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 483.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

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.

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.

Keywords: Condominium

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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

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 Xplor Theme Park 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. Xcaret Eco Theme Park and Xaman Ha Aviary are also worth visiting. 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 - 0.2 km
  • Playa del Carmen Main Beach - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • 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

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.

How much does it cost to stay at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly?

As of 17 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at El Faro Reef 101-True Beachfront -Relax Unwind -Susan Mattingly on 17 Apr 2026 start from AU$410, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

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. 50 out of 65 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 65 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 65 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 65 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 65 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

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Trisha A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a wonderful stay!!!! Perfect location, unit and host!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tish F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ease of booking, amazing view and close proximity of restaurants and things to do!
View from front deck
View from front deck
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

priscilla g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great experience. Very relaxing.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nat

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an amazing stay at El Faro.The location is incredible. The beach is literally about 10 feet away. The pool is right beside the condo and downtown Playa del Carmen is directly behind you. Everything is within walking distance including restaurants, shops, and the Cozumel ferry just a few blocks away.Our flight was delayed and we arrived much later than expected, but there is 24 hour security on site and the guard was able to open our unit for us right away, which made the late arrival very easy.Even though the property is very central, it was not overly loud at night. Since you are right on the beach you will hear people talking on the sand in the evenings, but for us it was never disruptive.The condo itself was spacious and comfortable. The beds were comfortable and we always felt very safe.The unit is minimally stocked with supplies, just a few mini shampoos, conditioner and a bar of soap provided. However a Soriana grocery store is about a half mile walk away and you can purchase extra stuff.We stayed five nights and could easily have stayed longer. Overall this is one of the best locations in Playa del Carmen and we would absolutely stay here again.
L shaped balcony
The pool
Downtown behind the condo
View looking out from balcony
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Candas W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Amazing Gelato on the corner of 5th one Block from El farro.
Looking down from the balcony at 101Reef at some family members on the beach.
Yes spicy margs at Yum Yums
Green curry at Yums Yums thought I was in Thailand yummy
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Todd G.

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

Awesome Vacation Time in Playa

What a great room and property! We enjoyed our stay at the El Faro. Our stay in Reef 101 was absolutely wonderful. A great condo with everything you need and the best part is the beach is right outside your door. Wonderful views and attentive staff. A great location for accessing everything you need such as groceries, beverages, restaurants, bars, and shops. We look forward to our next stay at El Faro.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2020
Verified

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James P.

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

Perfect Location

The unit is large and the floor efficient. The patio opened to paradise. Restaurants, shopping, a block away. The beach outside the door. Amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Gena M.

Beautiful view, great location!

This condo suited us perfectly! We loved being able to walk right out onto the beach or into the pool from our room without having to go up an elevator or stairs. It was nice to have a bathroom right there too! The condo itself was well appointed with everything we needed. Plenty of beach towels, dishes, even to-go coffee cups. No complaints whatsoever. We have stayed at several other condos in this complex as well and they are all fabulous.
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Verified

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
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Gina B.

Beachfront and Perfect Location

My husband and I just got back from a week at Reef 101 and it was perfect. The condo was located right on the beach and steps from the pool. Loved being on the first floor and able to just step out the patio door to the beach or the pool. The condo itself was well maintained and comfortable (bed was too firm for our liking, but could just be our personal choice). The location to 5th was just what we wanted. This was our first visit to the area and the option to walk to everything was key. Just a block from 5th and was easy to walk to the more local restaurants on 10th or 15th. Highly recommend for anyone who loves the beach, a great pool, wonderful staff and great food and shopping just steps away.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachael B.

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

Right. On. The. Beach.

This is a great condo. Exactly as its portrayed in the photos. El Faro is a great location in Playa and this is the best condo in the complex. Its the "cat-bird seat". Balcony with the private splash pool was so awesome. We spent time watching the sun rise/set & the people watching was endless entertainment. The unit itself was perfect for 4 people. If you have the mater bedroom you can watch the sunrise from the comfort of your bed! We loved this place and would highly recommend it if you want to come to Playa and be in the middle of the hustle & bustle.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020

About the host

Hosted by Susan Mattingly

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