Playa Del Carmen Travel Guide: The Perfect Getaway for Relaxation and Fun
Reading Time: 12 minutes Looking for the perfect vacation spot? Look no further than Playa del Carmen! Whether you're traveling solo or with kids, this is our family's travel blog's perspective – we hope it helps you on your journey.
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This beautiful Mexican town is known for its stunning beaches, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or party until the sun comes up, Playa Del Carmen has something for everyone.
So let's talk about what to expect when visiting this great town. Let us show you why Playa del Carmen is one of the world's most popular beach vacation destinations!
Where is Playa Del Carmen located?
Playa del Carmen is located on the east coast of Mexico in the Riviera Maya. It is about an hour south of Cancun and just a short drive or ferry ride from other popular tourist destinations like Tulum and Cozumel.
What is the weather like in Playa Del Carmen?
The weather in Playa del Carmen is hot and humid year-round. The average temperature ranges from the high 70s Fahrenheit in the winter to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. If you visit in December or January, you may see the temperature dip to 70 and below; however, these cold fronts only last a few days at most.
The rainy season in Playa Del Carmen is from June to October. During this time, it is not unusual to have short, intense storms that last for a few hours and then clear up.
What are the beaches like in Playa Del Carmen?
The beaches in Playa del Carmen are some of the most beautiful in the world. They are long and wide with crystal-clear water and white sand, and the beaches are also very well-maintained.
During the last several years, the beaches in Playa Del Carmen have been seeing an increase in sargassum; however, many of the resorts have done a great job of trying their best to clean the beaches and set up nets to control the sargassum.
The good news is that not all areas are impacted at the same time. Therefore the chances of you finding a beach that is free of sargassum is good.
What is the closest airport to Playa Del Carmen?
The closest airport to Playa del Carmen is the Cancun International Airport (CUN). It is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive to the airport's Playa del Carmen city center. Many shuttle companies offer transportation from the airport to Playa del Carmen for as low as $20 USD per person. You can do a private shuttle as well.
Is it safe to go to Playa del Carmen?
Playa Del Carmen is relatively safe. You may have read about the increase in crime and gang violence in the Yucatan Peninsula which can be concerning. However, the crime rate in Playa del Carmen is relatively low compared to the rest of the Yucatan.
You may hear about incidents of crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching in the tourist areas, so it is always important to be cautious. In general, Mexico is a safe country to visit.
However, as with any place you travel to, it is always important to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings.
As long as you take the necessary precautions, you should have no problems during your stay in Playa del Carmen.
What is the best month to go to Playa Del Carmen?
The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is November through May, and these are the driest months with the least amount of rainfall.
The temperatures during these months are also very comfortable, ranging from the low 80s to mid-90s. April and May are the best because that is when the spring break crowds clear out, you will also find fewer tourists during this time, which is a bonus.
Things to do in Playa Del Carmen
When visiting Playa Del Carmen, it is easy to just spend your days lying on the beach sipping on your drink of choice. But if that is not your style, there are plenty of things to do in Playa Del Carmen to keep you occupied.
Go Shopping on La Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue)
One of the most popular things in Playa Del Carmen is shopping on La Quinta Avenida. This pedestrian-only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. You can find everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion on this street, from street vendors selling handmade Mexican souvenirs to name-brand stores such as Victoria's Secret, H&M, and even a Walmart.
If you have followed us you know we are headed to Walmart. But we also love the handmade authentic fare that is available here as well.
Go Swimming with Whale Sharks
If you are looking for a unique experience while visiting Playa Del Carmen, you can go swimming with whale sharks. These gentle giants are actually harmless to humans, and it is an experience that you will never forget.
Many tour companies operate in Playa del Carmen that offer this activity. The price for a tour ranges from $120-$200 USD per person. The tours are usually combined with snorkeling or a visit to a cenote, so it makes for a great all-day activity.
Visit a Cenote
If you are looking for a beautiful and unique natural attraction to visit while in Playa Del Carmen, you should check out one of the many cenotes. A cenote is a natural sinkhole that forms when the roof of an underground cave collapses.
There are hundreds of cenotes located throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. Many of them are easily accessible from Playa Del Carmen.
One of the best cenotes to visit is the Cenote Chaak Tun, located just a short drive from Playa Del Carmen. This cenote is beautiful and has crystal clear water perfect for swimming in. The average temperature of the water is 75° F making it a perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day.
Spend the Day at a Beach Club
If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sun with a little bit of a party vibe, one of the best things to do in Playa Del Carmen is to spend the day at a beach club. There are many beach clubs located along the coastline of Playa Del Carmen.
Some of the most popular beach clubs include Mamitas Beach Club and Kool Beach Club.
These beach clubs offer swimming pools, restaurants, bars, and lounge chairs.
One of the best things about spending the day at a beach club is that you can enjoy the sun and sand without having to worry about lugging all of your beach gear with you. You can rent chaises and even have food and drinks delivered right to you, so you don't have to lift a finger.
Take a Day Trip to Chichen Itza
If you are looking for a day trip full of adventure and history, you should take a day trip to Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, and for a good reason.
This ancient Mayan city is home to some of the most impressive ruins in Central America. The main attraction is the El Castillo, a massive pyramid built to honor the Maya god Kukulkan.
Many tour companies offer day trips to Chichen Itza from Playa Del Carmen. The price for tours starts at $59, and some include lunch and a visit to a nearby cenote. Our friend Taima, over at Poorinaprivateplane.com, who has lived in Playa del Carmen recommends Kay tours.
They are not the least expensive choice but they are the best value for the money. You can visit without a tour guide and save yourself the tour guide fee.
For more tips on saving money while visiting Playa del Carmen check Taima out Top tips for saving money in Playa del Carmen
Eat all the Food
One of the best things about Playa Del Carmen is the food. The town has a great mix of traditional Mexican food and international cuisine.
If you are looking for some delicious Mexican food, you should check out one of the many taquerias or street vendors. You can find everything from tacos and quesadillas to tamales and enchiladas. Some places to check out are Cartoccio, Ah Carbon, or any food trucks that are right off of La Quinta. (5th Avenue)
For a more upscale dining experience, you can check out one of the many restaurants that line Fifth Avenue. You can find everything from Italian and Japanese cuisine to American comfort food. Check out Alux, where you can dine in a cave. It's definitely an experience that is a must in Playa Del Carmen.
Visit the Caves at Rio Secreto
If you are looking for an adventure that is slightly off the beaten path, you should visit the Rio Secreto caves. The Rio Secreto is a series of underground caves and rivers located just outside of Playa Del Carmen.
The best way to explore the Rio Secreto is with a guided tour. The tours last for about two hours and include a walk through the caves and a swim in some of the underground pools.
Where should I stay when visiting Playa Del Carmen?
If you are looking for a place to stay in Playa Del Carmen, there are many options to choose from. You can find everything from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts.
Some of the most popular places include the Blue Bay Grand Esmeralda Resort, The Reef Coco Beach, and The Royal Hideaway Playacar Resort.
If you are looking for a place to stay close to the action, Fifth Avenue is a great option. If you are looking for something more secluded and private, head to the beaches north of town.
We put together a list of our favorite places to stay in Playa Del Carmen, from All-Inclusive Resorts to boutique hotels to make it easier.
Best Playa Del Carmen All-Inclusive Resorts
If you're looking for a hassle-free vacation where all your needs are taken care of, then an all-inclusive resort is the perfect option for you. Playa Del Carmen is home to some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, and here are a few of our favorites.
Secrets Maroma Beach
Located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Playa Del Carmen, Secrets Maroma Beach is a luxurious all-inclusive resort perfect for couples. This adults-only resort offers everything from swim-up suites to private cabanas on the beach.
There are also six restaurants and seven bars at Secrets Maroma Beach, so you will never go hungry or thirsty.
You can find rates and availability for Secrets Maroma Beach on their website.
Paradisus “La Perla”
Located between Punta Esmeralda and La Quinta Avenida, La Perla is the perfect all-inclusive resort for those looking for more of a party atmosphere. The all-suite resort features 14 restaurants and 11 bars, and the entertainment at this resort is some of the best in Playa Del Carmen.
You can find rates and availability for Paradisus La Perla on their website by clicking here.
The Royal Haciendas
The Royal Haciendas is an all-inclusive resort that is perfect for families. This beachfront resort offers suites and villas with private balconies. They even have a shuttle that takes you downtown Playa Del Carmen.
You can find rates and availability for The Royal Haciendas on their website by clicking here.
Best Boutique Hotels in Playa Del Carmen
Thompson Beach House
If you're looking for a chic boutique hotel, then you'll want to check out Thompson Beach House.
The hotel is located in downtown Playa Del Carmen and has 27 rooms and suites, some with oceanfront views.
The Thompson Beach House has two restaurants, two bars, and an infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
You can find rates and availability for the Thompson Beach House on their website.
Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel
Located on the quieter northern end of Playa Del Carmen, Blue Diamond is a luxury boutique hotel with over 120 rooms and suites. This adults-only resort caters to couples who want a more relaxing and quieter experience in Playa Del Carmen.
You can find rates and availability for the Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel here.
Best Budget Hotels in Playa Del Carmen
Hotel Cielo
If you're looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Playa Del Carmen, then you'll want to check out Hotel Cielo. This hotel is located just off Fifth Avenue and has comfortable rooms, some with private balconies.
Hotel Cielo is a favorite among visitors to Playa Del Carmen because of its traditional Mexican architecture which is unique in this area.
You can find rates and availability for Hotel Cielo here.
La Pasion Hotel
Located approximately three blocks from La Quinta Avenida, La Pasion is an excellent hotel for those that want to be near the action but not right in it. This adults-only hotel is not only budget-friendly, but it is the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a more relaxing experience in Playa Del Carmen.
Here you can find rates and availability for La Pasion Hotel
Visiting Playa Del Carmen
If you're looking for a relaxing and fun-filled getaway, then Playa Del Carmen is the place to be.
Playa Del Carmen is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its stunning beaches, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife, there's something for everyone.
You'll never want to leave once you experience all that Playa Del Carmen has to offer. From its world-famous beaches to its excellent restaurants, there's something for everyone in this beautiful place.
So will I see you in Playa Del Carmen?
