At this condo you'll be within just a 10-minute stroll of popular attractions like Quinta Avenida and Playa del Carmen Main Beach. .You can enjoy a TV with cable channels, and condo features a washer/dryer, 2 bathrooms and a furnished balcony or patio. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A DVD player, a coffee/tea maker and a hairdryer are also available. Limited housekeeping is available. .This beach condo building offers concierge services, a games room and a terrace. Additionally, you'll find laundry facilities and a lift. There's also the convenience of self parking.
Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
Central Square - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
Mamitas Beach - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
Getting around
Cancun, Quintana Roo (CUN-Cancun Intl.) - 51 min drive
Restaurants
Cervecería Chapultepec - 3 min walk
Fah Restaurant Bar - 3 min walk
Zenzi Beach Club - 1 min walk
Starbucks - 3 min walk
Mi Jardin Secreto - 3 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire condo to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly
ONE OF A KIND 'end cap' oceanfront condos to be found on Playa's Main Beach with a Prime wrap-around corner ocean front terrace.
Offering the privacy of two private master suites with full baths, this luxury beach villa has newly updated decor. The ocean is visible from most every room in the villa, especially from the kitchen, living room, and master bedroom where a wall of sliding glass doors and windows offer panoramic views of the water.
Travertine marble floors extending onto your private outdoor terrace, (and private side porch) fully equipped chef's stainless kitchen with granite counter tops, original paintings and many other fine details are all there to provide impeccable quality and international style. Even the terrace is furnished in the finest in outdoor comfort for lounging and alfresco dining. The common area courtyard has beautiful landscaping of palm trees, tropical plants, flowers and a large refreshing infinity edged pool. Complementary outdoor tables and lounges are provided for relaxing and entertaining around the pool. These resort condos are set amidst Playa del Carmen’s mythical beach and vibrant international sidewalk scene. A mere block from the gates of El Faro Playa’s urbane Fifth Avenue pedestrian promenade beckons with relaxed cafes and gourmet restaurants, exclusive lounges, and al fresco bars, intriguing boutiques and local purveyors of all types and variety.
Enjoy the privacy of this spacious beach condo. El Faro is prime Mexico beach real estate that is like an island in a sea of small town local charm. Ask about our seasonal specials. El Faro is vacation lodging at its finest. Please take a tour of our website with pictures, maps, and other info about your trip to the Mayan Riviera, land of the ancient Maya.
“Playa del Carmen is the style capital of the Riviera Maya” -Travel + Leisure
“Playa del Carmen is Mexico’s most fashionable getaway” --Conde Nast Traveler
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS PROPERTY
• HOW DO WE GET THERE FROM CANCUN AIRPORT? Playa is a 45-minute drive south of the airport. We provide a private van service for $185 round trip, max 8 people, child seats available. Other options: Taxi $70 one-way, Rental car, Hourly Express bus.
• WHERE IS THE PROPERTY? El Faro is located in the heart of Playa’s main tourist district at Calle 10 and the beach, one block from Fifth Avenue. Fifth Avenue is a world famous, 40+-block pedestrian promenade with relaxed cafes and gourmet restaurants, exclusive lounges, and al fresco bars, intriguing boutiques and local purveyors of all types and variety.
• IS EL FARO TRULY BEACHFRONT? Yes and all the condos that we represent in Playa have stunning ocean views.
• CAN WE SWIM AND SNORKEL IN THE OCEAN IN FRONT OF El FARO? Our beach is rated as one of the top beaches in Mexico because of it’s soft white sand and calm aqua blue water providing safe and enjoyable swimming conditions for people of all ages. The reef off our shore offers excellent snorkeling conditions with a multitude of colorful coral formations and exotic fish and marine life but you will need to hire a snorkeling guide with a boat to get there.
• DO WE NEED A CAR? Not necessarily because Playa is pedestrian friendly and we are close to everything. We typically walk or cab around town and rent a car on an as needed basis for regional excursions. There are several car rental agencies within a few blocks. We do offer parking-must be paid in advance $15 a day.
• WHERE DO WE GROCERY SHOP? We have several small markets within one block and several full service grocery stores within 7 blocks.
• HOW OFTEN DO WE GET MAID SERVICE? We offer every other day light housekeeping and trash removal . Upon arrival- soap, shampoo, paper towels, bottled purified water, laundry detergent for the washer/dryer room. If your stay is 7 days we offer a mid week cleaning that includes fresh linens, bath and beach towels change.
• DO YOU HAVE INTERNET SERVICE? We have cable TV, high speed wireless internet.
• CAN YOU RECOMMEND ACTIVITIES AND RESTAURANTS? We visit Playa five times a year so we are constantly updating our list of favorite activities and restaurants.
• CAN YOU GIVE US SOME OPTIONS OF OTHER AVAILABLE CONDOS IN EL FARO ? Yes, just click on our Playa Luxury Rentals website and photo album link that is located on this website just below the calendar for info and availability on all our listings in the building.
• DO YOU OFFER CONCIERGE SERVICES? We offer Personal Assistance for transportation, grocery shopping, babysitting, in-house massage, tours & excursions, tee times, and emergency & medical assistance.
• DO WE NEED TO GET PESOS? Not necessarily. All stores and restaurants in Playa will take dollars and Euros. There are ATMs nearby and places to change money. We usually take about 100 dollars in ones, fives, and tens, which are very handy for tipping, and short cab rides around town.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
In-room accessibility
Lift
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Concierge services
Iron/ironing board
Limited housekeeping
Tour and ticket assistance
Location highlights
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a zoo
Near the ocean
Things to do
Arcade/game room
Basketball nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Hunting nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Parasailing nearby
Rafting nearby
Rock climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Snorkelling nearby
Spelunking nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Theme park nearby
Water skiing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
Deadbolt lock
General
Unit size: 900 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 24
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
No pets allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector and a deadbolt lock in all accommodation.
Property is also known as
684
Frequently asked questions
Is parking available at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?
Yep, El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly has a self car park, for a fee. A self car park is also available, for a fee.
Are there any beaches close to El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?
Yep, El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly is a short 5-minute walk from Playa del Carmen Main Beach.
Fun beach activities include jet skiing, snorkelling and waterskiing. You can also find motor boats.
Does El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly have a pool?
El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly has an infinity pool and a communal pool.
Is there a free airport shuttle available at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?
No, El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly does not offer an airport shuttle service.
What time are check-in & check-out at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.
Are pets allowed at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?
No, pets are not allowed.
El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly Reviews
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 49 out of 64 reviews
10 - Excellent
49
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 64 reviews
8 - Good
13
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 64 reviews
6 - Okay
2
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 64 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 64 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8/10
Cleanliness
8.0/10
Amenities
8.0/10
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Jeffrey D.
10 Mar 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Check in process was easy, the complex always felt safe and patroled (almost abundanently so). The unit was clean with full amentities including filtered water, beach towels, full kitchen and toiletries! Could not beat the location! Will certainly be back
Jeffrey D.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
Trisha A.
9 Feb 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
What a wonderful stay!!!! Perfect location, unit and host!!!
Trisha A.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
10/10 Excellent
Tish F.
6 Feb 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Ease of booking, amazing view and close proximity of restaurants and things to do!
Tish F.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Candas W.
26 Jan 2026
Liked: Cleanliness
Our suite was very nice and well set up and clean.We had a minor issue one day and Susan accomadated us as soon as she could. We were very pleased and understand that things happen occasionally. We met very nice people at El Farro during our stay, and they were all very informative and sent us in the right direction one day when we were looking to watch the football game one afternoon, where they also served amazing pub grub. Many fabulous 5 star restaurants in the area, as well as a great martini bar a block away. Walmart is only a 10 min walk to pick up groceries and beer and wine.Walking distance to everything you may require, and all the action on 5th ave a block away. If you’re a golfer we played a couple rounds at a very nice golf course in Playacar at Hard Rock Golf course, maybe 15 min taxi ride. The course was in great condition and the rental clubs were like brand new. Food and beverages included in the price. I would recommend Sandy’s unit 101 Reef at El Farro. It is on the beach and is great for people watching. If you want a quieter unit off the beach buzz, I would also recommend Sandy’s place at 103 Coral that we stayed in briefly. Another beautiful unit with an amazing view of the pool and ocean. Thanks Sandy for everything Candas from Canada
Candas W.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
priscilla g.
3 Dec 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great experience. Very relaxing.
priscilla g.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2025
8/10 Good
A H.
24 Aug 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
A H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Paul H.
7 Aug 2025
Paul H.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Michael H., Denver, Co
21 Mar 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
On the beach - next to 5th Ave!
Just enjoyed a full week here at El Faro - setup was ideal and proximity to everything is unbeatable!Host was super quick to respond - pool was amazing and the view was unbeatable!! There is even a plunge pool on the deck if you don’t feel like stepping foot off the property.I hate to gush at what an amazing time we had, but we have stayed in some really nice all inclusive and the freedom to go wherever whenever was ideal!This unit is literally a 12 minute walk to the pier for a ferry to Cozumel, 3 minutes to 5th Ave where there are hundreds of options for shopping and dining, and a quick 45 minute taxi from Cancun Airport. There are SO many good options for dining, 2 awesome beach bars across the street from the property and a Walmart and grocery store also within walking distance. Always felt safe walking with the family no matter the time of day.Thank you front desk and hosts for a truely memorable family vacation!
Michael H.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
George S.
5 Feb 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Best place to stay on the beach
we loved where we stayed Best place on the beach.. steps from the beach and pool
George S.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
Michael J.
26 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Best beachfront unit in Playa
We had a wonderful 11 day stay at Reef 101. Location is perfect. Just a short walk up the street to 5th Avenue and the best fine dining and shops. It seemed to us that this is the only unit from pier to pier that is truly beach front. The staff was wonderful and friendly. We will definitely return.
Michael J.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Joy R.
14 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
El Farro 2024
Exactly as described. Steps away from the Caribbean ocean and an amazing pool to relax and swim overlooking the ocean. Property was patrolled to keep any non residents from wandering on site, didn’t experience any problems. A block away from the main shopping street, pedestrians only. Pretty cool.
Joy R.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024
8/10 Good
Irma F.
5 May 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Caribbean Getaway
This condo is very well appointed and you will never get any closer to the ocean let alone the beautiful Caribbean. The wrap around deck is so roomy and gives shade when needed. There are views from the kitchen, diningroom, living room, and primary bedroom.
However, we were disappointed with the sargassum - we had read from reviews that it could be a problem. It blew in so thick for the last couple of days. The locals worked so hard at removal but when it is stormy it is a losing battle.
We also had an incident where someone from upstairs dropped a glass bottle on our deck during the night shattering small pieces in the splash pool and the area around it. My husband went to the front desk and reported it first thing in the morning. (9:00 am) Not sure who was to blame but it wasn’t attended to until 3:00 pm.
Irma F.
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2024
10/10 Excellent
Gretchen B.
31 Mar 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful condo, excellent location
Condo was well appointed and clean. It had all we needed for a week stay. It is in a perfect location - short walk to 5th Street for all the shops and restaurants. We travelled with our 18yo and 11yo and they loved it. We were told by another guest, who have been down 12yrs to various condos, that it’s the best condo complex in Playa Del Carmen with the best pool. The view is stunning. It was perfect. Thank you!
Gretchen B.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kelly D.
4 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great location
Susan was so easy to communicate with, the property was perfect location.
Kelly D.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
LISA G.
1 Jan 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Stay
Great Location. Very nice place.
LISA G.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jacqueline F.
9 Dec 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Gorgeous
Communication with the host was excellent. Unfortunately I was unable to go and we had a few different people that ended up being able to make the trip and through all the changes, Susan was very helpful and kind. The ground transportation recommended was also a game changer! My friends that went said we WILL be back, me included!!
Jacqueline F.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023
10/10 Excellent
Sue H.
2 Nov 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful place !
We couldn’t have asked for a better place or a better vacation. Beautiful, clean, well stocked with everything you need, amazing location!!! Loved the plunge pool - about 4 ft deep. Good WiFi. Liked that each room could be set to a different AC temperature since I like it cold to sleep. The beach was clean, the ocean water like bath water. On Saturday night it was a little noisy on the beach until late, but I had a white noise App and was fine. The front desk was really helpful, even making a call for us when we had a transportation issue and needed a translator. For some reason, goggle maps takes you to a not so nice part of Playa when you put in El Faro Residences, so make sure you give address. We were told you need to put in Dream Life Playa instead of El Faro. Caused some issues for us because we didn’t know. Our favorite restaurants within one block were Zenzi Beach Bar and Restaurant and Madras Cafe (for breakfast). Also for dinners within just a few blocks - Portfirios and Fushion Beach Bar were both great. We got massages practically every day at Spa Sabai - $45/hour and the best massage we ever had (within walking distance). There are other places that are cheaper but we loved Spa Sabai. We will definitely be back. Had a wonderful vacation.
Sue H.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jamie H., Houston, TX
10 Oct 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise in Playa
By far the best unit at El Faro. Gorgeous view of the beach from the balcony and private plunge pool. Easy community pool access and beach access from the side patio. The community’s infinity pool is gorgeous! You can even get a massage poolside. Easy, close walk to many restaurants, bars, and shopping. Also convenient taxi service on the corner for any farther excursions you might want to take. Inside the condo, the amenities are comfortable, modern, and clean. We appreciated the water jugs provided for our use… and the beds were very comfortable. We slept great! The bathrooms could use some sprucing up… new grout and mildew/rust removal would make a huge difference. Also there were tiny ants on the kitchen counter, but we learned not to leave food uncovered and the ants stayed away. Truly could not have asked for a more relaxing, pleasant, beautiful stay.
Jamie H.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Michelle C.
19 June 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful property
You couldn’t get a better location! This condo is ON the sand. It’s spacious, convenient and absolutely beautiful. Management was great and so sweet and accommodating when my daughter and I were sick on travel day. They allowed us to check out at 2pm so that we could rest! Thank you for a great stay!
Michelle C.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Lindsay P.
7 June 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning beachfront views
My family & I stayed in this condo for a week during our vacation. It offers beach front and pool views! Our favorite amenity was the private plunge pool overlooking the Carribean. Thanks for a wonderful & safe stay!
Lindsay P.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
10/10 Excellent
Mark D., Marysville
14 Mar 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Location, Location, Location
Located right by the pool on one side, and borders the beach on the other. Owner is very responsive, had a great time!
I rented three units for this week. THis was the best of the three by far.
This property is the best of both worlds ... it's ON THE BEACH and walkable to town for dinner and nightlife. We will be back! :)
Terry
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
8/10 Good
Jon B.
14 Mar 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice place right on the beach
El Faro is the nicest place right on the beach in downtown Playa. Able to walk everywhere for shopping, coffee, restaurants, groceries. No car needed. Reef 101 is ground level end unit with view of ocean from every room except one bedroom. Beach area is kind of narrow in front of El Farro so will fill up with people especially on weekends. Many hotels are set back a block or two from beach and those people come to the small public beach area in front of El Farro. It provides lots of people watching opportunities but will get noisy at night with some groups partying late into the night right in front of unit. When doors and windows shut unit is pretty sound proof. Nice place for a week vacation. Some guests in other units are there for 1-4 months and will some will selfishly take the best pool chair spots everyday all day long. Weather was same 85 degrees with sun/cloud mix and no rain everyday. Air conditioning in unit was essential for sleeping at night. March 2022.
Jon B.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
W Kent B.
15 Dec 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Million Dollar View
This was our 3 time staying at El Faro and the 1st in Unit 101.
Breathtaking view or the beach and the ocean. We loved it and will stay here again.
W Kent B.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021
10/10 Excellent
Yesika M.
7 Dec 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
10 out 10 amazing trip
Reason of our trip was for my son’s 21st bday , I’ve always stayed in beachfront hotels but this place was literally 2 steps from the sand, legit ocean view, my experience will forever change in the room I stay moving forward. The tranquility, seeing the sunrise and set was magnificent! Perfect choice