Things To Do
in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal town on the Riviera Maya in Mexico known for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters. It offers a mix of luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, and charming restaurants along the famous Fifth Avenue pedestrian street. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and swimming in cenotes.
The town also serves as a gateway to exploring ancient Mayan ruins such as Tulum and Coba.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful beach in Playa del Carmen. Enjoy a refreshing swim or relax with a book by the shore.
Take a stroll along 5th Avenue, filled with shops and local restaurants. Stop for lunch at a beachside café and try traditional Mexican dishes.
Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local bar or enjoying live music. Sample some delicious street food while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Join a snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant reefs of Cozumel. Enjoy the underwater beauty and observe marine life up close.
After snorkeling, relax on a sun lounger at a beach club in Cozumel. Savor a seafood lunch and soak up the sun.
Return to Playa del Carmen and dine at a local restaurant. Try some authentic tacos or other regional dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear turquoise waters
- Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs
- Rich cultural heritage and Mayan ruins nearby
- Diverse culinary scene with local and international cuisine
- Pleasant year-round climate
- Accessible for tourists with a variety of accommodations
- Can be crowded with tourists during peak seasons
- Higher cost of living compared to other parts of Mexico
- Environmental concerns due to rapid development and tourism
- Possible safety concerns in certain areas
- Public transport options may be limited
- Some areas may be overly commercialized
Best Activities in Playa del Carmen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the colorful underwater world of the Caribbean Sea by snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Playa del Carmen.
Visit the nearby ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum or Coba for an enriching cultural experience combined with breathtaking views
Participate in a yoga session on the pristine beaches of Playa del Carmen to relax and rejuvenate amidst serene natural surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Playa del Carmen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Playa del Carmen
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, along with various photogenic spots within the park.
Known for its picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Features beautiful white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for capturing scenic photos.
Food in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Yucatecan dish consisting of slow-roasted, marinated pork, usually served with tortillas, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. Try it at La Pibil, a popular local spot known for its authentic preparation.
Must-Try!
A refreshing dish made with fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices, often mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a must-try at El Pirata, a beachfront restaurant acclaimed for its fresh and zesty ceviche.
Marinated pork sliced from a spit and served on a soft corn tortilla with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. Visit El Fogon, a lively eatery, for some of the best tacos al pastor in Playa del Carmen.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Playa del Carmen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Calle 38 is famous for its collection of authentic taco stands, offering a variety of fillings such as carne asada, al pastor, and cochinita pibil. It's a great place to experience traditional Mexican street food.
This bustling market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide array of fresh produce, local spices, and street food stalls serving up classic Mexican dishes like tamales, empanadas, and churros.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Playa del Carmen, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to people, especially when interacting with locals or in crowded areas.
Being polite and using manners, such as saying 'por favor' (please) and 'gracias' (thank you), is highly valued in Playa del Carmen and an important part of respectful behavior.
Respecting local customs and traditions, such as greeting people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, is essential to show respect for the culture in Playa del Carmen.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Playa del Carmen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Playa del Carmen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, and is often expected in restaurants, bars, and for various services. The typical gratuity is around 10-15% of the total bill, but it can vary based on the level of service and establishment. It's also common to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers.
In Playa del Carmen, cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments and for street vendors. However, many restaurants, shops, and hotels also accept credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard. It's advisable to carry both cash and cards for convenience. ATMs are readily available for withdrawing Mexican pesos.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Playa del Carmen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter is the peak tourist season in Playa del Carmen, with pleasant weather, clear skies, and warm temperatures. This is the best time for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor adventures. However, it is also the most crowded and expensive period.
Spring is a great time to visit Playa del Carmen, as the weather remains warm and dry. The crowds start to thin out after the peak season, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, exploring the Mayan ruins, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Summer brings hot and humid weather to Playa del Carmen, with occasional rain showers. This is the low season, so you can find good deals on accommodations and activities. It's a good time for diving and snorkeling to explore the underwater world.
Fall is characterized by higher humidity and the possibility of hurricanes. It's the least crowded season, and you can find some good discounts during this time. It's ideal for budget travelers and those looking for a quieter experience.
Playa del Carmen at Night
Hiking in Playa del Carmen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning route featuring various cenotes and natural parks, ideal for hiking, swimming, and exploring the lush jungle.
An ancient Mayan city surrounded by dense jungle, where visitors can hike through trails to see ancient structures and climb pyramids.
Offers walking trails along the coastline and through the jungle, providing beautiful views of ruins and diverse wildlife.
A vast protected area with trails for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the rich biodiversity of the region.
A scenic area near Akumal with trails for hiking, perfect for experiencing beach views and marine life.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Playa del Carmen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Playa del Carmen by plane.
The nearest major international airport to Playa del Carmen, located approximately 55 km to the north.
An international airport located on Cozumel Island, about 20 km from Playa del Carmen, accessible by ferry.
Located approximately 305 km west of Playa del Carmen, this airport serves international flights and has connections to various destinations.
Located about 400 km south of Playa del Carmen, this international airport serves flights to and from various countries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large number of visitors from around the world, particularly from the United States, Canada, and Europe, frequent Playa del Carmen for its beaches and resorts.
A significant population of Mexicans from various states who either live in Playa del Carmen or visit frequently.
A growing community of expatriates, particularly from the United States, Canada, and Europe, many of whom reside in Playa del Carmen full-time or part-time.
Residents who engage in traditional crafts, food stalls, and local markets, contributing to the local culture and economy.
Individuals from various countries who have settled in Playa del Carmen, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the city.
The Soul of Playa del Carmen
Discover the essence of Playa del Carmen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Playa del Carmen, with many local teams and leagues for all ages.
With numerous beaches available, beach volleyball is a common sport enjoyed by both locals and tourists.
Playa del Carmen offers great waves for surfing, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
This coastal city is famous for its stunning underwater life, making diving a popular sport.
Running is a popular activity, especially along the beautiful coastline and scenic parks.
Many resorts and clubs offer tennis facilities, making it a popular sport for both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Playa del Carmen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Playa del Carmen cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering plant-based dishes like chiles rellenos, nopales salad, and vegan tacos. Look for eateries like The Pitted Date and Bio-Natural for an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan delights.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can dine comfortably in Playa del Carmen, as several establishments provide gluten-free menus or dishes. From gluten-free pizzas at Piola to fresh seafood ceviche at Catch, there's no shortage of options for those avoiding gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Playa del Carmen with these cultural adventures.