Boasting one of the best beaches in Mexico and the Caribbean combined, with perfect white sand and an abundance of space and serenity, the economical Sandos Playacar caters well to both couples and families with a plethora of on-site water sports and other activities; with a +5 TripValue, it’s one of the Riviera Maya’s best bargains. It’s located in the upscale Playacar neighborhood just south of Playa del Carmen; there’s undeveloped land directly to the south of the property, which gives the beach an even more pristine, quiet vibe and has a strong positive effect on the Overall Beach Resort Rating. The resort is divided into four distinct sections: the Select Club is for adults only, the Family Section is in the center of the resort and has spacious Junior Suites, the Beach Section is closest to both the beach and main pool area, and the Royal Elite Haciendas section comprises recently renovated 8-suite villas; each villa has its own sundeck, pool, and jacuzzi. The Family and Beach sections are best for families and the Select Club and Royal Elite Haciendas sections are best for couples. Some rooms are a hike from the beach and off-site shops and restaurants are lacking in the area; but the resort offers an outstanding fitness center with plenty of space and light, a spa with a nice hydrotherapy circuit, a nightclub, quality tennis courts, fairly good food for an all-inclusive with impressive variety, free bike rentals, and good rooms for the price. The staff receives overwhelmingly positive guest reviews. Activities include spin and yoga classes, aqua aerobics, golf (nearby), mini golf, cooking and dance classes, Zumba classes, kayaking, Hobie Cat sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling tours, deep sea fishing, jet skiing, parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kiteboarding.
Departure COVID-19 antigen tests are available on-site on a complimentary basis for guests traveling to the United States. Results take an average of 24 hours. In the event of a positive test, guests can extend their stay for up to 14 days at no additional cost.