I just got back from Playa del Carmen with a group. Really really enjoyed it. We were glad we went when we did, since it's "cool" (ie. high of 80oF, low of 70oF daily) and just past the rainy season, but still a little overcast every once in awhile (we're the rare type that don't necessarily travel towards the equator for the sun).
If you're looking for a place to catch some televised hockey while you're there, the End Zone Sports Bar ("EZ" for short) is a great option. It's on the south side of 5th Ave. (between 12th and 14th streets; about 6 blocks north of Benito Juarez) and often has Canadians stopping by to catch a game. They were happy to change the channel to the Flames when we asked.
Tulum was excellent, yes. I was expecting good things based on people's responses in the past, but I was still blown away. We didn't go on many tours during the trip, what we did "splurge" ($100 pp) on a full day guided tour to Tulum. It was so totally worth it --
much moreso than I expected it to be. Not only did we get a ton of historical and archaeological context to Tulum itself (and how it relates to the Mayan civilization and the other ruins, including Chichen Itza - which we didn't get to see, but would definitely like to in the future), but we got to snorkel in two incredible cenotes (sinkholes), had snacks and cold beverages included throughout, had traditional lunch made for us on a private beach, and got to ask all sorts of questions to a great guide and driver, who spoke excellent English. Did I mention how beautiful Tulum is?
Also, you have to snorkel/scuba off the Cozumel coast and/or swim with the dolphins while you're down there. Amazing stuff.