Playa del Carmen

What can you do in Playa Del Carmen? First of all - be on vacation! Relax, let your hair down and let all your worries drift away on the calm breezes of the Caribbean. Relax... kick back and get ready to have some fun. Once you are in vacation mode there are a ton of fun things to do and see. One important thing to remember is the slow pace of Mexico is even slower here in the Caribbean. Don't feel like you have to fill all of your time with tours, excursions, diving and more - just a simply strolling around town, enjoying the local cuisine & drinking ice cold beers is enough excitement for a full day of vacation. And don't forget the most important part of your Playa Del Carmen vacation - the beach! The long stretches of white beaches are some of the most beautiful you will see in the world. The white soft sand never gets hot, so you won't burn your feet. The clear turquoise Caribbean sea is warm and calm. You will find a peace of mind here that you can not find int he busy hustle and bustle of your everyday life.

AND if all of this isn't enough for you and your family then below you will find all of the information on the things to do in Playa Del Carmen to fill every moment and then some!

Maps:

• Playa Del Carmen Interactive Map
• Travel Yucatan Playa Del Carmen Tourist Map
• Playa Del Carmen Photo Tour Map
• Playa Del Carmen Brochure Map

Tours

• Yucatreks Tulum & Beyond - a one of a kind day with lots of varied action, described by many as the highlight of their vacation. This tour gives guests a taste of the best the Riviera Maya has to offer: you'll explore the ruins of Tulum, swim/snorkel in two different cenotes, and enjoy a picnic lunch and relaxation time on a lovely, secluded beach. Read more about on this fun and experience-packed day in the itinerary on your right.
• The Coba Treasures excursion invites guests to explore what is one of the most interesting Mayan cities in the Yucatan. Much older than the ruins of Tulum and dating from about 200 BC-1450 AD, this important trading hub is believed to have supported up to 55,000 people during its peak and contains around 6,500 structures, most of which are still hidden in the wild, overgrown depths of the jungle
• Chichen Itza is arguably one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world. It has been appointed a World Heritage site by UNESCO and was recently declared one of the new 7 ancient Wonders of the World!
• Fat Cat Rentals beautiful tours on a Comfortable 45' Catamaran - Scooting up and down the coast on a luxury, smooth cat is a joy. This is a really fun trip. Take a look in our forum and you'll find plenty of reviews
• AllTournative Mayan Zip-Line Expedition - This half-day tour, with its visit to protected natural sanctuary Chikin Ha, is a great introduction to the wonders of the Yucatan and the ancient Maya.
• AllTournative - Jungle Crossing Expedition - This fully-packed day includes a kayak adventure in beautiful, tranquil Punta Soliman bay. Here you'll snorkel the Caribbean reef that has made this area so popular, seeing many varieties of tropical fish, coral and sea sponges.
• AllTournative Mayan Encounter Tour - Admit it - you've always dreamed of being Indiana Jones. Well, with Alltournative's Mayan Encounter, for one day you, too, can be a thrill-seeking explorer climbing ancient pyramids, zip-lining across the jungle, rappelling into and swimming in sacred cenotes, and paddling a canoe through a lovely lagoon.

Adventure Catamaran trips

Sea Passion
Playa’s own catamaran service offers sailing to Isla Mujeres, snorkeling, recreation at a prime beach club and other sublime Caribbean pleasures. Located on Calle 26, between La Quinta and Avenida 10.

Famous Fury
A wide array of offshore adventures – including parasailing, kayaking, snorkeling, catamaran sails and more – as well as beach volleyball, fresh lunches and seaside activities have made this catamaran crew’s first name famous.

Skydiving

Skydive Cancún and Playa
Fully trained and licensed by the United States Parachute Association, Skydive offers safe tandem skydiving with a soft beach landing, as well as video and still pictures to capture the exhilarating experience.

Expeditions and adventure parks

Alltournative – The Adventure Travel Company This premiere adventure travel company specializes in guided ecologically minded expeditions, including jungle treks, historic ruin tours, and encounters with natural wonders. Multiple information center locations include La Quinta between Calle 12 and Calle 14, and between Avenida Juárez and Avenida 2, and Calle 12 at the beach (inside Blue Parrot).

Xcaret (pronounced esh car et)
Situated near Playa towards Tulum, this spectacular Riviera Maya theme park encompasses over 36 attractions and exhibits spotlighting environmental preservation, dolphin encounters, a butterfly pavilion, and the culture of Mexico. An information center in Playa del Carmen is located on Avenida 5 between Calle 8 and Calle 10.

Xel-Ha (pronounced shell ha)
A pristine water-themed eco-park offering dolphin swimming encounters, natural cave exploration, wildlife preservation activities and a wealth of additional natural adventures. Located on kilometer 240 of the Carretera 307. In Playa del Carmen, a reservation and information center is located on Avenida 5 between Calle 8 and Calle 10.

Dolphin Discovery
Swimming with dolphins is the main attraction at this lush lagoon-encircled isle that also offers encounters with sea lions, sharks, stingrays and other sea life. Located in Cancún at Centro Comercial Marina.

Caribbean Carnaval tour to Isla Mujeres
This full-day, all-inclusive tour and boat ride is the ideal way to experience a beautiful off-shore island destination that has long been a haven for divers and fishermen. The day also includes leisure time at a private club, beach sports, a water slide, famous Manchones Reef and water activities.

Bars & Nightclubs

Blue Parrot
Right on the beach in the heart of Playa, this beach club has two dance floors with different music styles. Catch its legendary fire show every evening. Located on Calle 12 and the beach.

Santanera
Two levels of energy are combined at one of the town’s hottest scenes: an upstairs open-air social lounge, plus a DJ-driven dance floor surrounded by baroque décor. Located on Calle 12 between La Quinta and Avenida 10.

Dubai
Features high-tech sound and lighting systems, VIP areas, a huge dance floor, and special shows. Music ranges from old school hits to the newest grooves. Located on Calle 12 between La Quinta and Avenida 10.

Drinks & Appetizers

El Deseo Hotel and Lounge
The South Beach-flavored poolside lounge at this chic boutique hotel features a top DJ spinning ambient grooves; al fresco moonlit movies are projected poolside. Located on La Quinta and Calle 12.

Hotel Básico
As visually striking as the hotel it calls home, the rooftop terrace bar at this modernist retreat radiates an international ambience and a hypnotic audio soundscape. Located on La Quinta and Calle 10.

Kartabar
Savor seafood and cuisine with a Mediterranean accent, plus outstanding hummus and Lebanese specialties, at this indoor-outdoor scene featuring plush couch seating and endless people watching. Located on Calle 12 and Avenida 1.

Diablito Cha Cha Cha
This spacious restaurant is decorated with old ovens, televisions, multi-colored chairs, and various ceiling lamps hanging from the palapa. The chef serves up an eclectic mixture of cuisine, and cannot leave without trying the Camarones de Roca and the Ostiones Tempura. It is the perfect place for ordering a variety of platters for everyone to share and try them all. Located on Calle 12 and Avenida 1.

Golf, Spas, & Fitness

El Camaleón, Mayakoba
Designed by Greg Norman and the home of Mexico’s first PGA tournament (February 2007), El Camaleón offers impeccable playing conditions throughout three different environments: jungle, mangroves, and ocean. Located in Mayakoba.

Playacar Spa & Golf Club
Adjacent to the Caribbean and dramatically carved out of the jungle, this championship course designed by Robert Van Hagge is renowned worldwide for its breathtaking beauty and challenging conditions. Located in Playacar.

Puerto Aventuras Beach Marina & Golf Resort
This challenging 9 hole jungle course designed by Thomas Leman is one of the area’s most alluring golf destinations. Players will encounter iguanas, deer, tropical birds, and other wildlife on their rounds. Located in Puerto Aventuras.

Playa Mujeres Golf Club
Designed by Greg Norman, Playa Mujeres 18 holes Golf Club features several lagoon, and ocean front holes. Located in Playa Mujeres, north of Cancún.

Puerto Cancún Golf Club
Designed by award winning designer and British Open Champion, Tom Weisko, aficionados of the sport will find the upscale and elite lifestyle available at Puerto Cancún to be a sure shot. Opening Summer 2007. Located in Puerto Cancún.

Cancún Golf Club, at Pok-ta-Pok
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. This 18 holes golf club artistically incorporates hundreds of meters of shoreline and ancient Mayan ruins into a truly enjoyable experience for golfers of all abilities. Located in Cancún’s Hotel Zone

Hilton Cancún Golf Club
A golfer’s paradise on beautiful Nichupte Lagoon, its 18 hole golf course has hosted devotees on the sport for years. Located on Nichupte Lagoon, in Cancun’s Hotel Zone

Riviera Cancún Golf Club
The Riviera Cancun 18 hole golf course is located on the entrance to Cancun’s Hotel Zone, designed by Jack Niclaus.

TPC Cancún, La Roca Country Club
This 36 hole golf course is Meant to be one of the best Cancún Golf Courses, designed by PGA Tour member Nick Price and Tom Fazio. Located in La Roca Country Club

Moon Spa & Golf Club Global environment is the base upon which this project is designed, built, and operated, creating a perfect harmony between development, protection and conservation. Three 9 hole golf courses designed and built by Jack Nicklaus.

Mayan Resort Golf Riviera Maya
White sand traps, lakes, and tropical vegetation of intense green will be the great obstacles to beat in this executive and high-precision 18 hole golf course by Nicklaus Design.

Iberostar Playa Paraíso Golf Club
This 18 hole golf course incorporates the native Mayan jungle vegetation and enormous changes in the terrains altitude. Narrow fairways, undulating greens and deep sand traps make for a challenging course from beginning to end.

Cozumel Country Club
Cozumel Island’s only golf course was designed by Steve Nicklaus of the Nicklaus Design Group and is Mexico’s first Audubon Society Certified golf course. Golf and nature can be enjoyed here.

Bahía Príncipe Golf Resort
The Mayan forest of various height and composition has been integrated in the contours of this 27 hole golf course inspired in the mysticism of Yucatan, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

Spas & Fitness

EVOLVE Body & Fitness Center
In addition to yoga, Pilates and indoor cycling classes, this sleek facility offers state-of-the-art machines and expert personal trainers. Located on 24th and 5th.

The Gym
A wide variety of classes, free weights and top of the line fitness machines make this a versatile and popular workout destination. Personal training is also available. Located on Avenida 1 between Constituyentes and Calle 16 Bis.

Spa Itzá
Serene and elegant, Playa Del Carmen’s premiere full-service aromatherapy spa incorporates ancient Mayan healing arts, massage, full-body treatments, facials and baths in an exquisite indoor-outdoor environment. Located in Calle Corazon.

Hacienda Vista Real Hotel & Spa
This luxurious full-service spa offers sheer indulgence at an elegant area hotel. Located in Playacar at Ret. 3 Lotes 12 and 13.

Kristine Playacar Beauty Salon Spa
Simple but satisfying, Kristine’s retreat offers great value for full body massages, manicures, pedicures and more rejuvenating treatments. Located on Avenida 10 and Calle 1, in the Plaza Antigua at the entrance of Playacar.

Yoga Centers

Alhambra Hotel
Welcome the day with yoga sun salutations at this ocean front third floor classroom located within the Alhambra Hotel. Mats, blocks and blankets are provided, just bring a towel and a bottle of water. Located on Calle 8 and the beach.

Palapa Suuk
End the day with a wonderful yoga class in this third floor palapa roof classroom full of peace and tranquility. Water and a towel is all you need to bring. Located on Avenida CTM (Calle 46), between La Quinta and Avenida 10.

Local Cuisine

The local mexican cuisine of Playa del Carmen is an excellent array of restaurants serving food from all over Mexico, from the southeastern Mayan culinary experience of Yaxché to the tender northern steaks of HC de Monterrey. All of Mexico in one town.

Yaxché (pronounced jack - shay)
Renowned in Playa and beyond for authentic Mayan cuisine, this restaurant’s culinary pleasures are enhanced by rejuvenating winds that come from the sea. Located on Calle 8, between La Quinta and Avenida 10.

HC de Monterrey
Favored by locals for its large portions of succulent meat and chicken served with just-ripened avocado, and your choice of oven baked onions or potatoes. Located on Constituyentes between Avenida 25 and Avenida 30.

El Fogón
Set back from La Quinta, the mouthwatering aroma in El Fogon is that of freshly made tacos. Start off your meal with delicious nopales (cactus prepared with a very special recipe) and then enjoy the best pastor tacos in town. Located on Constituyentes and Avenida 30, and on Avenida 30 and Calle 30.

Carboncitos
If you’re beach bound, stop off at Carboncitos, where you can experience a wide variety of Mexican foods, including burritos, tacos, salads, and soups. Located on Calle 6 betweeen La Quinta and Avenida 10.

International Cuisine

The vibrant pulse of Playa del Carmen is certainly reflected in the wide range of international restaurants, from playful and colourful sushi served in Playasia's treehouse and the tenderest lambracks at Chicago don José's to Era Oras daily fresh homemade pasta. Playa has something for every palate.

Tango Taco
As popular for its great value as its palate pleasing dishes, Tango Taco is home to world-class tacos, arracherra fajitas, and hearty Argentinian meat dishes. Located on Calle 10 between Avenidas 10 and 15.

Playasia
With a playful jungle chic atmosphere that’s as adventurous as its Pan-Asian cuisine, Playasia offers exotic entrées, fresh sushi and refreshing signature cocktails. Located on La Quinta, between Calle 10 and 12.

Babe’s Noodles and Bar
The spiciest Thai and coolest Mojitos in town draw locals and visitors to this offbeat space owned by Swedish locals, and decorated with photos of vintage pin up girls plastered on walls and counters. Located on Calle 10 between La Quinta and Avenida 10, and on La Quinta between Calle 28 and Calle 30.

Casa Mediterránea
Centrally located but cozily set back from the street, this longtime favorite serves authentic Italian food in intimate dining rooms and a relaxing courtyard. Located on La Quinta, between Calle 6 and Calle 8.

Era Ora
Owned by a Swedish/Italian couple, this restaurant offers a warm atmosphere with personal service and is a favorite spot for the local Pasta and Pizza lovers. The from the daily fresh selection of Pastas, our favourite is the Fettuccini Boscaiola, with mushrooms and real italian homemade sausage. Otherwise, order the Pizza Rustica or Diavola. Enjoy Playa like the locals do at this quiet Italian restaurant at 1st Avenue and 14th Street. Does home delivery for our rental units in the same neighbourhood, contact us for more details.

Negrosal
One of Playa’s “hottest” locations, offering upscale Italian, Argentinian, and Mexican fare. Accented with dramatic glass floors, a stylish bar, and attentive service, Negrosal’s atmosphere will make any occasion memorable. Located on Calle 16 Bis between Avenida 1 and La Quinta, and at its new location in Mosquito Beach Hotel

Ula-Gula
The catch of the day, homemade pasta, and inventive salads abound at this vibrant Playa favorite with a friendly bar and cozy upstairs dining overlooking La Quinta below. Located on the corner of Calle 10 and La Quinta.

The Glass Bar
An astonishingly deep wine cellar enhances the creative Italian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine created at this famed gourmet haven tucked within the intimate Hotel Mosquito Blue. Located on Calle 10 and 5th, next to the Coffee shop.

Di Vino
Right on the heart of the pedestrian parade, Di Vino stands on an indoor-outdoor corner where you will find a wide variety of Italian, Mexican or Spanish wines to complement your palate along with one of the creative and innovative Italian-Mediterranean dishes. Enjoy cocktails at the bar prepared by everyones Located on La Quinta and Calle 12.

John Gray’s
An ever-changing seasonal menu with daily specials delivers an inspired culinary adventure at this fine dining destination opened by a former Ritz Carlton chef. Located on Calle Corazón.

Chicago Don José
Prime steaks, fresh seafood, Mexican specialties and varied daily specials make this restaurant opened by a Chicago couple a favorite. Located on Calle 6, between La Quinta and Avenida 10.

Byblos
A relaxed atmosphere, extensive wine bar, and gourmet French cuisine underscore this hotspot’s appeal as one of Playa’s most sophisticated dining experiences. Located on Calle 14, between La Quinta and Avenida 10.

Coffee, Breakfast, and Lunch

Karma Bagels
Many bagels combinations can be found at this second floor terrace overlooking La Quinta and the Caribbean. Dressings and fresh salads are also a must. Located on Constituyentes and La Quinta inside Caribbean Paradise Hotel.

Java Joe’s
The perfect morning wake-up call: flavorful coffees, buttery croissants, oven-fresh rolls, and delectable pastries. Wonderful sandwiches and snacks for any time during the day. 10 years and still brewing is a signature for their quality. Located on Calle 10, between La Quinta and Avenida 10.

Ah Cacao Chocolate Café
Indulge in a delicious treat en route to the beach at this sweet spot offering coffees, smoothies, homemade ice cream, cheese cakes, brownies, vanilla muffins with brownie dough chips, and more. Located on Constituyentes, and La Quinta.

Café Corazón
At this lovely indoor-outdoor spot, start your day with the perfect combination: chocolate and coffee! You will always get a Hershey’s chocolate kiss to enjoy with your coffee. Pastries and fruit salads are also recommended. Located on La Quinta between Calle 28 and Calle 30.

La Cueva del Chango
A laid-back Playa perennial on a path to the beach, La Cueva del Chango’s jungle-garden setting complements such morning delights as French toast, fresh juices, and vegetarian specialties. Also serving lunch and dinner. Located on Calle 38 between the beach and La Quinta.

Nativo
The place locals visit for the freshest and spiciest Mexican breakfast. Hearty portions include enchiladas and chilaquiles, and freshly squeezed juice combinations are perfect to start the day. Located on Avenida 30 between Calle 20 and Calle 22.

Beach Clubs

Cannibal Royale
Newly opened beach club by Coco Bay, features chefs from Nobu NY, and ensures a unique beach experience brought to you by the team behind Diablito Cha Cha Cha and Santanera.

Mamitas Beach
“The” Beach club in Playa del Carmen. No further explanation required. 28th and the Beach.

Kool Beach
Home to the bpm festival for ten days Starting January 2nd each year! World famous DJ’s spin from morning til night and do not miss the ending party with Hed Kandi. 28th and the Beach

Zenzi Beach Club
Lounge at this 10th street beach club with big comfy mattrasses, order a cubeta de chelas, and enjoy your day. Monday night Movie night on the beach, a great event to connect with locals and to romantisize with that special someone under a starlit sky with your favourite movie playing.

Fusion
Most laid back beach bar in town. Enjoy live reggae music with some of the most hearty plates and best Tacos in town. No better place to fall in love with Playa than this. You find it at 6th and the Beach.