TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

We have been to the Royal Hideaway 14- 15 times and obviously we really enjoy the experience and keep coming back. The highlights of the trip vary from one time to the next, but this recent visit ranks among the best. This was due in large part to Gabriella (Gabi), the concierge of building 23 where we stayed. She was absolutely wonderful. It was clear from the start that our enjoyment of our time at RHP was her top priority. As with any older property, there were a few minor issues with our room. Gabi took these repair requests cheerfully and oversaw the repairs personally and almost immediately. This has not always been the case in the past. Dinner reservations were sometimes a challenge, but Gaby persevered and got us what we wanted at the times we requested. I could go on, but I mostly wanted to thank he for one service above and beyond. Shortly before our trip, a close member of our family - our Golden Retriever- passed away, and it was very difficult. We mentioned this to Gabi , and when we went to dinner the night of Día de los Muertos, we found an elaborate shrine to him that Gabi had made. It was touching to say the least. This is the sort of attention and caring that we have come to expect at the Royal Hideaway, and this is why we keep coming back. The place is not perfect, but it is very good. The people are what really counts, and they are awesome.

We’ve been to Royal Hideaway Playacar 37 times, and our July trip was our favorite yet. The staff were fantastic, better than ever. We want to give a big shoutout to the Beach and Pool team, along with Ocativio, Jesus Argello, Adriana Perez, and Monserrat. Their kindness and attention really made the week extra special. We stayed in the presidential suite and loved it as always. The food was the best it’s been in years, definitely a step up from our last five visits. Every meal was delicious and beautifully presented, and you could tell how much pride the chefs and servers take in what they do. Our only small wish is that the hot tubs would get fixed and that the main pool was heated, especially in the cooler months. Even with that, we had such a wonderful time that we’re already counting down to our next stay. We’re heading back on Sunday, December 7, and can’t wait to see the newly refurbished private pool. It feels amazing to know we’ll be returning to our favorite place, and we couldn’t be happier to hear that the beach is sargassum free. After 37 visits, Royal Hideaway continues to surprise us in all the best ways. The stunning beach, beautiful grounds, and outstanding staff keep us coming back again and again.

First time staying at this beautiful resort- grounds are meticulously maintained and beautiful. Love that it is a smaller resort - easily walkable- have some mobility issues and I had no problems getting around the resort. There are a lot of stairs heading up to the main building - hand railings would be a great addition in a lot of places on the resort! Playacar beach is one of our favourite beaches- stunning!! We were always able to get chairs on the beach everyday without having to get up early. From what we could see getting chairs around the pools looks a little more challenging! We are beach people and don’t visit this area to sit around a pool all day anyway so we had no complaints. Food was excellent- we enjoyed all of the restaurants and like that dinner is a la carte only. Beach service was ok - could be improved if the servers came around more frequently- most times we just went to the bar ourselves as it was quicker. Alcohol selection was great - just ask for the brand you want and they will deliver!! My main complaint is the condition of the bathroom in our room - advertise a jet tub but it is old and jets do not work . Also obvious there was some previous water damage in the bathroom - and the repairs to drywall and crown moulding were very poorly done. We loved the layout of the room and the bed was so comfortable we had great sleeps while we were there!

This was our 6th time returning to Royal Hideaway & the one thing that had us returning was the food quality & service. Unfortunately, we were really really disappointed & even spoke to the Operations Mgr on our 3rd day regarding our concerns but nothing changed. We waited on average 15 minutes EVERY day for EVERY breakfast & lunch! We once waited 30 minutes(!!!). We never had to wait more than 5 minutes in the past. Keep in mind this is the only buffet restaurant on the beach (outdoors) with a la carte options. You have the option to go upstairs to the a la carte restaurants for breakfast or lunch, but who wants to spend over an hour indoors waiting for food. The service at some of the other dinner restaurants were also really slow. E.g. waited more than once, over 10 minutes for the host to greet us; constantly asking servers for water or refilling wine, waited half an hour until the hibachi chef arrived for our 9:00 pm(!) dinner reservations (see pic below). We only made 9:00 pm dinner reservations since all other early seatings were already booked for the week! It would have been nice for us to enjoy the Mexican show with the dinner in the theatre but this only happens once a week & again was already booked before we could even make a reservation. I tried emailing ahead of our arrival to make dinner reservations as I've done in the past but the email responses were days slow & didn't get confirmed. For new guests, you're asked to make all dinner reservations with your concierge on the day that you arrive, however, all the ideal times & events are already booked before you even get there!!! We were beyond disappointed with our visit this time & unfortunately will not be returning nor recommending to our friends any more.

I LOOOOVEEEEE THIS PLACE! NO DISCO! NO CRAZY NIGHTLIFE...FABULOUS! This is a quiet , peaceful and beautiful quiet resort Perfect for couples and people who want peace and quiet on their vacation. Food is fab, beach is beautiful. Its small and quaint and the staff are amazing! We are going again in April 2026!