Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen: My Honest Review of Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection
Playa del Carmen is one of those destinations that sounds like it could go either way. It sits along Mexico’s Riviera Maya coast — close enough to Cancún to make you nervous, but far enough to feel like its own thing entirely. The stretch between Playa del Carmen and Tulum has quietly become one of the most interesting corridors for design-forward hotels, beautiful beaches, and genuinely good food. It’s not undiscovered, but it’s not what you picture when you think “resort town” either.
We went in late March 2026, and I want to share where we stayed, what surprised us, and what I’d do differently — because choosing where to stay in Playa del Carmen is half the trip.
Riviera Maya, Mexico — March 2026
There are places that look exactly the way you imagined they would. Etéreo is one of them.
From the moment you arrive at this Auberge property near Playa Maroma, the architecture sets a mood — modern stone, arched hallways that glow with soft blue light, reflecting pools that mirror the sky. It’s the kind of property that feels like it was designed to be photographed. And it is beautiful.
I spent a few days here in late March with my partner, and I want to give you the full picture — because this is a place that deserves nuance, not just a highlight reel.
The Property
Etéreo sits along the Riviera Maya coast near Playa Maroma, and the grounds are genuinely stunning. Think stone pathways winding through tropical gardens, a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean, and these beautiful round daybeds scattered around the pool area. There’s a quiet, almost meditative quality to the layout — everything feels intentional.
The architecture is a mix of modern concrete and warm natural materials. The lobby bar has this golden, moody glow in the evenings that made me want to just sit and be still for a while. And there’s a little vintage tuk-tuk parked on the property that adds an unexpected bit of charm.
The Room
Our room was calming in the best way — wooden closets, arched doorways, neutral tones, and a view of the ocean that made waking up feel like a small luxury. The bed was comfortable, the bathroom was thoughtfully designed, and the kind of energy that made you want to just settle in for a long while.
It wasn’t the most spacious suite I’ve stayed in, but the design made it feel considered, not cramped.
The Food
Here’s where I’ll be honest. The food is pretty. The plating is beautiful, the breakfast spread with its chalkboard signs and fresh juices looks like a dream. But nothing was particularly memorable in terms of flavor — with one notable exception: the homemade macha salsa. That, I could eat every day.
Portions ran on the smaller side, and for the price point, I found myself wishing the dining experience had more depth. It’s the kind of menu that photographs well but doesn’t quite deliver what you want from a meal when you’re on vacation.
The Amenities
The vibe here is chill. Very chill. Borderline too chill. If you’re someone who wants a packed itinerary of activities and experiences, this might feel a bit quiet. There’s a gym (clean, well-equipped), the pool, a spa — but beyond that, you’re mostly creating your own rhythm.
Which, for the right trip, can be exactly what you need. But for a multi-night stay at this price point, I would have appreciated a bit more.
My Ratings
Vibes: 8/10 — The property is stunning and the energy is calm and grounding.
Room: 8/10 — Beautiful design, ocean view, comfortable bed.
Food: 6/10 — Pretty plating, but underwhelming flavor and small portions.
Amenities: 5/10 — Pool, gym, spa — but not much beyond that.
Value for Price: 4/10 — At this tier of luxury hotel, I expected more.
The Honest Take
I’ll borrow from what I shared on TikTok: Etéreo is one of those places that photographs like a dream and feels luxurious at first — but after a couple of days, you start doing quiet mental math.
The property and rooms are lovely. The vibes are there. But when I think about cost for what you get, my expectations for food, amenities, and overall experience are higher at this price point.
Would I come back? Maybe if someone else was paying. Would I recommend it? Yes — with context. It’s a gorgeous setting for a short escape, especially if you’re the kind of person who’s happy with a good book, a beautiful pool, and nowhere to be. Just know what you’re walking into.
What I Packed for Mexico
If you’re headed somewhere warm and want to see what I brought for this trip, I put together my full Mexico vacation packing list on ShopMy.
A few things that got the most wear:
Hunza G one-piece — my go-to for any resort trip. Flattering and easy.
Faithfull the Brand dresses — I brought two for dinners and they were perfect for the warm evenings.
St. Agni woven leather sandals — went with everything from daytime to dinner.
Lack of Color sun hat — essential for poolside and walking the grounds.
Le Specs sunglasses — the Outta Love frame in vintage tort.
J.Crew cotton voile sarong — threw this on over swimsuits all weekend.
Shop the full collection here →
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