Best Hotels and Places to Stay in Riviera Maya
Why visit?
Riviera Maya is a stunning destination on Mexicos Caribbean coast, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a diverse range of attractions, including ancient Mayan ruins, vibrant coral reefs for diving and snorkeling, and luxurious resorts, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Where to stay?
Playa del Carmen: Located in the heart of Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal town offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. With its stunning beaches, bustling Fifth Avenue lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, and easy access to popular attractions like Xcaret Park, it is a popular choice for tourists. From budget-friendly hotels to high-end resorts, Playa del Carmen offers a wide range of accommodations suiting different budgets and preferences.
Tulum: Known for its picturesque white sand beaches and ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and bohemian charm. This eco-friendly destination boasts boutique hotels and eco-lodges nestled amidst lush greenery, allowing visitors to connect with nature while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. Tulum also offers easy access to popular attractions such as the Tulum Ruins and the mesmerizing cenotes (natural sinkholes).
Puerto Aventuras: Situated between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Puerto Aventuras is a tranquil and picturesque gated community offering a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful marina views. It is perfect for those seeking a relaxed beach vacation and features luxury resorts, golf courses, and a variety of water activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming with dolphins, snorkeling in the clear waters, or simply lounging on the pristine beaches.
What is the price per hotel room per night?
3-star hotels: The average price per night is around $80 to $150.
4-star hotels: The average price per night is around $150 to $250.
5-star hotels: The average price per night is around $250 to $500.
Best value for money:
Hotel Xcaret Mexico: This all-inclusive resort offers exceptional value for money with its luxurious amenities and unique ecological theme. Guests can enjoy unlimited access to Xcaret parks, which include natural rivers, underground caves, and cultural displays. The resort also features multiple swimming pools, a private beach, and spacious rooms with modern comforts.
HM Playa del Carmen: For budget-friendly accommodation without compromising on quality, HM Playa del Carmen is an excellent choice. This boutique hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool with stunning sea views, and a prime location just steps away from the vibrant Fifth Avenue. Guests can enjoy complimentary extras such as beach club access and discounts on nearby restaurants.
Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya: This family-friendly resort offers great value with its world-class amenities and personalized service. Kids will love the Azulitos Playhouse, a supervised play area with various activities and a splash park. The resort also provides family suites with separate living spaces, and all-inclusive dining options featuring international cuisines to cater to diverse tastes.
Best kids-friendly hotels:
Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa: This expansive resort offers a wide range of activities for children, including a kids club, waterslides, and a mini-golf course. Families can enjoy spacious rooms, multiple swimming pools, and direct beach access. With its dedicated childrens entertainment, parents can relax while their little ones have a blast.
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa: This resort provides a host of amenities and services tailored to children of all ages. From an Explorers Club for youngsters to a Core Zone Teens Club for older kids, there are endless opportunities for fun. The resort also offers family suites and features a mesmerizing cenote where kids can swim and explore.
Best hotels for a romantic getaway:
El Dorado Maroma: This adults-only resort is a haven for couples seeking a peaceful and romantic escape. It offers luxurious overwater bungalows with private infinity pools, direct access to the pristine beach, and personalized butler service. Couples can indulge in candlelit dinners on the beach, couples spa treatments, and romantic walks along the turquoise waters.
Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa: Nestled on a secluded stretch of beach, this boutique hotel exudes romance and tranquility. Couples can relax in beautifully appointed rooms with private terraces, enjoy spa treatments inspired by ancient Mayan techniques, and dine in candlelit restaurants with ocean views. The resorts lush tropical gardens and intimate ambiance make it ideal for a romantic getaway.
Best for location:
Fairmont Mayakoba: Situated within a gated resort complex, this hotel offers a prime location surrounded by lush mangroves and beautiful lagoons. Guests can enjoy direct access to a stunning beach, explore nature trails, and access the El Camaleón Golf Course. The resort also offers boat tours through picturesque canals, providing a unique way to discover the regions natural beauty.
Rosewood Mayakoba: Set along the tranquil shores of the Caribbean Sea, this luxury resort offers a secluded and exclusive atmosphere. Its location within the Mayakoba eco-resort complex provides access to pristine beaches and a championship golf course. Guests can also explore the nearby Mayan ruins of Tulum or take a boat tour to the vibrant island of Cozumel.
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya: Positioned on one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, this adults-only resort offers breathtaking ocean views. Its prime location in Akumal provides easy access to the famous Akumal Bay, known for its sea turtles. Guests can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax by the infinity pool, or explore nearby cenotes and ancient ruins.
Best for a short city break:
Thompson Playa del Carmen: Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, this trendy boutique hotel offers a modern and stylish retreat. With its rooftop pool and bar, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea. The hotels central location allows for easy exploration of the vibrant Fifth Avenue with its shops and restaurants.
The Royal Playa del Carmen: This adults-only, all-inclusive resort provides a luxurious and sophisticated experience. It features elegant suites with private terraces and whirlpool tubs, as well as an exclusive beachfront location. The resorts proximity to popular attractions like Mamitas Beach Club and the Rio Secreto underground river makes it an ideal choice for a short city break.
