Fodor's Expert Review Petit Lafitte
Carretera 307, Km 296, Xcalacoco, Punta Bete, Quintana Roo 77710, Mexico See on Map
Petit Lafitte has carved a niche for itself as a medium-range hotel that tries to define luxury in a subtler way, where personal service and attention to details make all the difference. Set on a gorgeous stretch of beach, it offers comfortable accommodations, fine dining and a laid-back attitude that is refreshing in this world of mega-sized corporate all-inclusive resorts.
Among its attractions Petit Lafitte counts an animal sanctuary that never fails to impress the kids. Take your children to have up-close-and-personal interactions with macaws, toucans, wild boars, capibaras and other animals rescued from illegal captivity.
room
The hotel rooms have ample space, and a modern unassuming decor that gives it a homey feeling. All rooms have air conditioning, ceiling fans and balcony or terrace with garden or ocean views. But what sets Petit Laffite apart are those fantastic, rustic-style bungalows with direct access to the beach. They look like mountain cabins with those wood walls and simple design. The gorgeous verandas outside the bungalows are the perfect spot to unwind and disconnect.
bathroom
The bungalows’ bathrooms are small but well-appointed, with colorful hand-painted bathroom sink, vanity mirror and hairdryer. The wood walls give them a Russian-sauna feeling. The hotel rooms’ bathrooms are pretty similar but without the rustic touches.
lobby
The lobby of this smart, unpretentious hotel is just a smart, unpretentious living room in front of an ordinary reception desk. A few pirate-themed decorative items try to create an atmosphere, but they fail miserably.
pool
Petit Laffite offers a medium-size swimming pool located next to the beach and surrounded by palm trees and shaded chaise lounges. Just behind the pool, there is a playground for the little ones.
spa
The White Health Spa is a little ocean front palapa with a full menu of wellness treatments and services. Among others you can get a deep tissue massage, a moonlight massage or just a facial treatment, steps away from the Caribbean Sea.
dining
Petit Laffite offers a half-board service that includes breakfast buffet and dinner, but not lunch or drinks. The Captain’s Galley serves a fusion of Mexican, Yucatanean and Caribbean cuisines in a casual atmosphere under a large palapa.
YOU SHOULD KNOW Although there are some packages that may include breakfasts, or breakfasts and dinners, there is no all-inclusive deals at Petit Lafitte.
drinking
The beachside bar is strategically located between the pool and the beach, and serves a variety of cold drinks and cocktails. Near to the bar there is a palapa with tables and chairs, just like in an ocean front deck under the shade of palm trees. This is a great spot to enjoy a drink and have a good conversation after sunset.
LOCATION
Getting Around
The hotel is located on the boundaries of Playa del Carmen and there are not many things to see in the immediate area, what obviously may be considered an advantage for some. The Cancun International Airport is only 40 minutes away by car, and you can get a taxi or a shared van to get to the hotel. You can also hire airport transfer directly at Petit Laffite.
Restaurants
As Petit Laffite is not all-inclusive, it may be a good excuse to try some local delicacies. Try looking for some spots frequented by the Playa del Carmen residents such as El Pirata (20-minute drive), a non-pretentious, small restaurant with great, fresh seafood or Los Aguachiles (18-minute drive) far away from the main drag and serving tasty local food and beer.
WHY WE LIKE IT
We love its defiant attitude. Petit Laffite redefines luxury and the meaning of good beach vacations. The bungalows are unique pieces of design in this region. It’s so refreshing to see someone trying something different.
QUICK FACTS
Fodor’s Awards
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