Complete Guide To This Riviera Maya Paradise

For travelers looking for a destination that offers a little bit of everything, Playa del Carmen should be at the top of the list. This beautiful beach town on the Caribbean coast of Mexico is a hub for adventure, relaxation, and culture, making it a perfect spot for any traveler. There is an unbelievable amount of things to do in Playa del Carmen, but visitors will be able to experience this paradise like a local with just a little guidance.

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant and picturesque beach town located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. With its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and stunning coral reefs, it’s no wonder that this destination has become a popular spot for travelers seeking a getaway to a beach paradise. But Playa del Carmen is much more than just a beautiful beach town – it has a rich history and culture that make it truly a unique destination.

Originally a small fishing village, Playa del Carmen has grown into a bustling town with vibrant nightlife, world-class restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. The town’s name in Mayan, Xaman-Ha, translates to “water of the North,” which refers to the underground rivers and cenotes that dot the area’s landscape.

Today, Playa del Carmen is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean traditions. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins, stroll down the cobblestone streets of the town’s historic center, or indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine at one of the many local restaurants.

Top 10 Things To Do In Playa del Carmen

Here are some things to do when visiting Playa del Carmen.

1 Explore The Tulum Mayan Ruins

Located just 45 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, the Tulum ruins are a great location sprinkled with rich history and exciting adventure. It’s more than worth a drive out to explore and learn about the local Mayan history.

• Address
  : Zona Hotelera Tulum, 77765 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico

• Cost
  : $5 USD

Related: Discovering Tulum’s Hidden Past: 10 Fascinating Facts About Its Ruins

2 Swim In The Cenotes

Cenotes are unique pockets in sedimentary limestone that were sinkholes or caves and became filled with clear rainwater over time. Visitors can take a tour of the cenotes in the area. They’re beautiful natural phenomena.

Plan a day trip to take this tour where you’ll see two cenotes and an archeological site. This tour has two meeting spots in Playa del Carmen.

I Love Playa Souvenirs

• Norte Quinta Avenida, 259, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

Forever 21

• 5ta. Avenida Norte Mz 35 L. B21, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

Travelers can check online to see if their hotel is on the pickup list.

• Cost
  : Starts at $29

• Duration
  : 9–10 hours

Related: Visit the Chicken Itza Sacred Cenotes in Mexico

3 Snorkel With The Sea Turtles In Akumal Bay

Imagine the feeling of diving into the clear blue waters of Akumal Bay, surrounded by the gentle giants of the sea. Now imagine not having to worry about bringing the snorkeling gear. This tour offers just that, with a professional guide to lead the way and provide all the necessary equipment.

Just bring a bathing suit and a towel, and get ready for an unforgettable experience. All that’s left to do is to focus on enjoying the experience of swimming with the sea turtles.

• Meetup Address:
  Playa Akumal, Carretera Tulum, Yodzonot, 77776 Cancun, Q.R., Mexico

• Duration
  : 50 minutes

• Costs
  : Starts at $54 per person

Wear a tank top and shorts to swim with the sea turtles.

4 Take A Ferry To Cozumel

Across the water from Playa del Carmen, on the East side of the Mexican Yucatán Peninsula is a historical Mayan ruins site. Once a Mayan city, Cozumel is an extremely popular tourist destination with activities for days.

• Ferry Cost:
  200 pesos($10.25) per person

• Address
  : Marina FONATUR Carretera sur, 77600 San Miguel do Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico

• Hours:
  Daily 8 AM – 6:30 PM

• Cost:
  About $110 per day

Related: Things to See and Do on the Island of Cozumel

5 Enjoy The Nightlife On 5th Avenue Coco Bongo

Coco Bongo is a nightclub offering several different themed experiences like The Beetles, Mad Max, 300 The Mask, and more. For a unique musical experience, travelers shouldn’t miss the hotspot.

• Address:
  Av. 10 Norte, Col. Centro, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

• Hours:
  Tuesday – Sunday 10 PM – 3 AM

• Cost:
  $79 – $185 depending on the seats and type of tickets you buy

Ticket prices include an open bar.

6 Go On A Tandem Jump With Skydive Playa

Imagine the adrenaline rush from soaring through the clouds and free-falling for 40 exhilarating seconds, then gently drifting back to the ground for eight minutes while securely attached to a skilled jumpmaster. This is the Tandem experience, the ultimate thrill for any skydiving enthusiast.

And where better to experience it than with Skydive Playa? With state-of-the-art facilities and exclusive beach club access, Skydive Playa truly is the ultimate destination for safe and fun skydiving.

• Address:
  15 Avenida sur 131, Centro, 77710 Play del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

• Hours:
  Daily 9 AM – 5 PM

• Cost:
  $289 per person

Must be under 220 pounds to do a tandem jump.

7 Relax On The Breathtaking Beach

For beach fans, Playa del Carmen has a few to choose from. There’s Playa Punta Esperanza, Playcar Beach, Playa Incluyente, and Play del Carmen’s public beach. Some of the beaches are more crowded than others, but the sand is white, and the water is beautiful and clear.

• Address
  : 77730 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

Be prepared for heat and the sun by bringing plenty of water and wearing cool, breathable clothes.

8 Have Some Wildlife Encounters At Xcaret Park

Xcaret is a venue that offers a plethora of entertainment. Some of the activities at Xcaret Park include: parasailing, swimming with stingrays, swimming with dolphins, swimming with sharks, snorkeling, and much more. Visitors would need more than a few days to be able to experience all that is offered.

• Address
  : Rancho Xcaret, Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico CP 77580

• Hours:
  Monday – Friday 7 Am – 12 AM, Saturday and Sunday 7 AM – 10 PM

• Cost:
  General admission
  is $130.99 and there are combination packages available.

9 Visit Parquet Los Fundadores

Welcome to Parquet Fundadores, or Founder’s Park, a place that holds the heart of Playa del Carmen. This seaside gathering spot was once the bustling market hub and continues to be a beloved spot for locals.

• Address
  : Av. Benito Juarez, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

• Hours:
  24 hours daily

10 Swim In The Crystal-Clear Waters Of Xpu-Ha Beach

Playa Xpu-Ha is the ultimate-hidden gem of the Riviera Maya. When travelers step onto its shores, they are greeted with a breathtaking view of powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. It’s no wonder why the locals of Playa del Carmen consider this beach their own secret paradise.

Not only is Xpu-Ha a serene escape from the bustling tourist crowds, but it also offers the perfect balance of amenities and natural beauty. With just the right amount of beach clubs and facilities, visitors can indulge in refreshments and relaxation without sacrificing the peaceful ambiance.

• Address:
  Mexico 307 107, Quintana Roo

• Hours
  : 24 hours daily

11 Best Time To Go

December to April

Playa del Carmen is, no doubt, a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is dry and the temperatures are mild.

• Average high
  : 84° F(29° C)

• Average low:
  68° F(20° C)

May to November

• Average highs
  : 90° F(32° C)

These months also have high humidity levels and occasional rain.

Despite those drawbacks, vacations a Playa del Carmen are enjoyed any time of year.

12 Best Ways To Get Around Playa Del Carmen

The best part about this city is that it’s pedestrian-friendly, so walking is a great way to explore the area’s many attractions, like the beach, Fifth Avenue, and charming neighborhoods. There are also more options available.

Taxis are an easy and affordable way to get around the city. Visitors can hail a taxi on the street, or simply ask the hotel or restaurant to call for one.

For a truly local experience, try taking a colectivo, shared minivans that operate on fixed routes throughout the city. Not only are they cheap, but they’re also a great way to meet new people.

Travelers planning on exploring other destinations in the Riviera Maya, hop on one of the modern and air-conditioned buses that connect Playa del Carmen with other cities. It’s a comfortable and affordable way to travel.

Lastly, for visitors looking for a little more independence, renting a car is a great option. With so many rental agencies in Playa del Carmen, it’s easy to find a car that fits any needs and budget.

Related: How To Drive The Yucatan In One Week

It’s important to note that parking can be hard to find in some areas, and traffic can be heavy during peak times, so plan accordingly.

13 Where To Stay

All of Playa del Carmen is beautiful, so choosing where to stay might be easier than visitors think.

Luxury

Banyan Tree Mayakoba

• Address:
  Carretera Federal Chetumal – Puerto Juarez Km 298, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico

• Amenities:
  plunge pools, outdoor bathtubs, and access to championship golf course

• Rates
  : Starting at $757 per night

Related: Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Playa Del Carmen

Rosewood Mayakoba

• Address
  : Carretera Federal Cancun-Playa del Carmen KM 298

• Amenities:
  luxurious suites, world-class spa, and a Greg-Norman sized golf course

• Rates
  : Starting at $1,710 per night per 2 adults

Mid-Range Options

Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen

• Address:
  1A Avenida esquina Calle 26

• Amenities:
  comfortable rooms, multiple pools, and prime location just a few steps from the beach

• Rates
  : Starts at $230 per night for 2 adults

The Reef Playacar

• Address
  : Paseo Xaman-Ha Retorno Sayil SN MZA 1 Lote 1

• Amenities
  : all-inclusive, spacious rooms, multiple pools, easy access to the beach

• Rates
  : Starting at $150 per night for 2 adults

Budget

Hotel Quinta Santa

• Address:
  35 Avenida Norte, entre 14 y 14 Bis, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

• Amenitites
  : centralized location at the heart of Playa del Carmen

• Rates
  : Starts at $47 per night for 2 adults

Castillito Kin Nah

• Address:
  Calle 13, #47, 97367 Celestun, Yucatan

• Amenities
  : cozy rooms and beachfront location

• Rates:
  Start at $112 per night for 2 adults

14 Where To Eat

Eating out in Playa del Carmen involves more than just tacos.

Breakfast

Chez Celine

• Address:
  Av 5ta Calle 34 Morte Esquina, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

• Hours:
  Daily 7:30 AM – 11:30 PM

• Recommended
  : Almond croissants and Quiche Lorraine

La Cueva del Chango

This restaurant has a unique jungle-themed atmosphere.

• Address:
  Calle 38 Nte. Mz. 4-Lote 3, Zazil-ha, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

• Hours:
  Monday – Saturday 8 AM – 10:30 PM, Sunday 8 AM – 2 PM

• Recommended:
  Chilaquiles and huevos rancheros

Lunch

La Floresta

This restaurant serves authentic Yucatan cuisine

• Address:
  Calle 14 Nte. , Ejidal, 77712 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico

• Hours
  : Daily 10 AM – 5 PM

El Fogon

This casual eatery is famous for its delicious tacos al pastor and other Mexican specialties.

• Address
  : Calle 6 Bis. Norte Y 30, Playa del Carmen 77710 Mexico

Dinner

Alux Restaurant

• Address
  : Av. Juarez Mza 217 Lote 2

• Hours
  : Daily 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM

Harry’s Prime Steakhouse and Raw Bar

Upscale steakhouse serves high-quality meat, fresh seafood, and sushi

• Address
  : Km. 14.2, Kukulkan 1, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancun Q.R., Mexico

• Hours
  : Daily 1 PM – 1 AM

15 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Playa Del Carmen

Start the day with breakfast at Chez Celine or La Cueva del Chango. Then, go explore the Tulum Mayan Ruins and enjoy a swim in the nearby cenotes. Afterward, have lunch a La Floresta.

In the afternoon, take a ferry to Cozumel Island for a scuba diving or snorkeling adventure. For dinner, indulge in a delicious meal at Alux Restaurant. Finish the night with a stroll along the beach. Travelers can find many ways to make memories in the Caribbean paradise, Barbuda.

FAQ

Q: Is Playa del Carmen swimmable?

Swimming is one of the many things travelers can do in Playa del Carmen. The beaches have been referred to as ‘unspoiled sea,’ and the cenotes sprinkled throughout the area are also very enjoyable swimming holes.

Q: What is Playa Del Carmen known for?

Playa del Carmen is known to some for its relaxed beach vibe, but there’s so much more to explore just a stone’s throw away!

Take a short drive and dive into the ancient Mayan ruins, thrilling adventure parks, breathtaking jungles, and countless other things to do in Playa del Carmen.

Q: Is Playa del Carmen nicer than Cancun?

Unlike its more crowded neighbor, Playa del Carmen has managed to retain a charming, small-town feel that is a true rarity in this day and age. Cancun is a bit livelier and possibly more chaotic, but it can also be a great time for some travelers.