AI or not AI?

In Playa, Non AI, Playa Maya or Alhambra would both be under $300 and have onsite beach bars. Tiny pools for sure but outside the AI's most of the on beach hotels have very small pools. Playa Palms is another great choice but does not have onsite bar or restaurant. There are beach bars on either side and it's very easy to pick up your own drinks/snacks and have them in your room or in a cooler. I've stayed at all of these and loved each one.

Further north is Las Palapas, beautiful beach but I'm not sure about the pricing. The north end of Playa has nicer beaches but if you're looking for more energy, I think staying further south might be a better option for you.

You're my age and after dozens of trips over many years, I still like the vibe @ lower 5th. Next time I'm staying here:

http://www.hotelposadasiankaan.com/

Have fun looking! There are a LOT of options but don't wait to much longer, that is a pretty busy time of year.

Thank you! the hotel that you are wanting to stay at...is it on the beach? I'm wondering why you didn't suggest it for us? Also...is lower 5th the area of playa del carmen? Not sure what that means. Thanks for the info.

Also...not AI. Forgot to mention that...don't like AI>

Hi Mike! Sian Kaan is not directly on the beach. It's only about 1/2 block up from the beach tho and very close to WhaWha and Bad Boyz, 2 of my favorite beach bars! This will be my first time there so can't give a personal rec but honestly, I've never been unhappy anywhere in Playa!!

Playa del Carmen has some distinct areas.

Playacar=AI's (ish IMO)

Lower 5th ave from roughly Jaurez to Constituentes is loaded with small hotels, bars and restaurants and shops. I don't eat at many places directly on 5th anymore, there are too many better cheaper options just a few blocks off 5th. Tons of action in this area but still clears out later at night as the AIers go back to their compound. There are numerous beachfront hotels and condo's in this area.

The north end of 5th is generally considered from Constituentes and north. Again tons of great restaurants, a little higher end and "hipper"as much of this area is relatively new. It is a great area and I've stayed up there many times but there are very few actual beachfront hotels.

Either end of 5th has plenty of action so maybe I'm just an oldster but as many times as I stay on the north end, I go back to lower 5th. You just can't beat a night cap on the beach and just a few steps walk to your room!!

Perfect and thank you so much. I did book Alhambram which sold me also because it has yoga, which I love. Not sure how much I will actually do while I'm there (downward facing do with margarita in hand could prove to be a challenge in balance) bit the reviews were great and it sounds ideal for us so thank you so very much. Enjoy your trip back as well!

Oooo, I loved Alhambra!! They also have one of my favorite balconies in town. You can sit out and look right and see the Caribbean or look left and watch the people on 5th.

Have a blast!!