Essential Amenities to Look for in Playa del Carmen Rentals

Essential amenities for Playa del Carmen rentals include air conditioning (necessary in 30-35°C temperatures), reliable water pressure and hot water systems, quality locks and security features, working appliances (refrigerator, stove, microwave), and either in-unit laundry or nearby laundromat access. The amenities included can significantly impact your daily comfort and overall living experience beyond just location and price. Here's a comprehensive guide to the amenities you should consider when searching for your next rental in the Riviera Maya.

Climate Control: Your Top Priority

Air Conditioning

In Playa del Carmen's tropical climate, air conditioning isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. Temperatures regularly reach 30-35°C (86-95°F) with high humidity, especially from May through October.

What to look for:

• Mini-split units: Most common and efficient for individual rooms
• Central air: Found in newer, higher-end buildings
• Units in bedrooms: Essential for comfortable sleep
• Working condition: Test all units during your viewing
• Age of units: Older units may be less efficient and more expensive to run

Important: Clarify whether electricity is included in rent. AC usage can significantly increase your electricity bill, sometimes adding 1,000-3,000 MXN per month during hot months.

Ceiling Fans

Even with AC, ceiling fans are valuable for air circulation and can help reduce energy costs. Look for fans in:

• Bedrooms
• Living areas
• Outdoor spaces like terraces or balconies

Water and Plumbing

Water Pressure

Water pressure varies significantly across Playa del Carmen. During your viewing:

• Turn on multiple faucets simultaneously
• Test the shower pressure
• Ask about water pressure during peak hours

Hot Water

Hot water systems vary widely:

• Tankless heaters (calentadores): On-demand hot water, most common
• Solar heaters: Eco-friendly but may struggle on cloudy days
• Electric tanks: Reliable but can increase electricity costs
• Gas tanks: Common and cost-effective

Water Storage

Many buildings have water tanks (tinacos) on the roof. Ask about:

• Tank capacity
• How often water shortages occur
• Building's water backup system

Kitchen Essentials

Appliances to Expect

Standard furnished rentals typically include:

• Refrigerator: Size varies; check if it meets your needs
• Stove: Usually gas-powered; some have electric
• Microwave: Common but not guaranteed

Often not included but worth asking about:

• Dishwasher: Rare in standard rentals, common in luxury units
• Oven: Many stoves don't include an oven
• Blender: Sometimes included in furnished units
• Coffee maker: Occasionally included

Kitchen Features

Check for:

• Counter space for food preparation
• Storage cabinets (pest-proof is a plus)
• Water filtration or space for a garrafón (water jug)
• Ventilation or range hood

Laundry Facilities

In-Unit Laundry

Having a washing machine in your unit is a significant convenience:

• Washer only: Most common; clothes dry quickly on balconies
• Washer-dryer combo: Found in higher-end rentals
• Connections only: You may need to buy or rent a machine

Building Laundry

Some buildings offer:

• Shared laundry rooms
• Coin or card-operated machines
• Laundry service at additional cost

Local Lavanderías

If the rental doesn't include laundry, local laundromats (lavanderías) are affordable and convenient, typically charging 15-25 MXN per kilogram.

Internet and Connectivity

Internet Service

For remote workers, reliable internet is non-negotiable:

• Included internet: Some rentals include WiFi in the rent
• Speed: Ask about the connection speed (50+ Mbps recommended for work)
• Provider options: Telmex, Izzi, and TotalPlay are common providers
• Fiber availability: Newer areas may have fiber optic connections

Backup Options

Given occasional outages, consider:

• Mobile hotspot capability
• Nearby cafes or coworking spaces as backup

Security Features

Building Security

Look for:

• 24-hour security guard: Common in gated communities and many apartment buildings
• Controlled access: Key fobs, codes, or intercoms
• Security cameras: In common areas and entrances
• Secure parking: Gated and monitored

Unit Security

Check for:

• Quality door locks (deadbolts preferred)
• Window locks and security bars on ground floor
• Safe for valuables
• Hurricane shutters or impact windows

Outdoor Spaces

Private Outdoor Space

Options may include:

• Balcony: Great for drying clothes and enjoying morning coffee
• Terrace: Larger outdoor living space
• Rooftop access: Private or shared rooftop areas
• Garden: Ground-floor units may have private gardens

Common Areas

Building amenities to consider:

• Pool: Very common and highly valued in the heat
• Gym: Found in many modern buildings
• BBQ area: For social gatherings
• Garden or green spaces: Pleasant for relaxation
• Rooftop lounge: Popular in newer buildings