiple pools, beach club, and kids’ club
- Rooftop bars and gourmet restaurants
- Strong option for longer stays or group travel
Paradisus Playa del Carmen
Split into La Perla (adults-only) and La Esmeralda (family-friendly), this upscale all-inclusive resort offers a flexible setup for all traveler types.
Why travelers like it:
- Modern design with lagoon-style pools
- Bali beds, spa, and extensive restaurant options
- Butler service available in upgraded categories
- Great for family groups with mixed age needs
Thompson Playa del Carmen Main House (Adults-Only)
An urban-chic resort just a block from the beach and right in the middle of the city’s nightlife and shopping scene. It offers rooftop vibes with a younger, design-savvy audience in mind.
Standout features:
- Rooftop infinity pool with DJs and city views
- Walkable to clubs, shopping, and local eateries
- Beach access through sister property
- Great for younger couples or groups of friends
Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort
A beachfront luxury resort with sleek architecture, world-class spa, and a location that’s both private and central.
Perfect for:
- High-end travelers who want peace and access
- Guests looking for high-quality dining and wellness
- Families with older children or multigenerational groups
What to Do in Playa del Carmen (Beyond the Beach)
Stroll 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida)
This pedestrian-only strip runs parallel to the beach and offers shopping, open-air dining, craft markets, and vibrant nightlife. A great place for evening walks or people-watching.
Take the Ferry to Cozumel
The ferry terminal is located at the southern end of 5th Avenue. A short boat ride takes you to Cozumel for snorkeling, diving, or renting a scooter to explore the island.
Swim in Cenotes
Natural limestone sinkholes are scattered throughout the Riviera Maya. Top choices near Playa include Cenote Azul, Cenote Jardin del Eden, and Gran Cenote.
Visit Mayan Ruins
- Tulum: Coastal ruins overlooking the sea, about 45 minutes away
- Coba: Inland ruins with climbable pyramids
- Chichen Itza: World Wonder, accessible via day trip or private tour
Snorkel or Dive
Head to Akumal (30 min south) to snorkel with sea turtles or book reef dives around Cozumel, one of the top scuba destinations in the world.
Day Clubs & Beach Lounges
Playa has a growing scene of upscale beach lounges where you can spend the day. Options like Lido Beach Club, Zenzi, and INTI Beach offer full food & drink service.
Who Playa del Carmen is For
- Couples wanting a blend of beach and nightlife
- Families looking for resort convenience + cultural activities
- Digital nomads and long-stay travelers (monthly rentals available)
- Canadians wanting to avoid large tourist crowds and explore more
- Travelers who enjoy walkable destinations with local flavor
Compare Hotels Easily
Sort and filter by:
- Boutique vs full-service resort
- Adults-only vs family-focused
- Beachfront vs walk-to-beach
- Dining plans (breakfast only vs all-inclusive)
- Proximity to 5th Avenue, Cozumel ferry, or cenotes
Quick Travel Info for Canadians
- Direct flights from: Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary
- Airport: Cancun International (approx. 45–60 mins by shuttle or private transfer)
- Best season to visit: December–April
- Currency: Mexican Peso (USD also accepted in many tourist areas)
Playa del Carmen Planning Tools
- Compare boutique and resort hotel styles
- View beach clubs, eco tours, and cultural sites
- Check rates across multiple booking platforms
- Filter by traveler type and trip length
- Access traveler reviews from other Canadians
TheBeachFacts makes it easy to find the perfect stay in Playa del Carmen—whether you're here to relax, explore, or dive into local culture. Compare the top beach hotels, sort by what matters most, and book with confidence.