Best known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and a bohemian and relaxed atmosphere, it has become Mexico’s number one destination.
Playa del Carmen Location
It is a beautiful and quiet vacation paradise 45 minutes away from the crowded Cancun, in Riviera Maya, Mexico.
As a coastal resort town, the best things to do in Playa del Carmen are clustered around the beach. And despite being one of the largest and fastest growing cities in the region, Playa del Carmen is easy to get around on foot.
Fifth avenue Playa del Carmen
Parallel to the beach is Playa del Carmen’s main avenue, Fifth Avenue. This five-mile-long pedestrian promenade is lined with hotels, stores, art galleries, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, making it a popular nightlife spot. In addition to street performers and entertainment, you’ll find some hidden gems, such as Mayan vestiges and even a freshwater cenote. While there is no shortage of fantastic dining options along Fifth Avenue, as well as in boutique hotels and resorts, some of the most authentic options are scattered along the surrounding side streets.
One of the most pleasant surprises to be found on Playa del Carmen’s Quinta Avenida is a mariachi performance. The mariachi is a group that performs Mexican national music and is a delight to watch and listen to. You will recognize them from a considerable distance by the unmistakable sound of their trumpets and traditional instruments.
Cenotes
Subway expeditions take visitors on excursions through caverns and rivers surrounded by stalactites in an environment millions of years old. The Riviera Maya is also known for its cenotes, more than 2,500 throughout the region. Explore on an excursion snorkeling, diving or swimming in the subway caves that the Maya believed were the entrance to the underworld, called Xibalba. The Riviera Maya is also dotted with archaeological sites within a short drive from Playa del Carmen, such as Muyil, Coba or Tulum, which can be visited on a half-day excursion.
You definitely can’t leave without spending some time on 12th Avenue, which intersects with Fifth Avenue and where you’ll find Playa del Carmen’s nightlife action. There are bars and entertainment venues for all tastes, where you can sit down for a drink or just enjoy the music.
Days in Playa del Carmen can be spent simply swimming in the warm, calm beaches. Most of the large beachfront hotels offer snorkeling and boat excursions, as well as paddle boards and kayaks.
Don’t forget the fascinating Mayan archaeological sites. The people and the culture are sure to intrigue you.
Make sure your vacation in Playa del Carmen is filled with amazing memories Ready for your vacation in paradise?
