An upper-mid-range, adults-only, all-inclusive resort in the upscale Playacar neighborhood just south of Playa del Carmen, Royal Hideaway Playacar caters well to couples; it’s one of the quieter spots along the Riviera Maya coastline. With a TripValue of +3, it’s also one of the better bargains in the area. The hotel dining options have a dress code (pants and collared shirts required for men), there’s no swim-up bar, and on-site water sports and other activities are somewhat limited; but the resort offers six quality restaurants, an outstanding white-sand beachfront with plenty of space, elegant accommodations with dark wood and marble furnishings, six swimming pools including an infinity pool with a waterfall, quality floodlit tennis courts with private lessons, and an interactive Chef’s Table culinary experience at the Ventanas restaurant. Other highlights include a fairly good fitness center, a nice full-service spa with salon services, and a very tranquil overall atmosphere. The hotel service impresses right from check-in, where guests receive a champagne welcome drink and a cool towel; most guests praise the staff’s personalized service and attention to detail throughout their stays (this factor has a positive effect on the Overall Beach Resort Rating, helping to upgrade it to the upper A range). Activities include sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, cooking classes, and weekly dinner shows at the on-site theater. Water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, and parasailing are available in the immediate vicinity.
On-site COVID-19 testing is offered prior to departure, but it isn’t complimentary.