Playa del Carmen

🇲🇽 Mexico
Sun, sand, and vibrant culture await in Playa del Carmen!

Playa del Carmen - Vacation Briefing

Playa del Carmen is a coastal resort town in Mexico's Riviera Maya. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively atmosphere, it's a paradise for beach lovers and adventurers alike. Dive into the vibrant culture by exploring the famous Fifth Avenue, filled with shops, restaurants, and live music. Immerse yourself in history by visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum or the mysterious underwater cenotes. Indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine and sip on refreshing margaritas while enjoying breathtaking sunsets. Playa del Carmen offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.

Popular Sights in Playa del Carmen

Things to do during your Playa del Carmen vacation

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant city in Mexico's Riviera Maya. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Mayan ruins, this destination offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you want to relax on the pristine shores, explore the rich history and culture, or indulge in exciting adventures, Playa del Carmen has something for everyone. Here are some must-visit attractions and activities:

  • Xcaret Park: Experience the natural wonders of Mexico through eco-archaeological attractions, cultural shows, and a majestic underground river.
  • Fifth Avenue: Stroll along this famous street lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Perfect for shopping and people-watching.
  • Cozumel Island: Take a short ferry ride to this beautiful island known for its stunning coral reefs and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
  • Tulum Ruins: Journey to the ancient Mayan city of Tulum and explore its well-preserved ruins, located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
  • Cenote Dos Ojos: Dive or snorkel in this famous cenote system, with crystal-clear waters and captivating rock formations.
  • Playa Mamitas: Relax on the soft sandy beach, enjoy the warm Caribbean waters, and soak up the sun at this popular beach club.
  • Xplor Park: Embark on thrilling outdoor activities, including ziplining, ATV rides, underground rivers, and exploring ancient caves.
  • Xel-Ha Park: Swim, snorkel, and float along the beautiful turquoise waters of this natural aquatic park, home to diverse marine life.
  • Coco Bongo: Experience an unforgettable night of music, dance, acrobatics, and entertainment at this famous nightclub.
  • Xenotes Oasis Maya: Discover and explore four different types of cenotes, each offering unique landscapes and opportunities for adventure.

Why you should visit Playa del Carmen

Overall
8.2

Playa del Carmen, Mexico is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife. While it has its fair share of drawbacks, the overall experience is generally positive.

Safety
7

Playa del Carmen has experienced some safety concerns in recent years, including petty crimes and occasional drug-related violence. It's important for visitors to stay vigilant and practice common safety precautions.

Culture
8

Rich in history and charm, Playa del Carmen showcases a blend of traditional Mexican culture and international influences. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins, visit art galleries, and taste delicious local cuisine.

Nightlife
9

Playa del Carmen offers a lively and diverse nightlife scene. With a wide range of bars, clubs, and entertainment options, it's a great destination for those looking to have a fun and memorable night out.

Adventure
8

Playa del Carmen offers various adventure opportunities for thrill-seekers. From snorkeling and diving in the mesmerizing cenotes to exploring the nearby jungles, there are plenty of exciting activities to satisfy adventurous souls.

Relaxation
9

Playa del Carmen boasts stunning beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating the perfect backdrop for relaxation. Visitors can also enjoy spa treatments, yoga retreats, and immerse themselves in the laid-back beach town atmosphere.

Best time to visit Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen offers pleasant weather throughout the year with warm temperatures and little rain. For those who prefer fewer crowds, the best time to visit is from November to April.

Jan
Crowded but great weather
19°C - 27°C
Feb
Ideal weather for beach activities
19°C - 28°C
Mar
Less crowded with pleasant temperatures
20°C - 29°C
Apr
Optimal weather and fewer tourists
22°C - 30°C
May
Shoulder season with pleasant temperatures
23°C - 31°C
Jun
Increasing temperatures with occasional rain
24°C - 32°C
Jul
Warm temperatures with lower tourist numbers
25°C - 33°C
Aug
Hot temperatures with occasional rain
25°C - 33°C
Sep
Quieter with pleasant weather
24°C - 32°C
Oct
Ideal weather with fewer crowds
23°C - 31°C
Nov
Perfect balance of weather and crowd
21°C - 29°C
Dec
Crowds start to increase, but weather remains pleasant
20°C - 28°C

A guide To your first day of Playa del Carmen vacation

morning

  • Start your day with a relaxing walk along the beautiful beaches of Playa del Carmen.
  • Visit the stunning Mayan ruins of Tulum, located just a short drive away.

afternoon

  • Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the famous Cenote Dos Ojos.
  • Explore the vibrant streets of Quinta Avenida and indulge in some shopping and dining.

evening

  • Enjoy a romantic sunset dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.
  • Dance the night away at one of the energetic nightclubs in the city center.

night

  • Experience the spectacular nightlife of Playa del Carmen with a visit to Coco Bongo.
  • Relax with a cocktail and live music at one of the cozy bars along Calle 12.

How to get to Playa del Carmen

By Plane

Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the major hub for reaching Playa del Carmen. It offers frequent international flights and excellent connectivity. From the airport, you can easily reach Playa del Carmen by taxi or shared shuttle. We recommend booking transportation in advance to avoid any hassle upon arrival.

By other means

Getting to Playa del Carmen by public transport is a breeze. ADO buses operate regular services from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen, providing a comfortable and affordable option. Additionally, the city has a well-connected bus terminal that offers convenient connections to nearby destinations. For those looking to explore further, the Cozumel Ferry Terminal provides easy access to the stunning island of Cozumel.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Best for travelers who are ...

Playa del Carmen is perfect for beach lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a vibrant atmosphere.

How long to stay in Playa del Carmen?

To fully experience Playa del Carmen, it is recommended to stay for at least 4-7 days.

Similar destination to Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Because Playa del Carmen is known for relaxation,beach,sightseeing,adventure,nightlife and shopping these destinations might be a good fit for you:

Nearby

If you're already in Playa del Carmen, Mexico you might want to consider visiting these nearby destinations: