Family Adventure in Playa del Carmen

A Day of Discovery Beneath the Mayan Sun

Today was a day of exploring the natural wonders around Playa del Carmen, a journey that took us from the serene shores of a hidden beach to the mystical depths of ancient cenotes. It's amazing how much beauty is tucked away just beyond the bustling tourist spots. The kids were especially excited, and Fatoumata and I were just as eager to soak it all in.



Our day started with a delightful breakfast at Carboncitos.

I must admit, finding a place that caters to everyone's tastes can be challenging, but Carboncitos came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant is located inside Hotel Cielo and is regarded as one of the best Mexican restaurants in Playa, with consistently high scores on TripAdvisor.

I opted for some huevos rancheros, a classic that always reminds me of home, while Fatoumata enjoyed some chilaquiles. Aminata, ever the adventurous one, tried a sikil p'aak, a Mayan pumpkin seed dip that she declared surprisingly delicious. Ibrahim, predictably, stuck to his usual: a simple plate of fruit. Fuelled up, we were ready to start our day of exploration.



Our first stop was Playa Punta Esmeralda, a spot I had read about in a few travel blogs as a local favorite, away from the crowded tourist beaches.

Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself, a short drive followed by a little walk down a sandy path. What awaited us was a small, tranquil beach where a freshwater spring meets the ocean. The water was crystal clear, and the kids were thrilled to splash and play in the shallow areas.

It was a welcome change of pace from the busier parts of Playa del Carmen, a peaceful haven where we could relax and enjoy the natural beauty. I even managed to snap a few photos, trying to capture the vibrant turquoise of the water against the white sand—a memory I wanted to preserve.


Explore the serene beauty of Playa Punta Esmeralda, a hidden gem in Playa del Carmen, perfect for relaxation and family fun under the sun.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of the world.

After a couple of hours of sun and sand, it was time for lunch. We headed to PapaCharly, a place recommended for its authentic Italian and Mexican cuisine. PapaCharly is a must-visit fine dining spot in Playa del Carmen, offering delicious food, great prices, and a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The place had a cozy, family-run feel, and the aroma of freshly made pasta filled the air. We ordered a mix of dishes: some handmade pasta for the kids, a chicken parmigiana for Fatoumata, and I couldn't resist trying the sweet and sour ribs. The food was hearty and flavorful, a testament to the love and care put into each dish. It felt like a little slice of Italy right here in Mexico.

Ibrahim, of course, managed to spill his pasta sauce all over his shirt, but that’s just part of the adventure when you’re traveling with kids, right? We all laughed it off, cleaned him up, and enjoyed the rest of our meal.



With our bellies full, we set off for the highlight of the day: Cenotes Sac Actún. I had heard so much about these underground rivers and caves, sacred places to the Mayans, and I was eager to experience them firsthand. The drive there was scenic, taking us through lush greenery and small Mayan villages. As we approached the entrance, there was a sense of anticipation in the air. We met our guide, a local Mayan who spoke passionately about the cenotes and their significance.


Explore the stunning cenotes and mysterious cave systems at Cenotes Sac Actún near Tulum, a must-visit natural wonder in Mexico.


Before entering the cenotes, our guide explained the importance of these natural wonders to the Mayan people. He spoke of their beliefs, how the cenotes were seen as gateways to the underworld, places of both life and death. It was fascinating to hear these stories, connecting us to the rich history and culture of the region. We donned our snorkeling gear and followed him into the cool, dark waters. As we swam through the crystal-clear caverns, surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, it felt like entering another world. The silence was broken only by the gentle sound of water dripping from the cave ceilings.

The water was cool and refreshing, a welcome contrast to the warm afternoon air. The kids were initially a bit apprehensive, but they quickly warmed up to the experience, marveling at the rock formations and the ancient energy of the place. I even spotted a few small fish darting among the rocks. It was an otherworldly experience, one that connected us to the earth and the history of the Mayan civilization.

Cenotes Sac Actun is actually an underground cave system measured at 347.7km long, which makes it the longest underwater cave system in Mexico and the second longest in the world. However, as of January 2018, a connection between this and the Dos Ojos cave system was discovered making it now the largest known underwater cave system in the world.

During our tour, our guide showed us some ancient Maya offerings and bones from animal sacrifices.

Navigating through the narrow passages, with just our guide's light to lead the way, was both thrilling and a little eerie. Aminata held my hand tightly, her eyes wide with wonder. It was a shared experience, a moment of connection that I knew we would remember for years to come. The cenotes were more than just a beautiful place; they were a reminder of the power and mystery of nature.



After emerging from the cenotes, we were all a bit tired but exhilarated.

Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to do a little shopping at Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall. After a day immersed in nature and history, a bit of modern retail therapy seemed like a good way to transition back to reality. The mall is located right on the bustling Fifth Avenue, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a delightful mix of activities, shopping, and festive charm.

We strolled through the air-conditioned corridors, browsing the shops and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Aminata and Fatoumata were particularly drawn to the clothing stores, while Ibrahim was more interested in the toy shop. I picked up a few souvenirs for friends back home, small reminders of our time in Playa del Carmen. It was a pleasant way to wind down the day, a mix of local crafts and familiar brands that reflected the diverse character of the city.


Discover the vibrant Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall in Playa del Carmen, where fantastic shopping, dining, and entertainment await every visitor.


For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Harry's Steakhouse & Raw Bar. I had heard rave reviews about their steaks, and I was curious to see if they lived up to the hype. The restaurant had a sophisticated ambiance, with dim lighting and elegant decor. We were seated at a comfortable table, and the staff was attentive and friendly. I ordered a ribeye steak, while Fatoumata opted for some grilled seafood. The kids, of course, went for the classic: burgers and fries.


The food was indeed exceptional. My steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with a rich, smoky flavor. Fatoumata raved about her seafood, declaring it the freshest she had tasted in a long time. Even the kids were impressed with their burgers, which were made with high-quality ingredients. It was a satisfying end to a day of adventure, a culinary indulgence that we all enjoyed.



As we walked back to Hotel Suites El Campanario, under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. From the tranquil beach to the mystical cenotes and the vibrant city life, Playa del Carmen had revealed its many layers. It was a day of discovery, a day of connection, and a day of creating memories with my family. It reminded me why I love to travel, to explore, and to share these moments with those I love.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel Suites El Campanario, your gateway to Playa del Carmen's vibrant attractions and stunning beaches.

Tomorrow, we’re planning a visit to Xplor Park for one last adventure before our trip comes to an end. It's hard to believe our week in Playa del Carmen is almost over. Time really does fly when you're having fun! I'm already looking forward to sharing our final day with you all. Until then, goodnight from Mexico!