Top 34 Must-Experience Activities in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Top Things to Do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Since our first visit in 1999, Playa del Carmen has evolved from a sleepy fishing village with sand streets and outdoor markets to a vibrant destination featuring luxury hotels, fine dining, and endless entertainment. If you’re planning a trip to the Riviera Maya, continue reading to discover an array of activities in Playa del Carmen and nearby attractions.

Planning Your Trip To Playa del Carmen?

Below are some notable tours in Playa del Carmen. Remember to plan ahead when visiting!

1. La Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue)

La Quinta Avenida serves as the heartbeat of Playa del Carmen, where you can stroll this pedestrian-only street for an array of shopping, dining, and nightlife options. Mexico’s 5th Avenue is a dynamic 5-mile-long cobblestone promenade filled with street performers, vendors, and bars weaving through downtown Playa del Carmen.

One of our favorite activities is relaxing at one of the various patios, enjoying live music while savoring the vibrant nightlife. Visiting 5th Avenue both day and night reveals an ever-alive atmosphere. Additionally, local art galleries offer a chance to collect artisan souvenirs from your travels.

However, if a cruise ship is docked, it’s wise to avoid the streets, as they can become quite crowded.

2. Rooftop Pools

Playa del Carmen has significantly developed since our initial visit, transforming the bar scene. Nowadays, the city boasts exceptional rooftop pools, making relaxation at one a highly sought-after activity. Day passes to your preferred rooftop pool allow you to lounge while enjoying scenic views.

Your rooftop pool day pass often includes a lounge chair and food credit, while some venues permit pool access after a minimum spending with local currency. Some popular rooftop locations include The Thompson Playa del Carmen and Be Playa Hotel Rooftop Pool.

3. Sun and Fun at a Beach Club

Your visit to Playa del Carmen wouldn’t be complete without enjoying its famed beach clubs. Although the beautiful beaches that captivated us during our first visit have seen some erosion, resulting in fewer self-discovery opportunities, various beach clubs have emerged to cater to visitors.

If you’re not staying in a beachfront hotel, you can always utilize beach clubs, providing day passes for lounge chairs by the Caribbean Sea.

Mamita’s Beach Club

Mamita’s Beach Club stands out as a legendary venue on the main beach, with Kool Beach Club nearby if it gets too crowded. Another notable spot is Lido Beach Club, which provides a more relaxed atmosphere. Entrance fees for beach chairs at Mamita’s can start around 2000 MXN, especially during holidays and for VIP beds.

4. Parque Los Fundadores (Founding Fathers Park)

Although there has been erosion affecting some of Playa del Carmen’s finest beaches, opportunities to enjoy the sand and surf still exist. Parque Los Fundadores stands as the widest beach in Playa del Carmen, equipped with beach volleyball and water sports, conveniently located near Quinta Avenida.

5. Portal Maya Statue

Situated in Parque Los Fundadores, the Portal Maya statue showcases two figures pushed by a swirling blend of wind and water, embodying the spirit of the Mayan culture. Created in 2012, this 50-foot-high masterpiece celebrates the conclusion of the Mayan Calendar and pays homage to the ancient communities of the Yucatan Peninsula.

6. Swim with Sea Turtles

Turtle Bay at Akumal is an exceptional place for swimming alongside three out of the world’s seven sea turtle species. This tour picks up guests in Playa del Carmen and transfers them to Akumal Bay where they can snorkel with these graceful creatures. The experience combines two of Playa del Carmen’s highlights: sea turtles and cenotes.

7. Playacar Beach

Another gem among Playa del Carmen’s beaches is Playacar Beach, known for its pristine white sands and less crowded atmosphere compared to other nearby beaches.

8. Playa Punta Esmeralda

Punta Esmeralda, frequently referred to simply as “Punta Esmeralda,” is beloved by both locals and visitors. Located in the northeastern part of Playa del Carmen, it offers a slightly calmer and less commercial vibe. This ensures the beach remains accessible by taxi, bike, or even by walking from popular areas in Playa del Carmen.

A unique characteristic of Punta Esmeralda is the presence of a freshwater cenote that flows directly into the ocean. With white sands and turquoise waters framed by rocks and mangroves, it’s a picturesque location.

As a favorite among local families on weekends, visiting Punta Esmeralda provides travelers with an authentic experience, blending in with the local culture.

9. Catamaran Cruise or Sailing Trips

We highly recommend getting on the water while in Playa del Carmen. The crystal-clear waters are warm and inviting, making sailing along the coast a must-do. This captivating experience reveals why Playa del Carmen has developed into a leading tourist destination.

Chartering a sailing trip allows you to explore the coastline and pristine beaches. Many sailing excursions also include snorkeling, which we strongly endorse, given that this area boasts some of the world’s best coral reefs.

This customizable catamaran cruise lets you design your itinerary while cruising aboard a 32-foot yacht, accommodating up to 25 friends and family members, complete with an open bar. We suggest visiting the turtle conservation center located on the island as well, which showcases inspiring sea turtle conservation efforts.

10. Go Paddle Boarding

When considering activities in Playa del Carmen, getting on the water is a top priority. Paddleboarding remains a favorite pastime for us, providing an excellent opportunity for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. We recommend joining an organized tour so guides can lead you to the best spots. Alternatively, rental options are available at Fusion Beach Bar at the Aloha Paddle Club.

For those eager to start in downtown Playa del Carmen, this guided tour initiates at one of Playa del Carmen’s quietest beaches, teaching you how to paddleboard before embarking on an exhilarating sunrise adventure.

11. Go Scuba Diving

On our second trip to the Mayan Riviera, our primary focus was diving. We equipped ourselves to explore the Yucatan Peninsula’s pristine waters, which host the second-largest barrier reef worldwide. Following the Mesoamerican Reef System from Cozumel to Honduras offers a plethora of diving opportunities.

A variety of dive shops invite novices to discover scuba diving while those with more experience can relish in drift diving among colorful tropical fish. For those without prior certification, many resorts provide instruction, making Mexico an excellent location to earn your open-water certification!

12. Cenotes Adventures

If you seek extraordinary outdoor adventures in Playa del Carmen, a visit to one of the region’s cenotes is essential. These underground rivers navigate through limestone caves, some featuring sizable openings that allow for thrilling abseils. A popular cenote is Ik Kil, often paired with a trip to Chichen Itza. Multiple cenote adventures can be booked from Playa del Carmen.

Activities range from ziplining to rappelling, but our favorite thrill is snorkeling or diving amid these surreal natural wonders. Tour packages typically include snorkeling gear, alleviating the need to bring additional equipment. Explore further and watch our video here.

13. Rio Secreto – Secret River

Rio Secreto offers a remarkable cenote experience, providing a glimpse into the Mayan Underworld. As the longest semi-sunken cave system in the Yucatan, it has become a favored day trip from Playa del Carmen, comprising 12 km of underground rivers that require no dive certification for exploration.

Visitors embark on small group tours that span three hours, allowing for a personal touch as you navigate through the enchanting cave system. Swimming beneath low-hanging ceilings and wading through stunning caverns creates an unforgettable adventure in complete darkness—one of the best activities to experience in Playa del Carmen. Tours can be booked in advance through Get Your Guide.

14. Visit the Xel Há Theme Park

Located south of Playa del Carmen, Xel Há offers a thrilling adventure park suited for families. This all-inclusive destination allows for a full day of water fun, including snorkeling in clear waters, tubing through mangroves, cliff jumping, exploring cenotes, and ziplining.

15. Go on a Zipline Adventure

Playa del Carmen presents abundant opportunities for thrilling adventures. If ziplining appeals to your adventurous spirit, it’s an exciting activity that allows you to soar over cenotes and forest canopies. Strap on a life jacket and prepare for a plunge into the Mayan world.

Xplor Adventure Park is among the premier ziplining destinations near Playa del Carmen. Get Your Guide provides options for ziplining excursions that can be booked in advance.

16. Xcaret Park

Numerous theme parks exist around Playa del Carmen, with Xcaret being one of the top choices featuring 40 attractions and activities. As a family-friendly destination, it hosts a coral reef aquarium where sea turtles are showcased as well as a manatee lagoon.

Moreover, there’s a Mayan village, and at night, you can enjoy a spectacular performance at Xcaret—a dinner theatre experience serving traditional Mexican cuisine while narrating the history of the country and Mayan cultures, venturing from ancient times to the present.

Xcaret offers more than just the night show, book this full-day pass for access to all it has to offer. Guests at the Xcaret Hotel receive free admission to all associated parks, including Xcaret, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xenses, Xoximilco, Xel-Ha, and Xenote.

17. Xplor

If organized tours to cenotes aren’t your preference, but you still want an adrenaline-pumping experience, consider visiting Xplor Adventure Park. This all-inclusive day pass provides entry to one of the most popular adventure parks, featuring 14 massive zip lines, stunning rock formations, and opportunities for swimming and rafting in underground caves, complemented by complimentary drinks and a lunch buffet.

18. Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum

For a cultural adventure in Playa del Carmen, stop by the Frida Kahlo Museum to celebrate the iconic Mexican artist. While the main museum is based in Mexico City, this localized version honors her artistic contributions and is situated at the corner of 8th Street and 5th Avenue.

19. Take a Jet Ski Tour

Initially, we weren’t keen on hitting the waves on a Jet Ski until we tried it in the Cayman Islands. However, jet skiing in Playa del Carmen is an exhilarating experience. Vendors can be found along the beach, or you may book this waverunner adventure which explores Maroma Beach, offering a thrilling 30 to 60-minute ride, round-trip transport, and complimentary soft drinks (no alcohol while operating a motorized vehicle).

Part 2 – Things to Do in Playa del Carmen at Night

While the Riviera Maya is renowned for its stunning beaches, Playa del Carmen’s nightlife comes alive with various entertainment options.

20. Coco Bongo

Coco Bongo is a must-visit if you’re looking for nightlife in Playa del Carmen. Known for performances akin to Las Vegas-style shows, Coco Bongo has become a staple in the region and is conveniently located just five minutes from 5th Avenue. With live music, nonstop libations, and captivating performances, it’s the place to be during night hours.

21. Go Salsa Dancing

One of the most enjoyable nighttime activities in Playa del Carmen is salsa dancing. La Bodeguita is an ideal venue where both locals and visitors can dance the night away to live music. If you prefer a more energetic atmosphere, Mandala features live DJs playing high-energy music.

22. Mexican Cooking Class

We thoroughly enjoyed joining a Mexican cooking class in Playa del Carmen to learn how to prepare authentic dishes. Led by a chef, this experience provides both a culinary and cultural immersion into local life. A market visit allows you to witness how locals shop, followed by cooking delicious Mexican cuisine.

23. Take a Food Tour

To fully indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine, consider booking a food tour. This street food crawl is a delightful way to explore the best street food in Playa del Carmen alongside a professional guide. Sample local specialties, including tamales and tequila shots, while diving into traditional Mexican culture.

Among one of the most favored options, this taco tour is a standout—who can resist tacos, especially in a native setting?

Day Trips from Playa del Carmen

Nestled in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo on the Yucatan Peninsula, Playa del Carmen is ideally situated one hour from Cancun, with close access to stunning coastal scenery and ancient Mayan ruins.

Several day trips can be arranged from either Cancun or Playa del Carmen, ranging from adventurous cenote excursions to laid-back tours featuring easy cancellation policies.

24. Chichen Itza

Mayan ruins are scattered throughout Quintana Roo, but this popular day trip stands out as a must-visit. Chichen Itza is one of the largest and most extensively excavated Mayan archaeological sites in the Yucatan Peninsula. Though you can no longer climb the main pyramid, its grandeur remains awe-inspiring.

Consider a tour that combines visits to Chichen Itza, Coba, and a cenote for a comprehensive experience of Playa del Carmen’s top attractions in a single day! Enjoy a fascinating journey through Mayan culture, including climbing the highest pyramid in the area and a refreshing swim in the natural beauty of the cenote. Book it here.

25. Tulum

Tulum, located just an hour south of Playa del Carmen, boasts some of the most stunning coastal views and historical sites in the region. With its archaeological aspects providing insight into Ancient Mayan culture, Tulum offers one of the most accessible ruins from Playa del Carmen.

Sitting on cliffs above azure waters, Tulum’s breathtaking scenery is complemented by its status as a well-known backpacker destination, with numerous accommodations catering to visitors. Now a popular vacation spot in Mexico, Tulum provides an array of options for travelers. Read more in our guide: Best Things to do in Tulum. Combine your experience with a cenote adventure on this top-rated tour.

26. Ek Balam

Ek Balam is a lesser-known Mayan village near Cancun where visitors can explore its sprawling complex of 45 structures and even climb the impressive ruins! Visitors can enjoy a few hours discovering this historical site, with a nearby cenote adding to the exploration.

Fun Fact: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also listed among the New Seven Wonders of the World! Read more on 7 Wonders of the World – the New, The Natural, and the Ancient.

27. Coba

During our visit to the Mayan ruins of Coba in 2003, we experienced an unexcavated site brimming with mysteries. With its jungle trail leading to partially revealed temples, a sense of adventure prevails as you explore the area, even allowing you to climb the pyramids rising 42 meters into the air.

Consider combining Coba tours with visits to Chichen Itza and a stop at Cenote Ik Kil for an incredible day trip featuring the top highlights of the Yucatan Peninsula.

28. Sian Ka’an Biosphere

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is teeming with wildlife, including a variety of bird species. Activities like boat tours and snorkeling allow visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty.

29. Valladolid

If you’re after a cultural experience, Valladolid is a must-visit. This 16th-century city showcases beautiful colonial architecture and is gaining popularity among travelers seeking a quieter pace compared to bustling Cancun.

Often paired with a visit to Chichen Itza, this highly-rated tour encompasses an exploration of the ancient Mayan city in conjunction with a trip to Valladolid and the Cenote Ik Kil.

30. Puerto Morelos

Recently discovered on our latest trip to the Riviera Maya, Puerto Morelos is nestled between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen. This charming fishing village presents a lesser-traveled path and offers an excellent beach for both relaxation and snorkeling opportunities.

31. Swim with Whale Sharks

One of the most memorable excursions we’ve undertaken was swimming with whale sharks off the coast of the Riviera Maya. These gentle giants can grow over 12 meters (40 feet) long, creating an unforgettable experience. Whale sharks can be seen between May and September, with tour options available that showcase this natural miracle, followed by a relaxing stop on Playa Norte Beach.

32. Isla Mujeres

With Get Your Guide, we embarked on a whale shark tour that facilitated a delightful stop at Isla Mujeres for beach time. This adventure facilitates easy cancellation and accommodates last-minute bookings. When planning a day trip from Playa del Carmen, itineraries often incorporate a stop at Isla Mujeres. If whale shark swimming isn’t your preference, consider booking a highly-rated all-inclusive tour to Isla Mujeres featuring a catamaran cruise, complete with food and beverages.

33. Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy serves as another popular destination off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. This protected national park covers only 3.7 square kilometers and permits a daily maximum of just 200 visitors, making it an ideal bird sanctuary for the observation of over 170 migratory bird species. Additionally, the destination is well recognized for its excellent snorkeling opportunities.

34. Cozumel

The Cozumel ferry departs from Playa del Carmen’s main dock, making it an accessible day-trip destination. This picturesque island offers numerous attractions, allowing you to explore markets or simply spend quality time on its beaches. We’ve spent weeks on Cozumel without exhausting our options for exciting activities.

What is the Best Time to Visit Playa del Carmen

The best time to visit Playa del Carmen hinges on your preferences regarding weather, crowd sizes, and events:

• November to April: The dry season boasts optimal weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24°C to 29°C). The months from February to April are especially favored for their warmth, providing a break from frigid northern climates.
• May to October: This is the wet season, with the highest likelihood of rain occurring in September and October. Although humidity increases, the greener landscape can be quite stunning. However, it’s essential to stay alert for hurricane developments during this timeframe.
• Peak Season (Mid-December to April): Expect larger crowds around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter (Semana Santa), which may lead to increased accommodation and flight costs.
• Low Season (May to early December): This timeframe allows for fewer tourists, presenting great deals on lodging and less crowded beaches and attractions.

Best Time for Events and Festivals in Playa del Carmen

• Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos): Celebrated from October 31 to November 2, this unique cultural experience enables locals to honor loved ones who have passed.
• BPM Festival: Usually occurring in January, this electronic music festival attracts DJs and fans globally.
• Riviera Maya Film Festival: Held annually around March or April, this festival highlights both national and international films.

Best Time for Diving and Snorkeling

Those interested in diving or snorkeling should note that during the dry season, waters are generally clearer. Should whale shark sightings be your goal, expect to encounter them between June and September near Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres.

Based on these variables, the most favorable combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and attractive pricing typically occurs during the shoulder months: late November, early December, and late April. However, select your travel dates based on your personal preferences!

How to Get to Playa del Carmen

Located just 45 minutes from Cancun International Airport, Playa del Carmen presents several transportation options. Most hotels offer shuttle services directly from the airport, and we recommend booking an online transfer in advance to avoid delays with other passengers.

If you need transportation from Cancun Airport to your hotel, check out eTransfers for the best rates. They provide shuttle services to Hotel Zone, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, and along the Mayan Riviera.

Where to Stay

The Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen offers a luxurious oceanfront experience with direct beach access within walking distance to Quinta Avenida. It serves as a tranquil oasis amidst the vibrant action.

Paradisus Playa Del Carmen is an all-inclusive, four-diamond resort nestled on the beach and surrounded by lush mangrove trees.

Luxury Apartment rentals are also a viable option. We stayed at this property years back, conveniently located near various amenities and directly on the beach.

Ultimately, Playa del Carmen offers an abundance of attractions—its breathtaking beaches invite leisurely strolls at sunrise, complemented by lively streets packed with nightlife, shopping, and charming cafés. No matter your travel style, Playa del Carmen has something for everyone.

Plan Your Trip to Mexico With These Resources

• 23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
• 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico
• 21 Amazing Things to do in Cancun
• Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Hotels and Areas For Every Budget
• Things to do in Tulum

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Travel Planning Resources

For your next journey, utilize the following trusted resources.

Book Your Flights: Get started by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have found their services to be exceptional for years.

Book your Hotel: Discover the best rates on hotels through these two providers. If you are in Europe, try Booking.com, and for everywhere else, use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: Vist VRBO for the best options on apartment rentals.

Travel Insurance: Always travel with insurance. Here are our recommendations:

• Safety Wing – Best for occasional travelers.
• Medjet – Global air medical transport and security services.

Book Your Activities: If you’re seeking walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, or more, we recommend Get Your Guide.

For additional assistance in planning your trip, be sure to check our Resources Page, which highlights all the excellent companies we trust during our travels.