AI resort vs town hotel
AI resort outskirts (north and south of town) — full beach access, included meals, typical Riviera Maya pace. Town hotel on Fifth — walkable to dozens of restaurants, more 'town' feel, à-la-carte. Most travelers pick AI; town hotels suit travelers wanting independence.
What to do nearby
Cozumel ferry ($20 round-trip, 45 min) — best reef diving in Mexico. Xcaret 10 min south. Akumal sea turtles 25 min south. Cenotes 30 min west. Best Riviera Maya base for travelers who want both AI plus town-walking variety.
“Playa del Carmen gives you both AI resort and walkable town in one base — Riviera Maya's most flexible pick.”
