Playa del Carmen holidays

The coastal resort of Playa Del Carmen is a popular destination for a range of travellers. It’s the quieter cousin of Cancun, that is located just a few miles away, offering all the fun you could need without the intensity. Whether you want to test your sea legs out in the clear, azure waters along the coastline or indulge in tasty food and retail therapy on Fifth Avenue, there’s plenty to see and do. Throw in a bit of culture, with Mayan ruins on the doorstep, and you have the perfect destination for a break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Playa del Carmen information

Average flight time

11h

Time difference

GMT -6h

Currency

Mexican peso

Language

Spanish

A guide to Playa del Carmen holidays

Food & drink in Playa del Carmen

It’s safe to say, you won’t find it difficult to find great places to eat and drink in Playa del Carmen. There are restaurants and bars to cater to all tastes, from your typical fast-food spot to fresh seafood cooked to perfection. Head to Fifth Avenue, a pedestrian strip, that boasts a huge variety of places to stop for a bite to eat. Mexican is of course on the menu but you’ll also find Italian restaurants serving up deep-pan Chicago style pizza and French and Argentine influenced eateries.

Beautiful beaches in Playa del Carmen

Many visitors flock to Playa del Carmen for its tranquil beaches and buzzing nightlife after a day in the sunshine. Xpu-Ha is a popular sandy spot for many, with relatively shallow waters along its coastline that are perfect for cooling down in. You can also head further out to snorkel and see the marine life that resides nearby. Playa Mamitas is a popular choice if you’re looking for a livelier beach scene. You can rent loungers and umbrellas and if you like to have a dance look out for when one of the many music events that occur on this beach.

Things to do in Playa del Carmen

There’s so much to see and do in Playa del Carmen, your itinerary is going to be pretty full! From lounging in the sand all day to sampling all of the culinary delights on Fifth Avenue, here’s what to look out for on your visit.

Swim in a rooftop pool: Be Playa hotel’s rooftop pool is a popular attraction. To gain access to this stunning setting all you need to is pay 200 pesos and jump in. Set yourself up on a lounger, grab a cocktail and cool off in the Mexican sun.

Have dinner in a cave: Alux Restaurant is a must-visit on your trip to Play Del Carmen. This unusual restaurant can be found just off Fifth Avenue and is set in an underground cavern. Sit amongst exposed rock walls, stunningly illuminated in varying colours. On the menu, you’ll enjoy a blend of Mexican cuisine and seafood dishes. We recommend booking a table ahead of the day you wish to eat there as it’s a popular location for many visitors.

Swim with sea turtles: Get up close and personal with majestic sea turtles, who have made a home for themselves close to the Akumal beach outpost. You can find many excursions that will take you out to this magical spot where you can don your snorkel and witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Ready to discover everything Play del Carmen has to offer those who visit? Book a trip and enjoy everything this area of Mexico has in store.