Palmaïa The House of AïA leads with a perfect 9.8 location score and an all-inclusive wellness model. For penthouse luxury, Grand Blue Playa hits a perfect 10.0 location score and a 9.8 overall rating. Both capture different sides of the Riviera Maya at peak quality.
Twenty properties, one coastline. These are the Riviera Maya stays that actually deliver on the hype—from overwater bungalows to gated dream homes.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 1,500+ Booking.com reviews across 20 properties in Playa del Carmen to compile this list of the best places to stay Riviera Maya, focusing on location scores, cleanliness, and standout amenities.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Cleanest stays: #8 Casarte Boutique Hotel→ Rates
#5 Palmaïa Wellness Resort→ Rates - Best location: #20 Grand Blue Playa→ Rates
#6 Casa Creunza de Mar→ Rates - Overwater bungalow: #14 Palafitos Overwater Bungalows→ Rates
- All-inclusive resort: #5 Palmaïa The House of AïA→ Rates
#2 Fairmont Mayakoba→ Rates - LGBTQ+ friendly: #3 LOTE4 LGBTQ Studios→ Rates
- Best value apartments: #1 Alizee Tower→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
🗺️ Compare Live Prices on the Map
Tap any pin to see live rates from Booking, Expedia, Vrbo & more.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Alizee Tower | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Fairmont Mayakoba | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 3. LOTE4 | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 4. SUUT Hostal Boutique | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Palmaïa The House of AïA | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Casa Creunza de Mar | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Via Tendenza Condos | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Casarte Boutique Hotel | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Ipana Luxury Suites | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Departamentos K&B | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Las Palmas – Palma Xiat & Cocoyol | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Myoli Wellness & Happiness BnB | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 13. New & Equipped Apartment Steps From The Beach With Pool Jacuzzi By Yeah | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows, All & More Inclusive – Adults Only | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Condo/ Depa – Marea Azul | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Casa Mi Tesoro | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 17. 5th Av Studio Close to the Beach ADO Ferry & Mall | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 18. CARRIBEAN | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Amazing Dream Home in Gated Community | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Grand Blue Playa | (20+ Reviews) |
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Reviews of 20 Best Places to Stay Riviera Maya
1. Alizee Tower
The Vibe
Alizee Tower sits in the real heart of Playa del Carmen, with the beach an 8-minute walk away. Guests consistently highlight the rooftop pool and solarium as the best spots to unwind after a day exploring 5th Avenue. The 9.1 overall rating across 350+ reviews shows reliable quality.
What You Actually Get
This apartment-style property gives you a full kitchen, separate living area, and your own bathroom. The rooftop pool comes with a sun terrace and free WiFi throughout. A fitness room and solarium are included. The Church of Guadalupe sits 1.3 km away, and Cozumel International Airport is 36 km out. Check-in runs until 21:00, so late arrivals may need to coordinate.
Choose this if: you want apartment flexibility with a rooftop pool in central Playa del Carmen.
2. Fairmont Mayakoba
The Vibe
Fairmont Mayakoba is a AAA Five Diamond Award winner with low-rise buildings connected by waterways through lush tropical forest. The 8.9 rating comes from 300+ reviews, and guests rave about the comfy beds and the massive 20,000 square foot spa with treetop treatment areas.
What You Actually Get
This luxury resort sits along the Cancun-Playa del Carmen highway, offering wonderful sea views from its lagoon-side location. You get free private parking, a choice of breakfast options (Continental, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, American, Buffet), and pet-friendly policies. The spa includes beauty treatments, and WiFi is included once the resort fee is paid. Offers can’t be combined with other promotions.
Choose this if: you want a full-service luxury resort with a world-class spa and lagoon setting.
3. LOTE4 – LGBTQ Studios
The Vibe
LOTE4 sits in central Playa del Carmen with a location score of 9.8—near the beach, ADO bus station, and ferry terminal. The aparthotel is LGBTQ-friendly and scores a 9.6 overall from 200+ reviews. The rooftop pool and sun terrace are guest favorites.
What You Actually Get
Each studio includes a kitchen, living area, and bathroom with media amenities. The rooftop pool is the main draw, plus there’s free parking and WiFi throughout. Playa del Carmen Beach is less than 1 km away, and the Maritime Terminal is 1.7 km out. Note that hen, stag, or similar parties are not allowed here—it’s designed for a quieter, respectful vibe.
Choose this if: you’re looking for an LGBTQ-friendly aparthotel with a near-perfect location score.
4. SUUT Hostal Boutique
The Vibe
SUUT Hostal Boutique brings a community feel with a rooftop pool, yoga classes, and film nights. The 9.2 rating across 200+ reviews confirms it’s a top hostel choice in Playa del Carmen. The location score of 9.4 puts you right in the Zazil-Ha neighborhood.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature air-conditioning, private bathrooms with walk-in showers, and balconies with quiet street views. The hostel offers a lounge area, outdoor seating, and free WiFi. A continental breakfast is included. There’s parking available, plus entertainment and family services. Check-out is at 12:30, giving you a relaxed morning.
Choose this if: you want a social hostel with daily yoga and a rooftop pool.
5. Palmaïa The House of AïA All Inclusive Wellness Resort
The Vibe
Palmaïa sits between the Caribbean Sea and the jungle, offering a luxury all-inclusive wellness experience. The 9.7 overall rating and 9.8 location score from 150+ reviews speak volumes. Large outdoor pools, a spa, and beautiful suites with private terraces define this resort.
What You Actually Get
This all-inclusive resort includes 5 à la carte restaurants, large outdoor pools, a spa and wellness center, a fitness center, and a children’s playground. Suites feature private terraces overlooking the sea. Free private parking is available on-site. Note that groups booking 6 rooms or more have different policies—the property will contact you directly.
Choose this if: you want a luxury all-inclusive wellness resort with Caribbean Sea views and top-rated location.
Check Tonight’s Price for Palmaïa The House of AïA All Inclusive Wellness Resort →
6. Casa Creunza de Mar
The Vibe
Casa Creunza de Mar scores a 9.9 location—among the best in this list—with the beach just a 3-minute walk away. The aparthotel also sits 400 meters from the ADO International Bus Station. The 9.5 overall rating from 150+ reviews shows consistent guest satisfaction.
What You Actually Get
This aparthotel offers a sun terrace, lush garden, and free WiFi. Rooms include kitchens, media technology, and accessibility features. Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal is a 7-minute walk, and Cozumel International Airport is 34 km away. Check-in runs from 15:00 to 18:00—a tighter window than most, so plan accordingly.
Choose this if: you want to be steps from the beach with a near-perfect location score.
7. Via Tendenza Condos
The Vibe
Via Tendenza Condos lands a 9.6 location score with the beach just a 6-minute walk away and the ADO bus station 1 km off. The 9.2 rating from 100+ reviews reflects solid quality. Free private parking is a bonus in central Playa del Carmen.
What You Actually Get
These condos include a full kitchen, living area, and bathroom with media and room amenities. The year-round outdoor swimming pool is open daily from 09:00 to 22:00. Parking has a maximum vehicle height of 2.2 meters—larger vehicles can’t park here. The property has no lift access, so be prepared for stairs. Check-in runs until midnight.
Choose this if: you need free parking and a late check-in with a great location score.
8. Casarte Boutique Hotel
The Vibe
Casarte Boutique Hotel holds a perfect 10.0 overall rating from 100+ reviews—the highest in this list. The location score of 9.9 puts it in central Playa del Carmen, with the beach an 8-minute walk away. A year-round outdoor pool and a garden complete the boutique feel.
What You Actually Get
This boutique hotel features a sun terrace, garden, and a year-round pool. Rooms include bathrooms, outdoor spaces, and media technology. The ADO International Bus Station is 1.4 km away, and the Maritime Terminal is 1.9 km. Breakfast and food options are available. Check-in runs until 23:30. The 100+ reviews reflect a flawless guest experience.
Choose this if: you want a perfectly-rated boutique hotel in central Playa del Carmen.
9. Ipana Luxury Suites By Caribe Rentas
The Vibe
Ipana Luxury Suites combines apartment independence with resort-style amenities including a rooftop pool, spa, and fitness center. The 9.4 rating from 100+ reviews and 9.5 location score make it a strong mid-list pick. The beach is an 8-minute walk away.
What You Actually Get
Each suite includes a kitchen, living area, and bathroom with media and accessibility features. Free private parking is available on-site. The Church of Guadalupe is 16 minutes on foot, and the ADO bus station is 1.9 km away. Quiet hours run from 22:00 to 08:00, and the property has a license number for verified operation. Check-in starts at 16:00.
Choose this if: you want a luxury apartment with spa access and a rooftop pool.
Check Tonight’s Price for Ipana Luxury Suites By Caribe Rentas →
10. Departamentos K&B
The Vibe
Departamentos K&B offers a quieter stay with a garden, sun terrace, and family rooms. The 9.4 overall rating from 100+ reviews is solid. The 9.1 location score places it in a less frenetic part of Playa del Carmen, ideal for families or longer stays.
What You Actually Get
These apartments include a fully equipped kitchen, kitchenette option, private bathroom, air-conditioning, and a balcony or terrace with garden views. Free WiFi is included, plus outdoor seating areas. Check-in runs until midnight, and check-out is flexible from 07:00 to 12:00. The property requests advance notice of your arrival time.
Choose this if: you want a kitchen-equipped apartment with garden views and family rooms.
11. Las Palmas – Palma Xiat & Cocoyol
The Vibe
Las Palmas offers two apartment options—Palma Xiat and Cocoyol—both with a 9.5 location score. The beach is a 7-minute walk away, and the ADO bus station is 1.3 km. The 9.3 rating from 50+ reviews shows strong guest satisfaction.
What You Actually Get
Both apartments include a kitchen, living area, and bathroom with media amenities. The rooftop swimming pool is the standout feature. Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal is 1.9 km away. Check-in runs from 15:00 to 22:00, and check-out from 06:00 to 12:00. Hen, stag, or similar parties are not allowed.
Choose this if: you want a rooftop pool apartment near the beach and bus station.
Check Tonight’s Price for Las Palmas – Palma Xiat & Cocoyol →
12. Myoli Wellness & Happiness BnB
The Vibe
Myoli is an adults-only BnB focused on wellness with a 9.7 overall rating from 50+ reviews. The 9.0 location score is solid, and guests highlight the year-round outdoor pool, lush garden, and pool views from each room. Vegetarian, vegan, and American breakfast options are included.
What You Actually Get
Each spacious room includes a private bathroom, air-conditioning, dining table, outdoor furniture, and free WiFi. The property features a year-round outdoor swimming pool, garden, and outdoor seating areas. Breakfast is included with options for vegetarian, vegan, American, or breakfast to go. Free parking is available. Quiet hours run from 22:00 to 07:00.
Choose this if: you want an adults-only wellness BnB with a pool and free vegetarian breakfast.
13. New & Equipped Apartment Steps From The Beach With Pool Jacuzzi By Yeah
The Vibe
This new apartment is steps from Playa del Carmen Beach—a 7-minute walk—with a 9.4 location score. The 9.0 rating from 50+ reviews is solid for a newer property. Pool, jacuzzi, and fitness center make it a complete package.
What You Actually Get
The apartment includes a kitchen, living area, bathroom with accessibility features, and free WiFi. The Church of Guadalupe and ADO bus station are both 1.9 km away. Free private parking is included. Note that damage to the property could cost up to US$200 after check-out, and hen or stag parties are not allowed. Check-in starts at 16:00.
Choose this if: you want a new apartment with pool, jacuzzi, and fitness center near the beach.
Check Tonight’s Price for New & Equipped Apartment Steps From The Beach With Pool Jacuzzi By →
14. Palafitos Overwater Bungalows, All & More Inclusive – Adults Only
The Vibe
Palafitos offers overwater bungalows in the Riviera Maya—the only ones on this list. The 9.5 overall rating and 9.6 location score from 50+ reviews confirm its quality. The private beach area and stunning sea views are the main draws, plus a pool with a view.
What You Actually Get
This adults-only resort includes a spa, swimming pool with a view, games room, and fitness center. Buffet breakfast is included, and free private parking is available. Complimentary water park access is offered for stays of more than 2 nights. Check-in runs until midnight. The resort sits along the Cancun-Tulum highway at Km 55.3.
Choose this if: you want an overwater bungalow experience with all-inclusive perks and adult-only peace.
Check Tonight’s Price for Palafitos Overwater Bungalows, All & More Inclusive – Adults Only →
15. Condo/ Depa – Marea Azul – Playa del Carmen
The Vibe
Condo/ Depa – Marea Azul is a beachfront apartment with a private beach area and spa. The 9.8 overall rating and 9.7 location score from 50+ reviews make it a top-tier pick. Guests love the direct beach access and sea views.
What You Actually Get
This beachfront condo includes a spa and wellness center, fitness center, sun terrace, outdoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and yoga area. A variety of breakfast options are available including Continental, Full English/Irish, Vegetarian, American, Buffet, and Breakfast to go. Free private parking is included. Check-out is available 24 hours, offering maximum flexibility.
Choose this if: you want a beachfront condo with spa access and 24-hour check-out.
Check Tonight’s Price for Condo/ Depa – Marea Azul – Playa del Carmen →
16. Casa Mi Tesoro
The Vibe
Casa Mi Tesoro sits in Playacar, the best-rated area in Playa del Carmen, with a 9.7 location score. The 9.4 overall rating from 40+ reviews reflects a peaceful guesthouse experience. A sun terrace, lush garden, outdoor pool, and bar complete the setting.
What You Actually Get
This guest house features air-conditioning, private bathrooms with garden views, a coffee machine, refrigerator, and work desk. Free WiFi is included. Note that air conditioning and housekeeping are available for an extra cost—check prices with the property. Check-in runs from 15:00 to 19:00, a tighter window than most.
Choose this if: you want a quiet Playacar guesthouse with a pool and garden views.
17. 5th Av Studio Close to the Beach ADO Ferry & Mall
The Vibe
This studio sits on 5th Avenue with a perfect 9.9 location score—the beach is a 2-minute walk away, the Maritime Terminal is 200 meters, and the ADO bus station is just steps away. The 9.9 overall rating from 40+ reviews shows near-perfect guest satisfaction.
What You Actually Get
This beachfront studio includes a kitchen, bathroom, media technology, and accessibility features. Free parking and WiFi are included. Cozumel International Airport is 34 km away. Check-in runs from 15:00 to 22:00, and the property requires advance notice of your arrival time. Note: the shortName field was truncated in the data.
Choose this if: you want the most central location possible with beach, ferry, and bus access.
Check Tonight’s Price for 5th Av Studio Close to the Beach ADO Ferry & Mall →
18. CARRIBEAN DELUXE Apartment
The Vibe
CARRIBEAN DELUXE Apartment scores a 9.8 overall from 30+ reviews, one of the highest ratings on this list. The 9.1 location score is solid, and the spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout appeals to groups. The tennis court and open-air bath are unusual amenities in Playa del Carmen.
What You Actually Get
This spacious apartment includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, balcony, and fully equipped kitchenette. The property features a year-round outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, lush garden, and open-air bath for relaxation. Free WiFi and private parking are included. Check-in runs until midnight, and check-out from 01:00 to 11:00 offers unusual late-night flexibility.
Choose this if: you want a spacious apartment with a tennis court and open-air bath.
19. Amazing Dream Home in Gated Community
The Vibe
Amazing Dream Home is exactly that—a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom holiday home in a gated community with a 9.6 overall rating. The 9.3 location score puts it in a secure, well-tended area. A year-round outdoor pool, terrace, balcony, and garden complete the home.
What You Actually Get
This holiday home includes a spacious living room, fully equipped modern kitchen, terrace, balcony, and beautiful garden. Free WiFi in public areas and air-conditioning are included. Free private parking is available on-site. The property requires advance notice of your arrival time. It’s ideal for families or groups needing multiple bedrooms and private outdoor space.
Choose this if: you need a large, secure holiday home for a family or group stay.
Check Tonight’s Price for Amazing Dream Home in Gated Community →
20. Grand Blue Playa
The Vibe
Grand Blue Playa holds a perfect 10.0 location score—the only property on this list to achieve that. The 9.8 overall rating from 20+ reviews is equally impressive. This 5-star apartment sits in the city center with the beach less than 1 km away.
What You Actually Get
This 5-star apartment includes a full kitchen, bathroom, media technology, and wellness amenities. Continental and breakfast-to-go options are available. Free private parking is included. The Church of Guadalupe is an 18-minute walk, ADO bus station is 1.7 km, and Cozumel International Airport is 36 km away. Check-in runs until 23:00, and check-out from 02:00 to 11:00.
Choose this if: you want a perfect location score with a 5-star apartment and flexible check-out.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#5 Palmaïa The House of AïA All Inclusive Wellness Resort
A 9.7 rating with a 9.8 location score, all-inclusive wellness model, and Caribbean Sea views—the most complete best places to stay Riviera Maya pick for luxury travelers.
Check Tonight’s Price for Palmaïa The House of AïA All Inclusive Wellness Resort →
💰 Best Value
#1 Alizee Tower
A 9.1 rating with a rooftop pool, fitness room, and beach proximity at apartment-level pricing—hard to beat for value.
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#17 5th Av Studio Close to the Beach ADO Ferry & Mall
A 9.9 rating with a 2-minute walk to the beach, ferry, and bus station—unbeatable for beach lovers and day-trippers.
Check Tonight’s Price for 5th Av Studio Close to the Beach ADO Ferry & Mall →
How We Ranked These Riviera Maya Hotels
We evaluated 20 properties in Playa del Carmen using Booking.com data, prioritizing guest scores, location ratings, and amenity quality. Each property required 20+ verified reviews and an 8.0+ overall rating to qualify.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 20+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value—the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Beach proximity, transport access, and neighborhood quality in Playa del Carmen
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these Riviera Maya hotels?
Most apartments and aparthotels on this list do not explicitly allow pets. Fairmont Mayakoba (#2) is pet-friendly, making it the best choice for travelers with animals. Always confirm directly with the property before booking, as some may accommodate pets with prior arrangement.
Most apartments and aparthotels on this list do not explicitly allow pets. Fairmont Mayakoba (#2) is pet-friendly, making it the best choice for travelers with animals. Always confirm directly with the property before booking, as some may accommodate pets with prior arrangement.
Which properties offer free cancellation?
Cancellation policies vary by room type and date across all 20 properties. Generally, apartments and aparthotels on Booking.com offer flexible or free cancellation options if you book the right rate. Always check the specific room’s cancellation policy before confirming—most display it clearly on the booking page.
What’s the best time to visit Riviera Maya?
The high season runs from December to April, offering dry weather and perfect beach conditions. November and May are shoulder months with fewer crowds and lower rates. June to October is the rainy season with higher humidity and potential for hurricanes, but you’ll find the best deals during this period.
How do I get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen?
The ADO bus from Cancun Airport runs directly to Playa del Carmen’s main bus station—about 45-60 minutes and costs roughly $15 USD. Private transfers cost $50-80 USD and are available through most hotels. Rental cars are another option, and several properties on this list offer free parking.
Can I check in late at any of these properties?
Yes. Properties like Via Tendenza Condos (#7) and CARRIBEAN DELUXE Apartment (#18) offer check-in until midnight. Alizee Tower (#1) accepts check-in until 21:00, while LOTE4 (#3) and SUUT Hostal Boutique (#4) go until 23:00. Most require advance notice of your arrival time, so communicate directly with the property.
What’s the most walkable area in Playa del Carmen?
The area around 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida) between Calle 1 Sur and Calle 40 Norte is the most walkable, with the beach, ferry to Cozumel, ADO bus station, shops, and restaurants all within a 10-minute radius. Properties like 5th Av Studio (#17) and Casa Creunza de Mar (#6) are perfectly positioned for walkability.