La Casa de la Playa by Xcaret in Playa de Carmen, Mexico: Review
Let’s get one thing straight: I have a thing with all-inclusive resorts, and not the good kind. Typically, they’re a hard pass for me. Most of the time, the food, drinks, and service are mediocre at best. I’d rather book a luxurious five-star hotel and splurge on dining experiences that I know will be phenomenal. After all, if I’m spending money on a vacation, I expect to be pampered—from the cuisine to the service and everything in between. All-inclusives rarely deliver on those fronts, and while they can be great for group trips or family vacations, they just don’t fit the bill when craving something truly luxurious.
Spending $1,500 to $3,000 per night (on the low end, mind you) sets certain expectations. At those prices, I want experiences that feel indulgent and thoughtfully curated. I’d rather pay separately for meals and drinks that blow me away than settle for the same price tag with “meh” all-inclusive options. So when I first heard about La Casa de la Playa—a boutique, adults-only, all-inclusive in Playa del Carmen featuring celebrity chef dining, private luxury transportation, and exclusive access to Xcaret parks—I was intrigued but skeptical. Could it really deliver the elevated experience I’m after?
I had a trip planned to Cancun for a store visit and thought it would be the perfect opportunity to test out La Casa de la Playa. From Cancun International Airport, the hotel typically provides premium SUV transportation for the 45-minute drive to Playa del Carmen. However, I had arranged my own private ride since I was already in Cancun for some shopping.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by my personal butlers, who would be available throughout my stay for anything I needed. Whether it was making reservations, arranging transportation, or answering questions, they were just a WhatsApp message away. Walking through the lobby, I was immediately struck by the stunning view of the beach and infinity pool. The open-air design was both chic and inviting, and I was handed a welcome cocktail prepared right there at the bar. The lobby bar wasn’t just for cocktails, it also offered fresh baked pastries and small bites throughout the day.
Unfortunately, my trip was cut short due to unforeseen events back home, so I wasn’t able to fully explore everything the property had to offer. However, I got a solid taste (pun intended) of the food and amenities.
Room:
We stayed in the Wellness Oceanfront Suite, which turned out to be perfectly suited for our stay. Champagne on ice greeted us and the room itself felt expansive, thanks to the high ceilings. A standout feature was the jellyfish tank built right into the room. Watching the jellyfish drift gracefully was oddly soothing.
The bathroom was stocked with thoughtful amenities, from bath salts and oils to after-sun care and a property bag. There was a double rain shower that opened out to a private outdoor plunge pool and stone soaking tub, both equipped with bath salts and bubbles. While I didn’t use the plunge pool much (it was chilly and not “swimmable”), the hammock above it was my favorite spot to relax. Some other suites had larger pools, which seemed more inviting.
Turn-down service was another highlight. Each evening, the staff left thoughtful surprises in the room, from a book with a handmade bookmark to a locally crafted hand-woven basket filled with candies. They would place slippers by the bed each night ensuring everything designed with care.
Unfortunately, the room service fell short of expectations. I ordered just once, but the experience was underwhelming as the food arrived cold, lacked flavor, and left no lasting impression.
Activities:
La Casa de la Playa offers an impressive array of activities included with your stay, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Starting off-property, guests can enjoy private caving tours, immersive moving rituals, and a one-of-a-kind Dinner in the Gran Tlacho Theater. This unique experience includes a private backstage tour and a dramatic ascent onto a platform that briefly takes you center stage in front of the audience. The evening continues with a tasting menu dinner while enjoying their renowned México Espectacular show.
You’ll also have exclusive access to iconic Riviera Maya parks like Xcaret, Xavage, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, and Xenses. Each park offers distinct adventures, from Xplor’s jungle setting, where you can capture breathtaking views of the Mayan rainforest, to their thrilling 5-in-1 waterslide, ziplines, amphibious vehicle rides, and cave walks. Xavage, the action park, features adrenaline-pumping activities such as whitewater rafting, jet boat rides, ziplines, and ropes courses. These experiences add an exciting dimension to your stay, whether you’re looking for a day of fun or an entire week of adventure.
On-property, the Chocolatería, Tequila & Mezcal Bar, and Cava could easily be considered activities themselves, given how enjoyable they were. As part of the all-inclusive offering, we spent many happy hours exploring these “sensorial and transcendental spaces,” as the resort likes to call them. Let’s dive into the details.
Chocolatería:
The Chocolatería is a boutique haven for chocolate lovers, offering a self-serve experience like no other. Step into a room filled with chocolate everything, from handcrafted treats to gelato, and help yourself. Mini paper bags are provided to bag your own goodies, or you can opt for cups and cones to pair with gelato and toppings. The chocolates, crafted by master chocolatier Mao Montiel, go far beyond the ordinary with unique flavors and creative fillings. There were delicious, freshly made churros ready to grab, along with chocolate barks. This spot became a favorite for grabbing quick treats throughout the day and night.
Cava:
The Cava was another standout part of our stay. Open around the clock, this space invites you to pour a glass and sample wines from an array of open bottles. The space feels like a hidden underground wine cellar, adorned with twinkling lights, dim lighting, and the warm glow of candles. If you’re in the mood for more, you can choose an unopened bottle to bring back to your room or even select one to take home. The selection features reds, whites, and sparkling wines from various countries. For those looking to elevate the experience, the resort also offers private tastings with a sommelier who can guide you through the histories and pairings of their wines. After picking a bottle (or two), we loved heading back to the Chocolatería for chocolates to pair with a rich red and indulging in some outdoor tub time back at the room.
La Bodega:
Looking for a pre- or post-dinner treat with a twist? La Bodega is the perfect spot to sip, sample, or take a quick shot. Step inside to find a variety of tequilas and mezcals, pre-sliced limes and oranges, and an assortment of salts for the perfect pairing. Pour your choice, enjoy, and savor the moment. Much like the Chocolatería and Cava, this space felt like a playful, indulgent escape, offering a fun and interactive experience that added to the charm of our stay.
Restaurants on Property:
If you’re booking a stay at La Casa de La Playa with the intention of enjoying top-notch cuisine without leaving your hotel, you’ll likely find satisfaction dining at their on-property restaurants. However, if you’d like a change of scenery or vibe, you can also venture to their sister hotel, Arte, and explore its array of dining options. Keep in mind, Arte is a larger property and tends to be busier, so expect a livelier atmosphere. Since we had to cut our trip short, we only had the chance to experience a few of the dining options at La Casa de La Playa.
Tuch de Luna:
This is the hotel’s main restaurant, located near the main pool and helmed by chef Martha Ortiz. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s a versatile spot for all-day dining. I had breakfast here one morning and appreciated the chance to sit outside and soak up the warmth of the day. The breakfast menu offered limited options, but I tried a unique yogurt and fruit bowl paired with a side of potatoes. The yogurt bowl was good and creative, but the potatoes were quite basic.
For dinner, their menu includes intriguing appetizers like miniature tostadas, sopes, and open-faced quesadillas with corn, honey, and truffles. Entrée options range from pink mole and white fish to roasted cauliflower. While I didn’t have the chance to try dinner here, the menu sounded promising for those looking to explore refined Mexican flavors.
Estero:
Estero felt like the more upscale option among the restaurants we tried. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this spot stood out for its high-quality offerings. Breakfast here was my favorite meal at the hotel, with freshly baked breads served warm and accompanied by an array of jams, spreads, and salts that elevated the dishes.
The dinner menu at Estero features a curated tasting experience, with a vegetarian option available—something I appreciate. The open kitchen concept allows you to watch the chefs and sous chefs work in a pristine, well-orchestrated setting. If breakfast was this exceptional, I can only imagine the dinner would be equally memorable. If I return, I’d prioritize dining here every morning over Tuch de Luna.
Infinity Pool/Sky Pool Dining:
Unfortunately, dining at the poolside venues fell short of expectations. The fries and tacos were reminiscent of basic stadium fare. Vegetarian dishes from the Sky Pool menu looked promising but were ultimately underwhelming, feeling like they were thrown together and lacking in flavor.
The drinks followed the same pattern, with cocktails that tasted watered-down, lacked any flavor or sense of mixology, and were made with alcohols that didn’t feel premium. This was disappointing, as I’ve come to expect more from luxury resorts, even when it comes to poolside fare.
Centli & Lumbre:
These two additional restaurants operate on select days of the week, so, unfortunately, we missed out on trying them during our stay. I believe one of them operates within one of the main restaurants on those days. Their limited availability makes them feel exclusive, and I’d love to give them a try on a future visit.
In summary, while some experiences didn’t quite hit the mark, Estero truly shone with its exceptional quality and attention to detail. For a culinary-focused stay, I’d recommend prioritizing meals here while exploring the other options for variety.
Spa:
Maluk Spa is not included in the all-inclusive package, but it’s an experience well worth the added cost. For me, it was one of the highlights of the property, and I highly recommend including it in your stay.
The experience begins indoors. The bathrooms are beautifully appointed, embodying the serene ambiance you’d expect from a luxury spa. Before your treatment, you’ll relax in a quiet lounge stocked with a selection of nuts, candies, snacks, tea, and water.
Outside, the spa’s facilities and services truly shine. Start with their pool, featuring a hydrotherapy circuit that includes unique elements like stone rocks at the bottom of one section to massage your feet, powerful jets to relieve body tension, and cold plunges for rejuvenation. The steam room and sauna elevate the experience even further. Staff will set up your towel, provide cold towels for your head, and offer ice-cold cucumbers for your eyes. They carefully monitor your time, ensuring a seamless experience.
Once the hydrotherapy circuit is complete, you’ll be escorted to one of the most beautiful treatment rooms I’ve encountered. The room is dimly lit, with flickering candles and soft lighting. At its center is a large, rock style jacuzzi tub. The massage itself was incredible. It included a head massage where warm water and treatment oils were gently dripped into my hair and down my neck. After the massage, you’ll be treated to warm tea and a snack while taking in views of the marina and beach.
Pools:
Main Infinity Pool/ Wet Bar:
This pool is the crown jewel of the property and the one that initially captured my attention—it was a picture of this very pool that drew me in, along with the promise of good food. The main infinity pool features a stunning 40-meter swimmable waterway that extends over the ocean. Swim or walk to the end of the pool for breathtaking views as you look out over the water. Lifeguards are present daily, so you can relax knowing safety is a priority.
At the other end of the pool, you’ll find a gorgeous swim-up bar overlooking the ocean. With built-in rock seats, you can swim up and have the bartender make your favorite drink or surprise you with something new. Surrounding the pool are luxurious loungers and oversized daybeds with umbrellas, creating the perfect space to lounge or nap all day.
Sky Pool & Bar:
The Sky Pool, located on the top level, offers incredible views and a more intimate vibe. It is smaller than the main pool but has some great Instagram-worthy swim-through photo spots. There’s another bar located at this pool, though once again, the cocktails and food left much to be desired.
While the views make it worth a visit, the overall experience didn’t quite match the grandeur of the main infinity pool.
Gym:
The gym is beautifully designed and impressive. The wooden ceiling and indoor-outdoor layout create a stunning atmosphere, with outdoor seating areas featuring turf grass for relaxing after a workout.
To keep you hydrated, there are drink fridges stocked with bottled water, apples, and sports drinks. The space includes cold towels for recovery and plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the wide variety of equipment.
Things We Liked at Casa de la Playa:
The butlers were easily accessible through WhatsApp. Whether you had a question, wanted to book or cancel something, or needed an item delivered, they were prompt and efficient. This is like the Four Seasons app or in-room iPad.
Unlike places where photos are overly edited, the main infinity pool is just as stunning in person. Its length stretching out over the ocean makes for a fun and scenic swim, especially during sunset.
The property is undeniably breathtaking, with every view from the pool offering a picture-perfect panorama.
Having access to wine bottles at any time of day was a highlight. Pair it with a stop at the Chocolatería, and you have a perfect start or end to your evening.
Endless chocolates, churros, and gelato available all day and night….what’s not to love?
Visiting the adventure parks anytime during your stay is a fun bonus, with activities like zip-lining, snorkeling, and water slides.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind About Casa de la Playa:
If I’m paying premium prices for a room, all-inclusive or not, I expect great food across the board. While I enjoyed Estero, I’m on vacation and spending my own dime, so I want every meal to deliver. So yes, that means five-star fries at the pool, hot and high quality room service that doesn’t taste like microwaved leftovers, and snacks, lunches, and dinners that are different. I’d honestly rather pay for each meal separately if it means consistently excellent food throughout my stay.
The drinks were underwhelming. Cocktails often felt watered-down, lacked creativity, and didn’t use premium alcohols—something to consider if you’re hoping for top tier poolside beverages.
If you’re looking for a place where you can fully opt for "Do Not Disturb," privacy can be limited, as staff requires access to your room daily to maintain the jellyfish tanks.
This is an adults-only property, which is great if you’re looking for a kid-free experience but something to note if traveling with family.
Some restaurants, like Centli and Lumbre, are only open on select days, so plan ahead if you’re hoping to try them.
Tips:
Take advantage of the parks
Book treatments at Maluk Spa
Mosquitoes! Cover up
Plan Dining around Restaurant opening Schedules
Complimentary Services:
All-inclusive
Butler on demand
Transportation to the Sister Hotels and Restaurants
Airport transportation
Pursuit Postscript:
Here’s who La Casa de la Playa works for: If you’re on the fence about all-inclusives, this could be the one to change your mind. It offers an elevated version of the concept, with great dining that’s a definite step up from typical all inclusives. Unlimited access to adventure parks and indulgent touches such as the Chocolatería and Cava further enhance the experience. If you already enjoy all-inclusives for their ease but are looking for a more refined option, this is worth considering. For larger groups or trips where you want the ease of an high end all inclusive without worrying about added costs, it’s a great choice.
However, if you’re someone with an (reasonably) unlimited budget for the trip who expects perfection at every turn, from flawless service to five star food at every meal, this won’t meet your expectations. While the butler service, Cava and Chocolatería, and stunning infinity pool provide moments of luxury, the inconsistent food quality and basic cocktails leave much to be desired.
Ultimately, La Casa de la Playa does offer indulgence and relaxation but with spa services and premium alcohol offered at an additional cost, I’d prefer to pay more for an experience where every detail, from dining to drinks and amenities, is truly high-end rather than settling for less-than-satisfactory inclusions in the all-inclusive package. It’s amazing for those mentioned, but not if you personally value excellence in every aspect of a trip.
