Mexico Playa del Carmen or other option?

[nicesausages]

We're looking at Christmas in Mexico next year (DSIS and family live in US so meeting them in Mexico). Playa del Carmen looks very suitable for us. We're thinking of renting one big property

Anyone got any good suggestions or advice? We're not keen on the idea of Cancun or Mexico City. Something not too commercial and will be good for a restful but adventurous holiday

There are loads of great places in Mexico - but depends what you are looking for - the beach I guess? A "proper" town? A tourist area? How quiet a place are you looking for? I can comment on a lot of places in Mexico but not P del C as I have only passed by!