Autumn has arrived and the leaves aren’t the only thing that are falling. Dropping temperatures cue snowbirds and sun seekers alike to begin planning for warm weather escapes. As travel restrictions lift and daily flights to Cancun resume, the future looks promising if you’re ready to travel internationally. 

After weighing all the factors, you’ve determined that a trip to the beach will do your mind and body well. Unlike other countries, Mexico doesn’t require a negative Covid-19 test upon entering. Nor is there an imposed quarantine period. Consequently, travelers seeking sun and sand are viewing destinations like Playa del Carmen in Mexico’s Riviera Maya as the perfect getaway.

 

Benefits of A Vacation Rental Versus An All-Inclusive Hotel

 

In the time of social distancing, a vacation rental makes complete sense. Do you envision waking up to a turquoise seascape? Are you a margaritas by the pool type or do you prefer your toes buried in a sandy beach? Whichever type of traveler you are, Bric has the ideal rental option for you. But it’s important to note that when you choose a condo or villa accommodation, you share the property’s facilities with far fewer people (if any.) Keeping 6 feet apart is almost effortless. 

Moreover, there are no banquet rooms with a hundred people eating under the same roof. In a private rental, you have varying options at your disposal. From grocery delivery to restaurant take-out to a chef service, there are plenty of ways to avoid large gatherings. Nevertheless, you can still enjoy a sensational meal at one of Playa del Carmen’s exceptional restaurants. Most have reopened with strict safety guidelines. Protocols include operating at 60% capacity, mandatory masks for staff, and scannable Quick Response codes displaying the menus on your smartphone. 

Booking A Vacation Rental With Bric

 

As a guest with Bric Vacation Rentals, you are appointed an ambassador to ensure smooth sailing while visiting Playa del Carmen. Your go-to Riviera Maya expert can arrange transportation services, book excursions, plan a divine spa day, or even coordinate an exclusive picnic on the beach. Due to safety guidelines, we have created distanced check-in procedures to limit contact. However, we still believe that a warm welcome sets a comfortable tone as you settle into your home away from home. Therefore, if you prefer, a designated ambassador will meet with you at the property. During a brief tour, your Bric representative will go over any pertinent information or answer any questions you may have. 

What’s more, you can book with confidence knowing that Bric staff is adhering to all federal and state protocols. At the beginning of September, the company received certification from the government of Quintana Roo. The accreditation is achieved for complying with the technical provisions related to health protection and prevention in tourist facilities.

 

Playa del Carmen Vacation Rentals For Any Budget

 

With Bric’s inventory of over 150 vacation homes in the heart of the Riviera Maya, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for. The following is a list of spacious and conveniently located condos and villas at every price point. From luxury to family and budget-friendly selections, we present our top choices for Playa del Carmen accommodations. 

Luxury Villas 

At Casa Blanca, you’ll undoubtedly be swept away to tropical dreamland. The 4-bedroom villa showcases a private pool surrounded by lush, exotic greenery and loungers for eight people. Domed brick boveda ceilings accentuate authentic Mexican design coupled with contemporary upgrades for your utmost comfort. 

With ample outdoor/indoor living space, you can take full advantage of Playa del Carmen’s year-round summer climate. Additionally, the shimmering Caribbean waters are merely steps away. Here you’ll slide into heavenly repose as easily as you would into flip flops. The most stressful choice you’ll have to make is whether to sun by the pool or by the sea.

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Casa Paraiso is the perfect Mexican Caribbean hideaway with its private pool and rooftop jacuzzi. You’ll love this particular observation post for the unobstructed,  jaw-dropping ocean views. Situated in an exclusive beach community, this stylish 4-bedroom villa exudes a tropical feel. A two-minute walk along the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets leads you to Playa del Carmen’s famous silky shores. 

Amenities include concierge services, a fully appointed, modern kitchen, as well as a prime location near the sea. Needless to say, this luxurious oasis has everything you could possibly wish for.  

 

Ocean View Penthouses

 

Recently, The Elements claimed a space among TripAdvisor’s 2020 Travelers’ Choice top 10 percentile of best hotels worldwide. This 3-bedroom all-star flaunts a majestic blue-green vista, which can be appreciated from two ample terraces. The custom kitchen, high-end appliances, and flawless design align well with the condo hotel’s upscale resort-style amenities. 

Meander through the verdant garden, past the gorgeous no-edge pool, to The Elements’ own exclusive beach club. Partake in a game of volleyball on the sand court. Quench your thirst with a cocktail from the snack and beverage bar. Enjoy some well-deserved respite as you work on that sun-kissed glow. In the evening, discover the area’s exceptional gastronomy scene. Within a short walking distance, you’ll find an array of quaint jungle eateries and elegant restaurants. Staying at The Elements puts you in the heart of the best Playa del Carmen’s best. 

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Along with its world-renowned beaches, Playa del Carmen’s breathtaking sunrises are an incredible sight to witness. Having a front-row seat to the dawn breaking over the Caribbean is but one of the many perks of choosing Oceana 435. 

This 2-bedroom sanctuary in the city center is 100 yards from the famed Mamitas. As a  guest at Oceana, you are entitled to free access to the posh beach club’s sunbeds. Plus you’ll love the downtown location, which easily connects you with Playa’s top dining and entertainment hot spots. 

 

Family-Friendly Favorites

 

This spacious 3-bedroom Paseo del Sol suite serves as an excellent home base for families. With amenities including a magnificent 95-meter pool, tennis court and serene cenote to explore, both kids and parents love this gem. Relish quality time together in a tranquil paradise without the booze infused crowds at the swim-up bar. Dine al fresco overlooking the property’s blooming, exotic gardens or take a leisurely stroll to 5th Avenue for tacos and ice cream.

Steps from the lobby is a picturesque 6-kilometre walking/biking path. This scenic trail encircles the desirable gated community of Playacar Phase 2 and follows along the Hard Rock Riviera Maya Golf Club. Within this residential neighborhood are quaint cafés, shops, convenience stores and verdant walkways leading to the beach. 

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In the city center, a stone’s throw from the breathtaking Riviera Maya coastline, is the superb Abrazo del Mar at Magia Playa. The stately, 3-bedroom condo features an exquisite master bedroom terrace perched over two glistening pools. It’s an ideal spot to glance upon the absorbing Caribbean by day or sip a glass of wine at night. 

Besides being close to the beach, Magia Playa is in perfect proximity to Playa del Carmen’s main dining and shopping district. The vibrant 5th Avenue is a pedestrian-only stretch of restaurants, boutique and brand name stores. As well, it is home to the 3-D Museum and El Acuario. Family fun and unforgettable moments are inevitable when you stay at Magia Playa. 

Deluxe Vacation Dwellings

 

Casa Soleada sits on one of our favorite streets in Playa del Carmen— Calle 38. Along this palm-lined road, you’ll come upon exceptional restaurants. We recommend Luma Taverna del Mar for an excellent dinner option and El Cuevo del Chango for the best breakfasts in town. As well, you’ll encounter open-air lounges engulfed in coconut palms, brick-oven pizza places, and a delightful bakery. 

This ocean view property features an expansive communal roof terrace with an adult-only pool. Additionally, there is a family area and pool on the ground level. 1400 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space present 2 bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen for a comfortable stay. Not to mention, you’re a 1-minute walk from Playa Shangri-la, This picturesque expanse of powdery-soft beach is a favorite of local residents. 

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Although we categorize El Faro Surf 205 as a mid-range accommodation, the amenities are nothing short of fabulous! For one, the modern 2-bedroom condo features a balcony overlooking a spectacular infinity pool. The pristine pool is set before the intoxicating colors of the Caribbean, making for a postcard view.

In addition to the fantastic on-site offerings, El Faro is a few paces from Zenzi Restaurant and Bar. For a break from the midday sun, grab a seat under the palms and enjoy a minty mojito. On the other hand, their sizzling salsa nights are great fun, so be sure to pack your dancing shoes. Nearby, you’ll also discover reputable dive shops, cafes, as well as several eateries serving delicious local and international cuisine. 

 

Lovely Lodgings That Won’t Break The Bank

 

Last but not least are our best budget-friendly accommodations in Playa del Carmen. In many cases, low cost equals low quality. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you see the bang you get for your buck at these properties.

Although Royal Palms sits downtown in the hub of the action, behind its grand entrance awaits a peaceful refuge. Each of the 10 uniquely designed condos encompass a flourishing courtyard and feature elegant, handcrafted elements.

The elongated window panels in this 2-bedroom showstopper absorb an abundance of cheerful, natural light. Due to its central location, the beach is just a 2-minute walk away. Likewise is 5th Avenue’s splendid collection of restaurants and shops. 

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You will not miss a lively city beat during your stay at the stylish Riva 505. Accessible within an easy 5-minute walk, are Playa del Carmen’s best offerings. Situated on the south end of town, you’re close to the Ferry Terminal to Cozumel, as well as the ADO bus depot. 

Indeed, day trips to visit the region’s mystical ancient cities and enchanting islands are a must. Yet we’re positive that spending a day sunning yourself by Riva’s rooftop pool will also be a highlight of your trip. Savor the stunning Caribbean and city views along with a cool cocktail from the multiple lounge and entertainment areas. If you’re looking for an affordable stay without sacrificing comfort and amenities, Riva has it all.  

In any case, whether you’re coming for a luxurious getaway, or an affordable respite, you’ll be pampered by Bric Vacation Rentals. Warm weather, friendly smiles, and the time of your life await in Playa del Carmen!

 

With direct flights starting from under $200 round-trip from several major cities, you can dip your toes in the warm Caribbean waters for much less than you think.

While some are prepping for back to school, others have the opportunity to take advantage of fantastic fall savings on flights and accommodations. Reduced prices plus this ideal itinerary equals the perfect combination for an epic vacation in Playa del Carmen!

Day 1: Settle in with Bric

If you feel overwhelmed by the deluge of options when searching for a vacation rental on sites like Airbnb, a cost-saving alternative is finding a local full-service management company like Bric. Guests will not only save money on rentals but receive special airport transfer deals and welcome treats at check-in. Booking a stay directly at www.bricrental.com can save travelers significant money.

During the fall season, guests can rent ocean view condos such as this 2-bedroom Elements luxury home for around $1500USD per week – divided by 2 couples or 4 friends, a stay at this sought-after property is an inexpensive dream!

For budget-friendly accommodation options, Bric offers a host of central properties to choose from. Our modern and spacious rentals are just steps from the city’s best eateries and a short walk to beach clubs, museums, shops and dive centers. Moreover, almost 100% of Bric’s properties feature glistening pools along with fully-appointed kitchens. When staying with Bric Vacation Rentals, your assigned concierge is with you at every step of your trip. Services you can expect include arranging for transportation and excursions, providing dining recommendations, and even planning special events.

Tip: Grocery packages are available through your Bric reservations agent or ambassador for an additional fee. Choose from a pre-arranged order or customize your shopping list with your personal kitchen staples. Allow Bric’s friendly staff to stock your fridge so that you have everything you need upon your arrival (including a six-pack of chilled beer or wine!)

A Taste Of Playa

After you have settled in, you’ll be ready for a bite to eat. Il Baretto (Calle 26 & 5the Avenue) is a great option for casual eats and cold cocktails. Their famous brick-oven pizzas are as close to authentic Italian as you can get and their pasta selection is divine.

For an upbeat authentic Playa food scene, we recommend Zitla on Calle 12 between 15 and 20th Avenue. Quench your thirst with an ice-cold cerveza accompanied by a wide selection of seafood dishes like their citrusy ceviche. Choose from the winning menu of tacos and fajitas to pub-style options including burgers, wings and guacamole. You’ll love the excellent food, super service staff, and happy-go-lucky vibe.

If you’d prefer a more elegant dining experience, Catch on the rooftop of Thompson Playa del Carmen offers tables with exceptional views of the turquoise see by day and the best cityscape view at night. The delectable fare is fresh and inventive, all within a perfectly posh ambience.

Day 2: Hit the beach!

You can hear the waves calling your name and can’t wait to feel the soft sand in between your toes. The majority of Bric’s rentals are within a 5-minute walk to the beach or right along the alabaster shoreline.

At The Elements, for example, guests have access to an exclusive beach club with a volleyball court, shaded loungers and a snack and beverage bar. Other superb properties that boast spectacular views of the Caribbean include El Faro, Aldea Thai and Magia Playa. Not only do you have the sea nearby, but also sophisticated pool areas to relax by as the warm Mexican sun kisses your skin.

One can never have too much beach time. So for dinner, your table in the sand awaits at Fuego Restaurante and Cantina on Calle 38 (turn left when you reach the sea!) The waves, the candlelight and the stars overhead create the ultimate romantic atmosphere. This is one of the few fine dining establishments in Playa del Carmen to find certified Wagyu organic beef on the menu.  Plus, taste a succulent selection of seafood dishes including grilled octopus and Caribbean lobster.

Day 3: See the sensational sites of the Riviera Maya!

For this full day of fun, you will visit 3 amazing places. You’ll get dynamic insight into Mexico’s ancient history, its rare natural beauty and it’s world-renowned cuisine.

Part 1

For this day trip, you have a couple of options for transportation. A rental car with Orbitz costs approximately $45USD for the day with collision insurance. Alternatively, Travel Yucatan offers affordable private tour and transportation options throughout the region. If you’re traveling together with another couple or with a group of friends, this is the way to go. You can split the cost, while enjoying the freedom that comes with customizing your own itinerary. A cooler stocked with drinks is typically included with the service. Sandwiches and snorkel equipment may be added upon request for an extra fee.

From Playa del Carmen, you’ll drive south for 40 minutes towards Tulum. The highways are in excellent condition and there is good signage for the upcoming stops on your road trip. Just 5 minutes from Tulum is Grand Cenote, a scenic limestone sinkhole fed by the world’s longest underground river system.

For a $10USD ($180 peso) entrance fee, you can spend a couple of hours taking in the breath-taking surroundings. Snorkel and swim in the alluring translucent waters and witness bats and turtles who call the cavern home.

There are hammocks scattered throughout the lush park as well as bathrooms and change rooms. Snorkel equipment and lockers are available to rent, but bring your own towel. Please use only eco-friendly sunblock to help sustain the animal life and vegetation that live within this Riviera Maya gem.

Part 2

After your refreshing stop at the cenote, you’ll continue on to the recently excavated archaeological site of Coba. The entrance fee to this centuries old Mayan ruins site is well worth the reasonable $75 pesos ($4USD). Once inside, you can hire a guide ($500-$600 pesos), which is recommended. Hearing the fascinating stories of this mysterious culture and the history behind each structure brings the sacred grounds to life.

On occasion, a spider monkey family will crossover above, swinging from one towering tree to another. Likewise, you’ll get up close and personal with an iguana or two. The heart-of-the-jungle setting is very serene, especially in the fall months when there are fewer visitors.

Bicycles, a.k.a. ‘Mayan Limousines’ (tricycle taxis for 2), are available to rent for $50-$100 pesos. While the rentals are not necessary, you should know that the path leading to Nohoch Mul, is about a half hour walk. This massive 137-meter Mayan pyramid is one of the few ancient temples in the Yucatan Peninsula that visitors can still climb. The view overlooks the seemingly endless green landscape and town of Coba. Standing at the top, you can feel the peace of the jungle and this mystic city.

Part 3

The final leg of your incredible day trip takes you to Gitano, one of Tulum’s chic jungle haven restaurants. Chandeliers hanging from the trees and a friendly, creative dishes and a professional wait staff come together to present an exceptionally unique dining experience.

This is your chance to test the samplings from top chefs and sip smoky mezcal cocktails prepared by innovative mixologists. You may want to ask your Bric ambassador to make a reservation ahead of time. Be forewarned that the drinks are pricey. However the atmosphere, music and cool setting make Gitano a must on the itinerary.

Day 4: Shopping on Playa del Carmen’s famous 5th Avenue

After your ambitious, yet exhilarating outing on Day 3, you and your party will be ready to put your feet up.  Relaxing by the pool or lounging beachside with margaritas under the shade of a thatched palapa paint enticing pictures.

In the afternoon, when the sun begins to set and the midday heat fades, a trip to the city’s most famed cobblestone street is in order. Along 5th Avenue, you’ll discover hundreds of boutique and souvenir shops like Jula Luma to purchase a keepsake from your Mexican vacation. Or you can find a one-of-a-kind cover-up or dress from La Troupe to add to your beachwear collection. Beyond the window-shopping, there are plenty of quaint bars along the way where you can hydrate and people watch.

A local favorite to check out for dinner just off the main tourist hub is Luma Taverna del Mar on Calle 38. The service is impeccable as is their fresh menu of seafood and other outstanding entrees. The sautéed mussels are exquisite, while the steak and risotto are also prepared to perfection.

Day 5: All-inclusive hotel day plus Rauxa dinner show

25 minutes south of Playa del Carmen in the Catalonia Royal Tulum Hotel, Rauxa wows audiences week after week. Touted the best dinner show experience in the Riviera Maya, this audacious burlesque-cabaret show features acrobatics, theatrical elements, song and dance performances. The seductive show is a feast for the eyes and a flawless enhancement to the impressive 4-course dinner.

Choose to purchase dinner show tickets only, or you can buy a day pass for only $10US more. This all-inclusive pass gives you access to the hotel’s beach, restaurants, bars and pools for the day, as well as the 8pm show.

How To Get There

There are a couple of ways to get to Catalonia Royal Tulum from Playa del Carmen. You can catch a colectivo from the pick up point at Calle 2 between 15th & 20th Avenue in the morning. Listen for the assistant on the sidewalk calling out “Tulum” and board this shared taxi van. The cost is $40 pesos per person. Tell the driver that you are going to Catalonia Royal Hotel “por favor” so he is aware of your stop.

A second option is a taxi. For 1-4 passengers, a ride to this hotel costs roughly $300 – $350 pesos each way. Again, if you are with a group, splitting the fare gives you an economical means of travel throughout the Riviera Maya.

When the doors of the Rauxa show open at 7:00pm, you’ll receive a welcome drink and be escorted to your table. It’s an intimate venue so each table presents a complete an unobstructed view of the main stage. For the ensuing 2 and a half hours, there is never a dull moment. The music, the sultry spectacle, and the masterpiece menu will leave you in awe. If you’re not yet ready to call it quits by 10pm, guests of the show are invited to stay for an after party, which runs until midnight.

Day 6: Playa del Carmen Food Tour

Whether a first-time visitor to Playa del Carmen or a Playa fan looking for a unique activity, this food tour offers a full-range encounter with local flavors.

The highly recommended team of personable locals at Eating With Carmen deliver several curated tours to choose from. From vegan to gourmet to traditional Mexican cuisine, each tour takes you on a tasty expedition to the best the city offers in that category. Learn what to look for and how to order at a street food stand. Sample amazing regional food such as cochinita pibil and tamales. Compliment your dishes with a top-notch tequila or fresh fruit-infused waters. Conclude with a visit to a traditional heladería (ice cream shop.)  This is a wonderful opportunity to step off the beaten path and experience the true essence of Playa del Carmen and its people. Not to mention, you can pick up a quality bottle of tequila to bring home with you.

The tours last 2.5 to 3 hours and the meet-up point is at a convenient downtown location. There is a morning or afternoon start time to choose from. But we suspect you’ll love the savory journey so much, you’ll be inclined to sign-up for another session.

Day 7: Enjoy the vista and the vibe at Deck 5 Pool & Skybar

For a change in scenery, soak up some sun at Deck 5’s dapper rooftop pool. For a minimum consumption cost, you can claim your spot by the infinity pool, which offers a mesmerizing 180-degree view of the blue-green Caribbean. Make your way down their list of signature cocktails and nibble on dishes like tangy cured prawn aquachiles, ceviches and other casual eats. It’s a lively atmosphere with terrific local DJs spinning on most days.

This trendy roof bar is atop the Carmen Hotel on Calle 8 and is open from 10am to 9pm. If you decide to go, the consumption requirement for the chairs and sun beds is less on Mondays to Wednesdays.

Stick with Bric and you’ll not only discover the perfect Playa del Carmen vacation itinerary ideas. But other perks include stays at most desirable ocean view properties in the Riviera Maya, as well as you own designated ambassador. This professional Playa and hospitality expert has one aim— to deliver the best beach vacation experience on this side of the globe. Paradise awaits!