Hotel Review: Hotel Kinbe – Playa Del Carmen, Mexico (2023)

Centrally located, Hotel Kinbe is a stone’s throw from the center of everything in Playa Del Carmen. This hotel is next to Centro and the beach, and close to the ADO bus terminal and some must-see sites, so splurging (a very small splurge – it’s very affordable!) will be totally worth the convenience, even for budget travelers.

Keep reading for my full review of the hotel including my room, the property, and the little things I loved or didn’t love. Plus, a few ideas for things to do in Playa Del Carmen.

Hotel Kinbe Location

Address: Calle 10 Norte entre 1 y 5 Avenida, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

Hotel Kinbe is located on a quiet side street in downtown Playa Del Carmen right near busy La Quinta Avenida. It is just steps from the beach and surrounded by shops and restaurants. It’s in a prime location for doing it all – lounging, site seeing, and nightlife.

It’s also within walking distance of the bus station and the ferry to Cozumel. Making it perfect for budget travelers looking to save some cash by walking instead of taking cabs. This was one of the big selling points for me when I booked my reservation.

Hotel Kinbe Property & Room

Everything about the hotel was modern and light except the courtyard. The rooms overlooking the courtyard enjoyed overflowing lush green plants trailing up the stairs and balconies. It was open at the top, but not much light made it in through all the plants. The stairs and rails were made of thick, rough branches and different-sized planks of dark wood. It made me feel like I was in a jungle instead of a bustling tourist center.

The Pretty Room, which is just a standard room with a double bed, that I booked was a good size and had everything I needed. At this point in my journey, I just needed a hot shower, air conditioning, and a comfortable bed. The room was very modern and minimalistic with glass-top tables and silver and deep purple color scheme. The bathroom was decorated with river rocks and featured a rain showerhead.

Other amenities include a minibar, as well as a wall-mounted flat-screen television with local stations, and an in-room safe. The free wifi was incredibly strong throughout the entire hotel.

The Little Extras

The staff that I interacted with were welcoming and helpful, even when I arrived at 4 a.m. In the rain, feeling weak and ill, straight off an overnight bus from Belize. I ended up not taking advantage of being so close to the bus station due to the state of my arrival. A taxi from the bus station to the hotel was only about 50 pesos (about $3 USD), and I’m pretty sure the driver laughed at me.

Near the beautiful indoor/outdoor pool, which unfortunately I did NOT take advantage of, is a library full of books written in both English and Spanish from which guests can borrow. They also provide free wifi throughout the entire property.

What I Did Not Love

There was construction going on at a nearby hotel, which is not Hotel Kinbe’s fault, but still not ideal. Luckily the sounds weren’t as loud inside the hotel room as they were outside. Also, guests were provided umbrellas since it was a little rainy during my stay. Despite the umbrellas being flimsy and breaking during my first stride out the door, I appreciated the gesture.

Things to Do in Playa Del Carmen

Since I was unwell while I was in Playa Del Carmen, sadly I didn’t do a whole lot. However, I managed to go for walks around Centro (Hotel Kinbe is one block outside of Centro) in between rests, which brought me to the beach, window shopping, and cautiously sampling churros and tableside guacamole.

Here are a few things I did and some ideas of things to do in Playa Del Carmen that I would have done – and will if I go again!

• Visit Playa Del Carmen Beach – walk, take photos, lounge, swim, or enjoy from one of the many beach front restaurants.
• Get a Massage on the Beach – it’s an experience for sure – not the one I thought I was going to have – but still recommend.
• Stroll Along Quinta Avenida – Or 5th Avenue, to window shop, pick up souvenirs, stop for a bite to eat.
• Visit Parque Fundadores – Or Founding Fathers Park. Here you’ll see the Portal Maya Statue and street performers.

MORE THINGS TO DO IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

If you are not sick when you visit Playa Del Carmen, plan some activities.

How to Make Reservations

Find deals for Hotel Kinbe on Booking.com, my favorite accommodation booking site. As of the publication date, prices range from $50-$110 USD per night (taxes not included).

Don’t hesitate to book this hotel!