Playa del Carmen, located on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, is a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, sand, and sea. With its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, it’s easy to see why. If you’re planning a trip to Playa del Carmen, here are ten tips to help you make the most of your vacation.
- Stay at a beachfront hotel or resort: One of the best ways to fully experience Playa del Carmen is by staying right on the beach. This way, you can wake up to the sound of the waves and have easy access to the sand and sea. Some popular beachfront hotels and resorts in the area include the Grand Velas Riviera Maya (https://www.velasresorts.com/en/riviera-maya), the Fairmont Mayakoba (https://www.fairmont.com/mayakoba-riviera-maya/), and the Thompson Playa del Carmen (https://www.thompsonhotels.com/hotels/thompson-playa-del-carmen).
- Explore the Mayan ruins: Playa del Carmen is located in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, which is home to many ancient Mayan ruins. Some of the most popular ruins to visit include Tulum (https://www.tulum.com/), Coba (https://www.coba.com.mx/), and Chichen Itza (https://www.chichenitza.com/). These ancient cities offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the region, and are well worth a visit.
- Go snorkeling or scuba diving: The waters around Playa del Carmen are teeming with marine life, making it a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The Great Mayan Reef, the second largest coral reef system in the world, is located just offshore, and is home to a wide variety of colorful fish and other marine creatures. There are many dive shops in the area that offer guided snorkeling and scuba diving tours, such as Dive In Playa (https://diveinplaya.com/) and Dive Palancar (https://www.divepalancar.com/).
- Visit Xcaret Park: Xcaret Park (https://www.xcaret.com/en/) is a popular eco-archaeological park located just a short drive from Playa del Carmen. The park features a wide range of activities and attractions, including snorkeling in underground rivers, swimming with dolphins, and exploring the park’s many Mayan ruins. There’s something for everyone at Xcaret Park, making it a great choice for families and groups of friends.
- Go shopping at Quinta Avenida: Quinta Avenida, also known as Fifth Avenue, is a pedestrian-only street located in the heart of Playa del Carmen. The street is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, and is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local crafts. Be sure to haggle with the vendors to get the best deal!
- Try the local cuisine: Mexican food is known for its bold flavors and colorful presentations, and Playa del Carmen is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juices), and tacos al pastor (tacos filled with spit-grilled pork). There are many great restaurants in the area that serve traditional Mexican food, such as La Casa del Agua (https://www.lacasadelagua.mx/) and Los Agaves (https://www.losagaves.com.mx/).
- Take a day trip to Cozumel: Cozumel, an island located just off the coast of Playa del Carmen, is home to some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the region. The island is also home to many Mayan ruins, including San Gervasio (https://www.cozumel.travel/san-gervasio/), which was once a major center of pilgrimage for the ancient Maya. You can reach Cozumel by ferry from Playa del Carmen, or by taking a short flight from Cancun.
- Party at Coco Bongo: Coco Bongo (https://www.cocobongo.com.mx/) is a popular nightclub in Playa del Carmen that features live music, acrobatic performances, and a wide range of drinks and snacks. The club is open until the early hours of the morning, making it a great place to party the night away.
- Take a yoga class: Playa del Carmen is home to many yoga studios and retreats, making it a great destination for those interested in practicing yoga. Some popular studios in the area include YOGA Playa (https://www.yogaplaya.com/) and Om Shanti (https://www.omshantiyogaretreats.com/).
- Relax on the beach: No vacation in Playa del Carmen is complete without spending some time relaxing on the beach. With its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, it’s easy to see why the beach is one of the most popular attractions in the area. So grab a towel, slather on some sunscreen, and spend the day soaking up the sun.
Conclusion:
Playa del Carmen is a vibrant and exciting destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the ancient Mayan ruins, snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, or partying the night away at a nightclub, there’s something for you in this beautiful corner of Mexico. So pack your bags, book your trip, and get ready to have a good time in Playa del Carmen!
