Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen (Best Places in 2026)

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FIRST TIME IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

FIRST TIME IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Fifth Avenue (La Quinta)

If you’re visiting Playa del Carmen for the first time, the best place to stay is along Fifth Avenue because it is central, well-connected and is close to the beach.

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ON A BUDGET

ON A BUDGET

Centro

Centro is a busy and buzzing neighbourhood situated at the heart of Playa del Carmen. This part of the city is known for it’s spicy, savoury and succulent food, along with its unique attractions and excellent nightlife.

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NIGHTLIFE

NIGHTLIFE

Gonzalo Guerrero

For a wild and lively night out, there’s no better place to stay than the Gonzalo Guerrero neighbourhood. Set at the centre of the city, the Gonzalo Guerrero district sits tucked between cheap and cheerful Centro and calm and cool Luis Donaldo Colosio.

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COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

Luis Donaldo Colosio

The Luis Donaldo Colosio district is located at the northeastern end of the city. It is one of the coolest places to stay in Playa del Carmen because of it’s laid-back attitude, colourful street art, and access to great water sports and outdoor adventures.

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FOR FAMILIES

FOR FAMILIES

Playacar

Playacar is a large and luxurious neighbourhood south of the city centre. It is best known for its glamorous resorts and vacation condos, as well as its stunning beach and natural surroundings.

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Now, let’s take a look, in more detail, at the best places in Playa del Carmen to stay. I’m sure you’ll end up here on your Mexican backpacking trip, just as many gringos do. Each neighborhood offers something a little different to travellers, so be sure to read each section carefully and choose the right area for you!

1. Fifth Avenue (La Quinta) – Where to Stay for Your First Time Visit

Fifth Avenue is the best place to stay if you’re in PDC for the first time, it’s central, well-connected, and close to the beach.

The Fifth Avenue area is one of the most tourist-friendly places in the city. It is lined with bike shops, tour companies, and travel agents who can help you plan unforgettable excursions, cruises, adventures, and more.

This popular district is also in close proximity to one of the best beaches around here. Just a short hop away is Point Esmeralda, which is known for its brilliant white sands and pollution-free turquoise waters.

• Best For: Anyone who wants to meet fellow gringos, and stay in a spot full of tours to book.
• The Vibe: It’s pretty lively at day and night here. I always found stuff going on, ranging from people hitting the shops by day, to visiting the bars and enjoying street performances by night.
• Proximity to Airport: The local airport only really covers skydiving and other activities. So you gotta come from Cancun’s airport which is around 70 minutes away by ADO bus, or 45 by driving. Avoid Uber due to hostility between drivers and the local taxi mafia.
• Transport Level: This is a pretty walkable area, although Uber is also an option.
• Budget: It’s pretty expensive in this tourist-heavy area. If you don’t know what a “gringo tax” is, you’re about to find out.
• Crowds: Busy. And if it’s peak season, then it’ll be absolutely rammed full of people.

Top Things to Do in Fifth Avenue (La Quinta)

1. Discover the magic of the Mayan world, be immersed in culture and history, explore the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Ek’Balam with an expert guide and swim in a breathtaking cenote in the Yucatan
2. Drive along jungle trails and cool down with a swim and snorkel in one of the sacred sinkholes and get off the beaten track on an amazing dune buggy tour of the Riviera Maya.
3. Rent bikes and cruise around Playa del Carmen’s streets on two wheels.
4. Soak up some rays on the white sands of the beautiful Punta Esmeralda.

Best Hotel: Quinta Margarita Hotel

An incredible swimming pool, large rooms, and a central location – no wonder this is one of the best boutique hotels in Playa del Carmen! This hotel is small but perfectly located, being just a short walk from many of the main attractions in Playa.

The private terrace on the roof is the place to be, though guests should note that this four storey building does not have an elevator. Great for staying fit on vacation, hit those stairs! There’s also free wifi, laundry services, and Cancun airport transfers.

Best Hostel: Hostal Casa MX Quinta Avenida

I really loved this place because the beds had privacy curtains, which meant I could get a decent kip after yet another night of hitting the bars (I’m getting too old for this shit).

They even chucked in a free breakfast of fruits and coffee. Not quite a full English, but for the price you pay here, that can be considered a bargain. Then you’ve got the fact these beds are comfy, and the staff were super kind when I stayed here.

Best Airbnb: Modern Oceanview Apartment

This modern studio apartment is right in the heart of Playa del Carmen. Yep, Fifth Avenue is right on your doorstep! Step outside and you’ll find yourself in a very lively area – stay inside and you can chill on your rooftop. This place is about more than just convenience though, you’ll probably want to spend a lot of time in the Airbnb itself. With 3 of you, it can even be considered budget-friendly!

That’s because you’ve got a rooftop terrace with a rooftop pool, and spectacular views of the beach from your private balcony. This room would be perfect for a romantic break! When you want to venture out from this Airbnb in Mexico, make your way down to one of the epic beach clubs a la playa.

2. Centro – Best Place to Stay on a Budget

Centro is a busy and buzzing neighbourhood situated at the heart of Playa del Carmen. This part of the city is known for its spicy, savoury, and succulent food, along with its unique attractions and excellent nightlife.

Looking to save a little money on your trip? Then the Centro neighbourhood is for you! This compact city centre district is packed with good-value hostels and affordable hotels, as well as vacation rentals and B&Bs. This is why it’s my top pick for where to stay if you’re on a tight budget.

• Best For: Being close to all of the action.
• The Vibe: It’s pretty lively by both day and night.
• Proximity to Airport: An ADO bus from Cancun Airport takes an hour. Driving takes around 50 minutes.
• Transport Level: An easily walkable part of PDC, where Uber can also pick you up if needed.
• Budget: It’s pretty mid-range overall, high competition helps bring accommodation costs down.
• Crowds: Super busy. If you love travelling to off-the-beaten-path destinations, I’m afraid Centro probably isn’t for you.

Top Things to Do in Centro

1. Explore the underground rivers at Xcaret Park.
2. Explore lively and vibrant Parque Los Fundadores.
3. Take a day trip to Tulum.
4. Have your mind blown at the 3D Museum of Wonders.
5. See incredible works of art and explore key events in the artist’s life at the Frida Kahlo Museum.

Best Hotel: Hotel Casa De Las Flores

Hotel Casa De Las Flores is ideally located in Centro, the best area to stay in if you’re watching the pennies. It has 29 rooms with a range of facilities, including private bathrooms with showers and hair dryers. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi and an outdoor swimming pool.

Best Hostel: Che Playa Hostel & Bar

This lively and vibrant property is my favourite hostel in PDC. It boasts an amazing rooftop pool, offers a myriad of classes, like yoga and salsa, and has a fantastic tropical-themed outdoor bar. This hostel has private and shared rooms with modern amenities, sturdy bunk beds, and stylish décor.

Best Airbnb: Enchanting Studio With Balcony

Verified but still affordable? Heck yes!! This Airbnb is truly unique. With stylish interior design, close to the beach, you won’t find anything that you don’t like about this place.

Everything in this studio is made from high-quality material and all the amenities are sparkling clean and modern. The nightly price is extremely low, so be sure to book soon as it’s hot property!

3. Gonzalo Guerrero – Best Area to Stay For Nightlife

For a wild and lively night out, there’s no better place to stay than the Gonzalo Guerrero neighborhood. If you stay here you’ll be within walking distance to Quinta Avenida, a fun street to mooch about and people watch. If you’re in the market for souvenirs, this spot is also where you wanna go.

Set at the centre of the city, the Gonzalo Guerrero district sits tucked between cheap-and-cheerful Centro and calm-and-cool Luis Donaldo Colosio. It is home to an excellent selection of restaurants that serve incredible dishes from across Mexico and around the world.

Gonzalo Guerrero is also where you’ll find some of the busiest and most boisterous bars and clubs that Playa del Carmen has to offer. Whether you want to dance the night away, sip seaside cocktails, down shots of tequila, or drink cool craft beers, this is the spot! This central neighbourhood is bursting with fun and excitement all day and all night.

• Best For: Party animals who want a good tear-up after dark.
• The Vibe: Mad. You’re gonna get smashed if you get stuck into the nightlife here. Expect noisy tourists staggering around in the early hours.
• Proximity to Airport: You’re around 70 minutes away from Cancun Airport by ADO bus.
• Transport Level: As with much of PDC, it’s walkable, but Uber exists if you really need it. I’d recommend using Uber at night.
• Budget: Not too bad really. Not “cheap”, but it won’t decimate your bank balance either.
• Crowds: Moderate. You get a party crowd here at night, but it’s not crazy compared to La Quinta or Centro.

Top Things to Do in Gonzalo Guerrero

1. Place your bets at the Riviera Grand Casino.
2. Take a ferry trip to visit Cozumel, an island off the coast
3. Tour the impressive archaeological ruins of Chichén Itzá and discover a ceremonial centre of the Maya civilization, then go to a sacred cenote on a guided trip
4. Shop till you drop on Quinta Avenida

Best Hotel: Hotel Playa Encantada

It’s right by the ADO bus station, meaning it’s super easy to reach from the airport, and it’s a rare budget-friendly option in a sea of bougie resorts.

I loved being able to save money, and still have access to a pool here. Was kinda cold if I’m honest with you, but the pros outweighed the cons for sure.

Best Hostel: Sayab Hostel & Spa

This excellent hostel offers guests a relaxing, comfortable and social atmosphere on the Riviera Maya. It is within walking distance of downtown Playa Del Carmen and the beach. All of their rooms are fitted lockers to keep your luggage safe, plus there is 24 hour reception, parking and an onsite diving school.

Yes, you don’t need to go far to learn how to dive! There are dorm rooms and private rooms, a kitchen and a cosy communal space.

Best Airbnb: Unique studio in condo

If you’re a night owl that’s looking for crazy nightlife, great clubs, and good food options, this Airbnb should be perfect for you. Right in the heart of PDC, it won’t even take a minute until you’re on the dancefloor. The home is a bungalow-style condo with a studio on each level.

It can be quite loud outside, but the soundproof walls keep out most of the noise. Or you can compete with the neighbour’s noise, bombing into the outdoor pool, cheehooo!

4. Luis Donaldo Colosio – Coolest Place to Stay

The Luis Donaldo Colosio district is located at the northeastern end of the city. It is one of the coolest places to stay during your time in PDC. This is thanks to its laid-back attitude, colourful street art, and access to great water sports and outdoor adventures.

This is also the place to stay if you’re looking to indulge in fresh and delicious regional Mexican fare. Tucked throughout this calm and cool neighborhood is an array of restaurants, eateries, bistros, and cafes.

These spots serve everything from traditional Mexican fare to eclectic European and fantastic fusion. There’s no doubt about it, your tastebuds will love staying in Luis Donaldo Colosio.

• Best For: Hipsters and art lovers will appreciate this more bohemian spot.
• The Vibe: There’s definitely a more artsy crowd here. It’s a little different from the wild party spots, and feels slightly more authentically Mexican.
• Proximity to Airport: As with much of PDC, you’re looking at 1 hour on the ADO bus to get here by public transport.
• Transport Level: Once again, it’s pretty walkable, but Uber offers a quicker way to get around.
• Budget: It’s more on the budget end of the scale by PDC standards. Still costs more than somewhere less touristy.
• Crowds: Much lower here, you’re getting away from the prime gringo spots.

Top Things to Do in Luis Donaldo Colosio

1. Marvel at the design and architecture of Iglesia Nuestra Sra. de Guadalupe.
2. Work on your tan at Playa Publica 88.
3. Experience history, culture and nature in one amazing Riviera Maya experience. Visit not one, but two unique Mayan ruins and swim in a refreshing cenote.
4. Discover the Yucatán Peninsula’s natural treasures of Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas on a guided tour. 

Best Hotel: Suites Cielo y Mar

One of the more budget-friendly options in this part of PDC. And you know us, we love to bag a bargain!

I took my partner here, and we loved being just 5 minutes from the beach. Not only that, but the hotel has its own pool and terrace where we soaked up the rays for hours, drink in hand. It’s also very clean, which was a welcome relief after coming up from Tulum where we didn’t pick the best place. This hotel rocks though!

Best Apartments: Suites Fenicia

These sweet Suites Fenicia are a relaxing oasis in Playa del Carmen’s sexiest neighbourhood. The rooms have air conditioning which is a life saver in the tropical heat of the Riviera Maya. The staff are friendly, the beds are cosy and clean, and the small outdoor pool is on your doorstep for a morning dip.

Best Airbnb: Villas del Mar Azul

Just 150m from the beach and 1.5 miles from the city centre in a tranquil neighbourhood, this Airbnb is number one. This two bedroom apartment comes with enough space for three people to spread out, either on the large terrace or by the private outdoor pool. You’ll feel comfortable and welcome as soon as you step in. It’s also very budget-friendly considering the area.

The whole place is very bright and incredibly charming due to many little details. If you’re looking for a relaxed stay, this little Riviera Maya apartment is definitely a great choice.

5. Playacar – Best Neighborhood for Families to Stay In

Playacar is a large and luxurious neighbourhood south of the city centre. It is best known for its glamorous resorts and vacation condos, as well as its stunning beach and natural surroundings.

This neighbourhood is my pick for where families should stay because it is close to excellent tourist attractions. Visit the Xaman-Ha ruins, a cluster of ancient Mayan buildings, while you’re here.

The white sand beach at Playacar also can’t be missed. Its floury golden sand is perfect for sunbathing and playing, and its clear and calm azure waters are safe for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

• Best For: Safety, and upmarket living.
• The Vibe: This is the rich part of PDC. The wealthy can be found here, which is reflected in the less-chaotic vibe.
• Proximity to Airport: You can take a shuttle which will take around 75 minutes, or it takes just under 2 hours using the ADO bus, since they don’t stop in Playacar, so you’d have to walk the last bit.
• Transport Level: You’ll need to rely on Uber to reach the main spots, unless you’re keen on walking for 30+ minutes in the sun.
• Budget: Almost as high as Snoop Dogg. Okay, maybe not that high, but this part of Playa is $$$$$
• Crowds: Low. You get a handful of resort guests here, but many of those types prefer Cancun to PDC, and there aren’t many others around.

Top Things to Do in Playacar

1. Explore the Xaman Ha Ruins.
2. Relax by the pool or play in the sand at the Riu Lupita Beach Club.
3. Run, jump, splash and play at Playacar Beach.
4. Visit the Zona Arqueologica de Playa del Carmen where you can explore nature and visit the incredible ruins.

Best Hotel: Paseo del Sol Condominios

The only hotel you’ll want to stay at in Playacar. It is close to popular tourist attractions, restaurants and shops. This stunning four-star property has an outdoor pool, a private beach, tennis courses and a rooftop terrace. I had a FAB time here and will defo return on my next visit.

Best Hostel: Che Suites Playa

This high-quality hostel is ideally located in Playacar. It is close to the famous Quinta Avenia and the heart of PDC itself.

This property offers bedrooms with A/C, private bathrooms and fans. There’s also a common area with a TV, a kitchen and a library.

Best Airbnb: Room With En-Suite Bathroom

Since we love to sniff out a bargain, we’ve done the same for you here. This Airbnb in one of PDC’s prime areas, won’t blow the budget apart. It’s suitable for two guests, and whilst you have a private room here, it is still a shared space in the common areas. Hey, we prioritise budget over comfort though.

On top of this, Maria was a fab host who attended to our needs, and was always on hand to solve problems we had. In fact, I’d say she’s one of the top 10 hosts I’ve ever had in almost a decade of constant travel.

Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of this famous Mexican beach/party hotspot and where to stay.

There’s enough to worry about (like where your next margarita is coming from) on holiday. Make sure you get good travel insurance before your trip. You don’t wanna get caught short without it, after having one too many of those delightful little cocktails and having a nasty fall.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

So, you see? This is an amazing tropical destination that has something for all kinds of travellers.

This charming and safe seaside city attracts visitors from all around the world. Thanks to its ancient Mayan Ruins and pristine beaches. Also thanks to its mouthwatering Mexican fare, rambunctious rooftop pools, and its vivacious and bombastic nightlife and party scene.

If you’re still not sure and on that broke backpacker buzz, Che Playa Hostel & Bar is my favourite hostel. It has an awesome rooftop pool, a tropical-themed bar, a study, and comfortable bunk beds.

If you’re a boujee baby and have some cash to splash, my recommendation for the best hotel is the Quinta Margarita Hotel. It’s close to bars, shops, restaurants, and the beach. This epic hotel on the Riviera Maya is just what the doctor ordered. I mean me, I order it, get a marg in your hot little hand and kick back baby!

Wherever you stay in Playa del Carmen’s stunning hospitable arms, I’m sure you’ll love it. If beach clubs are your vibe, definitely hit Mamita’s Beach Club for a bit of spicy sauce. If you’re more of an outdoor “hit the pool, catch a tan and read a book” amigo, you’ll be good at the white sand beaches of the Riviera Maya.

Have I missed anything? Hit me up, I’d love to chat in the comments!