Condo

El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly

Photo gallery for El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly

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Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4900 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Playa del Carmen, MEX
  • Quinta Avenida
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Playa del Carmen Main Beach
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo (PCM)
    ‪14 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Guest

1 Queen Bed

Master

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Guest Bath

Bathtub · Toilet

Master Bath

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

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 with gas BBQ.

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. This condo offers complementary parking.

• 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 two months a year so we are constantly updating our list of favorite activities and restaurants.

• 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.

Keywords: Playa, Beachfront, Vacation Rentals, Playa del Carmen, Luxury

Property manager

Susan Mattingly
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Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Playa del Carmen

Located in Downtown Playa del Carmen, a neighbourhood in Playa del Carmen, this condo is near theme parks and on the beach. Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal and Playacar Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Playa del Carmen Main Beach and Mamitas Beach. Xplor Theme Park and Xcaret Eco Theme Park are not to be missed. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and kayaking nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and cave exploring.
Map
Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo

What's nearby

  • Quinta Avenida - 2 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Playa del Carmen Main Beach - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Mamitas Beach - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Playa del Carmen Maritime Terminal - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Playacar Golf Club - 5 min drive - 2.9 km

Getting around

  • Cancun, Quintana Roo (CUN-Cancun Intl.) - 51 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cervecería Chapultepec - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪100% Natural - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Fah Restaurant Bar - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Tropical Playa del Carmen - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Zenzi Beach Bar & Restaurant - ‬1 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Does El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool. Pool types include infinity pools.

Is El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?

Self-parking is available for a fee.

What time is check-in at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly located?

Nestled on the beach, this Downtown Playa del Carmen condo building is within a 5-minute walk of Frida Kahlo Museum and Quinta Avenida. Playa del Carmen Main Beach and Mamitas Beach are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 43 out of 57 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 57 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 57 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 57 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 57 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Michael H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

George S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best place to stay on the beach

we loved where we stayed Best place on the beach.. steps from the beach and pool
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

8/10 Good

Irma F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Susan was so easy to communicate with, the property was perfect location.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

LISA G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay

Great Location. Very nice place.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jamie H., Houston, TX

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michelle C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terry

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
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! :)
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

Jon B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

W Kent B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Yesika M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Stay

This property is in a prime location- right off 5th street with quick access to shops and other activities. The beach front access and view were amazing! My husband and I had a wonderful time!

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We really enjoyed our stay. Having the pool and the beach right off the condo deck was amazing.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Vacation Location!

We had a great time at Reef 101! The location is perfect! Steps from the pool and the beach! Everyone working on property was friendly and helpful. Roger was responsive and efficient! Security guards were always present. We felt very safe and recommend this property! We will be back!!-Bonnie H
Stayed 11 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Joyce W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful graduation trip

We stayed 1st week of June, 2021. This property is exactly as shown. The location, beach front walk out is fantastic. Everything was a short walk including the ferry to Cozumel. Amazing restaurants are a short walk away. The seaweed was bad but it is everywhere right now so we used the lovely pool daily. Security was amazing. Booked a snorkel trip right on the beach. There was a pop bar right beside unit that had great drinks.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Shane S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

El Faro Residences - Reef 101

One of the best accommodation options in downtown, with an amazing location convenient to all of the restaurants and shopping, while still being right on the beach. The infinity pool and deck create an unobstructed view, with limited solicitation. The beach is about half the size of what it is in the listing pictures, which is still plenty. The only two cons that we encountered were the noise late night beach goers and El Faro "residents", and the overwhelming amount of sea grass that they are currently having wash ashore. It is significant, and does affect the overall scenic quality. Otherwise, a great stay, with a great staff, in a super comfortable space. Would absolutely stay here again.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2021

6/10 Okay

Dave L., Yakima, WA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication

Sweet and Sour

First off this is a really nice unit located right on the beach with 2 patio areas. The view is amazing every morning when the sun rises. You walk out the door and you are at the pool or the sandy beach it doesn't get any better than that. The unit is comfortable with nice bed mattresses and linens. Kitchen is well fitted for your stay and has a view right out to the beach and ocean. Access to groceries and restaurants are all within walking distance. Cabs right out by the front entrance to El Faro. You're just blocks from the famous 5th Avenue. The security personnel at El Faro are awesome and they make you feel safe day and night. But being right on the ocean in Playa del Carmen has its issues. It is a busy beach, day and night! Noisy especially weekend nights way into the next morning. I knew this going in, we have stayed at El Faro before. Reef 101's location trumped the noise for this trip as did the price for unit! The sour part of our stay is this unit seeps water in under the floor in the kitchen area during rain storms. I am not sure how others resolve it but laying out all our beach towels onto the kitchen and hallway floors worked. I had to stay up to wring them out in the sink every 30 minutes until it stopped coming in around 830 am. I had to wait until 900 am to notify the property manager who then showed up at 1015. A repair guy from the property management arrived around 200pm and took out the dishwasher but it was working okay. He told me it must of been water seeping in from the rain the day before. They even checked the unit above due to amount of water. It did it again the day we left. Why a only a 3 star? Property Management team had a few issues on communication with me even though Benjamin filled in for our guy on the flood day. Unfortunately I never saw anyone before or after that. Do not expect a warm fuzzy from owner. I only had one contact and that was for ID's needed prior to arrival at front desk. It could of been a computer generated communication. The flooding is another lost point. I shouldn't be wring out towels throughout the night trying to keep the place dry. You can't imagine the humidity in the condo for a couple of days after that. Final issue for this stay was the pool was half full for 11 of our 14 days due to a repair and dailey on site construction noise from jack hammers to grinders to skill saws. Maybe that is why we got a great price. I thought it was due to COVID ?

10/10 Excellent

kashif a.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Beautiful property and perfect place in paya del carmen.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

About the host

Hosted by Susan Mattingly

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