Top 11 Gay Friendly Hotels In Playa del Carmen

A veritable treasure trove of marine life and coral reefs sitting beneath glistening turquoise waters. Verdant jungles spilling onto sugar-fine white sand beaches. And to sit beside idyllic palm-fringed infinity pools overlooking the azure Caribbean Sea — Playa del Carmen is one unique Riviera Maya gem with lots to explore. That’s one of the reasons why it’s such a popular destination with LGBTQ travelers, and we even saw it as a sophisticated and chic alternative to touristy Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. This is evident by the sheer number of gay-friendly hotels in Playa del Carmen. We loved looking through different options for our Playacar digs, which ranged from affordable but amazing hotels to dreamy escapes by the ocean, plunge pools, et al.

So, whether you’re looking for that grand, all-inclusive getaway or a more intimate, romantic holiday at a boutique hideaway, Playa del Carmen has it all. Here’s a detailed guide to staying at some of the best LGBTQ-friendly hotels in Playa del Carmen.

Rosewood Mayakoba

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We begin the list with Rosewood Mayakoba, one of the finest hotels in Riviera Maya. As discerning gay travelers, we’ve always loved Rosewood hotels, and the Playacar outpost isn’t an exception either. Firstly, it sits inside the Mayakoba Reserve, which has jungles, lagoons, and beaches. Moreover, this luxury gated complex also has the famed golf course and the El Pueblito plaza, which has boutiques and cafés. 

When we arrived, we were whisked away on a speedboat from the lobby to our suite, one of 129 suites sitting in modern wood, marble, and stone buildings. This quiet and serene trip set the tone for a relaxing, laid-back stay. For the rest of our trip, we’d traverse the grounds on golf carts and bikes as we explored the gardens. The staff is accommodating and friendly, with personal butlers ensuring that our stay went smoothly. What’s more, we had the choice of six swimming pools, but we especially loved the three infinity pools at Aquí Me Quedo, the adults-only beach club. We followed that with a visit to the outstanding Sense Spa, which had a sensory garden and a tranquil pool surrounded by bougainvillea. Finally, six restaurants wrap up the amenities here.

All suites, including ours, were spacious and fresh-looking, with Mexican crafts, white furnishings, and marble floors. Giant mirrors and mosaic-tiled bathtubs in the bathrooms, a coffee table strewn with books, and swish mod-cons set the tone for our stay. The best bit? We were thrilled to have an outside terrace with a plunge pool overlooking the ocean!

The Reef 28

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Luxury doesn’t have to be expensive, as is evident at The Reef 28. This all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotel punches far above its weight thanks to sleek and modern digs and a central location just a block from the beach. Vibrant Mexico and South Beach come together at this sophisticated beach oasis, which boasts a relaxed vibe despite smack dab in the middle of all the action.

The pulsating center of all action is the rooftop pool area, which has not only two pools but also two whirlpools. After a long day of exploring Riviera Maya, it was the perfect place to unwind as well as mingle with fellow travelers. After a swim, the couples massage at the OKOM spa was perfect. Later on, when we got hungry, we headed to a rooftop restaurant, Arriba, where we were treated to splendid views. Of course, we could choose three other restaurants, including digging into a hearty breakfast in the light-filled atrium. The best bit was that many beach clubs were nearby, which admitted day travelers like us for a fee.

We had the choice of 120 suites, which were divided into Junior and Master suites. While the Junior Suites were more cozy and intimate, we went with the latter. After all, what could possibly beat an in-room whirlpool tub and a sea-view balcony? Plus, the romance factor in our Master Suite was excellent, with large for-two walk-in showers in the bathrooms.

Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla

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Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla is the adults-only half of the famed Paradisus resort on the Caribbean Coast. The large and bustling resort is crisscrossed by wooden boardwalks and tall marble hallways leading to grassy lawns, fountains, and koi ponds amidst coconut palms and mangroves. The golden sand is right out front, and small thatched palapas are everywhere for couples to relax and unwind on the property.

The resort is particularly strong on the amenities front. Besides boutiques selling everything from inflatables and postcards to swimsuits, there’s a scuba diving center, tennis courts, and an impressive fitness center with space for yoga and spinning classes. What’s more, there are two adult-only pools, complete with volleyball and whirlpools, as well as a spa with some fantastic treatments. Can you believe there are as many as 16 — yes, 16 — restaurants on the property? It included every single cuisine under the sun — and then some. The best bit? Royal Service guests were assigned personal butlers to help with activity and restaurant reservations.

The suites are some of the largest in the Yucatan, complete with outdoor terraces and private whirlpools. Moreover, there are fully inclusive minibars, Nespresso coffee machines, grand bathrooms with for-two bathtubs, and turndown service, complete with chocolates.  

Thompson Playa del Carmen

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The minute we stepped into Thompson Playa del Carmen, we felt like we’d entered a world of infinite, exciting possibilities. Sitting right in the heart of the town, the hotel is steps from Playa del Carmen’s gay scene. So, we could simply saunter back to the hotel after a night of exciting revelries. The best bit? Even our day tours would pick us up right from our hotel!

The hotel is spread across two structures; while the main one is right in the town, the second one, the Beach House, sits on the beachfront, a five-minute walk away. The main building worked perfectly for us party monsters, including its vibe. Think a collection of Panama hats in the lobby, zany black-and-white marble tiling, and bohemian artwork — totally Insta-worthy. What’s more, the daily USD 36 lifestyle fee included everything from Frida Kahlo museum tickets, daily rooftop yoga, and rental bikes to gym access, unlimited calls, tequila tasting, and even a complimentary facial! We loved hanging out at the rooftop pool and restaurant/bar, where we’d lounge on the cabanas after a swim. On the Saturday that we were here, there was a huge brunch rooftop pool party, and it seemed like everyone in town had landed there. The coolest bit, though, was that the crowd was all gorgeous gay folks!

Rooms were split into two categories, Luxury and Deluxe, along with three suites. We upgraded to one of the luxury suites, which came with seating areas, plush beds, sleek bathrooms, a complimentary minibar, and even a balcony.

TRS Yucatan

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Best adults-only. There was no way we weren’t including the indulgent and adults-only TRS Yucatan on this list. After all, it was the official hotel of the Mayan Xcapade, an all-inclusive Labor Day weekend trip for gay men! But that’s just one of the amazing things about this hotel, which sits 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. So, for gay travelers looking to get away from the bustle, don’t look beyond this amazing place. That’s because this adults-only getaway has everything you need, right from stunning sea views and five-star digs to miles and miles of beach.

Everything about this hotel is extra, including the amenities that fit its motto: “Honoring your freedom.” When you check-in, you’re given access to an online portal to do everything from requesting golf cart shuttles to bath preparation requests. What’s more, there are not one or two but three pool areas: the Las Rocas saltwater pool, the La Terazza tropical gardens pool, and the eye-popping Helios Beach Club, with tiered infinity pools by the ocean. Moreover, we even had Bali beds with waiter service waiting for us at the private beach area. Oceanfront yoga, a fitness center, and six restaurants aside, guests also have all-inclusive access to all three other resorts in the complex. So, that makes it five additional outdoor pools, 22 more bars, and 14 additional restaurants! Did we mention the massive Zentropia Spa with hydrotherapy, Maya showers, an outdoor pool, and a juice bar? Yep.

Even entry-level rooms had spa tubs, butler services, furnished terraces, slippers and bathrobes, Nespresso machines, and nightly turndown services! Moreover, the suites came with private plunge pools, even ones with rooftop pool terraces.

Live Aqua Boutique Resort Playa del Carmen

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While looking for an all-inclusive gay-friendly stay, we came across the Live Aqua Boutique Resort. Not only did we stay in the heart of all the gay action, but we also loved the comfort, convenience, and social atmosphere here. The best bit? It’s just two blocks from the beaches at Riviera Maya.

The intimate ambiance of the resort was just what we wanted, especially since it had just 60 rooms. Moreover, the Mayan culture-inspired design was a welcome departure from all other cookie-cutter resorts. Think gorgeous Mexican textiles, fabrics, and wall murals sitting pretty against lashings of sunlight and lush gardens. The central, open-air atrium with a stunning reflection pool impressed us the moment we entered. Our favorite spot was the rooftop pool deck, complete with a retro Volkswagen bug studded with colorful seashells on the side. We’d spend lazy days lounging in the infinity pool, followed by relaxing on the sunbeds and the cabanas. Do try the signature coffee scrub at the spa and dine at the three restaurants. Or, you could do what we did — take rooftop tequila classes!

All rooms and suites here are modern, with a bevy of high-tech mod-cons, decadent rain showers, and free minibars. Do you want to splurge? Some of the suites even have patios and a hot tub.

LOTE4 LGBTQ Studios

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Best gay-owned. We were delightfully surprised to come upon the gay-owned, adults-only LOTE4 LGBTQ Studios, which is one of the most intimate digs in the town catering only to LGBTQ travelers. They might be relatively new on the Playacar scene, but they’re one of the most fabulous places we’ve ever stayed at. Owned by the well-traveled gay couple Carl and Jeroen, the place certainly knows what we, as gay travelers, want when we stay somewhere — and it was refreshing.

The hotel is the epitome of relaxation and intimate romance, with just three intimate studios to choose from. Two of them have direct access to the gorgeous pool, and the room without direct access comes with its own private garden. Thanks to Carl and Jeroen’s thoughtful design, we had everything we wanted, from free Wi-Fi to a well-equipped kitchen where we’d cook romantic meals.

The hotel is exciting outside the room, too. After swimming a few laps, we’d enjoy cocktails on the sun loungers by the pool. There was even a barbeque where we’d get together with Carl, Jeroen, and the other guests and enjoy mingling with some delicious alfresco dinner. Do you love dogs? Their pup Pop loves socializing with guests!

Royal Hideaway Playacar

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The adults-only Royal Hideaway Playacar was high on our list as it’s one of the best adults-only gay resorts in Playa del Carmen. This fully inclusive beachside resort is very popular with LGBTQ folks due to its seaside location and amazing amenities. What’s more, some of the best attractions, as well as the gay scene, are nearby, including gay clubs like Coco Bongo and Club 69. Plus, one of the best-kept secrets in Riviera Maya and one of the most silent places on Earth, Cenote Chaak Tun, is just 20 minutes away.

What makes this such a beautiful beachside paradise is the setting, with verdant lawns looking out to the Caribbean Sea. The main poolside is the heart of the resort, complete with swaying palms and sun loungers. Besides the impressive fitness center, the resort even had dance classes, aqua aerobics, etc., for us to choose from if we wanted to. However, our favorite was the grand spa, where we had many body treatments and massages to choose from. Finally, we were spoilt for choice when it came to the all-inclusive food at all three restaurants and bars, which also served a hearty spread for breakfast. So, it was the perfect way to begin our day before heading out to explore the Riviera.

You can choose from many cool and peaceful rooms with marble surfaces, tropical scenery paintings, and high ceilings. Moreover, they all have complimentary minibars, expansive bathrooms with bathtubs, and private balconies.

Hidden Beach Resort Au Naturel, Adults Only

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Best clothing-optional. We were thrilled to find a clothing-optional, adults-only, gay resort in Playacar in the form of Hidden Beach Resort Au Naturel, Adults Only. This fabulous resort not only provided excellent accommodations but also a great all-inclusive package. The best bit? It included not just meals and drinks but also a whole host of couple’s activities, including catamaran rides and cenote visits!

From the moment we entered, everything was taken care of. At check-in, they settled us comfortably on the sofa with a glass of bubbly before escorting us to our luxurious room. We had the choice of 42 beachfront suites, which made staying here both intimate and exclusive. Our Oceanfront Junior Suite had a massive TV for us to binge-watch our favorite movies from the comfort of a hot tub!

It might be a nudist resort, but the atmosphere, ambiance, and amenities are nothing less than five-star. The onsite restaurant served all meals, and that too, with the menu changing every day. In fact, many couples often chose to go nude here, which certainly made things very interesting! Our favorite spot, though, was the ‘lazy river’ pool and hot tub, sitting amidst lush gardens and directly facing the beach and the ocean. There was also a steam bath, a sauna, and a fitness center. After all, one must look good while running around in one’s birthday suit, right?

They also had tons of couples activities, like tequila tasting, water volleyball, and coconut painting, and they regularly hosted themed entertainment nights. For instance, on cabaret night, we were encouraged to break out some nice lingerie. Ooof!

Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa

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The LGBT-friendly Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa was a rather welcome departure from Riviera Maya’s usual all-inclusive stays. This incredibly tranquil tropical retreat sits slightly away from Playacar in Punta Maroma, sandwiched between the lush green jungles and the white sands.

“Luxury, serenity, and authentic Mexican charm – this resort had it all.”

WOW Travel

There’s a lot we loved about this charming, hacienda-style boutique resort, which is unmistakably Mexican in character. Right from the Latin American percussion instruments in the bar to the thatched-roof palapas, we loved everything about the resort. The most interesting addition was the rainbow-hued in-house parrot, a rather unusual symbol of pride! There were three swimming pools, with the lagoon-style one in the tree-lined courtyard being our favorite. Later on, we booked couple’s massages at the Kinan spa, indulged in a jungle walk, and even headed off to explore on the complimentary bikes. When we were hungry, the onsite restaurant and bar, with its tequila tasting and surf n’ turf, was perfect.

All rooms and suites are shaded by palms, hibiscus, and sea-grape trees, with even entry-level ones featuring bathrooms with sunken baths, king beds, and balcony hammocks. Since we were on our honeymoon, we chose the Oceanfront Suite, which had a spa palapa, direct beach access, and a plunge pool!

Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya All Inclusive, Adults Only

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Best overall. The amazing Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya All Inclusive, Adults Only, sits at the top of this list for more reasons than one. First, it sits on the secluded white sands of Playa Secreto beach, surrounded by verdant gardens. Second, it’s a five-star, all-inclusive, IGLTA-approved luxury resort in the form of an elegant Mexican hacienda. Last but not least, it’s one of the world’s best LGBT-friendly all-inclusive resorts!

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Valentin’s all-inclusive service and “Don’t worry about anything” motto was the best part of our stay here. The all-inclusive package extended to all eight restaurants and 11 bars, including the cafe and the food carts. So, whether we wanted to indulge in fine dining, enjoy a nightcap, or dig into churros, we could do so at any time and in a no-limit quantity. What’s more, we enjoyed excellent poolside and beachside service at the beach and all three swimming pools, two of which even had pool bars. In fact, the main ocean-facing pool is one of the Riviera’s largest. During the day, we could indulge in activities like live music by the pool and beach yoga and enjoy nightly entertainment from live bands and in-house DJs — all included in the package.

We loved the accommodations, too, which came with premium Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. However, what we appreciated is that despite welcoming people of all sexual orientations, they do have porn channels on TVs in the rooms specifically for us LGBTQ folks. Now, that’s what we call open-mindedness.

Our Verdict!

Since choosing one amazing hotel can be slightly difficult, we came up with a specialized list to help you choose:

• Best overall: Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya All Inclusive, Adults Only
• Best adults-only: TRS Yucatan
• Best gay-owned: LOTE4 LGBTQ Studios
• Best clothing-optional: Hidden Beach Resort Au Naturel, Adults Only

Get Some Culture in Riviera Maya

• Playa Pride: The week-long annual Playa del Carmen Pride Festival sees rainbow flags popping all over. What’s more, the celebrations feature everything from parties, drag shows, and a Bear Pool Party to brunches and a fantastic parade. You could also download the Playa Pride app that will help you keep up with all the happenings around when you’re visiting in June.

Best Gay Bars / Clubs in Riviera Maya

• Club 69: This is the most well-known and only gay bar and dance club in the Riviera Maya, and it sits right in the town center of Playa del Carmen. What’s more, it’s one hot, sizzling magnet for gay men. On weekends, there are drag shows on Friday and Saturday nights. 
• Coco Bongo: This Las Vegas-style show and nightclub is a great place for gay travelers and locals to mingle and is part of the popular chain across Latin America. It’s not explicitly gay, but it’s incredibly gay-friendly and is a bar, club, and entertainment venue all rolled into one. Think dancers and acrobats flying overhead as you mingle and dance across the dance floor below.

Best Gay Saunas in Riviera Maya

• X-Mahan Nah: This hot, steamy gay sauna in Playa del Carmen features a darkroom, hot tub, steam bath, dry sauna, and more. It’s a small but well-designed place to relax and unwind with fellow gay men.