Things to do in Playa del Carmen

Welcome to Playa del Carmen Things to do: Where Sun, Sand, and Adventure Unite!

Discover the Best Playa del Carmen Things to do, where the sun-kissed shores meet the vibrant hues of Mexican culture. This destination isn’t just about pristine beaches and lively reefs; it’s a living canvas painted with the rich history of the Mayan civilization, the pulse of a bustling nightlife, and the hidden gems that make it a traveler’s paradise.

  • Playa del Carmen offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
  • Gorgeous beaches and vibrant reefs await sun-seekers.
  • The city’s lived-in feel distinguishes it from other Riviera Maya resorts.

Things to do in Playa del Carmen Mexico

Latest Playa del Carmen Things to do Guides & Articles

Mannes Biergarten Playa del Carmen
Restaurants

Mannes Biergarten a Taste of Germany in Playa del Carmen

If you're in Playa del Carmen and yearning for an authentic German beer garden experience, look no further than Mannes Biergarten. This Munich-style beer hall is a hidden gem, offering not only a taste of Germany but also a delightful
Viva Wyndham Azteca Restaurants
Restaurants

Viva Wyndham Azteca Restaurants

Indulge in Culinary Delights at Viva Wyndham Azteca Restaurants Playa del Carmen Welcome to the world of exquisite dining at Viva Wyndham Azteca Restaurants, where the allure of diverse flavors and delectable dishes awaits all guests. This all-inclusive Riviera Maya

What to do and see in Playa del Carmen

  • Chez Matisse

    Visit Chez Matisse if you want to enjoy delicious food or a romantic evening. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and lovely décor invite you to sample delicious dishes made with appetizing ingredients and the authentic French cooking flair. Don’t miss the chance to dine with an exquisite selection from the diverse menu and choose a good wine to go with your meals.

  • Casa Adela

    Casa Adela is a cutting-edge location with the concept of a gallery-restaurant that offers the most exquisite Mexican cuisine, both traditional and contemporary, in the best area of Playa del Carmen: the renowned Quinta Avenida. Offering a wide variety of dishes from breakfast to dinner in a magical setting rich in tradition, music, art, and folklore.

  • John Gray’s Place

    The mouthwatering flavors of international classic cuisine will please your palate and will be enhanced by the place’s chef’s unique flair. When visiting John Gray’s Place, one will find themselves in the heart of Playa del Carmen, surrounded by friendly people, enjoying exquisite dishes from a menu that includes American classics, wholesome salads, and soups, and finishing off with rich desserts that will make their mouths water. Extensive wine selections and house wines will go magnificently with their meals.

  • El Bistro

    The only French restaurant in Playa del Carmen is a unique and unique establishment with its own charm. It is a small building with a laid-back atmosphere. This location creates a cozy, stress-relieving atmosphere where you can enjoy delectable foods along with carefully chosen wines made using various techniques. People come to El Bistro, order their food, or just a source of fruit or cheese and a bottle of wine, and then they wait for hours. a restaurant in Playa del Carmen.

  • Di Vino

    Di Vino is a modern restaurant that features exposed terrazas and elegantly decorated interiors for the enjoyment of those who appreciate fine dining and enjoy wine. The extensive menu offers Italian-Mediterranean cuisine specialties, original recipes, and well chosen varieties of Mexican, Italian, and Spanish wines. The level of service and the pleasant atmosphere are unmatched.

  • Madre Tierra

    Consider a juicy steak paired with a cold beer or a flavorful fish filet and a glass of white wine. Additionally, the restaurant Madre Tierra boasts a singular interior design that combines the rustic and minimalist styles. This strange eatery is recommended by both domestic and foreign customers for its flavor and atmosphere.

  • La Ceiba

    La Ceiba offers a diverse buffet every day, serving delicious dishes in a welcoming setting and featuring authentic international and Mexican specialties as well as two hours of beverage bar service. Come and experience the exquisite flavor of our Playa del Carmen neighborhood restaurant.

  • Karen’s

    Casa Adela is a cutting-edge location with the concept of a gallery-restaurant that offers the most exquisite Mexican cuisine, both traditional and contemporary, in the best area of Playa del Carmen: the renowned Quinta Avenida. Offering a wide variety of dishes from breakfast to dinner in a magical setting rich in tradition, music, art, and folklore.

  • Ipanema’s Grill

    This authentic Brazilian churrasquera offers 20 different types of carbon-assisted meat options. You’ll discover meat, poultry, fish, and seafood (all with USDA and Angus certification), all presented in one-meter-long platters and prepared in a way that will charm you. They can serve him at the table or right next to his plate. Complement the meats of your choice with the delectable ingredients from our extensive salad bar and our exquisite seafood buffet. Unquestionably a mandatory stop for everyone who knows how to appreciate good meat cutting.

  • Playasia

    The newly opened Blue Parrot 5th Avenue is proud to host Playasia, a restaurant and bar from Blue Parrot. Playasia’s “chic-selvático” design is exotic and entertaining. It’s a striking outdoor garden with tiny cabins distributed at various levels over a lake whose color constantly changes as a result of its original lighting.

    Its romantic and seductive atmosphere offers diners a flexible menu with a wide selection of entrees that suit all palates and occasions. Every night, a live DJ performs in order to take the guests on a musical journey around the globe. Offers an extensive international menu that includes sushi, sashimi, and other Asian specialties as well as a selection of fish that is both harmonious and adventurous.

  • Hard Rock Campo de Golf

    Paseo Xaman – Ha S/N, Playacar, hrhrivieramaya.com984 873 4990

  • Gran Coyote Golf

    Mexico 307 km 294, Solidaridad, 984 109 6025

  • La Casa Del Habano

    5ta Avenida entre, Calle 40 y 42, Centro, 984 803 3001

  • El Camaleon Mayakoba Golf Course

    Carretera Fed. Chetumal Pto. Juarez Km. 298 Solidaridad mayakobagolf.com 984 206 4653

  • Club Cerouno

    Calle 8 Nte 876, Gonzalo Guerrero, 998 820 4792

  • CIGAR FACTORY

    Calle 16 norte, Local 7-A., Quinta Avenida., Frente a Hotel Tukan, Centro, 984 803 2842

  • Quinta Alegria Shopping Mall

    Quinta Avenida S/N Esquina con, Av Constituyentes, Centro, 984 803 2358

  • La No. 20 Cantina | Playa del Carmen

    Calle Quinta Avenida 310, Gonzalo Guerrero, lano20.com.mx984 688 8031

  • La Taberna

    Avenida 10 Esquina calle 4 Norte Mz. 4 Lote 8, Centro, 984 803 0448

  • Fat Tuesday

    Quinta Avenida MZA 8 LTE 1 LOCAL 3, Centro, fattuesday.com984 803 2980

  • Kool Beach Club

    Calle 28 y Zona Federal Maritima s/n, Centro, koolbeachclub.com.mx984 873 1255

  • El Zorro plateado

    Calle CTM, Av Luis Donaldo Colosio 50, el-zorro-plateado.com55 5285 7313

  • ITZI BAR

    Colosio 35, Zazil-ha, Mahekal Beach Resort

  • La cucaracha

    ,

  • Los Olvidados Cantina Bar Kitsch

    Calle 6 Norte, Numero 706, entre Av. 10, Calle Quinta Avenida y, Centro, 984 147 0025

  • LAmbassade

    Calle 10 Nte 147, Gonzalo Guerrero,

  • Las Helodias

    28 Norte Mza 79 Lt 6 Loc. 1A, Centro, 984 879 3854

  • Indigo Beach Club

    calle 14 y La Playa, Centro, 984 803 2599

  • La Vaquita Playa Del Carmen

    Calle 12 Nte, Centro, 998 883 3333

  • Club de la Cerveza

    5 Av. Norte entre calles 34 y 38 Norte Xaman-Ha, clubdelacerveza.mx

  • Prana Hookah & Drinks

    Calle 12 Nte, Gonzalo Guerrero, 984 168 4193

  • Patio 8

    Calle 8 Nte 876, Gonzalo Guerrero,

  • Martina Beach Club

    Albatros, Zazil-ha, 984 164 2793

Key Attractions in Playa del Carmen

Rio Secreto Nature Reserve

  • Dive into the mystery of the “Secret River,” a series of caves with a half-sunken cavern that’s a diver’s haven. Don’t miss the eerie passageways, stalactites, stalagmites, and vibrant mineral formations.

Chichen Itza

  • Explore the ancient Mayan city—one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Beat the crowds, delve into history, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the Kukulcán Pyramid.

Tulum

  • Wander through the well-preserved coastal Mayan city, Tulum. Highlights include the Temple of the Frescoes, boasting spectacular figurines of the ‘diving god.’

 Isla Mujeres

  • Immerse yourself in marine life and pristine beaches. Snorkel at Manchones Reef, dive in the Cave of Sleeping Sharks, and soak up the nightlife.

Akumal

  • A small beach town known as the “land of the turtles.” White-sand beaches, peaceful bays, and an abundance of sea turtles await.
  • Rio Secreto offers not just diving but also the chance to swim in the river and admire stunning formations.
  • Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, not only features the Kukulcán Pyramid but also temples, ball courts, and cenotes.
  • Akumal, meaning “land of the turtles,” is famous for its sea turtle population and secluded white-sand beaches.

Mayan Ruins of Coba

  • Step back in time at the ruins of Coba, an ancient Maya city. Explore stone causeways and marvel at engraved monuments in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula.

CoCo Bongo Playa del Carmen

  • Experience nightlife like never before. From circus performers to Broadway-style musicals, CoCo Bongo promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida)

  • Wander the pedestrian-only Fifth Avenue for beach access, shops, restaurants, and a taste of the local scene.

Xcaret

  • Discover a natural wonderland with jungle trails, snorkeling lagoons, and the mesmerizing Xcaret Mexico Espectacular light and dance show.
  • Coba, at its peak, housed 50,000 residents and played a crucial role in the Maya system of roadways.
  • CoCo Bongo in Playa del Carmen offers extravagant stages, multiple bars, VIP table service, and a dance floor that rocks through the wee hours.
  • Fifth Avenue is not just a tourist strip; it’s a bustling hub of local life with shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Quintana Roo

Your gateway to the Mexican Caribbean, offering palm-lined beaches, Mayan ruins, and family-friendly nature parks.

Cirque du Soleil Joya

Immerse yourself in the magic of Cirque du Soleil with Joya, their first resident production in Latin America.

Cenote Chaak Tun

Venture into hidden subterranean caves outside Playa del Carmen. Swim and snorkel in freshwater rivers surrounded by centuries-old stalactites.

  • Xcaret, a natural wonderland, features tropical trails, natural lagoons, and the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show.
  • Cirque du Soleil Joya in the Riviera Maya brings magical theatrics, acrobatics, and otherworldly costumes.
  • Cenote Chaak Tun allows you to explore hidden caves and swim in freshwater rivers surrounded by ancient stalactites.

Xel-Ha

Visit the aquatic park with cenotes, a lazy river, and fish-filled lagoons—an ideal family-friendly attraction.

Xplor Park

Experience environmental treasures in the Yucatan jungle. Raft down underground rivers, swim in cenotes, and zipline above the canopy.

3D Museum of Wonders

Dive into art at Playa del Carmen’s 3D Museum of Wonders. Experience mind-bending illusions and interactive exhibits that blend reality with fantasy.

  • Xel-Ha, named after a Mayan word, is a must-visit family-friendly attraction with cenotes and fish-filled lagoons.
  • Xplor Park in the Yucatan jungle offers activities like rafting, swimming in cenotes, and nighttime exploration.
  • Playa del Carmen’s 3D Museum of Wonders takes interactive art to a whole new level, allowing you to splash beneath a waterfall or surf a wave.

Exploring the best of Playa del Carmen Mexico

Best Time to Visit Playa del Carmen

  • Plan your trip between December and April for the least rainfall and optimal weather. Watch out for sargassum, a seaweed that occasionally blankets the beaches from late spring to late fall.
  • December to April offers the best weather conditions with minimal rainfall.
  • Be cautious of sargassum, a seaweed that may affect beach conditions between late spring and late fall.

Getting Around Playa del Carmen

  • Explore on foot for a local experience. Consider renting a bike for farther destinations or grab a taxi for convenience.
  • Playa del Carmen is highly walkable, making exploring on foot an excellent option.
  • Renting a bike is a convenient alternative for those looking to travel further afield.
  • Taxis provide a quick and hassle-free way to get from point to point.

Traveler Tips

  • Don’t miss Jungle GastroBar for a mix of ambiance, live music, and tasty pub fare. Playa del Carmen’s vibrant nightlife and local eateries add spice to your vacation, so step out of your all-inclusive resort!
  • Jungle GastroBar is a fantastic spot for both ambiance and delicious pub fare.
  • Venture beyond all-inclusive resorts to discover Playa del Carmen’s vibrant nightlife and local culinary gems.

Soft Caribbean Beaches

  • Enjoy the typical Caribbean features—white-sand beaches, palm trees, and turquoise waters—making Playa del Carmen a beach lover’s haven.
  • Playa del Carmen’s beaches offer the quintessential Caribbean experience with white sand and turquoise waters.
  • Palm-lined shores create a picturesque setting for a relaxing beach retreat.

Dining and Nightlife Scene in Things to do in Playa del Carmen

  • Indulge in the vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Fifth Avenue is not just a tourist strip; it’s a hub of local life with shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs.
  • Fifth Avenue isn’t just for tourists; it’s a lively hub of local activity with diverse shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • Playa del Carmen’s dining scene offers a variety of options, from local eateries to international cuisine.

Base for Exploring Riviera Maya Attractions

  • Use Playa del Carmen as your base to explore nearby gems like Cozumel, jungle cenotes, and the Xcaret family of theme parks.
  • Playa del Carmen serves as an ideal base for exploring the Riviera Maya, providing easy access to Cozumel, cenotes, and family-friendly theme parks.
  • Beyond its beaches, Playa del Carmen’s strategic location makes it a gateway to the wonders of the Riviera Maya.

Insider’s Guide

  • Start your Playa del Carmen adventure at beach clubs like Coralina Daylight Club. Follow it up with a Mexican breakfast and a day of sun-soaked relaxation. End your Saturday with drinks and dancing on Fifth Avenue.
  • Coralina Daylight Club is a local favorite for its good food and drinks right on the beach.
  • Que Huevos is a go-to spot for a delicious Mexican breakfast to kickstart your day in Playa del Carmen.
  • Saturdays are best spent relaxing on white-sand beaches and ending the day with drinks and dancing on Fifth Avenue.

FAQs

What is Playa del Carmen known for?

  • Soft Caribbean beaches, a lively dining and nightlife scene, and proximity to Riviera Maya attractions.
  • Playa del Carmen is renowned for its stunning Caribbean beaches and vibrant dining and nightlife.
  • Its strategic location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring nearby Riviera Maya attractions.

Daytime Activities

  • Relax at the white-sand beach, explore 5th Avenue, and go snorkeling with various half-day cruise options.
  • Daytime activities range from unwinding on the pristine beach to exploring the bustling 5th Avenue and embarking on snorkeling adventures.
  • Numerous half-day cruise options make snorkeling an accessible and exciting daytime activity.

Best Time to Visit

  • April offers hot temperatures with fewer crowds, except during Holy Week.
  • April stands out as the best time to visit, providing hot temperatures and fewer crowds, with the exception of Holy Week.

Quality of Beaches

  • Playa del Carmen boasts stunning beaches with white sand and turquoise waters.
  • The beaches of Playa del Carmen are a sight to behold, featuring fine white sand and inviting turquoise waters.

Local Activities

  • Locals enjoy beach time, family meals, and entertainment at shopping malls and theaters.
  • Playa del Carmen locals share common interests with tourists, including beach outings, family meals, and entertainment at shopping malls and theaters.

Nightlife Scene

  • It’s a vibrant party town with lively restaurants and nightclubs, making it a hotspot for spring break revelers.
  • Playa del Carmen’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with lively restaurants and nightclubs that attract visitors, especially during spring break.

From the mystical depths of Rio Secreto to the ancient allure of Chichen Itza, Playa del Carmen proves to be a destination where history and contemporary vibrancy coalesce seamlessly.

Envision the sun setting over Fifth Avenue, the echo of laughter at beach clubs, and the timeless beauty of its soft Caribbean beaches.

Playa del Carmen isn’t just a place; it’s a symphony of sun, sand, and adventure that resonates in the hearts of those who have had the pleasure of experiencing its wonders.