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Resort Advice! - Playa del Carmen Forum

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Looking for a relatively lower cost AI for my wife, myself, and 8 year old. I have a credit through Delta Vacations and do not want to go too far over pricing wise.

Thus far the following places seem interesting (and fit the $$ constraints)

Riu Dunamar

Ocean Coral

Iberostar Selection

Hotel Marina El Cid

We'd like a nice beach, nice pools (water park/slides a plus), solid food (daugher is very picky), and somewhat close to a few excursions.

Any thoughts on the above places? Thanks!

13 replies to this topic

Rule of thumb with travels in MX is that, usually, you will get what you paid for, nothing more, nothing less... thus, if you look for and pay budget travel, you will get budget accommodations, service, food, etc....

So, it may be best to plan in terms of what are your priorities/activities that your looking for, second, third, and so forth and time when you going to MX will be important as well... then, whittle down your choices. compared to costs, and go from there.. if you start with the hotels, then you will be limiting yourself to what is around that area...

Don't expect MX resorts to have promotions and special to get people to travel to their places since they know that there are customers/demands from all over the world coming to their places no matter what....

Tripadvisor staff removed this post at the original author's request.

Oh, I totally understand... However, with Delta Vacations I kind of have to limit myself to the hotels that are within my travel certificate/credit. The ones I listed above are those that seem to check most of the boxes and will not have me paying much out of pocket above my travel credit. Just looking for some opinions on those properties is all...

I've been to Mexico three times; twice to a Secrets property (Maroma was a dream) and once to the Platinum Princess.

Are you saying the costs that you are allocated that will have to pick that range hotels or those are your options only?

It sounds like it is an allocation... so, how much are you thinking of spending per day? Also, since you been to MX, you do understand that sargassum seaweed problems are your biggest enemy and hotels that face directly to the ocean will have the seaweeds problems...

Anyhow, regarding your hotels that you listed above, I am only familiar with Occidental Xcarte, this is a 3 star resort at the 5 star location; get the Royal level rooms if you want their 1st tier services (they have their own Royal level restaurant and Royal level only area to stay in, in addition, you get priority reservations to other ala carte restaurants... thus, no standing in lines for reservations and avoiding buffets)... also, they don't have a beach since they have rocky shores but they have a man made lagoon that is roped off to prevent sargassum from coming in... filter TA reviews of OX on Royal level, reviews will be from people who are glad that they paid for Royal level and who complained since they didn't pay for Royal level

The way I think of MX resorts... resort are resorts and food is food (if I want great food in between, I always go out to local restaurants), my # 1 & 2 priorities are avoiding the sargassum and pick of activities since plans can be made from that strategy...

Good luck and enjoy your next vacation!

I have a travel credit that must be used through Delta Vacations. They have an allotment of rooms through various hotels on given dates. I am trying to utilize my credit and not go too much over that # and the hotels I listed would fit into that desire. Certainly, I understand that there are "better" options but I do not want to drop another 1k into this vacation.

I understand your concerns about dropping more money into this vacation, however, ask you this... you will be sinking few thousands of dollars into this vacation already, so, will it be worth it to have a sub-par vacation since you don't want to spend the extra money?

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Playa del Carmen Hotels and Places to Stay

• SAFETY:Is Playa del Carmen Safe?
• AIRPORT INFORMATION: Cancun Airport to Playa and resorts along the coast
• PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Taxi, Colectivo & ADO Bus Info
• AI: Adults Only and Family & Child Friendly Resorts
• WHERE SHOULD I EAT? Local Restaurants? Cheap Eats?
• Playa Del Carmen Boutique, Budget & BeachHotels
• AKUMAL BAY: How do I get there? Snorkel Rental? Turtle Tips!
• RENTAL CARS & PARKING LOTS
• BARS? Clubs? NIGHTLIFE?
• BEACHES & BEACH CLUBS?
• CENOTES: Which to visit?
• COZUMEL: How do I get there on the ferry?
• $$$CURRENCY$$$
• DOLPHIN Swims???
• Donations, Volunteering & Gifts
• ISLA MUJERES: How do I get there? What is there to do?
• MASSAGE? Where can I get one?
• ***MUST DO ACTIVITIES?***
• MAYAN SITES: Tulum, Coba Chichen Itza y mas
• SNORKELING: Info for Playa, Puerto Morelos, Cozumel and Akumal
• WEDDING INFO
• What will the Weather be Like When I Visit?
• HONEYMOON Hotels & Resorts: Playa & Beyond
• Xplor, Xel Ha & Xcaret
• Link to online Tourist Card
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Is it safe to vacation here? - Playa del Carmen Forum

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8 replies to this topic

Yes. But of course that is a very basic answer to a very basic question. If you elaborate on what, if any, concerns you have, and/or what sort of vacation you might be thinking of, you will get better info!

Would you vacation in any of the major US cities, given the news reports of rampant crime? We have vacationed there many times over the years and never felt unsafe but like at home we are aware of where we are. The tourist areas are of little concern. I sure wish I was there right now instead of home to snow and 27 degrees.

If it weren't safe, I wouldn't be living here. Use common sense and follow the usual travel safety rules and you'll be fine.

Just don't go shopping on 5th Avenue, unless it is a tourist trinket. Anything which appears to be of value on 5th is either fake or way overpriced. And don't stumble around drunk after dark.

Hi, I'm a female from Illinois and I've been to PDC many times with my husband and family. We usually stay at all- inclusive resorts. In November I traveled on my own and stayed for 16 days in a condo/ my aunt joined me part way through. This was my first solo trip and initially I was nervous. I even brought a door alarm, emergency whistle, and mini flashlight. When I ventured out I always came back to the condo before dark when I was by myself and limited myself to 1 alcoholic drink. My aunt and I were usually back by 8 or 9pm. We stuck to the streets with the most people and avoided alleys. We "dressed down" and didn't bring our good diamond jewelry. We tried to blend in. Overall no one looked at us twice and we never felt unsafe. We walked to grocery stores over a mile away and even ordered from food trucks, we were shoulder to shoulder with the locals. We used common sense and respected the locals. I spoke to many ex-pats in the area and repeatedly was told the area was much safer than the rumors make it out to be.

On a side note I had just returned from a prior trip to PDC and had to go to a medical appointment in St Louis. I found myself gripping my purse tighter in St. Louis than I did in PDC! I wouldn't hesitate to return as a solo female traveler. Hope these specifics help.

Just use common sense like you would anywhere else and you’ll be fine. Been there many times! Enjoy!

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Playa del Carmen Hotels and Places to Stay

• SAFETY:Is Playa del Carmen Safe?
• AIRPORT INFORMATION: Cancun Airport to Playa and resorts along the coast
• PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: Taxi, Colectivo & ADO Bus Info
• AI: Adults Only and Family & Child Friendly Resorts
• WHERE SHOULD I EAT? Local Restaurants? Cheap Eats?
• Playa Del Carmen Boutique, Budget & BeachHotels
• AKUMAL BAY: How do I get there? Snorkel Rental? Turtle Tips!
• RENTAL CARS & PARKING LOTS
• BARS? Clubs? NIGHTLIFE?
• BEACHES & BEACH CLUBS?
• CENOTES: Which to visit?
• COZUMEL: How do I get there on the ferry?
• $$$CURRENCY$$$
• DOLPHIN Swims???
• Donations, Volunteering & Gifts
• ISLA MUJERES: How do I get there? What is there to do?
• MASSAGE? Where can I get one?
• ***MUST DO ACTIVITIES?***
• MAYAN SITES: Tulum, Coba Chichen Itza y mas
• SNORKELING: Info for Playa, Puerto Morelos, Cozumel and Akumal
• WEDDING INFO
• What will the Weather be Like When I Visit?
• HONEYMOON Hotels & Resorts: Playa & Beyond
• Xplor, Xel Ha & Xcaret
• Link to online Tourist Card
• Ocean trips (Catamarans, fishing , Jet Skis and more

Things to know before going to Playa del Carmen to make your trip more memorable

Mar 8, 2022 • 11 min read

Beyond Playa del Carmen’s touristy core, there’s a world of parks, weekend markets and neighborhood restaurants to discover © Emma Shaw / Lonely Planet

Playa del Carmen  on Mexico’s Riviera Maya  might offer the ideal mix of beach-town characteristics.

At the midpoint between party-central Cancún and boho-chic Tulum , this mid-sized city has everything from wellness retreats to raving parties to gourmet restaurants. It’s a favorite among digital nomads and sun-seeking families, thanks to its walkable streets, easily accessible beaches, and proximity to Mayan ruins, coral reefs and cenotes (natural swimming holes).

It’s no secret that Playa del Carmen is a magnet for tourists, yet the beach town maintains a sense of convivial authenticity that appeals to travelers looking for a well-rounded destination. As an expat here, I have learned a thing or two about navigating this energetic beach town. Here are my first-hand tips to help you make the most of your time in Playa del Carmen. 

Planning your trip to Playa del Carmen

Visit during shoulder season for fewer crowds and better prices.

As the fastest-growing town in the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen attracts hordes of travelers, especially during the peak season from December to April. Picture-perfect skies and cool nights are standard – but so are high prices. And the streets practically bulge at the seams during Christmas and spring break.

The low season runs from May to June and from September to November. Despite the soaring temperatures, we recommend visiting during the shoulder season in July and August, when crowds are thinner. While there may be some downpours and a power outage or two if a tropical storm hits, the sun always makes an appearance in between showers.

Choose the best area to stay 

Playa del Carmen may seem small-scale at first, but once you venture out to the various neighborhoods you’ll find a world of verdant parks, weekend markets and authentic taquerias to discover. Centro – stretching from the ferry terminal to Calle 8 – is tourist central and the city’s bustling heart. This is where you’ll find plenty of bumping nightclubs, salsa bars and flashy souvenir stores.

Next door, Gonzalo Guerrero is a lively jumble of international restaurants, taco trucks and supermarkets sprawling to Calle 40. This area suits those who aren’t hard-core partiers but still want to be near the center of the action. Further northeast is Zazil-Ha, an up-and-coming area that appeals to medium-term visitors and creative types with its affordable short-term rentals and co-working spaces.  

South of Centro lies the gated community of Playacar, which caters to couples and families with young children seeking green spaces and tranquility. Here you’ll find several family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, plenty of short-term rentals and one of the best beaches in Playa del Carmen . Note that you’ll need be ready to pedal or walk 15 minutes to town.

Check out a different beach each day

The thing that sets Playa del Carmen apart from next-door neighbors Cancún and Tulum is the town’s remarkable access to the sand . In a bid to avoid coastlines jam-packed with waterfront resorts and private beach clubs, Playa del Carmen was laid out to allow the public easy access to most of its beaches. This means that you don’t have to spend extravagant amounts on a beachfront hotel room or an overpriced day pass to enjoy the powder-puff white sand. 

Make reservations for activities and day tours online

It’s wise to book boat tours and day trips well in advance, especially if you’re visiting at high season. (A month ahead will usually suffice.) An exception is the ferry to Isla Cozumel , which has regular departures daily and can be booked at the ferry terminal only one day ahead of travel. Making reservations beforehand also means you won’t have to deal with tourist touts and other pier-side hassles. 

Etiquette in Playa del Carmen

Dress casually .

Leave your denim jeans or high heels at home: the fashion style in Playa del Carmen is low-key and casual. Laid-back backpackers and well-heeled travelers alike tend to sport singlets, board shorts and flip-flops by day. It’s perfectly fine to wear a linen shirt and cargo shorts to a plush dinner and even a night out at Coco Bongo.

The female dress code is just as informal, with coverups, sundresses and sandals the norm. Beachwear is a free-for-all; you won’t be judged no matter what you want to wear. Bring a light jacket for chilly nights if you’re traveling in the rainy season.

Walk everywhere, and seek out the side streets

One of Playa del Carmen’s winning traits is its walkability. With an efficient grid layout, this is a compact city that’s easy to navigate on foot. Most of the action is centered along Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrianized boulevard lined with knickknack shops, souvenir stands, restaurants and bars. The further you get from Fifth Avenue, the less traffic and more local hideouts you’ll find. 

Rent a bike to go beach-hopping

Playa del Carmen isn’t quite as keen on two-wheeled transport as Tulum – yet. But it’s getting there. The city now boasts a city-wide bike-sharing system, with lime green BiciPlaya bikes for rent from numerous kiosks dotted around town. Download the app, and you’ll be able to unlock a bike and bop around town for just M$98 ($4.80) per day.

The best bike path in the city runs along Tenth Avenue, parallel to the beach, from Playacar residential area to Avenida Constituyentes. You’ll often find pedestrians spilling onto the bicycle lane, so go slowly. Avoid riding on the main avenues as drivers tend to disregard cyclists.

Drive with caution and learn the traffic rules 

If you’re planning to explore the ruins, cenotes and adventure parks surrounding Playa del Carmen, hiring a car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. While it’s relatively easy to drive in Riviera Maya, car rentals in Mexico come with their own set of challenges. You’ll find no shortage of attractive deals online – but they don’t usually include third-party liability insurance (required by law), airport fees and taxes. Be prepared to pay a higher price than your initial quote.

There isn’t a lot of traffic in Playa del Carmen itself, but once you venture to the 307 Federal Hwy, you’ll find a constant barrage of vehicles, particularly at peak hours. Watch out for the “TOPE” signs, as there are more speed bumps than you can count, even on the highway itself. Avoid driving at night, as it’s hard to see all the speed bumps and potholes in the dark. 

Be careful of where and when you withdraw cash

Although credit cards are accepted at more and more small businesses, Playa del Carmen still runs on cash, and you’ll need small bills to enjoy its local taco joints, neighborhood bars and side-street shops. 

Avoid changing money before getting to Mexico, as you won’t get the best rates. Note that not every ATM is safe to use in Playa del Carmen, as there have been cases of card cloning and counterfeit notes. Avoid the ATMs on Fifth Avenue, and always use an ATM inside a bank rather than one on the street. We recommend taking cash out at Cancún airport upon arrival for peace of mind.

Interestingly, banks and ATMs tend to have long lines at the middle and end of every month. That’s when locals get paid, and many of them are eager to withdraw their earnings. ATMs not only have a long wait at these times, but some also run out of cash.

Tipping is appreciated 

With a vibrant restaurant culture, Playa del Carmen has a slew of dining options with varying etiquette and tipping expectations. Ten to 15% is the standard at most restaurants that don’t fall into the high-end or gourmet category. Tipping is not expected in casual cafes and local joints where you order at the counter, though most have a tip jar if you’re feeling generous.

Note that prices listed on menus in Mexico represent the total price; neither taxes nor tips are supposed to be added. Some restaurants offer a suggested sum for tips, which is fine; others sneak the tips into the total price, which is not. Make sure to always check your bill carefully.

Learn some Spanish to blend in

Hassling is common on the streets of Playa del Carmen, especially along tourist-clogged Fifth Avenue and Parque Fundadores . Sure, you can get by without speaking a word of Spanish as English is commonly spoken here – just be prepared to pay gringo prices. If you want to be treated fairly, learn some Spanish vocabulary that goes beyond the standard “Una cerveza, por favor!” (“A beer, please!”). 

For those planning to stay more than a week in town, sign up for an intensive Spanish class at the established International House Riviera Maya . If you already have a basic level, join in the free conversation evenings run by Chichén Itzá Language School to meet new people and improve your language skills over cocktails.

Health and safety in Playa del Carmen

What to know about cartel activity in playa del carmen.

An unfortunate string of shootings has plagued Playa del Carmen in recent months, sounding alarm bells in the tourism industry. Two Canadian tourists were shot dead in Hotel Xcaret in January 2022, and the manager of Mamitas Beach Club was found murdered in the same week. The Mexican authorities have admitted an increasing presence of drug-related crime in Playa del Carmen. 

Be mindful that the crimes here are usually organized and cartel-related, and violence tends to be targeted rather than random acts of terror. Playa del Carmen, for the most part, is safe for tourists and expats who steer clear of illicit activities. The only way most tourists interact with cartel members is when they buy drugs – and make no mistake: all the dealers are part of a cartel.

It is important to always keep your wits about you and stay vigilant. Keep yourself informed of the latest happenings in Playa del Carmen before you travel.

Don’t be alarmed by the presence of police and military

Don’t be surprised to find military troops and police cars whizzing through the streets of Playa del Carmen: recent incidents have caused a need for heightened security. Several police checkpoints have been set up along the 307 Hwy, including one at the Playa del Carmen exit. 

Since the police will do random checks and ask for your documents, make sure you have your rental contract and valid driver’s license within easy reach. If you’ve violated a traffic rule, there’s a chance you’ll be asked to pay a fine. Tickets are never paid on the streets, so any request for cash is a request for a bribe. Ask politely to have the ticket written and offer to pay it at a police station instead. This way, you won’t be feeding corruption, and the fine will usually cost you less than the bribe.

Don’t do drugs or get drunk on the streets

With a raving bar scene, Playa del Carmen inevitably has its fair share of petty theft and robberies, which tend to happen at night. Solo travelers should avoid getting drunk alone or taking drugs on the streets. Stick with your group if you plan on late-night shenanigans. Keep an eye on your drink, and don’t accept drinks from strangers. 

Be aware of common scams

Mexicans are a friendly bunch – yet it can be hard to differentiate between genuine hospitality and a sales gimmick. Follow the rule of not trusting anyone selling on the streets and you’ll do just fine. When a local approaches you saying, “Do you remember me? I’m your waiter!” just smile, nod and walk away. It’s almost certain that your “friend” is just trying to lure you into their overpriced shop.

A common scam in Playa del Carmen (one familiar to expats) is the distraction scheme. A couple usually approaches and offers to clean the bird poop from your hair or the tomato ketchup on your back, distracting you and thus swiping your valuables while your guard is down.

Know the price you should pay before getting in a taxi

Uber does not operate in Playa del Carmen, but official white-and-green cabs are readily available. They tend to charge tourists more than residents, so check with a local to suss out how much you should pay. Always agree on a price before getting in: a ride within Centro should not be more than M$50 ($2.50). Alternatively, ask your Airbnb host or hotel concierge for a reliable driver that you can contact through WhatsApp.

Don’t drink the tap water

The water in Playa del Carmen is not potable, and you should never drink water from the faucet. It is OK, however, to brush your teeth using it, and many find local tap water acceptable for rinsing vegetables, cooking pasta and washing rice. The water served at restaurants is always purified drinking water, and so is the ice, so feel free to ask for a “vaso de agua” when you dine out.

Several companies in Playa del Carmen deliver large 20-liter barrels of purified water right to your doorstep. You can also stock up at any OXXO convenience store in town; there’s one at almost every corner in the town center.

You might also like: The best beaches in Playa del Carmen for spring break relaxation A guide to Playa del Carmen for digital nomads A perfect weekend in Playa del Carmen

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Ultimate Guide to Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen is mostly known for its beaches, parties and giant resorts. But there’s the whole other side of the city. It’s a great hub for independent travelers with many things to do in and around.

As I’ve lived in Playa del Carmen for 3+ years , I got to know the city and surrounding areas quite well.

This is my ultimate Playa del Carmen Mexico Guide for 2022. Here’s everything you need to know, but if you have any more questions post the comment and I’ll try to answer as soon as possible.

The Complete Playa del Carmen Travel Guide by a Local

Also check:

• Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• Best Day Trips from Playa del Carmen
• Tulum Guide
• Cozumel Guide

Where is Playa del Carmen, Mexico?

Playa del Carmen is located in the Riviera Maya area on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. While it’s located on the Yucatan Peninsula, it actually belongs to the province of Quintana Roo.

Playa del Carmen lies exactly between Cancun and Tulum, around 60 km (37 miles) away from both places. It’s also the fastest-growing city in Latin America.

There are so many things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula that you won’t be bored!

How to Get to Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen doesn’t have an airport. You can choose to fly to either Cancun (45 minutes by car) or Cozumel (40 minutes by ferry). I always recommend using Skyscanner to check both airports.

If you’re flying into Cozumel , you can simply take a taxi to the ferry terminal and take a ferry to Playa del Carmen. There’s no need of pre-booking anything in advance.

If you’re flying into Cancun , then you have a lot of options. I personally don’t recommend renting a car at the airport, as it’s way more expensive than if you rent one once you get to “Playa” as it’s called by locals.

Read more on how to get to Playa del Carmen from Cancun Airport.

Is Playa del Carmen Safe?

Riviera Maya is probably the safest area in Mexico and Playa del Carmen itself is a relatively safe place. You don’t have to be afraid of walking alone at night or getting robbed on the street. 

While there have been some incidents that you may or may not have heard of, tourists and locals were never the targets. It was all happening between cartel members. Yes, I was there when it was all happening.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE

Don’t forget to arrange health insure before heading to Mexico. The easiest and the most reliable travel insurance is Safety Wing Travel Insurance (yes, it includes covid-related issues).

Get it before your trip to skip unnecessary troubles that might ruin your holidays!

Weather in Riviera Maya

Many visitors ask about the weather in Playa del Carmen and expect it to be hot and sunny every day. Unfortunately, this isn’t exactly true. While Playa del Carmen is generally warm, the weather changes quickly and rapidly.

There’s one rule if you’re coming to Playa del Carmen: don’t trust the forecast and dig deeper! Forecasts will only give you a day estimate. Always check the  amount and percentage of rain and the hours of sunshine.

You can even check more detailed forecasts which will give you the weather by the hour. It might be stormy in the morning and sunny during lunchtime. You never know.

Unless you’re visiting during the summer (June-September), bring a sweater. You’ll be sunbathing during the day, but it can get chilly during the night. Unless you’re from a very cold country such as Finland, you will be cold. I always am.

Is Playa del Carmen Expensive?

How much money should you have for visiting Playa del Carmen or any nearby city? Playa del Carmen can be very expensive, or very cheap, depending on what you want to do.

For instance, if you eat at tourist restaurants on 5th Av, go to nightclubs like Coco Bongo and buy massages then you might end up needing at least $300 a day excluding the hotel.

If you eat where locals eat, your dinner should cost you no more than $5-7 and a cocktail for $3-8. If you’re planning some backpacking you can definitely survive on $50 a day.

Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen?

There are many places to stay in Playa del Carmen and many more are being built every month. You can choose from all-inclusive resorts, fancy hotels, private villas, small guesthouses, or hostels.

Best Areas to Stay in Playa del Carmen

There’s no bad area to stay, but it all depends on what you’re looking for. The downtown tourist area lies between Avenida Benito Juarez (Calle 1) up to Avenida CTM (Calle 46). 

The best way to give directions in Playa del Carmen is to use the streets and Avenues – they only go every 5, so you’ll have Avenida 5, Avenida 10, 15, etc.

If you’re looking for a quiet place to stay with children you might consider staying in Playacar area – that’s actually where many daycares and preschools are located.

If you’re a party animal the closer to Calle 12th you are, the happier you’ll be.

Best Hotels in Playa del Carmen

I had a chance to stay at different hotels around the city. Here are my recommendations depending on your budget, expectations, and location preference.

AirBnBs in Playa del Carmen are also a spectacular option these days as it’s more secluded. If you’re coming down to Playa during covid, check some of these apartments out.

I stayed at all of these properties (even lived at Sabbia apartments for a whole year and Elements for a few months), so can tell you everything about them. If you have any questions – just comment on the post and I’ll get back to you 🙂

Best Apartments in Playa del Carmen

The Elements   –   Check Prices On:  Booking

Sabbia Apartments  –   Check Prices On: B ooking.com |  Agoda  

Best Mid-Range Hotels in Playa del Carmen

Reina Roja   –   Check Prices On: B ooking.com |  Agoda

Acanto Boutique  –  Check Prices On: Booking.com |  Agoda

Best Luxury Hotels in Playa del Carmen

The Royal   –   Check Prices On: Booking.com |  Agoda

Grand Hyatt   –   Check Prices On: B ooking.com |  Agoda

How to Get Around Playa del Carmen?

If you’re staying in the downtown Playa del Carmen, then you can walk to most places. The city is easily walkable, with pedestrian paths everywhere. If you don’t want to walk you can either take a taxi or rent a bike.

Taxis in Playa del Carmen

Taxis are everywhere in Playa del Carmen, and they’re all white which makes them easy to spot. They’re also safe. The fares within Playa Centro (downtown) are supposed to be fixed at 30 pesos no matter what, but taxi drivers are always trying to take advantage of tourists and charge them 80, or even 100 pesos for a ride (over Christmas or Easter periods even more).

If you speak good Spanish you can argue. Another option is just telling the direction to the driver without asking for a price, giving them 25 pesos at the end.

If you’re traveling from anywhere in downtown to Playacar the price will be 100 pesos.

Renting a Car in Playa del Carmen

Don’t be afraid of renting a car in Mexico. The roads are wide and easy to navigate, especially with modern technology like Google Maps. Just watch out for wild drivers.

By renting a car you can avoid being on a giant tourist bus, and go to places in the area that aren’t easily accessible. You also don’t need an international driver’s license.

While online prices will show you cars for as little as $1 a day, this doesn’t mean that it’s actually a dollar. When booking online, you don’t pay anything until you pick up the car and no fee to cancel. 

However, once you arrive at the rental office they’ll charge you extra for insurance, taxes and other hidden fees.

From my experience, it’s better to actually pre-book in advance, as you can discuss a special rate. I usually rent cars from MEX Rent A Car on 5th Av.

These guys are reliable, honest and won’t surprise you with some hidden fee to be paid later. For $28 per day, including full insurance, taxes, and second driver option.

A car is great if you’re planning a road trip around the Yucatan , so I suggest you should at least consider this option. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Be careful at gas stations as there’s no self-service. There have been many reports of attendants not resetting the machines between cars and charging you for your gas without actually putting it in. Honest staff will show you zeros on the machine, so make sure you always look.

If you pay in cash, say aloud the amount you are handing over, as some attendants will try to convince you it was a smaller denomination than it really was. A common scam against tourists.

Read more about renting a car in Mexico

Colectivos in Playa del Carmen MX

If you’re planning on getting around Playa del Carmen you can join the locals and hop on colectivo – public taxi vans. They can get a bit cramped sometimes, but they’re super cheap, like $1-2 a ride (depending on how far you’re traveling).

They can drop you off anywhere along their set routes. For instance, at Akumal or any cenote between Playa and Tulum . All colectivos leave from in front of the post office (Correos de Mexico) on Calle 2.

Not quite as convenient as your own car though, and often not a lot of room for luggage/gear. But if you want to experience something local, a trip on a colectivo is definitely recommended. 

Best Beaches in Playa del Carmen

• Parque Fundadores
• Punta Esmeralda

All beaches in Playa del Carmen are easily accessible and free, unlike in Cancun or Tulum where they’re often closed for resort guests only.

There are many things to do on the beach in Playa. You can get a massage, go jet skiing, parasailing, or even take a catamaran cruise. If you’re into beach clubs you can also find many of them in Playa del Carmen, such as Mamitas Beach Club.

On the south side of the large pier off Benito Juarez street (calle 1) is where Playacar starts and the beaches in this area of town are nicer and generally more clean and quiet.

If you want to mingle with the locals, try Punta Esmeralda. You won’t find the tourist crowd there, but local kids hanging out with their parents and people selling freshly grilled shrimp on the stick.

My favorite beach, however, is Xcacel. It’s actually closer to Akumal then Playa, but since it’s only 20 minutes away I’d still recommend it. It’s not free, you need to pay 20 pesos ($1.5) to enter, but it’s empty and even has a cenote in the area.

Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen

Los Aguachiles

If you’re into seafood, Los Aguachiles has you covered. It serves tostadas topped with fresh fish, as well as fried coconut shrimp and even unusual tacos. My favorite is actually a Popeye taco with creamy spinach, cheese and shrimp.

El Fogon and Don Sirloin

The list would not be complete without a nod to some genuine Mexican taquerias with several branches around town. Some people prefer El Fogon, others Don Sirloin. I think they’re both good.

I recommend the tacos al pastor with cheese, delicious shavings of spit-roasted pork topped with a slice of pineapple, served on the best corn tortillas.

Hijos de la Tostada

Hijos de la Tostada, as the name indicates, serves tostadas. Similar to Los Aguachiles, it focuses mostly on seafood. You can get them traditional with raw seafood, or more western style with a fried ingredient on top.

Ask the bartender for a Chapulin cocktail – it’s weird , but you won’t regret it!

If you’re a fan of fresh ceviche for lunch, there’s no better place to go than El Pirata. The place can give you a giant ceviche for just 90-120 pesos. Even with two people, you might struggle to finish it!

You can’t find a more local place than Dona Mary. This small corner spot is home to simple, but delicious chicken tostadas. No English menu, no cutlery available, but plastic chairs only. Definitely recommended, but prepare to get your face and hands dirty!

La Cueva del Chango

La Cueva del Chango is a great place for any occasion, due to its amazing setting. Set in a lush garden, this is a great place to have a nice, relaxing, and tropical breakfast.

They even have the turtle pond in the middle! My favorite brunch dish there are crepes poblanos with cheese & mushrooms.

Chez Céline

Chez Céline is one of the rare places on the 5th Av where locals go to quite often. It serves incredible French food and pastries for any time of the day. You must try the white chocolate raspberry cupcake!

Nativos has several branches throughout Playa del Carmen. This local chain serves up good, mostly healthy food and a wide selection of giant smoothies.

Good prices and great service. I recommend chilaquiles verdes with eggs for breakfast.

Papa Charly

There are a lot of Italians and Argentinians in Playa del Carmen. Some of them opened Papa Charly creating one of the best restaurants in Playa.

The place serves great pasta with a huge variety of sauces to choose from. My favorite though is the mushroom lasagne.

Don Chendo is a Chicago style pizza place that gets everything right. The sauce is well-spiced, toppings are quality and abundant, and the owner and his staff are as friendly and caring as you’ll find anywhere.

Suggested More Extensive Guides for Mexico:

– Lonely Planet Yucatan Guide – The Rough Guide to Mexico – Mexican Spanish Phrasebook

Did I miss something? Do you want to ask me anything about Playa del Carmen, Mexico?

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Friday 10th of November 2023

Hi Anna, I believe you know or are related to John Conte in Elmira? We’ve been traveling to the Riviera Maya for 20+ years, and we built a home to the north of PDC nine years ago with the intention of moving there from NY. We decided not to move, and just wintered there until selling the home last November. Wonderful people there, IN SPITE OF the police corruption and cartel activities. We will return as we miss our friends there, the natural beauty, and of course the amazing cuisine!

Sunday 29th of October 2023

Best restaurant around 5 for fresh oysters? Staying at the Hilton so wanting an easy walk Thanks 😊

AnnaEverywhere

Wednesday 1st of November 2023

I had to ask a friend about it because personally I hate oysters, but also there aren't many places in Playa serving them :D Your best bet would be 38th Av there's a seafood restaurant called Oyster.

Monday 24th of April 2023

Any ideas on learning Spanish while there. Hubby does not speak so hoping he will learn. Thank you

Anna Karsten

Tuesday 25th of April 2023

I feel like Playa isn't the greatest place to learn Spanish because almost everyone speaks at least some English, but there are various Spanish schools he could take lessons at.

Dean Larson

Sunday 6th of February 2022

I would like to add that I just got to Playa del Carmen and my first night I happened to walk by Bendita Costilla as it was right down the street from where I was staying. The music that drew me in sounded Cuban (though it's mostly Argentinean food) and was very enjoyable. After getting a couple ideas of what to order, I asked my server what his favorite thing on the menu was, he said the flank steak. Not the cut I usually go for, but the look on his face and expression in his voice was genuine so I went with it... and was not let down! It was absolute heaven :) So for anyone closer to the edge of downtown and Playacar, I would add this as a recommendation!

Monday 31st of January 2022

Hi Anna. Great to have your useful info. I was wondering if you have any information on best snorkeling spots around PDC? Are there any reefs close to the beach? Or better book a boat tour? I understand that some cenotes offer good snorkeling options too. Thanks

Tuesday 1st of February 2022

No good snorkeling from the beach in Playa I'm afraid. You'd have to go to Puerto Morelos for a reef.

• Tour Account ›
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• Beyond Europe

Playa Del Carmen?

First time poster here, long time reader! Thanks for all the great advice you all have posted over the years!

We are going to the Cancun area (staying just north of Playa del Carmen) in a few months for a wedding. We have been to Cancun before - enjoyed good food, beautiful beaches, and a day trip to Chichen Itza. We have two full days of free time in the area and we're looking for recommendations of things to do (aside from attending the wedding ceremony, of course).

In particular, we are interested in any historic sites that are easily accessible from Playa del Carmen. Since we're traveling with family, we aren't looking to do a longer distance day trip.

Finally, we are really hoping to do a boat or catamaran tour, ideally with dinner or drinks. Any suggestions or recommendations of operators who sail from near Playa del Carmen?

Thanks in advance!

I'd look at catamarans in Puerto Aventuras. We always did the Fat Cat Sail, but Catamaya is another one there. I would go to Tulum one day, but that might be farther than you want to travel. Mostly, we traveled on our own using collctivos, but we did take a great tour with YucaTreks.

Tulum isn't far, less than an hour south by bus. In addition to wonderful ruins it has a nice, though not large, beach. I'm sure there are easy ways to get there and back. Also some ancient sites on Cozumel and excellent diving if you're into that. (But if you were into that you'd probably know that already!)

Did you see that Rick Steves took his family on vacation to Tulum recently? If look in the section "About Rick" the details with lots of specifics are in his travel blog.

My son got married in Tulum last year. Guests seemed to enjoy the Tulum ruins and also spent a fun day at Xel-ha. I'm not sure how close axel-ha would be for you, but it might be worth a look.

Tulum (ruins/ archeological park) overlooking the sea is absolutely stunning. That would be my first choice hands down. The Tulum beaches are also very beautiful (my friend and I took a taxi from the ruins to the beach), and there is also the Tulum Pueblo (or small town). There are also other ruins called Cobá not far from Tulum (much, much less crowded than Chichen Itza). There are lots of swimming holes (cenotes) around in this area as well.

Go to The ruins at Coba. It is well organized for people of all ages and abilities. There is a short tour of some smaller ruins before you start your voyage to the major temple. To get to the large temple you can walk, rent a bike, or rent a pedicab. I recommend either the bikes or pedicab. It is a flat path but it is a mixture of shade and sun. It can get pretty hot even in the shade. At the temple, you can walk up for a great view of the surrounding area. Even halfway up puts you above the treeline. Only 1.5 hours from Playa del Carmen. Get there when they open. It is cooler and the bus tours haven't arrived.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

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• Playa del Carmen

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Welcome to the party! "Playa," currently Latin America's fastest-growing community, has a population of more than 150,000 and an international flavor lent by the estadounidenses (United States citizens), Canadians, and Europeans who have been moving here since the early 1990s. Full of lively bars, restaurants, beach clubs, shops, and hotels, its eminently walkable downtown is one of the few places on the Riviera Maya where you can have a car-free vacation.

Sunbathe and swim at trendy beach clubs by day, then drink and dance at nightclubs until the sun comes up and start all over again. In between, there's an enjoyable array of diversions along Avenida 5, a pedestrian-only cobbled street that is the town's main drag. Its southern section, from about Calle 4 to Constituyentes, is busy, noisy, and sometimes rowdy—the place to go for nightlife, tequila shots, and souvenir shopping. Its quieter, more upscale northern end, north of Constituyentes up to about Calle 38, is the place for chic cafés and stylish boutiques. Rapid development means a decline in Mexican culture, with chain stores and cheap souvenirs emerging on every corner (Starbucks junkies can easily get their fix.) It also means businesses open and close monthly, surviving on the hope they can offer a better service than their neighbors.

Although building-height restrictions have helped to keep Playa from turning into the next Cancún, you'll have to leave town to get off the beaten path. Much of the area is developed, most recently by a slew of all-inclusive resorts opening up on the city's outskirts. If you plan on leaving the town center, be aware of your surroundings. A slight increase in criminal activity was reported between 2011 and 2013, most of which occurred outside major resort areas.

Explore Playa del Carmen

Shopping 10

Nightlife 5

Restaurants 12

Sports and Activities 5

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