Yes, guests at Playacar Palace have highlighted that: Paradise and Mi Familia Found!
My husband and I found just that, at the Playacar Palace! After carefully researching the all-inclusive, Playacar resort, to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary at, we could not be any happier with our choice! I watched numerous videos of the Playacar Palace resort, prior to our trip, as the anticipation was building, and the videos simply do not do the resort justice. Our arrival was later in the evening, due to flight delays, throughout the day, and when we finally arrived that evening, we were home. From the warm welcome we received, just outside the lobby, to the front desk check-in, Nicole at Concierge, and Eric (Bell Person) who escorted us to our room, and reviewed every detail of the “Superior Governor Suite” with us. I’ll admit that we were both besides ourselves, with the luxurious accommodations, as well as starving. We kept saying to each other “we finally made it.” Although it was pretty late, the great thing is, that Café del Mar, which serves buffet style (breakast/lunch/dinner) was still open, and say you return from an excursion, such as Xcaret (a must do), after 10:00 pm, you can order late night options, starting at 10:30 pm, straight from your Palace app. We were warmly welcomed, upon our arrival at the café, and were thoroughly impressed with the presentation of all of the stations, including the grill, prepared foods, salad and charcuterie items, fresh baked breads, desserts and beverages. The service was impeccable at all of the restaurants, including the café, where the staff is extremely attentive, and check in with you very frequently. You’ll also get to know specific staff members if they are assigned to your table, like Jaime, who took the absolute best care of us on several mornings, during breakfast.
After a wonderful dinner, and several glasses of the most amazing sangria, we returned to our room, which was very well appointed, stylish and chic. Bertha prepared our room for our arrival, and Myriam re-set our room daily and even surprised us on our first full-day at the resort with a bottle of champagne and the most adorable cherry desert treat, in a small terracotta pot. There may have been another employee, assigned to our room, for turn-down service, “yes” turndown service, with the most delectable individual chocolates, left on your pillow to ensure sweet dreams that evening. We re-explored the mini-fridge, which is kept fully stocked, along with the pull out drawer, containing a variety of spirits. On the dining table, we were welcomed by a beautiful bottle of red wine, two glasses and a corkscrew. We were surprised by the champagne, and each morning, we were asked by Francisco, what types of snacks, or beverages, including large bottles of water, were needed in the room. I would leave notes for Francisco, if we had left the room early, and he never disappointed, in fulfilling any request. He was absolutely incredible!
While relaxing at the amazing pool(s), with a variety of areas to choose from, with ample lounges, tables and umbrellas surrounding both the pool area, and on the beach, you can participate in a day-full of poolside activities, energetically lead by several palace entertainment staff members. Although we didn’t have too much sun, while we were at the Palace, due to the hurricane, it didn’t stop folks from enjoying the pool and activities. Folks were having a great time! The attentive pool concierge staff will thoroughly pamper you, such as “Marvin” who will ensure that you are kept very well hydrated. If you don’t feel like covering up and heading to the Café del Mar for a meal, there is an outside dining option. I suggest you grab a table at the snack bar, where you’ll find many options. The chef and his staff prepare delicious cuisine, and there are so many options to choose from. My favorite was the burger and fries. The superior service doesn’t stop, even at the pool snack bar area, where you’ll be very well taken care of by servers like “Carmen” as well the bartenders at the snack bar, and the Aqua bar.
Besides the ample variety of evening activities, including live music in the lobby bar area, we thoroughly enjoyed a different show every evening at 9 pm. Each performance was unique, and the entertainers were more than extremely talented. I won’t divulge the details of each show, because I don’t want to spoil the surprise, but I can tell you, you will thoroughly enjoy each performance. Before the 9 pm performance, be sure to take a little time to relax and enjoy the live musical performances, taking place in the lobby area, where you can have a delicious beverage, where staff like Leticia and Daniel will take great care of you, along with other bartenders and servers.
Although our stay was very brief, were were highly impressed with the options of dining options offered. Each restaurant offered a different vibe, as well as a variety of cuisines to choose from, so there is definitely something for everyone. I truly recommend that you explore the variety of options. Madre Mia was an absolutely gorgeous restaurant, with an open kitchen. Due to the size of the restaurant, service was well orchestrated, and on point. My husband and I shared several appetizers, including different steak options. Our entrees were extremely tender and tasty. Lahna was a well-hidden, cozy, and stylish dining spot, offering only several tables, which created a private dining experience. The dining experience is a unique offering, which begins with a tequila tasting, and consists of at least 7-8 small plates, each described by an extremely knowledgeable host, Jose Luis, and Bryan, his assistant, each maintained the highest level of service of the resort. We felt truly welcome at Lahna, thanks to Jose Luis! My absolute favorite was MoMo, with chef Johnathan, our Teppanyaki chef at the hibachi table. Forget any hibachi experiences you’ve ever had because chef Johnathan will entertain you with both his culinary skills, and sense of humor while he offers a spin on the traditional offerings, and escalates the flavors. Again, the attentive service at this restaurant remained on par, throughout our enjoyable and delicious dinner. Don’t forget the sake!
Before you go, don’t forget to download the Palace app, as it’s a must-have. You’ll find all of the information you need, such as activities, shows, options to order room service (which is offered 24 hrs.a day), etc..
Our stay was extremely short, due to travel, and the hurricane, but I will tell you that we absolutely did not want to leave, and it was sad (I cried) because it felt like we were leaving our family (familia as the staff relates to their guests). We purchased a “One Full Experience Getaway” after checking out, from a Palace representative, which we will use to book our next stay at the Playacar Palace in 2025. I highly recommend this option, as they have several new properties coming on-line in 2025 and 2026. We will be returning to Playacar Palace, as a start. This I can promise you!
My advice to you is, book your next getaway to this amazing resort, take lots of pictures while you’re there, as I was negligent in that respect. Then, be sure to tell your friends, and family about the fantastic time you’ve had. And, lastly please don’t forget to tip the staff, for their service, although the the resort is all-inclusive, the staff at this resort work extremely hard, and take pride in keeping the Playacar Palace looking amazing for their guests, attending to your every need during your stay, and they do so, always with a smile on their face, and “at their pleasure.”
Excellent
Based on 2032 reviews
Location
Quiet in the room
Rooms
Service
Value for money
Cleanliness
Showing 4 featured reviews out of 2032 TripAdvisor reviews
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Sandra B
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
08/10/2024
“Paradise and Mi Familia Found!”
Paradise and Mi Familia Found! My husband and I found just that, at the Playacar Palace! After carefully researching the all-inclusive, Playacar resort, to celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary at, we could not be any happier with our choice! I watched numerous videos of the Playacar Palace resor… more
M
mreinhart635
Pottstown, Pennsylvania
07/10/2024
“It was perfect in every way!!! The cleanliness of the hotel was first class and the food so very delicious every day!”
It was amazing and truly very relaxing! The staff was very friendly and were always there to make our stay so very enjoyable. The pool staff were always ready and eager to fill up our beverages! The food was exceptional and our morning omelets started our day perfectly! Thank you!!
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Tammy H
05/10/2024
“Great time and Great staff! Very relaxing!”
Rooms were nice and can't say enough about the staff! Pool side Sylvia and Daniella are the best! Food and service was great! Maria Hernadez,, Fernada and Arit in vacation planners really helped us out with spa and outside activities!! Alicia was great with our membership! Had a great time! The … more
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Pattie C
29/09/2024
“Playacar Palace”
Except for check-in it was great. When we checked-in we were told our room was not ready and to grab a bite and they would email us. After over 2 hours I went back to the front desk and was told “Oh yes your room is ready let’s finish checking you in.” We waisted a lot of time sitting around waitin… more