Playa del Carmen - Discovering Mexico

Travelling to Playa del Carmen

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Playa del Carmen, a pretty good destination in Mexico (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Playa del Carmen and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Playa del Carmen, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mexico, here's everything to know about Playa del Carmen for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a popular tourist destination located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and great nightlife. Playa del Carmen offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. The town is home to many restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors can also explore ancient Mayan ruins nearby and enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving. With a tropical climate and average temperatures of 80°F year-round, Playa del Carmen is an ideal destination for a beach vacation.

What to visit in Playa del Carmen

Sure, here are a few popular tourist attractions in Playa del Carmen, Mexico: 1. Fifth Avenue - This pedestrian street is the heart of Playa del Carmen and runs parallel to white sandy beaches for 3 miles. Fifth Avenue is packed with shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
2. Xcaret Park - Xcaret Park is an eco-archaeological park that offers a combination of natural beauty, history, and culture. Here you can swim in underground rivers, see exotic animals, visit a Mayan village, and enjoy cultural shows.
3. Tulum Ruins - Tulum's ruins are located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and were once a large and thriving Mayan city. Visitors can explore the city's temples, walls, and palace.
4. Cozumel Island - Cozumel is a beautiful island off the coast of Playa del Carmen and is known for its clear blue waters, coral reefs, and incredible marine life. Visitors can snorkel, scuba dive, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to experience the underwater world.
5. Xplor Adventure Park - Xplor Adventure Park is an outdoor adventure park that features ziplines, underground rivers, amphibious vehicles, and other adrenaline-boosting activities in a natural jungle setting.
6. Akumal Beach - Akumal Beach is a beautiful stretch of beach that is home to sea turtles and tropical fish. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive to get up close and personal with these amazing sea creatures.
7. Cenotes - Cenotes are natural sinkholes that are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula and are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, and Ik Kil are a few of the most popular cenotes near Playa del Carmen.
Overall, Playa del Carmen is a beautiful destination that offers a mix of culture, history, and adventure - making it a perfect place for travelers of all kinds.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mexico, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Playa del Carmen.

When to go on holiday to Playa del Carmen

The best time to go on a holiday to Playa del Carmen in Mexico is between December and April. During this time, the weather is usually sunny and dry, making it perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. The temperatures during these months range from mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, making it an ideal time for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices for flights and accommodations could be higher than other times of the year. If you're looking to save money, consider visiting during the shoulder season from May to November, but be prepared for occasional rain showers and humidity.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Playa del Carmen

There are several ways to get to Playa del Carmen, Mexico: 1. By plane: The nearest international airport is Cancun International Airport (CUN), which is about 45 minutes away from Playa del Carmen. Several airlines offer direct flights to Cancun from major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
2. By bus: Playa del Carmen is well-connected by bus services with other major cities in Mexico. There are several bus companies that operate from the bus station in Playa del Carmen, including ADO, which is the most popular and reliable.
3. By car: If you are planning to drive, you can rent a car from Cancun International Airport or from a car rental agency in Playa del Carmen.
4. By ferry: If you are coming from Cozumel, you can take a ferry to Playa del Carmen. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes and is operated by Ultramar.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Playa del Carmen, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Playa del Carmen

Sure, here are some typical foods that you can find in Playa del Carmen, Mexico: 1. Tacos al pastor: These are one of the most popular street foods in Playa del Carmen. It consists of marinated pork that is cooked on a vertical spit, much like the Middle Eastern shawarma. The pork is then sliced and served on top of a small tortilla with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.
2. Ceviche: This is a popular seafood dish made from raw fish that is marinated in lime juice, mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's usually served with saltine crackers or tortilla chips.
3. Tamales: These are a traditional Mexican dish made of masa (ground maize dough) that is filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, or vegetables, and then steamed or boiled in a corn husk until cooked. Tamales are often served for breakfast in Playa del Carmen.
4. Aguachile: This is a spicy shrimp and chili dish that is commonly found in coastal regions of Mexico. The shrimp is marinated in lime juice and mixed with chopped chili peppers, onion, cucumber, and cilantro.
5. Pibil: This is a Yucatecan specialty that consists of marinated pork that is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground pit until tender. The meat is then shredded and served with tortillas and pickled onions.
6. Churros: These are a sweet pastry made of fried dough that is coated in cinnamon and sugar. They are often served for breakfast or as a dessert.
7. Mole: This is a thick, rich sauce made from a combination of chilies, nuts, seeds, and spices. It is commonly served with chicken or pork and is a popular dish in Playa del Carmen.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mexico here.

Is Playa del Carmen an expensive destination for tourists?

Playa del Carmen can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists, especially compared to other destinations in Mexico. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities tend to be higher in Playa del Carmen due to its popularity with tourists and its location in the Riviera Maya, a prime tourist area. However, there are still budget-friendly options available, such as hostels and local eateries, and prices can vary depending on the time of year you visit.

Where to find accomodation in Playa del Carmen

The best areas to find accommodation in Playa del Carmen, Mexico are: 1. Downtown Playa del Carmen: This area is close to the beach and nightlife hotspots, with plenty of affordable hotels and vacation rentals.
2. Playacar: This gated community is located just south of downtown and offers upscale resorts, villas, and condos with easy access to the beach.
3. Playa Maroma: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Playa Maroma is located just north of Playa del Carmen and offers luxury resorts and boutique hotels.
4. Puerto Aventuras: This coastal town is located about 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and offers upscale resorts, condos, and villas with access to a marina and dolphin encounters.
5. Tulum: Located about an hour south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum is known for its picturesque beaches, eco-lodges, and boutique hotels.
You can check hotel prices at Playa del Carmen here:
Booking.com

Is Playa del Carmen a safe destination for tourists?

Playa del Carmen is considered a safe place for tourists, with a relatively low crime rate. However, like any other tourist destinations, visitors should always use common sense and take precautions to ensure their safety. Some tips to stay safe in Playa del Carmen include avoiding walking alone at night in deserted areas, avoiding excessive drinking, avoiding showing off valuables or carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of your surroundings at all times. Additionally, it is advisable to only use authorized taxis, and to beware of scams and pickpockets. Overall, Playa del Carmen is a great destination for tourists who want to enjoy the beautiful beaches and cultural attractions in the area while also ensuring their safety.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mexico here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Playa del Carmen.

What type of travelers will enjoy Playa del Carmen the most?

Playa del Carmen is a great destination that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. It offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to the interests of different age groups and travel styles. Couples will love Playa del Carmen for its romantic atmosphere and luxury resorts. The town offers many oceanfront restaurants, boutique shops, and cultural activities for couples to enjoy. It is also a great place for young people looking for fun, as there are many clubs and bars in the area.
Families will also enjoy Playa del Carmen as it has many kid-friendly activities. There are many water sports, theme parks, and cultural sites that families can visit together. The stunning beach of Playa del Carmen is also perfect for families who just want to relax and build sandcastles. Overall, Playa del Carmen is a versatile destination that can suit the needs and interests of any type of traveler.

How to get around Playa del Carmen

The most common modes of transportation for getting around Playa del Carmen are taxis, colectivos (shared vans), and buses. There is also the option to rent a car or scooter, but it is not necessary unless you plan on taking day trips outside of the city. Many of the popular attractions and places to eat are easily accessible by walking, especially in the downtown area.

What to see around Playa del Carmen

Sure, here are some nice places that you can visit in a day trip from Playa del Carmen: 1. Tulum: You can visit the ancient ruins of Tulum, which are located on the beautiful white sand beach looking out over the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
2. Cozumel: Take a ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel Island and spend a day exploring the island's beaches and coral reefs. 3. Akumal: Akumal is famous for its crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. 4. Xcaret Park: Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park that has a butterfly pavilion, an aquarium, and a cultural show. 5. Puerto Aventuras: It’s a relaxing community, where you can spend the day swimming with dolphins, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun on the beach.
These are just a few ideas for a day trip from Playa del Carmen. Each of these destinations has something unique to offer that will make your vacation in Mexico more memorable.
For every travel information about Mexico you can click here.

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