In this post, you will find some incredible options on what to do in Playa del Carmen, from extreme sports to relaxed afternoons enjoying a beautiful sunset.
Before the ’80s, Playa was not more than a little fishing town with a port near Cozumel. Nowadays, it’s tourist attraction has grown and so has the number of available activities.
Playa del Carmen is very close to Cancun. Despite the years and its popularity, is still keeping the nice and charming touch of a little Caribbean town.
An elegant and chic destination whose beaches attract those wishing to escape from the hustle and bustle of Cancun. One of Playa del Carmen charms is that the whole place is quieter and modest, where European tourism is leading.
Just 50 km from Cancun, it is located on the coasts of Quintana Roo, Mexico. Known just as “Playa” by locals, it offers a completely different atmosphere than Cancun, without giving up its incredible beautifulness.
You’ll be in a privileged location, able to visit several tourist spots in the area such as nearby cenotes, archaeological sites, Cozumel island, Xel-Ha, Xcaret eco-parks, and more.
What to do in Playa del Carmen?
All its crystal clear beaches are public so tourists visiting the zone can enjoy them. They’re all easily accessible, so it will be easy to find the one that most suits your expectations. Some of them have recreational activities on-site, so as restaurants offering delicious meals, both national and international. Its nightlife is quieter (some people say) compared to Cancun. If you are wondering where to go in Playa del Carmen, here’s a list that might help you.
Restaurants in Playa
Something that characterizes Playa del Carmen is its variety in terms of gastronomy. Each of its restaurants is better than the last. They fit any tastes and budgets, so it will be difficult to disenchant yourself.
Playa has options, among which you will be able to find vegetarian, Mexican, Japanese, Italian, and Spanish food; seafood restaurants, steak houses, and more. Among the most popular is Oh La La!, where only fresh ingredients are used and international food is on the menu. Another good option is Doña Mari, a typical restaurant for both tourists and locals offering dishes from Yucatan, being a modest place with a warm attitude.
Cozumel
This paradisiac island is located just 15 min from Playa del Carmen (by ferry). It has natural parks, archaeological zones, stunning crystal clear beaches and the second largest reef in the world.
Some of the activities you can do in Cozumel, besides enjoying its beaches, are to practice kite-surf, scuba, visit San Gervasio Archaeological Zone, Cha’an Ka’an Planetary, Pearls Farm, Punta Esmeralda, or Celaraing Lighthouse.
La Quinta Avenida
La Quinta Avenida (The Fifth Avenue) is Playa del Carmen heart, a fully-pedestrian area perfect to do some shopping, have a coffee, or go deeper into the local culture.
In La Quinta Avenida, you can visit El Parque de Fundadores (Founders Square), La Señora del Carmen Chapple, as well as familiar and calm places. You will also be able to find 12th Avenue, also known as Alma Nocturna (Night Soul), a street full of discos, bars, restaurants, and shows for young people.
Cenotes
Nearly 2400 cenotes exist in Playa del Carmen surroundings, and you’ll be able to visit lots of them. One of these cenotes is Kantun-chi an eco-park If you are a nature lover, visiting Playa del Carmen cenotes is a must-do.
Mayan Ruins
One of the most stunning stops in Playa del Carmen. Mayan ruins of Tulum are a thousand years from its building (approx.), and it’s one of the very few Mayan sites in front of the beach.
Nightlife
Playa del Carmen nightlife is quieter than Cancun’s despite the short distance between each other. All along Quinta Avenida, you’ll be able to find little bars perfect to have a talk and a drink. Some of them even offer live music all night long.
3D Museum
The very first 3D museum in Mexico, and an ideal place to go with the whole family. It allows its visitors to interact with all its art pieces. If you want to get some cool snaps and live an actually-different experience, this is your place.
Dinner at Alux
If having dinner at a thematic restaurant is your thing, this is a great option. Alux is a cave dating back thousands of years. It was conditioned to offer the best, warmest, and most romantic atmosphere. Its menu is, mainly, international modern food with some jazz playing in the background.
Frida Khalo Museum
An excellent option is you are interested in Khalo’s history and haven’t been able to visit its birth home in Mexico City and watch her art contributions. In this museum, you will find some of her life on a 1-hour tour.
Playa Mamitas
Playa Mamitas is the most popular beach in the area. It’s well known for its turquoise colors and white sand. It is where a lot of musical events are held all day long.
Playa Paraíso
The landscape available at Playa Paraíso is one of the never-forgetting things to see near Playa del Carmen. It is considered one of the jewels of Mexican Tourism, as is one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole Riviera Maya. Plus, it’s part of the world-second-largest barrier reef.
Punta Esmeralda
Considered as one of the best tourist destinations of Mexico to discover different cenotes. The beach is located 10 min (approx.) from Playa del Carmen Downtown. It’s shallow, and the meeting point of cenotes’ freshwater with salty Caribbean seawater. Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen.
Do you want to explore Playa? Book a transportation service to Playa del Carmen with us and discover the most cosmopolitan city of Riviera Maya.