Areia Playa del Carmen-Beach front Hotel

We were uneasy for the whole stay after getting two scam messages on WhatsApp before arrival. The sender knew our booking details, and the first message came just after our payment was taken. The hotel called it a scam. Since the booking couldn't be refunded, we stayed, but locked up our bags and valuables whenever we went out. I don't recommend this place and wouldn't return. The bathroom made the room feel unfit to stay in. There was a strong sewage odor, weak shower pressure, and water that swung between too hot and cold. It was salty too, so our hair never seemed fully clean. The bathroom and towels were in poor condition, the outdoor pool wasn't cleaned, and the sunbeds were worn and dirty. Photos looked much better. Beach sunbeds also came with a minimum 700 peso spend. The room was far smaller than the pictures suggested, with little space for suitcases or clothes, and no mini-fridge. There was an iron but no board; staff couldn't lend us one, so we ironed on the bed. Breakfast was okay, but the place fell short of what we'd expect from this kind of accommodation.

We left right away for another hotel because the rooms felt dirty and unsafe. In one of our three booked king suites, a light hung crookedly from its wire above the bed. Reviews apparently said it had been like that for a year. Other rooms had missing lamp bulbs and chairs, and the toilet was brown and dirty. The front desk woman wouldn't refund any of our week-long booking, and she was no help at all. The property has potential, but it's run down and littered with trash. The pool was hot, stagnant, and dirty, while the lounger cushions were badly stained and torn. For what they charge, I think it should cost half as much. It feels more like a nice hostel than a boutique hotel. Don't book expecting a relaxing, comfortable vacation. For only $200 more, you can get a clean all-inclusive in the same spot on 5th Ave. This place is a scam.

We had a lovely stay, and the restaurant beach staff were friendly. Martina in particular made it really enjoyable. The place felt safe, with the beach club closing at 6 pm and beach access then blocked off for security. It's a beautiful spot close to 5th, good for couples or solo travelers wanting bars and restaurants nearby, or a quiet romantic break. I wouldn't call it kid-friendly. Our ground-floor room had a private patio facing the beach, right by the bar. Since the room was next to the restaurant and bar area, people were constantly passing by. The massage tent also blocked our view. At night, workers from the bar next door sat in front of our patio smoking 🫖, and locals relieved themselves behind the stacked loungers and chairs. Next time I'd probably choose a second-floor room overlooking the beach.

For the room prices, the service is terrible and the hotel is poorly maintained, with rooms that lack equipment. They try to charge for all kinds of things. Even as a guest, using the beach club basically requires spending 1000mxn/50usd. The beach in front is public and loud.