Hotel Riviera Del Sol

This hotel offers a charming Mexican aesthetic, characterized by its lush tropical landscaping and vibrant decor, creating a unique oasis feel amidst the bustling city. Its excellent central location is a standout feature, placing guests just steps from 5th Avenue and Mamitas Beach. Guests consistently highlight the spacious rooms and generally attentive staff as key positives. The hotel is ideal for sightseers, couples, and families seeking a vibrant, accessible base to explore Playa del Carmen's attractions and nightlife, while also providing a tranquil retreat. To enhance your stay, be aware of potential nighttime noise from nearby establishments, and consider requesting a room away from the street or bringing earplugs for a more restful sleep. Also, note the lack of on-site parking.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's pool area is frequently described as lovely, nice, beautiful, inviting, and tranquil, often surrounded by tropical plants that create a rainforest ambiance, offering a pleasant spot for relaxation. Some guests note the pool water can be cold or that the pool area lacks afternoon sun, which might affect swimming comfort. While generally appealing, a few found the pool to be smaller than expected or in need of a fresh coat of paint or cushion replacement. Wi-Fi is generally strong and stable throughout the property, though some experienced spotty connection in their rooms. Air conditioning is consistently praised as good and functional, ensuring comfortable temperatures. Many rooms also include a mini-fridge and microwave, adding convenience for guests who wish to store snacks or prepare simple meals.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms very clean, with daily housekeeping ensuring a fresh environment and often adding thoughtful touches like towel art. However, some reported isolated issues such as an old or humidity smell, stained linens, or occasional pests like ants or a cockroach. Beds are frequently described as comfortable and spacious, contributing to a restful stay, though a few guests found mattresses to be worn. While bathrooms are often noted as spacious with good water pressure and hot water, their design, particularly the bathroom door with gaps or bars, raises privacy concerns and offers poor soundproofing. Some guests also observed mold or rust in the shower area and worn-out towels. A significant concern is the high noise level from nearby bars and nightlife, which can persist until the early morning hours, making it difficult for light sleepers to rest, even with earplugs.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on breakfast is mixed. Many guests found it good or yummy, appreciating the coffee and convenience of having an on-site option. However, others felt it was basic, overpriced for what was offered, or not tasty, suggesting better value could be found at external eateries. It is generally not included in the room rate, and some noted that the breakfast service might close earlier than advertised, limiting options for late risers. The hotel does not appear to offer extensive lunch or dinner options, encouraging guests to explore the numerous nearby restaurants and cafes that cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets, leveraging the hotel's prime location.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, consistently highlighted as a major advantage. It is just a block away from the vibrant 5th Avenue, offering immediate access to a plethora of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Mamitas Beach is also conveniently close, typically within a five-minute walk, making beach access effortless. This prime position makes it ideal for guests who wish to explore the city on foot. While well-situated for local attractions, some guests noted the distance to the ferry terminal and ADO bus station (around a 20-minute walk), which might be a consideration for those relying on public transport for longer journeys. A common point of concern is the lack of private on-site parking. Guests often have to rely on street parking, which can be difficult to find, requires hourly payment (often in coins), and can be expensive, leading to inconvenience for those traveling with a vehicle.

Staff & Service
Most guests praise the staff as friendly, attentive, helpful, and polite, contributing positively to their stay. Many appreciate their willingness to assist with requests and provide local advice, enhancing the overall guest experience. The check-in process is generally described as quick and smooth, allowing guests to settle in efficiently. Housekeeping is frequently commended for its daily thoroughness, ensuring rooms are well-maintained and clean throughout the stay. While overall service is positive, some guests reported isolated instances of unresponsiveness or a perceived lack of empathy when addressing specific issues, such as room problems or concerns, which occasionally led to frustration. However, these instances appear to be exceptions rather than the norm, with the majority of interactions being favorable.

Additional Information
The hotel does not have an elevator, which can be challenging for guests with heavy luggage or those assigned to upper-floor rooms, requiring them to use stairs. The provision of free beach towels for daily use is a convenient amenity appreciated by guests, saving them the need to pack or rent their own. Guests should be aware that coffee pods for in-room machines are available for purchase at the front desk, as they are not complimentary. Some guests have raised security concerns regarding the in-room safes, advising caution with valuables. The hotel is often described as a small, boutique-style property with a distinct Mexican vibe, appealing to those seeking a more authentic experience than a large resort.