One of the Riviera Maya's top social hostels, Mayan Monkey Playa del Carmen is a lively hub just steps from 5th Avenue and the beach, with a rooftop pool, regular social events, and a mix of dorm and private rooms. The daily activities program—cenote trips, sunset parties, salsa classes—makes it easy to meet other travelers.
Mayan Monkey Playa del Carmen occupies a modern multi-storey building on Calle 12 Norte, one block from the 5th Avenue pedestrian mall and three blocks from the main beach access. This central position in the heart of Playa del Carmen makes it the best-located hostel in town for travelers who want walkability to restaurants, nightlife, dive shops, and the Cozumel ferry pier. The hostel has established itself as one of the top-rated social properties on the Riviera Maya, distinguished by a structured daily activities program that goes beyond the typical party-hostel formula.
Accommodation ranges from mixed-gender and female-only dormitory rooms with 6 to 12 beds (each with individual reading lights, lockers, and power outlets) to private en-suite double and twin rooms for couples and travelers who prefer privacy alongside the hostel atmosphere. The rooftop pool is the social centerpiece, with sun loungers and an adjacent bar serving drinks from late morning through evening. Organized daily activities include cenote day trips, sunset catamaran cruises, salsa and merengue classes, cooking demonstrations, and social dinners designed to bring international travelers together. A breakfast option is available for purchase at reception but is not included in the base rate.
Security is robust: key-card room access, individual dorm lockers, and an overnight security presence. The front desk operates 24 hours and books tours, airport transfers, and restaurant reservations for guests. Mayan Monkey also operates locations in Cancun and Tulum, and inter-property transfers are easily arranged for travelers moving along the Riviera Maya coast. The 5th Avenue nightlife begins just steps from the front entrance, and the Cozumel ferry pier at the end of Avenida Constituyentes is approximately 1 km away.
Amenities
- pool
- bar
- dorms
- private rooms
- daily activities
- wifi
- lockers
Location
Calle 12 Norte, Centro, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 77710
20.6312, -87.0748 View on map
Highlights
- Rooftop pool with bar and panoramic views over the Playa del Carmen rooftops
- Half-block from 5th Avenue; three blocks from the Caribbean beach
- Structured daily activities program: cenote trips, salsa classes, sunset boat cruises, cooking demos
- Female-only dorm option and enforced individual lockers in all shared accommodation
- 24-hour front desk with in-house tour booking for Cozumel, Tulum, and cenote excursions
Tips for visiting
- Book a private room if planning a late arrival — dorm check-in after midnight can disturb other guests
- Sign up for organized activities within the first hour of check-in; cenote trips and sunset boats sell out by noon most days
- The female-only dorm is the first room type to fill; request it specifically when reserving if required
- Store valuables in the in-room locker — the common areas and rooftop are busy social spaces throughout the day and evening
When to visit
Year-round. The central location makes it a viable base in any season; December to April is the busiest period with the highest room rates.
Accessibility
The multi-storey building has stairs; elevator availability should be confirmed with the property. Dorm room design is not suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations.