Gorgeous beaches and vibrant reefs draw sun-seeking crowds to Playa del Carmen, but the city’s lived-in feel sets it apart from other Riviera Maya resorts. The taco stands and shops of Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) anchor a walkable core steps from the shore, and nightlife features family-friendly shows and restaurants. Things to do in Playa del Carmen range from undersea exploring to adventure parks. At the same time, a prime mid-coast location makes this a great home base for visiting archeological sites, freshwater cenotes, and nature reserves.
The best time of year to visit Playa del Carmen is between December and April when the city usually receives the least amount of rainfall. May through November get considerably more rain, and tropical storms sometimes occur. There’s also a higher risk of running into sargassum, a type of stinky seaweed that sometimes blankets area beaches, between late spring and late fall.
The easiest way to get around Playa del Carmen is on foot—if you have a rental car, you’re best off leaving it at your accommodation. If you want to travel further afield or be able to get from point to point quickly, renting a bike by the day or by the week is a great alternative to walking. There are public buses in Playa del Carmen, but they run to residential neighborhoods, Cancun Airport, and other towns in the Riviera Maya; you’re better off taking a taxi.
If you’re as much about ambiance as you are about tasty food, don’t miss the chance to dine at Jungle GastroBar. Sit in the open-air garden surrounded by lush foliage or pull up a seat in the semi-enclosed covered area to listen to the sounds of live musicians and DJs while you sip on a margarita. The menu emphasizes tasty pub fare along with salads and freshly caught seafood.
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Fairuz is a frequent visitor to Playa del Carmen, where she fell in love with its Caribbean beaches and easygoing lifestyle. Though she is currently based in Europe, she finds herself being pulled back to the area yearly.
pitch up at one of the many beach clubs. Coralina Daylight Club, Mamita’s Beach Club, and Inti Beach are just a few of the clubs where you can order good food and drinks while you soak up the sun.
starts off with a Mexican breakfast (Que Huevos is a favorite) before relaxing on the white-sand beaches. End your Saturday with drinks and dancing at one of Fifth Avenue's many bars and clubs.
a night at Coco Bongo. This high-octane show features live performances, confetti, drinks, and non-stop partying for the ultimate night out in Playa del Carmen.
you need to get beyond Fifth Avenue. Head towards the Colosio neighborhood and Tenth Avenue for a variety of eateries and a more local vibe.
head to one of the many rooftop bars. A few favorites include Clandestino, the rooftop of the Thompson Hotel, and The Palm at Playa.
is not leaving their all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen. While the resorts are top-notch, the city has a vibrant nightlife and plenty of local eateries that will add spice to your vacation.
Playa del Carmen is known for its soft Caribbean beaches and its dining and nightlife scene. It’s also a great base for visiting the nearby island of Cozumel and for exploring some of most popular attractions on the Riviera Maya, from jungle cenotes to the Xcaret family of theme parks.
...MorePlaya del Carmen offers tons of daytime activities, from hanging out at the local white-sand beach to checking out the shops along 5th Avenue, the city's main drag. Playa del Carmen is also a great place for snorkeling, with plenty of half-day cruise options for those who want to get out to sea.
...MoreApril is arguably the best month to visit Playa del Carmen, when the chances of rainfall are low and the temperatures are hot, but not unbearably so. April is at the tail-end of the tourist season so it tends not to get too many crowds, except during Holy Week (the week leading up to Easter).
...MoreYes, the beaches in Playa del Carmen are quite nice indeed, offering all the typical features one would expect from the Caribbean. You can expect white-sand expanses flanked by palm trees, turquoise-hued waters, and plenty of spots to stop for a drink or a seafood dinner right by the shore.
...MorePlaya del Carmen locals enjoy many of the same things tourists do, from hanging out at the beaches to enjoying meals with family and friends. You'll also find plenty of locals hanging out at shopping malls such as Centro Maya or watching films at one of the city’s many movie theaters.
...MorePlaya del Carmen is certainly a party town, with tons of lively restaurants and nightclubs right in the heart of the tourist district. Many stay open well into the wee hours of the night, making this city a popular destination for spring break revelers from the US.
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