Coco Beach: The Hidden Jewel of Playa del Carmen

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Nestled on the northern fringes of Playa del Carmen, Coco Beach offers a tranquil retreat away from the bustling tourist hubs. This neighbourhood is perfect for those looking to experience the serene side of coastal Mexico while still enjoying easy access to the vibrant downtown area. Coco Beach is renowned for its pristine, less crowded shores. The beach itself is a paradise for sunbathers and swimmers, with its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Snorkelers and divers will find plenty of underwater marvels just off the coast, where vibrant marine life thrives in the warm Caribbean waters. The area boasts a variety of charming accommodations, from boutique hotels to private beachfront villas. Local eateries serve up delicious Mexican cuisine, with fresh seafood being a highlight. Be sure to visit the beachside bars for a refreshing cocktail as you watch the sunset. For those looking to explore, the nearby Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) offers a delightful mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Yet, after a day of excitement, you'll appreciate returning to the calm and peaceful ambiance of Coco Beach.

Local tips in Coco Beach

Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the underwater wonders right off the beach.
Visit in the early morning for a more secluded beach experience.
Try the local seafood at the beachside eateries for a true taste of the region.
Stay at a beachfront villa for the best views and easy beach access.
Rent a bike to easily navigate between Coco Beach and downtown Playa del Carmen.

File:Xcalacoco Beach near El Cielo - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Quinta Avenida - Playa del Carmen, Mexico - August 15, 2014 02.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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File:Portal Maya (El Cierre del Ciclo de la Cuenta Larga Maya) by José Arturo Tavares... in morning twilight - Playa del Carmen, Mexico - August 15, 2014 01.png - Wikimedia Commons

File:Xcaret parque temático.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Portal Maya

Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning beauty of Portal Maya, a must-visit monument in Playa del Carmen that celebrates the Mayan civilization.

The Reef Coco Beach Resort & Spa

Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at The Reef Coco Beach Resort & Spa in Playa del Carmen, your gateway to the Riviera Maya.

Museo Frida Kahlo Playa Del Carmen

Explore the vibrant Museo Frida Kahlo in Playa del Carmen, a captivating tribute to the life and legacy of Mexico's iconic artist.

Playa 88

Experience the serene beauty of Playa 88, a pristine Caribbean beach in Playa del Carmen that's perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Playa coco beach

Discover the pristine beauty of Playa Coco Beach in Quintana Roo, where crystal-clear waters and golden sands await your arrival.

Guacamundo - Lifestyle Hostel

Discover Guacamundo, the vibrant lifestyle hostel in Playa del Carmen, where comfort meets community in the heart of Mexico's Riviera Maya.

The Reef Marina At Reef Coco Beach

Discover the vibrant underwater life at The Reef Marina, a top diving center in Playa del Carmen, perfect for all levels of divers.

Coco Beach

Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Coco Beach, Playa del Carmen's hidden gem for sun seekers and adventure lovers.

Coco Beach 4 by Menesse Condos

Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Coco Beach 4, a premier housing complex in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo.

Marina Coco Beach

Experience the thrill of adventure sports and the beauty of the Caribbean at Marina Coco Beach in Playa del Carmen.

Coco beach Real State

Discover the luxurious haven of Coco Beach Real Estate, your gateway to Playa del Carmen's stunning beaches and vibrant culture.

Unmissable attractions to see

Xcaret Park

Explore the magic of Xcaret Park, where adventure, nature, and Mexican culture blend in a breathtaking eco-archaeological paradise.

Parque Los Fundadores

Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Parque Los Fundadores, a serene oasis in the heart of Playa del Carmen.

Mamita's Beach Club

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Mamita's Beach Club in Playa del Carmen, where relaxation meets gourmet dining and exciting nightlife.

La Quinta Avenida

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of La Quinta Avenida, the ultimate shopping and dining destination in Playa del Carmen, surrounded by Caribbean charm.

Delphinus Xcaret

Experience the thrill of swimming with dolphins at Delphinus Xcaret, a pristine eco-park in Playa del Carmen offering unforgettable aquatic adventures.

Cenote Chaak Tun

Explore the breathtaking Cenote Chaak Tun, a natural wonder in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Coco Bongo

Experience the ultimate nightlife adventure at Coco Bongo, Playa del Carmen's premier entertainment venue, offering stunning shows, vibrant music, and unforgettable memories.

Dolphin Discovery Playa del Carmen

Explore marine wonders and make lifelong memories at Dolphin Discovery Playa del Carmen, a premier attraction for ocean lovers and families.

Native Park Playa del Carmen

Discover the vibrant landscapes and thrilling activities at Native Park Playa del Carmen, a top tourist attraction in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

Dolphinaris Riviera Maya

Explore the wonders of marine life at Dolphinaris Riviera Maya, where unforgettable dolphin encounters and thrilling water activities await.

Playa del Carmen Archeological Site

Discover the ancient Mayan civilization at the Playa del Carmen Archaeological Site, a captivating tourist attraction with rich history and beautiful scenery.

Playa coco beach

Discover tranquility at Playa Coco Beach in Quintana Roo, where soft sands and crystal waters create the perfect escape for every traveler.

Playa del Carmen Wild Beach

Experience the untouched beauty of Playa del Carmen Wild Beach, a serene getaway in Quintana Roo, Mexico, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Coco Beach

Discover the tranquility and beauty of Coco Beach in Playa del Carmen, where sun, sand, and sea unite for an unforgettable escape.

Essential places to dine

La Cueva del Chango

Discover authentic Mexican flavors at La Cueva del Chango - a vibrant restaurant offering delicious meals for everyone in Playa del Carmen.

Zenzi Beach

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Zenzi Beach in Playa del Carmen—where delicious food meets lively nightlife against stunning ocean views.

Alux Restaurant Bar and Lounge

Discover the enchanting Alux Restaurant Bar and Lounge in Playa del Carmen – where exquisite cuisine meets breathtaking natural beauty.

INTI Beach

Discover INTI Beach: A Culinary Paradise by the Caribbean Sea in Playa del Carmen

Zitla Playa

Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Zitla Playa - a culinary oasis in the heart of Playa del Carmen's vibrant dining scene.

Oh lala! International Cuisine by George

Experience exquisite international cuisine at Oh Lala! in Playa del Carmen - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and elegance.

Así Restaurant & Beach Club

Discover culinary excellence at Así Restaurant & Beach Club in Playa del Carmen – where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

Luma Taverna Del Mar

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine and breathtaking sea views at Luma Taverna Del Mar in Playa del Carmen.

CoCo Rico Kosher Restaurant

Experience authentic Mediterranean kosher cuisine at CoCo Rico Kosher Restaurant in Playa del Carmen, where flavor meets tradition.

Samurai Japanese Cuisine - The Reef Coco Beach

Discover a delightful fusion of traditional flavors and modern presentation at Samurai Japanese Cuisine in Playa del Carmen.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall

Discover Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall, a vibrant shopping and dining destination in Playa del Carmen, offering diverse retail and entertainment experiences.

Paseo del Carmen Shopping Mall

Experience the vibrant shopping and dining at Paseo del Carmen, the premier shopping mall in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Calle Corazón

Explore the vibrant shopping and cultural hub of Calle Corazón in Playa del Carmen, where boutique shopping meets exquisite dining and entertainment.

Souvenirs Playa

Explore a vibrant selection of local crafts and treasures at Souvenirs Playa, the ultimate souvenir store in Playa del Carmen.

Playa Mart Paseo del Carmen zum zum

Explore Playa Mart in Playa del Carmen for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of your Mexican adventure.

Sol Jaguar

Explore Sol Jaguar, a unique handicraft store in Playa del Carmen, featuring handmade textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs reflecting rich Mexican culture.

Local 3

Explore Local 3, a boutique gem in Playa del Carmen, for unique fashion and local artistry that captures the spirit of Mexico.

Agua de coco boutique

Explore unique coastal fashion at Agua de Coco Boutique, where Playa del Carmen's vibrant style meets local craftsmanship.

COCCO BEACHWEAR

Discover stylish swimwear and beach fashion at Cocco Beachwear in Playa del Carmen - your ultimate shopping destination for sun-soaked adventures.

Coco Beach

Explore the vibrant world of handmade crafts and local art at Coco Beach, the ultimate souvenir store in Playa del Carmen.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Mamita's Beach Club

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Mamita's Beach Club in Playa del Carmen, where stunning views meet exquisite dining and lively entertainment.

Zenzi Beach

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Zenzi Beach, a top restaurant and bar in Playa del Carmen, offering beachside dining and nightlife.

Lido Beach Club Restaurant

Experience the perfect blend of delicious cuisine and stunning ocean views at Lido Beach Club Restaurant in Playa del Carmen.

Coco Bongo

Experience the electrifying nightlife and stunning performances at Coco Bongo, Playa del Carmen's premier nightclub destination.

La Vaquita Playa Del Carmen

Discover the vibrant nightlife at La Vaquita Playa Del Carmen, where fun, music, and dancing come together for an unforgettable experience.

INTI Beach

Experience the perfect blend of delicious grilled cuisine and breathtaking beach views at INTI Beach in Playa del Carmen.

Samurai Japanese Cuisine - The Reef Coco Beach

Discover the flavors of Japan at Samurai Japanese Cuisine, a premier sushi restaurant in Playa del Carmen, offering fresh dishes and stunning coastal views.

paraiso beach club

Experience the ultimate relaxation at Paraiso Beach Club in Playa del Carmen—where stunning views meet exquisite cuisine and vibrant entertainment.

Lizards Pool Bar and Grill

Experience the flavors of the tropics at Lizards Pool Bar and Grill in Playa del Carmen, where every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence.

Nacho Mamas Cantina

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Nacho Mamas Cantina, where delicious food meets thrilling sports action in the heart of Playa del Carmen.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Coco Beach

Discover Coco Beach with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vohr/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pair-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vohr]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, poor fah-vohr]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwes-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Media (10)
  [meh-dee-ah (dee-ehs)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [seys]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dee-ehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Coco Beach

Coco Beach, like much of the Playa del Carmen area, is steeped in the rich history of the ancient Maya civilization. The region was inhabited by the Maya for thousands of years, with evidence of settlements found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. The coastal area served as a vital trade route and was integral to the economic and cultural exchanges of the Maya, particularly in the pre-Columbian era.
In the late 20th century, Playa del Carmen began to evolve from a small fishing village into a bustling tourist destination. Coco Beach became popular in the 1990s as developers recognized its potential due to its stunning coastline and proximity to the vibrant Fifth Avenue. This transformation brought an influx of visitors and a burgeoning hospitality sector, forever changing the landscape of the area.
Coco Beach reflects a blend of traditional Mexican culture and contemporary influences. The area features a mix of local restaurants, beach clubs, and shops that cater to both tourists and locals. This cultural fusion is evidenced in local events, cuisine, and art, showcasing the vibrant lifestyle that Playa del Carmen is known for today.
As tourism grew in Coco Beach, so did the awareness of environmental impacts. Local organizations and the community have engaged in conservation efforts to protect the natural beauty of the coastline and marine life. Initiatives aimed at preserving the coral reefs and beach ecosystems reflect a growing commitment to sustainable tourism practices in the region.
Today, Coco Beach is recognized as a key area for tourists seeking relaxation and recreation in Playa del Carmen. It offers a range of activities from water sports to beachfront dining. The neighborhood's development has evolved to accommodate a diverse array of visitors, making it a vibrant focal point of leisure and cultural exchange on the Riviera Maya.

Coco Beach Essentials

Coco Beach is conveniently located in Playa del Carmen, making it easily accessible from other neighborhoods. From the ADO bus terminal, you can take a taxi or a local colectivo (shared van) for a quick journey to Coco Beach, which is about a 5-10 minute ride. If you're coming from the famous 5th Avenue, it's a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along the beachfront or through the vibrant streets. Taxis are readily available throughout Playa del Carmen and are a reliable option for getting to Coco Beach.
Coco Beach is primarily a walkable neighborhood, with many attractions, restaurants, and beaches within easy reach. Taxis are available for longer distances or if you're traveling late at night. Bicycles can be rented from local shops for a fun way to explore the area. Additionally, Playa del Carmen has a bike-share program that allows you to pick up and drop off bikes at various locations throughout the town. Public transport options, such as colectivos, are also available for trips to nearby attractions.
Coco Beach is generally safe for tourists; however, standard precautions should be followed. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, particularly towards the outskirts. While crime rates are relatively low, petty theft can occur, especially on crowded beaches or streets. Areas closer to the beachfront tend to be more secure, while some neighborhoods further inland may experience higher crime rates. Always stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, medical, or fire assistance. The nearest hospital is Hospital San Carlos, located a short distance from Coco Beach. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest police station and hospital upon arrival.
Fashion: Do wear beach-appropriate attire, but avoid wearing swimsuits away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and avoid discussing sensitive topics. Public Transport: Do be courteous on public transport and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and drink bottled water. Don’t drink tap water or refuse food offerings graciously as it may offend hosts.
To experience Coco Beach like a local, visit the smaller beach clubs and eateries that offer authentic Mexican cuisine at reasonable prices. Engage with local vendors and artisans, who often have unique crafts and stories to share. Consider visiting Playa Publica, a less crowded beach area favored by locals for a more relaxed atmosphere. Early morning walks along the beach can be a beautiful way to start your day, and don't miss the vibrant sunset views that Coco Beach is famous for.

Coco Beach: The Hidden Jewel of Playa del Carmen

Local tips in Coco Beach