Excellent food and top shelf drinks can be had at many resorts for a price, along with calm water (with a sandy entry) and a fun but not rowdy vibe. The hotel zone is actually a good fit, just need to find your best-fit resort.

Maroma Beach also comes to mind for the calm, gorgeous beach, not sure if the fun is there...Google the resorts there...

The Hilton in Playa (I know, it was the Royal before) is in a great spot right in Playa. We haven’t stayed there at all, but it has been a favorite spot for friends visiting the area who wanted an AI right in town on a beautiful beach where they could walk to other bars and enjoy bands. But check recent reviews since Hilton took it over...

Do you want an adult only resort? They can be a bit boring for us alone, but with friends it is a great choice for the best food/drinks and a younger vibe...

"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