Mare Playa del Carmen

The place was clean and the Wi-Fi worked well, but Apartment 1A-2 was a depressing cave with no real privacy or chance to relax. It was beside the elevator, staff room, and reception, and there was constant noise. At least four or five staff members talked loudly each day, and the receptionist kept the TV blaring all night. I had to leave the blinds closed because the staff room was only about four meters away. This is the worst place I’ve stayed in Playa del Carmen, despite coming regularly six or seven times a year for the past five years. I’d strongly advise against it. The owner’s response was pure insinuation. I didn’t lose my keys, so they didn’t help me look for them. I treat staff respectfully, but three strange men came into my room without knocking. Fixing the TV wasn’t a courtesy, it was part of the hotel’s contract. None of that changes my view of the apartment. Turning a dark broom closet into a rental apartment is abusive. Check before booking whether you’ll get the unit I had.

We stayed about four nights, and I’d recommend it to someone looking for a nice place who understands it may not be perfect for the price. Photos of hotels in Playa del Carmen often make them look better than they are in person. From what other travelers told me, the gap can be much bigger, so I was fairly satisfied, somewhere between four and five stars.

The local dogs bark at night, most of the reception staff speak only Spanish, the induction stove doesn’t have decent cookware, and there’s no safe, so we had to carry our passports and money everywhere. Still, our six nights at Mare had plenty going for them: the bachelor apartment was spacious and clean, as was the building, and the staff were friendly apart from one person. They communicate with guests on WhatsUp. When the AC stopped working, we messaged and maintenance fixed it quickly. Coco beach is a lovely ten-minute walk away, and Avenida Quinta, with shopping and nightlife, is five minutes on foot. The rooftop pool is small but clean, and the apartment WiFi was excellent.

We spent November 2025 at Mare and moved between two rooms during the month. There were a few small problems at first, but the staff and management sorted them out quickly and made the stay friendly and comfortable. Thanks especially to Isaac, the manager. Both rooms were bright, clean, and spacious, with big balconies and very comfortable beds. Our suites had kitchens with a fridge, stove, and sink, so we could cook or eat out. The location is central, close to the 5th Avenue walkway and several lovely local beaches. It’s moderately priced and decent value for the money. Nearby, Playa Bonita is a little restaurant with great food, generous portions, lower prices, and super staff. Shout out to Paloma & Hecter!