Akumal or Playa del Carmen?

Question

My girlfriend and I are going to the Mayan Riviera. We're looking for a nice beach, since we don't care for pools, and a laid back atmosphere where we can just chill in the sun. We also would like to do things like hang out in town or see the ruin, so we don't get bored.

I'm looking at either the Riu Lupita hotel, the Reef Playacar, or the Blue Bay Grand Esmeralda in Playa del Carmen.

For Akumal, I am looking at staying in the Grand Sirenis.

All the hotels have pretty good reviews. I'm just stumped at the differences between Akumal and Playa del Carmen.

Any help? I kind of have to book soon ;)

Answer 1

Playa del Carmen hands down!  I think the beaches in Playa del Carmen are the best in the area.  They have white, powdery sand and crystal blue water.  Other then the beach, Playa is a nice town with so much to do!  Fifth Ave is a pedestrian street which runs through the town, parallel to the beach. On fifth Ave you will find nice restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, lounges, etc.  Akumal is nice, but the beaches are rocky and generally not as nice.  There is not that much to do there... a few restuarants, shops, etc.