I loved our stay in the Puerto Aventuras community. About an hour+ south of the "maddening crowds" and touristy vibe of Cancun, yet close to many great experiences.
The condo is perfect for 4-6 (we were 3). Love the expansive patio with an eating area and a sunning area. The kitchen has everything you need for cooking simple meals, and there is a grocery right across the highway to stock up on food, beer, wine, and environmentally safe bio-degradable sunscreen and bug spray (required at many places). Nice that the condo provides a bottled water system, although the local water is overall safe. The unit is a short walk (10 minutes?) to the beach, which is beautiful and quiet. A few nice restaurants in the complex. Go out for breakfast after 9AM and get a ringside seat for the dolphin show (if you decide not to join them in the water). Our favorite dinner spot was La Caleta near the 'commercial' marina--great shrimp and fish tacos (and happy hour Margaritas). We went there twice for a quick casual dinner.
Across the highway and about 2 miles south is the Eden cenote, a great local "swimming hole"--clear water, shade (bring your own food, towels, and bio degradable bug spray and sunscreen!) The two nearby (Azul and Chiki-han) I have also heard are good.
The Omni Hotel on the PA property has a very helpful tour office. We booked a day trip with Alltournative travel to the Mayan ruins at Coba and Tulum, with lunch in a Mayan village, and swimming in a beautiful private cenote--a great day! Also booked a wonderful street food tour in Playa del Carmen (about 30 minute drive north) and enjoyed aqua fresco, tacos, tamales, mole, and the crunchy-sweet-salty dessert marquisitas from cart vendors, far away from the standard tourist venues. Don't miss Rio Secreto, about 5 miles north--a hike along and into an underground river, through a complex system of caves. They provide wet suits, flotation vests, helmets and lights. A very unique and memorable experience!!
This was our first time in Mexico and I would definitely consider coming back to this area--so much to do! The Puerto Aventuras location is perfectly situated to offer quiet relaxation or access to all the adventure amenities the region is famous for.