Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen: Review, Itinerary & Tips

Playa del Carmen is a family-friendly destination that packs a punch! After a recent stay at the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen, I’m here to share what we learned so your next trip is even more enjoyable. Let’s start with the hotel.

Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen: Rates, Points & Upgrades

This hotel falls under category 6 in the World of Hyatt program. Cash rates for standard rooms fluctuate significantly between $200 and $450+ per night, depending on the season. If you prefer using World of Hyatt points, expect redemption costs to vary between 21,000, 25,000, and 29,000 points per night based on the season.

The hotel offers a range of room types and suites. Outside of peak weeks, you should have good luck utilizing a Suite Upgrade Award or receiving an upgrade based on your Hyatt elite status.

Prime Location: Steps from Playa del Carmen’s Heart

Grand Hyatt PDC boasts a prime location for experiencing all that Playa del Carmen offers. Sitting directly on the beachfront and just a block from the bustling pedestrian street, Quinta Avenida, it offers easy access to local food, entertainment, the Cozumel ferry pier, and beautiful beaches. This makes it a fantastic choice for families who want to be immersed in the heart of town while still having the ability to retreat to the hotel’s luxurious amenities.

Unpacking Your Options: Rooms at Grand Hyatt PDC

Both times we’ve stayed here, we’ve used a suite upgrade to score a standard suite. This property offers a diverse selection of rooms, including some with swim-up access or private mini pools on the balconies.

Note: If you choose a swim-up room, be aware that the pool can get quite chilly as it receives limited sunlight throughout the day.

Our oceanfront suite was very functional, featuring a king-size bed, a queen-size sleeper sofa, ample closet space, and a dresser. Additionally, the rooms boast large balconies and spacious bathrooms.

Here’s a crucial tip for families: Grand Hyatt PDC shares part of its building with a local beach club on the north side (left side facing the ocean). This beach club can get noisy during the day. While the noise wasn’t disruptive in public areas like the pool, it did become noticeable in our room on our second stay, when we were closer to the club.

If you have young children or plan for daytime naps in your room, request a room away from the beach club. We made this request on our first visit, and they were happy to accommodate us.

Grand Club

The Grand Club, accessible to World of Hyatt Globalists or guests booked in a club-level room, offers a delightful experience. In the mornings, they serve breakfast, while afternoons provide snacks and refreshments like water, soda, and coffee. Evenings feature hearty appetizers that can easily substitute for dinner, with complimentary alcoholic beverages available from 6-8 pm.

The spacious club boasts ample seating and friendly staff who, remarkably, remembered us on our second visit six months later. The concierge team at the Grand Club is exceptionally helpful, offering prompt recommendations for restaurants and activities, and even assisted us in renting a car for the day.

Amenities: Pools, Beach & Family-Friendly Features

This hotel features multiple pools catering to various depths, including a shaded splash pool perfect for toddlers. All the pools, even the adults-only option, face the ocean, offering breathtaking views wherever you choose to relax. While the pools are not heated, we found them comfortable during both our July and December stays.

It’s important to note that the beach presence fluctuates due to the tides. During our December visit, there was a wide stretch of sandy beach with available beach chairs and cabanas for rent. However, in July, the beach was virtually non-existent. Although we could access the water for swimming and a small portion of sand for playing, there wasn’t enough space for proper relaxation. Fortunately, this wasn’t a major concern for us, as we had prime poolside seating with stunning ocean views.

 

Pro Tip: Guests staying for eight or more days receive a complimentary cabana rental.

For families with younger children, the evenings around the property might lack organized entertainment or activities. However, this didn’t pose a problem for us. We typically took our six-year-old to the Grand Club at 6:00 pm for snacks or dinner, followed by an exploration of Quinta Avenida or a visit to a local restaurant. Having our picky eater enjoy a meal at the club beforehand ensured he wouldn’t be hungry during our dinner, allowing us to relax and enjoy our own meal while he nibbled on our food or fries.

Unveiling the Cenote Spa: Relaxation & Wellness Oasis

This spa, designed to evoke the feeling of being inside a cenote, offered complimentary access to its facilities for us as Globalists. It boasts cold and hot therapy pools, a dry sauna, a steam room, and a serene lap pool. The highlight, however, is undoubtedly the cenote itself, housing a relaxation room and a warm water pool.

While we ourselves didn’t indulge in any spa services, other guests raved about the massages in particular.

Just outside the spa lies the fitness center, equipped with all the necessary equipment, including a yoga and stretching room. In the spirit of transparency, as a gym enthusiast who frequents even on vacation, I must admit this wasn’t my favorite. The space felt rather dark and consistently warm, even at 7:00 AM in December. But fret not, exploring the town and swimming in cenotes will surely provide all the cardio you crave!

Family Fun: Exploring Activities & Entertainment at Grand Hyatt PDC

They offer a small kids’ club named Camp Tortugalita, which never seemed overly crowded. While we didn’t utilize the program for our son, we did stop by to play some games. The club features lawn games like giant Connect Four, interactive tabletops, and various other options. Additionally, the club advertises activities throughout the day, which would likely be a big hit if your stay coincides with a visit from other children.

The property also boasts Hashtag, a dedicated teen zone equipped with movie areas, basketball arcade games, and more.

The activities team at Grand Hyatt excels at hosting engaging events for all ages. During our stay, we witnessed them organize friendship bracelet making and tie-dye T-shirt making sessions for kids, along with cornhole tournaments, volleyball games, water aerobics, and even a performance by salsa dancers by the pool.

For those seeking additional experiences, a variety of other activities are available, including: Rola Bike Experience (similar to Peloton), yoga sessions at the Cenote Spa, sea kayak tours, “Ride The City” bike tours exploring Playa del Carmen, Mezcal tastings, and bike rentals.

In essence, whether you crave an action-packed vacation or a completely relaxed one, Grand Hyatt PDC caters to your preferences!

On-site Bites: A Glimpse into Grand Hyatt PDC’s Dining Scene

While the Grand Hyatt PDC offers several on-site dining options, the abundance of culinary experiences just steps away from the property tempted us to explore local flavors. Here’s a quick overview of the hotel’s restaurants:

• The Grill Playa: This trendy oceanfront restaurant offers a fine-dining experience.
• La Cocina Restaurant and Terrace: Enjoy Mexican fare with an international twist at this establishment.
• Sushi and Raw Bar: Savor a unique blend of Japanese and Caribbean flavors in an open-air setting.
• Pool Service: For a classic resort poolside experience, indulge in their menu, featuring items like their highly recommended loaded nachos.

It’s important to note that the Grand Hyatt PDC does offer an all-inclusive package option. However, considering the vibrant and diverse food scene readily available in Playa del Carmen, we personally believe choosing this option might limit your culinary exploration.

Where to Eat in Playa del Carmen – Kid-Friendly Edition!

La Cueva Del Chango: This jungle-themed restaurant on Calle 38 offers all-day dining and a fantastic brunch. Kids will love spotting the turtles in the on-site pond! Pair your meal with a visit to Shangri La beach, just a short walk down the road.

Don Sirloin: This spot is a must-try for their passion fruit margaritas and sirloin tacos. Their cheese quesadillas are a guaranteed hit with the little ones. We return here multiple times per trip because of the affordability and delicious food!

El Fogón: Head here for their famous tacos al pastor – a local favorite!

Los Aguachiles: We absolutely loved the mojitos, aguachile tostadas, and ceviche. They also offer kid-approved french fries.

Nativo Restaurant: This restaurant boasts delicious breakfasts and fresh juices and smoothies. Their smoothies are a perfect option for the little ones!

Marquesita Carts: These popular waffle-cone desserts are a must-try in Playa del Carmen. The best ones we’ve found are from vendors near the Palacio Municipal on 15th Ave between 8th and 10th Streets. This lively square offers marquesita vendors, a playground, and a splash pad, making it a great family destination.

Ice Cream: For a sweet treat, head to Quinta Avenida (5th Ave) where you’ll find multiple ice cream shops. Our favorite hidden gem? The first floor of the MEGA grocery store! They offer affordable ice cream, paletas (frozen fruit popsicles), bubble teas, and more. Plus, it’s convenient to grab any last-minute groceries you may need.

Activities in Playa del Carmen

Dive into Adventure: Unforgettable Cenote Experiences Near Playa del Carmen

There are countless cenotes to explore in the area! We rented a car and visited a few:

Cenotes Azul, Cristalino, and Jardin de Eden: These cenotes are all close together, located right off the main highway, making them easily accessible. They also tend to be more popular with tourists, so expect to find amenities like lockers, snacks, and life jackets available for rent.

Cenote Yax Kin: Located further down the highway near Tulum, Cenote Yax Kin offers a quieter and more secluded experience compared to the aforementioned cenotes. While it boasts the same amenities, you’ll encounter significantly fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the cenote’s beauty in a more peaceful setting. 

Xcaret Parks: A Glimpse into Mexico’s “Disney”

Xcaret Parks are renowned as the “Disney” of Mexico, offering a variety of theme parks catering to different interests. The crown jewel is Xcaret, but the umbrella brand also encompasses Xel-Ha, Xenses, Xplor, Xavage, and Xoximilco. While we haven’t yet explored them all, Xel-Ha is definitely on our radar for our next trip!

Xcaret: Immerse yourself in the wonders of Mexico at Xcaret. From encountering diverse wildlife to floating through underground rivers and witnessing a spectacular evening show, Xcaret offers a captivating experience for all ages.

Xel-Ha: Perfect for water enthusiasts, Xel-Ha centers around a large lagoon, inviting exploration through snorkeling, kayaking, and zip-lining. With its laid-back atmosphere compared to Xcaret, Xel-Ha seems like the ideal choice for a trip with a young child. 

With its diverse offerings, Xcaret Parks promise an unforgettable adventure for every member of the family. So, are you ready to discover the magic of Mexico?

Rainy Day Activity

Museum of 3D Wonders: This unique museum awaits exploration! While we haven’t visited ourselves, I’ve heard it’s a fantastic way to spend a rainy afternoon.

Shopping in Playa del Carmen

Quinta Avenida: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Playa del Carmen by strolling along the iconic Quinta Avenida. Lined with countless shops, this pedestrian-friendly avenue caters to all your shopping desires.

Malls: If you’re looking for a more curated shopping experience, head to Quinta Alegria or Paseo del Carmen, two conveniently located malls along Quinta Avenida.

Grocery Shopping: For everyday essentials or souvenirs you can use at home, Walmart and Mega supermarkets are within walking distance of the Grand Hyatt PDC, offering a convenient option to stock up on supplies.

Beaches of Playa del Carmen: Beyond the Hotel

While the beach at Grand Hyatt PDC may not be what you’re expecting, don’t despair! Here are a few stunning beaches within walking or taxi distance, each offering a unique experience:

PDC Beach at Parque Fundadores: This southernmost beach on the list comes alive on weekends with vibrant music and performers. Snack stalls and restaurants line the shore due to its proximity to Quinta Avenida. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and soak in the lively atmosphere, perfect for people-watching.

Playa 38 (Shangri-La Beach): This public beach, just off the picturesque Calle 38, offers stunning scenery with minimal amenities. An OXXO convenience store nearby allows you to grab snacks and drinks before hitting the sand.

Playa Punta Esmeralda: Located furthest north, Playa Punta Esmeralda is best accessed by car. This beach is ideal for younger children, with calm shallow areas formed by underground springs creating natural pools. Lifeguard supervision, a small playground, and basic amenities like restrooms and a bar are available. However, consider bringing snacks for a more comfortable experience.

I hope this guide has given you a taste of the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen and the surrounding area! Playa del Carmen is a fantastic home base for exploring the Riviera Maya, with its large expat community ensuring English is widely spoken. Whether you crave delicious food, cultural immersion, or thrilling adventures, Playa del Carmen offers the perfect blend for a memorable family vacation!