Playa Del Carmen on a Budget

Celebrated as one of Mexico’s top resort towns for getaways filled with sun, sea, sand, and sippable cocktails, Playa del Carmen is a stunning destination for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation spot, or a quiet retreat to celebrate a honeymoon with your loved one, Playa Del Carmen is the place to be!

With a range of great attractions, up-market hotels that don’t break the bank, and outstandingly cost-effective restaurants, Playa Del Carmen is the perfect spot even if you’re looking to save money during your dream getaway.

Best Budget Hotels in Playa Del Carmen

Known for its upscale vibe and stunning seafront resorts, Playa del Carmen is an outstanding choice when you’re looking for a dreamy getaway. A favorite hotspot for honeymooners, you may be wondering if this beautiful resort town can be budget-friendly.

With a selection of great hotels and resorts to suit every type of traveler, from families to couples, there’s a huge selection of hotels and resorts here that can help deliver more for your money!

The Royal Haciendas Resort & Spa, Playa Del Carmen

Situated on the beachfront on Mexico’s infamous Mayan Riviera, there’s plenty of space to relax on the golden sands with sun loungers and parasols for guests to use, making it the perfect choice of accommodation for those looking for a beach getaway on a budget. It’s conveniently located within walking distance of Playa del Carmen’s center, where there is a great range of shops, bars, and restaurants.

Surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens, this stunning all-suite resort complex boasts a great range of on-site features, including swimming pools, tennis courts, a spa and wellness center (complete with Turkish Baths), a fitness center, and plenty of on-site activities, including diving! There’s also a free shuttle service on offer that takes guests into the heart of Playa del Carmen.

This luxury all-suite accommodation provides guests with classically designed rooms, each complete with its own seating area, flat-screen cable TV and DVD player, and free Wi-Fi, and many even boast stunning views of the beautiful blue ocean.

The Reef Coco Beach, Playa Del Carmen

Located on Playa del Carmen’s stunning beachfront, guests can enjoy beautiful views of the Reef and a convenient proximity to the nearby 5th Avenue entertainment area during a stay at this unbeatable resort.

With great value and unparalleled luxury, this outstanding resort truly offers so much more than meets the eye. On-site amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a full-service spa, and plenty of recreational activities right on the beach. Whether you’re looking to enjoy snorkeling, diving, or kayaking, there’s something for everyone here.

Not only is there a huge selection of activities to enjoy, but there’s also plenty on offer for the whole family. There’s also an on-site kids club, with plenty of games for the little ones to get involved in, free Wi-Fi in the hotel lobby, and even an exclusive Beach Club for those looking for a little extra exclusivity on their getaway.

Each of the stunning, contemporary rooms at this hotel is fitted with all the latest amenities, including air-conditioning, a TV, a safety deposit box, and a furnished balcony or terrace.

Grand Riviera Princess, Playa Del Carmen

Located in Playa del Carmen, just a short drive from the popular 5th Avenue, this stunning family-friendly hotel is a top choice for all those on the hunt for an affordable getaway for the whole family. 

Whilst definitely not a cheap option, the huge amount of on-site facilities and amenities at this hotel certainly make it worth the price. Not only is there a stunning spa and fitness center, but guests can also enjoy a selection of water sports facilities, a bar, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, free on-site parking, a 24-hour front desk, and even a private hairdresser for guests’ own exclusive use!

Each of the rooms at this hotel is equipped with a flat-screen TV, with many rooms also boasting a beautiful terrace or balcony. Upgrade to a superior room for your own private spa bath or hot tub.

Iberostar Tucan, Playa Del Carmen

Situated facing the beachfront, Iberostar Tucan is a stunning 5-star resort in Playa del Carmen that offers great value for money. With the likes of Playacar Beach less than a 15-minute walk away and a convenient airport shuttle service to the property, guests can enjoy a convenient and peaceful retreat.

Despite its somewhat remote location, there’s plenty to do on-site at this stunning resort, including a terrace, restaurant, garden, bar, tennis court, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, sporting facilities, evening entertainment, a playground, a kids club, and even helpful and informative 24-hour desk staff that are always on hand to help.

Rooms at this hotel boast all the expected amenities of such an upscale resort, including air-conditioning, a safety deposit box, and a flat-screen TV.

Petit Lafitte Beach Front Hotel, Playa Del Carmen

This upscale hotel is unlike many of the other, sprawling resorts on this list. Instead, Petit Lafitte is a stunning getaway spot that’s well worth the cost for those looking for an indulgent getaway. Sitting just a 15-minute drive from Playa del Carmen airports, and surrounded by the tropics, this hotel is a little slice of heaven.

Upscale amenities at this hotel include free Wi-Fi, access to an on-site spa, a charming restaurant, and a relaxing and luxurious beachside bar, where you can often find guests lounging in hammocks with a drink in their hands. The hotel also boasts its own car rental and concierge services, as well as free on-site parking, making it a great choice of accommodation for those who plan on being out and about often. If that doesn’t sound like you though, worry not - they also offer an airport shuttle service for an extra fee!

Each of the rooms at this hotel is beautifully decorated and boasts stunning views across the hotel grounds or of the ocean. Expect feature tiled floors, cable TVs, a mini bar, and your own coffee maker.

Best Budget Restaurants in Playa Del Carmen

When it comes to affordable dining options in Mexico, you can find a great range of delicious and low-cost places to eat, without compromising on quality or flavor. With a diverse and vibrant selection of restaurants on offer in the Playa del Carmen area, there's a great range of spots no matter your craving or budget!

From the best vegan spot in town, to lively bars, and even tasty authentic Italian Pasta for special occasion dining, there's plenty of great options in Playa del Carmen that don't break the bank.

Chela De Playa, Playa Del Carmen

Known for producing refreshing craft beers, Chela De Playa is a great and affordable, local spot with a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere if you're looking for a delicious pint and some tasty food.

Serving up a range of simple, yet tasty Mexican dishes and comfort food options, burgers and tacos are the main-stays on the menu here, with many previous diners praising the great portion sizes and satisfying meals.

Ferron's Jerk Chicken, Playa Del Carmen

Despite being in Mexico, you won't always be craving Mexican food, and if you're in the mood for something that transports you over to the Caribbean without the hefty cost of the airfare, then you're in luck at Ferron's Jerk Chicken. 

A restaurant so popular they now have multiple branches across the country, Ferron's is the place to be for this hearty, grilled spicy chicken dish, served up with warm bread and a House special sauce that's both sweet and spicy. With sides including grilled corn on the cob, coleslaw, and white butter rice, and mac and cheese, there's plenty on the menu here for everyone!

The Lost Tikki, Playa Del Carmen

If you're looking for a great bar that serves up delicious food and a fun-filled party atmosphere, then The Lost Tikki Bar is the place to be! Located in the heart of downtown Playa del Carmen, this lively bar serves up a selection of delicious craft cocktails and a range of tasty dishes including Bang Bang Shrimp, Korean Fried Chicken and tasty Ramen.

Previous guests have praised it for the fun open mic comedy nights, friendly staff, and tasty cocktails.

Bio Natural, Playa Del Carmen

Hailed by many previous guests as the best vegan and vegetarian spot in all of Playa Del Carmen, Bio Natural is both delicious and affordable. Serving up some of the best veggie tacos, tasty cocktails, and traditional Mexican dishes, you'll be able to enjoy a true taste of the culture here, even if you don't eat meat!

They also have an on-site store where they serve up delicious and organic ingredients that you can take home with you. 

Casa Sofia Real Ibiza, Playa del Carmen

Casa Sofia Real Ibiza is a delicious and contemporary Italian spot that doesn't break the bank. Serving up a variety of delicious pasta dishes, Casa Sofia's pasta is made fresh on a daily basis and doesn't include any artificial additives or preservatives, making it a truly great choice if you're health conscious.

All dishes are also made with local, fresh ingredients, and at this restaurant, they do a stellar job of bringing a taste of Italy to Mexico, with guests praising their delicious and authentic food.

Best Things to do in Playa Del Carmen on a Budget

If you’re planning on a trip to Playa Del Carmen, Mexico, and trying to keep the costs low, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a huge range of activities and things to do that won’t break the bank. While many of these are paid experiences, they’re all very much worth what you pay!

Whether you’re on the hunt for a thrilling jungle adventure like no other, hoping to encounter some animals in the jungle, or are looking for a more laid-back experience such as a show or museum, there’s something for everyone in Playa Del Carmen.

Tour Akumal Monkey Sanctuary

If you’re an animal lover, then the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary is the place to be! Hidden away in the jungle, explore this outstanding sanctuary with the help of a knowledgeable guide to learn about how the animals ended up here, and what kind of special care they need.

Not only can you learn about the animals, but you can also get up close and personal with some of the more friendly residents here while learning more about animal rescue and endangered species during your visit. A fun and educational day out, it’s well worth the price as the cost you pay to enter goes back into conservation and care for the wonderful animals here.

If you're on a more strict budget though, there is the option to visit without a guide.

Visit Xplor For a Thrilling Day Out

This adventure park boasts a truly thrilling environment like no other, where guests can experience up to seven different adventures! While not the cheapest option on this list, it’s a truly cost-effective experience given how much is on offer at this truly thrilling spot!

With zip line adventures, off-roading vehicles, cave rafting tours and much more, it’s a dare devils playground where you can take your love for adventure to new heights (quite literally), and experience Mexico in the most unique way possible.

Take a Day Trip to Explore Cancun

Even when you’re traveling on a budget, there’s one thing you simply can’t put a price on, and that’s getting to see one of the seven wonders of the world! During this day tour out of Playa del Carmen, you’ll get to unlock the mysteries of the Mayans with a visit to the infamous wonder, Chichén Itzá.

This tour doesn’t just stop there though, you’ll also get to take a refreshing dip in a cenote, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, visit the colonial town of Valladolid, and even enjoy a tequila tasting session (if you’re of legal drinking age).

See a Cirque du Soleil Show

Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ is a thrilling and whimsical show like no other. Drawing upon Mexico’s history and heritage and combining culinary and performing arts, this outstanding show is a sensory experience and a truly unique way of exploring Mexican culture.

This all-in-one cultural experience boasts new acts every season and is a truly unmissable night out, suitable for all the family. Housed in a 650-seat theater, this show proves that joy, courage, and friendship can conquer all through a creative performance that leaves you wanting to relive it all over again.

Take a Guided Tour of the Frida Kahlo Museum

Learn about Frida Kahlo's life through this immersive museum experience, where you can discover an intimate collection of paintings, screenings, photographs, and letters, through which you can gain a deeper understanding of one of the most influential female artists in the world.

If you’re an art lover or history fan, this experience is truly unmissable, as you’ll also get a great insight into what Mexico was like during Kahlo’s life, and deep dive into the symbolism and messages contained through the artist’s works.