The Reef 28

The Reef 28 is marketed to younger travelers and has the Instagram-worthy style and stellar location to draw them in. A mix of boho-chic and modern minimalist styles, this upscale hotel comes out looking sharp. Expect teak wood, polished cream marble floors, subtle hints of ocean hues, and incorporating natural wood and twine furniture and elements; hanging wooden chairs in the lobby and lots of cascading greenery are particularly lovely. Rooms are centered around an interior atrium that looks over a dining area. Guest seem to love the attention to detail and rooftop deck, though the loud atmosphere centered around a pool with techno music isn't for everyone. 

The Reef 28 has a convenient location in Playa del Carmen, right off First Avenue and one block from 5th Avenue. Guests are within easy and safe walking distance to the beach, popular beach clubs, late-night dance clubs, and countless restaurants, shops, and bars. The party town's southern area near Puerto Juarez, the ferry to Cozumel, and the main bus terminal are all about a 15- to 20-minute walk or cheap, five-minute taxi ride. Visitors can use the beach clubs at sister hotels Reef Coco Beach and Reef Playacar for free, through they require a 15- or 38-minute walk, respectively, or free shuttle ride. Popular attractions like Xel-Ha, Xplor, and Xcaret can be reached within 15 to 20 minutes once on the main highway. Snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal, cenote diving, and the beachside ruins of Tulum are within a 30-minute, 45-minute, and 60-minute drive south of Playa del Carmen, while Cancun airport is just over 45 minutes north. 

There are 120 sleek suites at The Reef 28, split up between Junior Suites and Master Suites. The larger Master Suites add separate living spaces, kitchenettes with microwaves and two-burner stoves, and in-room whirlpools. All rooms have stylish, contemporary decor that balances a natural color palette of wood, white, and olive green. Polished floors, semi-transparent wood dividers, and woven light fixtures help elevate the overall look. Marble bathrooms feature walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads, large vanities, hairdryers, and quality toiletries. Floor-to-ceiling windows brings in good natural light. Standard amenities consist of sitting areas, tables and chairs, flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, minibars, AC, USB charging ports, and free Wi-Fi. 

The all-inclusive package covers all meals at the buffet, a la carte dining at the Mexican and Asian restaurants, and all-day snacks and domestic and premium alcohol at three bars. Guests get free access to the two beach clubs at sister hotels, Reef Playacar and Reef Coco Beach, where there are non-motorized water sports, loungers, and snorkel gear. 

Up on the roof, guests will find a lively but narrow infinity-style pool overlooking the edge of the building. Double-wide cushioned daybeds and cabanas are available and offer good shade from the Mexican sun, though some guests complain of loungers shortages. A rooftop bar doles out drinks and techno music is pumped loudly here. 

The Reef 28 has well-reviewed food, including a main buffet serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and two a la carte restaurants offering Mexican and Asian cuisine. Domestic and international brands are served at all three bars. There's no real entertainment here except for live DJs by the pool. 

The full-service Okom Spa has a Nordic feel thanks to modern minimalist decor and wooden sauna, and is a highlight of the hotel even though everything here costs extra. Guests particularly like the hydrotherapy circuit, and a large sauna with built-in lounge chairs is a standout. A gym is stocked with enough contemporary machines and equipment to squeeze in a good workout. 

Wi-Fi is free across the hotel.