Staying at an AI is a whole different experience, you are in a gated, self contained mega resort where you are fed and entertained. I personally prefer staying at a smaller non AI, where you can immerse yourself in the all excitement that PDC has to offer. However, the Gran Porto is one of the few AI's that is in the downtown, so you could explore the city and still have the AI experience if that's what you want.

If you want cheap then Gran Porto is a little on the upside, plus the beach there is close to Playa Maya so it is fair only. You might be happier at the Porto Real at the corner of La Quinta (5th ave.) and calle 30 I believe.. should be cheaper. It is a 3.5 star and heard good things about it. Although you are 2 blocks from Mamitas beach (considered one of the finest and popular)it is a pleasure just to walk down that area and only takes 5 to 10 minutes. This is the Italian section of la Quinta (north of Constituyentes)and very sought after, a little more peacefull also. This is not a mega resort, and is right on the main pedestrian street as you walk out the lobby. I am no AI expert as we are always in a condo but it just seems right with 2 boys at that age.

Thanks to you all!

I have to laugh when people compare staying at an AI resort to being in a gated community where there is no escape.
It is VERY EASY to leave the grounds of any AI resort in the Riviera Maya and explore as much as you want.
If you read the OP's posts, they are not looking to go exploring. Her boys want water sports and relaxing at the pool/beach. If I go to Mexico without children an AI might not be my choice. With teenage boys it makes a lot of sense and will make for a truly relaxing vacation where mom doesn't have to worry about what her boys are doing.

A couple of things. My recollection from visiting Playa Del Carmen a few years ago was the hotels were generally more expensive than in Cancun. That said, I'll take Playa any day over Cancun. The extra couple hundred bucks was well worth it. Don't be put off by staying two or three blocks inland in Playa. Your room will probably be closer to the beach than one at a large all-inclusive. About those AI's: My recollection was that most -- not all -- were a few miles outside of town. If you want to be near the action and near restaurants, that might be a drawback. Playa is also an easy bus ride to Tulum and ferry to Cozumel.

Sharon,
I hope you come back and let us know where you wind up staying and how you liked it.

schmerl, I am very sorry to say that I can't go to Mexico. I thought I had all my ducks in a row but do not.

Not to take anything away from US beaches/destinations, but I am heartbroken.

Looking at Florida now...