Playa del Carmen

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Playa del Carmen's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Playa del Carmen
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll along 5th Avenue, filled with shops and local restaurants. Stop for lunch at a beachside café and try traditional Mexican dishes.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting a local bar or enjoying live music. Sample some delicious street food while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

day 2
Snorkeling Adventure
morning
:

Join a snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant reefs of Cozumel. Enjoy the underwater beauty and observe marine life up close.

afternoon
:

After snorkeling, relax on a sun lounger at a beach club in Cozumel. Savor a seafood lunch and soak up the sun.

evening
:

Return to Playa del Carmen and dine at a local restaurant. Try some authentic tacos or other regional dishes.

day 3
Visit Tulum Ruins
morning
:

Head to the Tulum ruins early to beat the crowds. Marvel at the ancient Mayan structures overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

afternoon
:

After exploring the ruins, enjoy some time at Tulum's beautiful beaches. Grab a fresh coconut drink and unwind.

evening
:

Dine at one of Tulum's top-rated restaurants known for its farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy a delicious meal while watching the sunset.

day 4
Day at Xcaret Park
morning
:

Spend the day at Xcaret, an eco-archaeological park. Start with a guided tour to see the diverse wildlife and cultural exhibits.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the park's many activities such as swimming in natural caves or relaxing by the lazy river. Grab a tasty lunch at one of the park's eateries.

evening
:

Stay for the evening show that showcases Mexican culture through music and dance. It’s an unforgettable experience celebrating the heritage of the region.

day 5
Salsa Dancing Night
morning
:

Take it easy with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Enjoy fresh fruits and traditional Mexican pastries.

afternoon
:

Join a salsa dancing lesson to learn the basics and impress your friends. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

evening
:

Show off your new dance skills at a salsa club. Enjoy interactive performances and dance the night away.

day 6
Cenote Swimming Experience
morning
:

Visit a cenote for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. Experience the beauty of these natural sinkholes surrounded by lush nature.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the tranquil setting of the cenote. Take some time to explore the area or relax in the sun.

evening
:

Return to Playa and have dinner with a view of the ocean. Opt for a beachside restaurant to continue soaking in the local vibes.

day 7
Relaxing Beach Day
morning
:

Spend a leisurely morning enjoying breakfast at your hotel. Head to the beach early to secure a good spot.

afternoon
:

Indulge in beach activities such as paddleboarding or beach volleyball. Enjoy snacks and refreshing drinks from nearby beach bars.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a beachfront dinner. Choose a seafood restaurant to savor fresh catches of the day.

day 8
Culinary Tour
morning
:

Join a culinary tour to learn about Mexican cuisine. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

afternoon
:

Participate in a cooking class and create classic Mexican dishes. Enjoy the meal you cooked alongside other regional specialties.

evening
:

Explore local flavors by visiting food trucks or street vendors. Try different dishes and enjoy the vibrant food scene of Playa.

day 9
Bike Tour of the Area
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the scenic coastal paths of Playa del Carmen. Stop at stunning viewpoints along the way.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely ride to nearby towns or beaches. Stop for lunch at a local spot and try some fresh seafood.

evening
:

Return to Playa and unwind with a beachside massage. Savor a cocktail while watching the sunset over the ocean.

day 10
Kayaking in Akumal
morning
:

Take a short trip to Akumal for a kayaking adventure. Paddle through the calm waters and observe turtles in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

After kayaking, enjoy swimming and snorkeling in Akumal Beach. Take in the tranquil atmosphere and enjoy a packed lunch.

evening
:

Return to Playa del Carmen and have dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Try some local specialties while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Discover Playa del Carmen

Read more in our Playa del Carmen 2024 Travel Guide.

Playa del Carmen Travel Guide