In recent years we have been hearing more and more about Playa del Carmen. But what can you expect when visiting this city? Would you like to know more before jumping into adventure? We did some homework for you and brought you a list of things to do in Playa del Carmen. There’s no way you won’t fall in love with this place and everything it has to offer. From nightlife to adventure; from water activities to history lessons when exploring the Mayan ruins.
Playa del Carmen is known mainly for white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back bohemian vibe. Keep on reading and find out even more things to do…
Explore Playa del Carmen
First, how do you get to Playa del Carmen? The easiest and most reliable method to arrive at the city is by flying directly to the Cancun Airport. Once you arrive in Cancun, it is best to have booked private transportation beforehand.
Cancun Airport Transportation is the choice to go when it comes to a safe and comfortable transportation service. Check out their site and explore their different services and destinations, Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen transportation prices starts from $70 USD.
Fifth Avenue
There’s nothing more relaxing than going on a walk after a day of swimming and exploring, and having ice cream as you walk to the beach to see how the sun sets in the Caribbean. On Fifth Avenue, you’ll find everything you need and more. As you walk through this pedestrian street, you’ll see high fashion boutiques and high-end restaurants. At the same time, you can have easy access to the public beach and buy street food like Marquesitas, fresh mangos, and coconuts.
Water Activities in Playa del Carmen
If you’re looking to be amazed, try a snorkeling expedition in Playa del Carmen. Set sail along the Riviera Maya on a catamaran and dive in the blue waters of the Caribbean! With plenty of space for you to chill and relax, the sailors will take you to unique spots around the area for you to take a swim and snorkel in the Caribbean Sea. You can even try snorkeling in a cenote, there’s plenty nearby.
Another water activity which everybody loves is swimming with dolphins. Create unforgettable memories by swimming with these beautiful animals and let yourself be amazed by the whole experience. Only a couple of minutes from downtown Playa del Carmen, in Playa Maroma you can find this amazing activity.
Xel-ha
Xel ha is part of the famous Xcaret Group. For more than 25 years, Xel-ha has offered a natural water park and nature reserve for everyone to enjoy. Feel close to heaven in a place considered one of the largest and most beautiful natural wonders in the world. Xel-Ha Park offers one of the best experiences right in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Try snorkeling and observe a great variety of colorful fish, as well as the diversity of marine species that inhabit the fresh waters of its rivers, cenotes, and natural cove. Just 40 minutes from Playa del Carmen, you can jump into this adventure.
Chichen Itza
As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is an unmissable site when you are in the Yucatan Peninsula. As one of the most important city-states in pre-Hispanic America, Chichen Itza is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico today. Learning about the Mayan Culture, swimming in a cenote, and walking in the site is an activity near Playa del Carmen, that you don’t want to miss out on.
Nightlife in Playa del Carmen
Most of the clubs in Playa del Carmen are located in Calle 12 of Playa del Carmen. Calle 12 is ideal if you like moving from one club to the other, which is what many do, to keep it fun.
These clubs and bars are guaranteed to give you the ultimate Caribbean partying experience. Most of the clubs listed here have been part of the biggest music festival in Mexico, the BPM, and many others.
Here’s a list of the most recommended nightclubs in Playa del Carmen:
- Coco Bongo
- Palazzo
- Abolengo
- Santino Tun Tun
- Mandala
- Clandestino Rooftop
- Prana Hooka & Drinks
- La Vaquita
