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These are the dreamiest beach escapes in one of Mexico’s most beloved resort towns.

Pool area overlooking ocean at Grand Velas Riviera Maya

Credit:Courtesy of Grand Velas

Here are the 14 best hotels and resorts in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

The property sits back a ways from the beach, and ocean views here are more like ocean slivers.

However, the breathtaking design is just the icing on the cake.

Beachfront resort with modern architecture, arched structures, greenery, sandy shore, and a pier extending into the water.

Pristine beach area at La Casa de la Playa.Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Some guests say that the butler service could be more efficient and user-friendly.

This resort is so big, you’ll need golf carts to get around.

My favorite is the adults-only infinity pool at the newMaykana Beach Club.

Two neatly made beds, a small round table with chairs, a decorative wall hanging, and a ceiling fan in a hotel room with patterned tile flooring.

A guest room with double beds in Maroma Riviera Maya.William Jess Laird/Courtesy of Belmond

I recommend sticking around all day before migrating up to the rooftop lounge for amezcalitaat sunset.

Rosewood Mayakoba

Courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba

This resort has incredible options for drinking and dining.

This property can be tough to navigate solo.

View from guest suite at Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai

Guest view with beautiful view in Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai.Nikolas Koenig/Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai

And with dedicatedwellness suites, to plush new beachfront villas, it’s little wonder why.

There are eight unique restaurants here (the Baja-style seafood at Agave Azul is legendary!

), as well asZapote Bar, rated among the best bars in North America.

Aerial view of Hotel Xcaret Arte surrounded by dense greenery, beachfront visible with resort buildings and pools.

Aerial view of Hotel Xcaret Arte.Courtesy of Hotel Xcaret Arte

Every room promises a spectacular ocean view from floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto private terraces.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya

Suites are oversized and incredibly spacious.

There are 539 spacious suites here, many with outdoor terraces and private plunge pools.

Aerial view of the St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya, featuring circular and interconnected structures near a coastline.

Aerial view of the curved architecture at St. Regis Kanai.Courtesy of St Regis Kanai Resort

“The spa services incorporate Indigenous practices, creating unique holistic experiences.

One involves using a Uumbal shawl and lemons to stretch and align posture.

The property’s smaller boutique size means amenities and dining options are somewhat limited.

Exterior of Fairmont Mayakoba

Courtesy of Accor

You won’t even need to leave your room to enjoy the best of the resort.

Despite its small size, the resort has earned mentions in our World’s Best Awards for several years.

(Note: gratuity is not included in this propertys rate.)

Private patio at Rosewood Mayakoba

Guest suite with private patio at Rosewood Mayakoba.Courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba

However, the showstoppers are decidedly itsover-lagoon villasand beachfront suites, which have private plunge pools.

Guests will also enjoy the new beach club, ocean-front infinity pool, and plentiful dining options.

Chable Maroma

Courtesy of Chalbe Maroma

Wellness is the name of the game at this luxurious resort.

Pool area at Etero

Etereo’s pool with view of the ocean.Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection

There are just two onsite restaurants to choose from.

Though there are six restaurants on the property, you may want to explore nearby options as well.

Know Before You Go

How inclusive is all-inclusive?

Hotel pool at Grand Velas

The adult’s only pool at Grand Velas Riviera Maya.Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

You’ll want to know what to expect before arriving to avoid unexpected expenses.

Keep hurricane season in mind.

Sargassumwhat’s that?

Guest room at Viceroy Riviera Maya

Interior of guest suite at Viceroy Riviera Maya.Courtesy of Viceroy

Venture off the property.

All of our hotel recommendations also align with ourHotel Values.

Agave bar at Mahekal Beach Resort

The agave bar at Mahekal Beach Resort.Courtesy of Mahekal Beach Resort

Aerial of Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Aerial view of Bayan Tree Mayakoba.Courtesy of Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Outdoor pool with seating, thatched roof cabana in the background with a bed and decor.

Jungle Pool Villa at Chable Maroma.Courtesy of Chalbe Maroma