Where to Stay in Playa Del Carmen - Mexico

October 03, 2012 ||
Sunset View from the Beach at Le Reve Hotel

Le Reve – The Dream

Le Reve means “the dream” in French and Le Reve Hotel in Playa Del Carmen wears its name well. I could instantly feel the serenity from the moment I stepped foot into their outdoor foyer where I was warmly greeted by an attentive and friendly staff member.

Le Reve Hotel in Riviera Maya is different from the all-inclusive resorts you may be used to seeing in this area of Mexico. Unlike the large family resorts I’ve previously stayed in, this hotel caters to romantic getaways for couples which makes it a perfect place to have your honeymoon or a destination wedding.

What makes this place so perfect for couples, you ask? Well, for starters they don’t allow kids (unless you have your wedding here and reserve all of the rooms).

Le Reve Hotel

At first, I couldn’t figure out why it was so quiet by the pool, beach and common areas until I remembered their no kids policy. Nothing against children, but the last thing I want to hear on a romantic getaway is screaming children.

The quiet atmosphere most likely has something to do with the size of the resort. With only 25 rooms, it’s not jam-packed with people running around. It’s also in a secluded area so it’s not uncommon to find you are the only people at the pool or relaxing on the beach lounge chairs.

Le Reve Hotel - View from the Restaurant

Le Reve is not all-inclusive, but I highly recommend eating as many meals here as possible. The food is phenomenal and their menu offers a variety of dishes including pesto pasta with shrimp, unique soups, the freshest ceviche you will find and steaks cooked to perfection.

For breakfast you can choose from traditional mexican dishes such as huevos rancheros (my favorite), chilaquiles and enchiladas suizas. If you are not in the mood for Mexican food, you can always munch on bacon and egg on a bagel, fruit plates and french toast.

Le Reve Hotel Bungalow

Do you like ceviche? I’ve never seen so many different types of ceviche. It may not even be possible to try them all unless you stay here for a month! Jicama ceviche, tuna martini ceviche, white ceviche, octopus ceviche, le reeve ceviche (a mix of octopus, sea bass filet, shrimp and avocado), sea scallop ceviche, beef ceviche and margarita ceviche (sea bass and shrimp marinated in a citrus trilogy and tequila) to name a few.

Scallop Risotto at Le Reve Hotel

I didn’t get a chance to try the shrimp tacos on the lunch menu, but a fellow hotel guest couldn’t stop raving about them. My dinner favorites were the creamy scallop risotto, caesar salad topped with grilled shrimp and flan de kahlua for dessert.

Flan de Kahlua - Le Reve Hotel

The best part about eating at their restaurant may actually be the view. You can even take it up a notch and reserve a romantic dinner for two on the beach!

Romantic Dinner on the Beach

Disclosure: I was a guest of Riviera Maya Tourism Board, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own.


Although we didn’t need to rent a car on this particular trip, sometimes it’s necessary to rent a car in order to get around. We usually look for budget car rental locations in the areas we visit.


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