A winter getaway to the Riviera Maya’s tropical coastline doesn't have to come with an eye-watering price tag. From Playa del Carmen's energetic shores to Tulum's bohemian vibe, this stretch of the Mexican Caribbean is home to sophisticated beachfront stays and urban retreats. Whether you're seeking an all-inclusive resort with thoughtful local touches or a boutique property that captures Tulum's laid-back spirit, these properties prove that staying under the $500 mark doesn't mean compromising on style. Here's where to find that sweet spot between indulgence and accessibility along Mexico's most coveted coast.
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Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya
Image courtesy of Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya
The Andaz feels like a breath of fresh air, with its colorful guest rooms, energetic atmosphere and host of amenities. While the resort is all-inclusive, thoughtful details — like murals painted by local artists and a Mayan-inspired spa — make it a standout. Guests are spoiled when it comes to restaurants, choosing from restaurants serving locally sourced cuisine in stylish settings. There's beachfront dining, an all-vegan restaurant, traditional (and expertly executed) Mexican fare and more. You really can't go wrong. Another reason to love the Andaz: it’s a pet-friendly hotel.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé perks include a hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen Resort
Image courtesy of Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort
This beachfront resort caters to families, friend groups, couples and solo travelers alike. You can make your stay here all-inclusive (the hotel offers a range of packages), or keep it à la carte. Lounge by one of several infinity pools, take a Mexican cooking class, indulge in the area’s vibrant nightlife or retreat to the holistic Cenote Spa, inspired by the region’s famed sinkholes. The resort is right in the midst of bustling Playa del Carmen, making dining and shopping easily walkable, plus there’s plenty of beach to explore.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a resort credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible
Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya
Image courtesy of Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya
The Conrad Tulum is where rustic luxury meets beach-chic. The Conrad boasts exclusively ocean-facing rooms, and a whopping five pools and 11 restaurants. Here, guests can sample unique Japanese and Mediterranean delights, along with the classics like margaritas and fresh guacamole. When not sunning on the beach, guests can take advantage of the many activities on offer, including kayaking, snorkeling and paddle boarding. Don’t miss one of the cultural workshops on astrology, Mayan calendar reading, jungle immersions or garden-building.
Fora’s Hilton for Luxury perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Our Habitas Tulum
Image courtesy of Our Habitas Tulum
With hotels everywhere from Namibia to Saudi Arabia, the Habitas brand is a pro at creating meaningful travel experiences through music, art, food and wellness. At their laid-back Tulum retreat set between jungle and sea, guests enjoy carefully curated spa experiences and are encouraged to set an intention for their stay. The property's A-frame rooms and shared spaces are designed to blend into the natural environment, with elevated walkways winding through the palm trees. Our Habitas Tulum encourages interaction through its open-air restaurant, wellness offerings and cultural programming. It's a place that manages to feel both social and serene — equally suited for sharing stories with fellow travelers or finding a quiet moment in a beachfront hammock.
Fora Perks include a $100 spa credit, a welcome drink and an upgrade whenever possible.
Kimpton Aluna Resort Tulum
Image courtesy of Kimpton Aluna Resort Tulum
Kimpton Aluna Resort offers a contemporary take on the Tulum experience. Located in Tulum town rather than the beach zone, this boutique property combines a modern aesthetic with local touches — think polished concrete, warm woods and traditional fabrics. The rooftop pool and bar serve as the social heart of the hotel, and the ground-floor restaurant adds urban sophistication to regional flavors. The hotel's shuttle service connects guests to a beach club, offering the best of both worlds: the authenticity of a Tulum pueblo and the ability to dip into beach life at will.
Fora’s IHG perks include a $100 resort credit, daily breakfast, a welcome amenity and an upgrade whenever possible.
Splurge worthy: Fairmont Mayakoba
Image courtesy of Fairmont Mayakoba
In the same neighborhood, the Fairmont Mayokoba is another sophisticated all-inclusive option that comes in just above $500. Its standout feature is its gorgeous beach — arguably the largest and the nicest in the area — making it a boon for swimming and water sports. Another reason to love it: the rooms are sophisticated, spacious and light-filled, with outdoor living spaces in every category. They’re also well equipped with amenities like mini-fridges (that can be stocked upon request), Nespresso machines and Le Labo bath products. With five pools, a waterslide and whirlpool, plus culinary delights in partnership with a celebrity chef, you can’t go wrong here.
Fora’s Accor Preferred by HERA perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
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