We love staying at the iberostar Tucan resort which is set in a jungle on a gorgeous beach and located close to Playa in Playacar. Easy access to runs and natural sites.
disagree a bit with previous poster, Playa is growing and becoming a very diverse place. But still very Mexican, and an excellent base location. We're building a home just north of Playa to take advantage of the excellent infrastructure and medical system, yet we can drive to so many areas including Belize. Yes 5th Ave is a busy spot, it there are excellent restaurants to enjoy, and the North end (Little Italy) is a very nice area to stay in. For a nice, boutique hotel on the north end where you can walk everywhere consider Aventura Mexicana.

"Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.”
-Anthony Bourdain