🏖️Playa del Carmen, México, Travel Guide
Welcome to Playa del Carmen!
If you're planning a getaway to Mexico's Riviera Maya and don’t know where to begin, Playa del Carmen is the perfect starting point.
Unlike Cancun, Playa del Carmen offers a unique blend of charm, walkability, and variety. It's an ideal destination if you are looking for a Riviera Maya experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Its also very central so it's easy to explore the nearby towns like Tulum, Akumal, Cozumel, the famous Xcaret parks, and stunning cenotes.
With ferries to Cozumel just steps away and Chichén Itzá and Valladolid a short drive or bus ride away, Playa del Carmen it's hard to beat as a really good base for adventure, culture and relaxation!
* In This Guide
 * Introduction to Playa del Carmen
 * The Best Time to Visit
 * Getting to Playa del Carmen
 * Getting Around
 * Best Beaches
 * Where to Stay
 * Top Things to Do
 * Dining Highlights
 * Shopping
 * Travel Tips for Mexico
Introduction to Playa del Carmen
Once a quiet fishing village known as Xaman-Há (“waters of the north” in Mayan), Playa del Carmen was an important port for the Maya civilisation. Today, it’s a bustling coastal town with upscale resorts, local charm, and easy access to Riviera Maya’s best attractions.
While its popularity has grown, Playa still offers a balance: close to the action without Cancun’s overwhelming crowds, and near Tulum’s for a perfect day trip.
The Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, November to April, with sunny, warm days perfect for beach outings and exploring nearby attractions.
Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the highest risk in September and October. While this season brings more humidity and rain, it’s also the low season—fewer crowds and lower prices make it a tempting option for budget-conscious travellers.
Getting to Playa del Carmen
* Closest Airport to Playa del Carmen
The nearest airport is Cancun International Airport (CUN), located about 55 minutes away by car. You can reach Playa via:
Cancun Airport (CUN):
* Getting to/from the Airport
🚗 Tip: Uber is not allowed to pick up passengers directly from Cancun Airport, but it’s available for drop-offs.
Getting Around
Playa del Carmen is a very walkable town, with most attractions, beaches, and restaurants within easy reach.
For exploring beyond Playa:
* Mayan Train (Tren Maya)Â
This new train connects key cities and attractions across the Yucatán Peninsula, including Tulum, CancĂşn, and beyond.Â
* ADO bus
* Taxis, Uber and Collectivos
Taxis and Uber are available, and local minibuses (collectivos) are budget-friendly for short trips outside town.
* Car Rentals
There are plenty of rental car options or greater flexibility, especially ideal for day trips.
Best Beaches in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen’s beaches are known for their soft white sand and turquoise waters.
While some areas experience seasonal seaweed (sargasso), maintenance efforts usually keep the beaches clean.
Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen
Playa offers accommodations for every taste, from boutique hotels to luxury resorts.
* Central Playa (Near 5th Avenue)
Stay here for easy access to shopping, dining, and nightlife.
* PlayacarÂ
Playacar is a peaceful residential area close to downtown Playa, with upscale all-inclusive options.
* XcalacocoÂ
Xcalacoco is far enough from the busy tourist hubs to feel private and tranquil, yet close enough to enjoy the dining and shopping of Playa del Carmen when desired.Â
* Mayakoba
Mayakoba is a luxury enclave just 15 minutes from Playa,
Top Things to Do In and Around Playa del Carmen
* Explore Playa del Carmen
* Adventure and Eco-Parks Near Playa del Carmen
These four famous parks are near Playa del Carmen:
Xplor Park
Distance: About 10-15 minutes from Playa del Carmen.
Xplor Park is perfect for adrenaline seekers with zip lines, cave swimming, and off-roading.
Xcaret Park
Distance: About 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen.
Xcaret Park is a blend of Mexican culture, history, and natural beauty.
Xel-Há Park
Distance: About 30 minutes from Playa del Carmen.
Xel-Há is known as a natural aquarium, this eco-park offers snorkelling, tubing, cliff jumping, and lush scenery for nature lovers.
Rio Secreto
Distance: About 25 minutes from Playa del Carmen.
At Rio Secreto, you can explore underground rivers and caves with guided eco-tours.
* Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen
Don’t miss the chance to swim in these stunning natural sinkholes.
Some picks include:
* Day Trips to Akumal, Tulum and Cozumel
Playa del Carmen's central location in the Riviera Maya makes it a perfect base for exploring the region.
Akumal
Akumal (30 mins): Swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Tulum
Tulum (45 mins): Visit the stunning seaside Mayan ruins and relax on the gorgeous beach.
Cozumel
Cozumel (45-min ferry): Known for its vibrant coral reefs and snorkelling.
* Exploring Chichén Itzá and Valladolid
Chichén-Itzá
Chichén Itzá (2 hrs): One of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Valladolid
Valladolid (2 hrs): A super cute colonial town with cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and a charming central square.Â
Dining in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen offers a diverse culinary scene, from street tacos to fine dining. It's easy to just walk along the street until you find something.
38th Street (Calle 38) is one of the prettiest streets in the area, with a slightly more boutique atmosphere compared to 5th Avenue.
Shopping in Playa del Carmen
For luxury shopping and international brands, 5th Avenue is where to go.
Travel Tips
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). Most places accept credit cards, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Safety: Playa del Carmen is generally safe, but exercise common travel precautions, especially at night.
Hydration: Tap water is not safe to drink—stick to bottled or filtered water.
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Buen Viaje!
Anna
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