Get ready for take-off! Announcing Forbes Travel Guide's Inaugural Verified Air Travel Awards. 
Royal Hideaway Playacar
Playa del Carmen's quiet, adults-only escape
Set in the exclusive Playacar neighborhood of Playa del Carmen, the beachfront Royal Hideaway Playacar is an all-inclusive property, designed exclusively for adults. The resort exudes a delightful Caribbean-chic vibe. The hotel sits on one of the destination’s most striking white-and-turquoise beaches, and a short stroll along Playacar’s shaded streets will take you Playa del Carmen’s buzzy shops and restaurants.
When you arrive at the resort, a high-ceilinged breezeway lined with palm trees and stone columns will lead you to an airy, elegant lobby. Here, sunlight streams in through two-story windows and a skylight cupula, indicating the beginning of a peaceful respite in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
When you arrive at the resort, a high-ceilinged breezeway lined with palm trees and stone columns will lead you to an airy, elegant lobby. Here, sunlight streams in through two-story windows and a skylight cupula, indicating the beginning of a peaceful respite in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- Just outside the main building you’ll find extensive gardens, where serpentine manmade canals intertwine with bridges and tiled pathways.
- There are six pool areas primed for relaxation. The two main pools on the beach area set you close to restaurants for snacks and lunch, and of course provide lovely views of the pristine stretches of sand and ocean.
- After a seashell massage at The Retreat Spa or an intense workout at the gym, head to the small yet serene spa pool for the perfect cool-down, surrounded by tropical foliage in the form of lush palm fronds.
- Though not part of the all-inclusive package, guests looking for an extra special evening can reserve a private dinner called the Chef’s Table Experience, set in an intimate room overlooking the kitchen. You’ll be able to watch as your meal is prepared, dine on a nine-course dinner, and drink fine wines paired with your meal.
Things to Know
- Couples will love the intimacy of the three small relaxation pools scattered throughout the resort’s gardens, idyllic spots for a dip or lounging with cocktails in hand.
- The six gourmet restaurants at the Playa del Carmen hotel are a welcome respite from typical fare of other all-inclusive spots, with offerings including Caribbean, Mediterranean and Japanese cuisines.
- Keep in mind that most restaurants here have a dress code at dinnertime, so pack accordingly with close-toed shoes (save those comfy flip-flops for the beach), pants and collared shirts for men.
The Rooms
- Villas done in British colonial style add a pop of color to the property, and the resort’s Caribbean island inspiration is incorporated seamlessly into each room within the separate standing villas.
- They all feature new décor with textiles designed exclusively for Royal Hideaway by the renowned Mexican design house Pineda Covalin.
- At your villa, a private concierge attends to requests and makes your dinner reservations. Inside the rooms, upscale amenities like a pillow menu, bathrobes and nightly turndown service are delightful luxury touches.
- Oversized bathrooms have separate showers and pampering hydro-massage tubs.
- You won’t be tech-starved here, either — there is complimentary Wi-Fi, an iPod dock and a laptop-sized safe.
The Restaurants
- A day here begins with breakfast at Spices, where tropical décor and gorgeous ocean views complement the restaurant’s Mexican/Caribbean cuisine.
- You won’t need to stray far from the main pools to satisfy lunchtime cravings at The Deck, an eye-catching open-air beachfront space with snacks, sandwiches and local dishes.
- With a cozy and rustic ambiance, Palazzo offers Italian dinners surrounded by elegant Mediterranean style, while Azia is a fine-dining experience complete with hibachi tables, blending Japanese and Thai cuisine in a sleek setting with traditional Asian details.
- Take advantage of starlight and ocean views at The Grill, a candlelit alfresco restaurant specializing in grilled seafood and steaks paired with savory sauces.
- Decked in classic white with contemporary elegance, signature restaurant Las Ventanas has an extensive menu of modern international cuisine, including vegetarian options, creative desserts and a tasting menu.
Getting There
Num. 6 Fracc. Playacar, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
TEL800-227-23-56
TEL52-984-873-45-00
NEARBY AIRPORT(S)
CUN (55 min-1 h)
Stories
