If you plan a trip to Playa del Carmen, the famous beaches should be at the top of the list of things to do. The coastline near Fifth Avenue is a symbolic spot you can't miss when visiting the city.
In this post, you will find the best things to do in Playa del Carmen, as well as places to visit during your stay in this bohemian paradise.
1. Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)
The first pitstop for almost every traveler to Playa del Carmen is Fifth Avenue - the city's most beautiful and multicultural area.
Near Fifth Avenue, you will find plazas like Quinta Alegria, home to stores like Forever 21, American Eagle, and Sanborn's, among others.
Walking along Fifth Avenue will help you get to know a lot about Playa del Carmen in a relatively short time. First, find local and international restaurants, along with stores selling cigars, delicious coffee beans, and souvenirs for your family or friends on your return.
2. Playa del Carmen Beach Clubs
Playa del Carmen is all about parties, joy, loud music, live DJs, and non-stop socializing with friends.
You will love the beach clubs in the city like Mamita's Beach Club, Coralina Daylight Club, among many others, where you will find fun until the early hours of the morning.
3. Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
Diving or snorkeling in Playa del Carmen is among the most popular activities for tourists. You can do this whether you are an expert or a beginner.
Reef Quest Divers is an ideal place to learn snorkeling - you can find equipment and fully certified trainers to help you discover the depths of the Caribbean Sea.
4. Rio Secreto
Another of the most popular activities in Playa del Carmen is Rio Secreto (Secret River), an underground river covered by caverns that will ignite your hidden sense of adventure.
5. Xenses Park
Xenses is an Xcaret Group park that will awaken your senses with various activities to test your sight, hearing, touch, and taste. This activity is fun for adults and children of all ages.
6. Golf Courses in Playa del Carmen
Are you a sports lover? Then the golf courses in Playa del Carmen are waiting for you. Enjoy a casual morning or afternoon session with friends.
Get in contact with the courses through the reception of your hotel or resort. Alternatively, you can get an access ticket from the tour vendors around the city.
7. 3D Museum of Wonders
You will find adventures and fun anecdotes at the incredible 3D Museum of Wonders in Playa del Carmen. Here are outlandish scenarios that play with your sense of perception. For this activity, you must book in advance.
8. Chichén Itzá
If you have already seen the best of Playa del Carmen, wait until you get to know the most iconic nearby site, recognized as one of the wonders of the modern world by UNESCO. Of course, I'm talking about Chichen Itza. An ancient Mayan city where you can learn about the incredible architecture with astrological and numerical bases that will make you marvel at the ancient Mayas who inhabited the region.
While walking through this site, capturing hundreds of photos, do not hesitate to buy a souvenir to take home with you later.
9. The Cenotes Route
If you haven't heard about the "la Ruta de Los Cenotes," let me tell you a little bit. Between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, there is a long road where you will find dozens of cenotes that welcome you to enjoy the uniquely fresh, clear waters.
The cenotes in ancient times had a sacred cleansing purpose amongst the Mayans and provided fresh water. You will find a diverse array of subway cenotes, open-air, and some more than 90 meters deep, which will leave you wanting to return.
Lodging in Playa del Carmen
Being a city rich in culture and inclusive of all its visitors, you won't have to worry about finding an ideal base.
From 5-star hotels and huge resorts with morning and evening activities to hostels and cabins - these are just some of the many accommodation options in Playa del Carmen.
If you want to relax, look for a place with a spa included, and if you like adventure, the outdoor cabins offer a vacation experience to disconnect from daily life.
Transportation in Playa del Carmen
Getting around in Playa del Carmen is easy to plan and book before traveling.
The most convenient way to get around in Playa del Carmen is by booking transportation from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. You can travel comfortably from Cancun Airport, your hotel, or any place in Cancun to Playa del Carmen without the slightest complication.
There are also means of transportation such as cabs and public buses within the city. However, you should be cautious, as many cab drivers charge up to four times the price of other transportation services.
Transportation from the Airport to Playa del Carmen
As you know, in Playa del Carmen, there is no official airport, so most domestic and international flights arrive at the Cancun International Airport (CUN). For this, the easiest way is to take a shuttle service at Cancun Airport or rent a car on arrival with recognized agencies at the airport.
