Maybe someone can fill me in on the details, but when did The Reef resorts become all-inclusive optional??  I’m thinking it must have been a couple of years ago when this company left my resort radar…regardless, if you are looking for an all-inclusive option for your next vacation, let’s do a quick rundown of The Reef Playacar to see if this may be the right one for you.

First of all, this resort sits on one of the loveliest beaches in the Riviera Maya–Playacar Beach is a 5-star beach with many all-inclusive properties enjoying front row seats to its beauty.  The Reef Playacar is right next to Riu Palace Riviera Maya which makes this particular area very accessible to Playa del Carmen and its famous 5th Avenue.  Maybe a 10-15 min. easy walk.

Another plus is that it’s very affordable.  If you’re on a budget this resort would definitely check that box.  For families traveling on a budget this resort would be a godsend.

It’s a smaller resort–only 196 guest rooms set amidst a jungle-like setting.  The company has done an excellent job of making the resort look like it should actually be there rather than the newer more lavish concrete jungle resorts which have been popping up all over the Riviera Maya within the last several years.

What’s not to like?  Here are a few things to take into consideration:

• there are no elevators here.  Guest rooms are in buildings with 3 floors.  Do the math vs. your physical limitations.
• WiFi may not necessarily be free–Superior All-Inclusive Packages only have free lobby WiFi unless you book on the resort’s website.
• WiFi is slow and spotty around the resort, so if you have to get any serious work done on vacation that needs a WiFi connection you may have to go down the street to the Starbucks and do it there.
• there’s only two a la carte restaurants on-site; at least reservations are not necessary.
• there’s no room service, and that was true even before COVID.
• things can get noisy by your room depending on various factors.  If your room is by the main walkway, early morning carts and loud conversations in general can be disruptive.

What’s to like?

• it’s on Playacar beach
• affordable
• you feel like you are in Mexico
• afternoon “tea time” from 4-6 p.m. is great, you can get flambeed coffees, teas, pastries, even delicious ice cream in the cenote area in the middle of the resort.
• upgraded Premium guests have access to Nico’s Lounge Bar right on the beach in the sand–Premium guests also have access to top-shelf alcohol.
• Premium guests can also visit the sister resort, The Reef Coco Beach, another great smaller all-inclusive just north of Playa del Carmen.  Stay at one play at two is always a bargain.
• beach and pool cabanas–very unusual for a smaller, more affordable resort.
• in has an on-site gym and spa, another unusual perk for a smaller and more affordable resort.

Not yet convinced?  Here’s a short video of the resort–what do you think?  Would you stay here?