Paradise Awaits at Playa del Carmen
Discover the vibrant atmosphere, stunning beaches, and rich cultural experiences of Playa del Carmen, a paradise on Mexico's Caribbean coast.
Nestled along the stunning Caribbean coastline, Playa del Carmen is a vibrant beach destination renowned for its crystal-clear waters, lively atmosphere, and rich cultural experiences. Tourists flock here for its pristine beaches, delectable dining options, and easy access to nearby attractions, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Mexico.
A brief summary to Playa del Carmen
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or during weekdays to enjoy the beach with fewer crowds.
- Try local delicacies at food stalls on Fifth Avenue for an authentic culinary experience.
- Don't miss the opportunity to explore nearby cenotes for a refreshing swim.
- Bring cash for small purchases, as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Check local events and festivals for a chance to experience traditional music and dance.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from any point in Riviera Maya and head towards the main highway, Carretera 307. Follow the signs that indicate Playa del Carmen. The drive from Tulum to Playa del Carmen typically takes about 45 minutes, while from Cancun, it takes about an hour. Once you reach Playa del Carmen, follow the signs to the downtown area or the beach, where you can find parking options, though be aware that some lots may charge a fee of around $10-$20 MXN per hour.
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Public Transportation (ADO Bus)
For those opting for public transportation, take an ADO bus from your current location in Riviera Maya. ADO buses operate frequently from locations like Tulum and Cancun. Purchase your ticket at the ADO terminal; tickets typically cost between $70-$100 MXN depending on your starting point. The bus will take you directly to the Playa del Carmen ADO bus terminal, located near the town center. From the terminal, you can walk to the beach or take a taxi if you have heavy luggage.
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Collectivo
Another economical public transport option is the collectivo, a shared van service. You can catch a collectivo in various towns in Riviera Maya, including Tulum and Akumal. The cost is about $35-$50 MXN per person. The collectivo will drop you off in central Playa del Carmen. This option is convenient and allows you to meet other travelers, but be prepared for a potentially crowded ride.
Discover more about Playa del Carmen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
RUINA KAAN
0.1 km
Explore the ancient charm of Ruina Kaan in Playa del Carmen, a historical landmark that unveils the rich heritage of Mexico's coastal civilizations.
Guacamundo - Lifestyle Hostel
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Playa del Carmen at Guacamundo - Lifestyle Hostel, where adventure and comfort meet in the heart of Mexico's stunning coast.
El Jaguar Dorado
0.4 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at El Jaguar Dorado, Playa del Carmen's premier gift shop showcasing local artistry and culture.
YucaTreks Tours Mexico
0.4 km
Discover the beauty and culture of the Yucatán Peninsula with YucaTreks Tours, your gateway to unforgettable Mexican adventures.
Chabad Playa Del Carmen
0.5 km
Discover Chabad Playa Del Carmen: A welcoming synagogue and kosher restaurant offering spiritual enrichment and delicious dining in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Lo mejor de playa del carmen
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and exciting nightlife of Playa del Carmen, a jewel of Mexico's Riviera Maya.
Calle Corazón
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Playa del Carmen at Calle Corazón, a premier shopping destination filled with unique shops, delightful dining, and lively entertainment.
Corazón de Mexico
0.6 km
Discover the essence of Mexican craftsmanship at Corazón de Mexico, your go-to destination for authentic handicrafts in Playa del Carmen.
Playacar playa
0.8 km
Discover the stunning shores of Playacar Playa, a tropical playground ideal for families and beach lovers with activities for every age.
Tours Del Carmen
0.8 km
Explore the Riviera Maya with Tours Del Carmen, your premier sightseeing tour agency for unforgettable adventures and cultural experiences.
La Fuente Maya
0.8 km
Explore La Fuente Maya, an iconic sculpture in Playa del Carmen reflecting Mexico's rich cultural heritage and artistic expression.
Mexico Highlights
1.5 km
Experience the beauty and culture of Mexico with expertly guided tours showcasing the best of Playa del Carmen and beyond.
La Cueva del Chango
1.6 km
Experience the essence of Mexican cuisine at La Cueva del Chango, a vibrant eatery in Playa del Carmen offering delectable dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Huichol land Playa del Carmen
1.7 km
Explore the vibrant Huichol culture through exceptional art, handicrafts, and sculptures in Playa del Carmen's unique gallery.
Coco Beach 4 by Menesse Condos
1.7 km
Discover Coco Beach 4 by Menesse Condos in Playa del Carmen – a luxurious retreat with stunning beach access and modern comforts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Marco Playa Del carmen
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning beaches of Marco Playa Del Carmen, a tropical paradise for every traveler.
Scuba Libre
0.1 km
Discover the underwater wonders of the Caribbean at Scuba Libre, Playa del Carmen's premier SCUBA tour agency, perfect for all diving levels.
Hard Rock Cafe Playa del Carmen
0.1 km
Savor American cuisine and immerse yourself in rock history at Hard Rock Cafe Playa del Carmen, a must-visit destination for all music lovers.
Playa Incluyente Playa Del Carmen
0.2 km
Experience the inclusive beauty of Playa Incluyente in Playa Del Carmen – a beach paradise for relaxation, fun, and unforgettable sunsets.
Aloha Paddle Club - Paddle Board & Surf Playa del Carmen
0.2 km
Discover the thrill of water sports at Aloha Paddle Club, your gateway to paddle boarding, surfing, and kayaking in Playa del Carmen's stunning waters.
Portal Maya
0.2 km
Explore Portal Maya in Playa del Carmen: a vibrant monument celebrating Mexico's rich heritage and culture.
Parque Los Fundadores
0.2 km
Explore the lush beauty and cultural vibrancy of Parque Los Fundadores in Playa del Carmen, a perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Mia Meeting Point
0.2 km
Dive into adventure and relaxation at Playa Mia Meeting Point, the ultimate family-friendly water park in Playa del Carmen.
Gastón Charó Gallery
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant world of contemporary art at Gastón Charó Gallery in Playa del Carmen, showcasing local and international talents.
Quinta avenida
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Playa del Carmen at Quinta Avenida, the ultimate pedestrian zone for shopping, dining, and unforgettable nightlife.
Letras Playa del Carmen
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant Letras Playa del Carmen, where art meets culture in a beautiful coastal setting, perfect for unforgettable memories and stunning photos.
Muelle de Playa del Carmen
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Muelle de Playa del Carmen, your gateway to the Caribbean and beyond.
Museo Frida Kahlo Playa Del Carmen
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant legacy of Frida Kahlo at Museo Frida Kahlo in Playa Del Carmen, a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Mercado De Nuestra Senora Del Carmen
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant Mercado De Nuestra Senora Del Carmen, where authentic flavors and local crafts come together in the heart of Playa del Carmen.
Callejon del Arte PDC
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant artistic heart of Playa del Carmen at Callejon del Arte, where culture and creativity come alive in a delightful atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
INTI Beach
0.1 km
Discover INTI Beach: A Culinary Paradise by the Caribbean Sea in Playa del Carmen
Carboncitos
0.2 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Carboncitos in Playa del Carmen - a must-visit for food lovers seeking vibrant flavors and local dishes.
LOLA Rooftop Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite cuisine at LOLA Rooftop Restaurant in Playa del Carmen - where dining meets paradise.
The Carmen
0.3 km
Discover exceptional dining at The Carmen in Playa del Carmen, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary artistry for an unforgettable experience.
Yum Yum
0.3 km
Experience exquisite Asian fusion cuisine at Yum Yum in Playa del Carmen – where traditional Thai flavors meet modern culinary creativity.
Eat Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Eat Bar in Playa del Carmen, where every dish tells a story and every meal is a celebration.
Dona Paula Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican and American cuisine at Dona Paula Restaurant in Playa del Carmen – where flavor meets affordability.
La Brocherie
0.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Brocherie, where exquisite flavors meet cozy ambiance in Playa del Carmen.
Zenzi Beach
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Zenzi Beach in Playa del Carmen—where delicious food meets lively nightlife against stunning ocean views.
Lido Beach Club Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience delightful dining at Lido Beach Club Restaurant in Playa del Carmen – where culinary excellence meets breathtaking beach views.
The Mexican Dining Experience Playa Del Carmen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at The Mexican Dining Experience in Playa del Carmen—where every dish tells a story of flavor.
100% Natural Playa del Carmen
0.5 km
Savor fresh and healthy meals at 100% Natural Playa del Carmen - where nutrition meets flavor in every bite.
CoCo Rico Kosher Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean kosher cuisine at CoCo Rico Kosher Restaurant in Playa del Carmen, where flavor meets tradition.
La Famiglia
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Famiglia in Playa del Carmen—home to delicious pizzas and traditional pasta dishes.
Prime Steak House Playa del Carmen
0.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Prime Steak House Playa del Carmen - where premium steaks meet unparalleled service in a luxurious setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ambar Mexicano Joyas de la Tierra
0.2 km
Explore Ambar Mexicano Joyas de la Tierra in Playa del Carmen for exquisite handcrafted jewelry and unique souvenirs that embody Mexico's rich culture.
Local 3
0.2 km
Explore Local 3, a boutique gem in Playa del Carmen, for unique fashion and local artistry that captures the spirit of Mexico.
Fine Mexican Handcrafts
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant world of Mexican artistry at Fine Mexican Handcrafts in Playa del Carmen, where every piece tells a story.
Playaland
0.3 km
Explore Playaland in Playa del Carmen for unique souvenirs and stylish clothing that capture the vibrant culture of Mexico.
Cielo, Mar, y Tierra Boutique
0.3 km
Discover unique hand-crafted treasures at Cielo, Mar, y Tierra Boutique in Playa del Carmen, where culture meets creativity in a vibrant shopping destination.
Ojos Mayas
0.3 km
Discover the essence of Mexican craftsmanship at Ojos Mayas in Playa del Carmen, where unique gifts and local artistry come together.
Sandmade Swimwear Playa del Carmen (Ferry)
0.3 km
Explore stylish swimwear and beach essentials at Sandmade Swimwear, the premier boutique in Playa del Carmen.
Gift shop
0.4 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local crafts at Playa del Carmen's charming gift shop, a must-visit for every tourist.
Playa Land
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Playa del Carmen at Playa Land, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and local treasures.
Joyería Pandora
0.4 km
Explore Joyería Pandora in Playa del Carmen for exquisite jewelry and unique accessories that embody elegance and style.
Guess Accesorios
0.4 km
Explore the unique fashion accessories at Guess Accesorios, a charming boutique in the heart of Playa del Carmen, perfect for trendy travelers.
Playa Mart Paseo del Carmen zum zum
0.5 km
Discover Playa Mart, a vibrant gift shop in Playa del Carmen offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the spirit of the Riviera Maya.
Miniso Paseo del Carmen
0.5 km
Explore Miniso Paseo del Carmen for trendy home goods, unique souvenirs, and affordable fashion essentials in the heart of Playa del Carmen.
¡Ay Güey! Playa Del Carmen 3
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant fashion at ¡Ay Güey! Playa Del Carmen, where local style meets contemporary trends in the heart of the Caribbean.
Mac and Jass fashion and lux boutique
0.5 km
Explore Mac and Jass Fashion and Lux Boutique in Playa del Carmen, where style meets luxury with unique finds from local and international designers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dick & Willy’s Calle 2 Y 5ta Avenida
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Dick & Willy's Bar in Playa del Carmen, known for unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
The Roof Bar Playa del Carmen Quinta Avenida
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Playa del Carmen at The Roof Bar, where stunning views and creative cocktails await you high above Quinta Avenida.
Fusion Beach Bar Cuisine
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of local and international cuisine at Fusion Beach Bar Cuisine in Playa del Carmen, a perfect beachside dining escape.
paraiso beach club
0.3 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at Paraiso Beach Club in Playa del Carmen—where stunning views meet exquisite cuisine and vibrant entertainment.
Alive Snack Bar Playa del Carmen
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and atmosphere of Alive Snack Bar in Playa del Carmen, where refreshing drinks meet the spirit of the Caribbean.
Deck 5 Pool and Skybar
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate leisure experience at Deck 5 Pool and Skybar, where luxury meets vibrant nightlife in Playa del Carmen.
Fat Tuesday Terminal Ferry Playa del Carmen 1st Floor
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Fat Tuesday in Playa del Carmen, where refreshing drinks and stunning views await every visitor.
Señor Frog's Playa del Carmen | Muelle
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious flavors at Señor Frog's Playa del Carmen, where dining meets entertainment in a tropical paradise.
Patio 8
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Patio 8, the go-to bar in Playa del Carmen for cocktails, camaraderie, and unforgettable evenings.
Kukulkan Social Roof
0.4 km
Experience Playa del Carmen's nightlife at Kukulkan Social Roof, a vibrant rooftop bar with stunning views, great music, and delicious drinks.
Social PubCrawl Playa del Carmen
0.4 km
Unleash your inner performer at Social PubCrawl Playa del Carmen, the ultimate karaoke bar for unforgettable nights and vibrant social experiences.
Fah
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Fah, a must-visit bar in Playa del Carmen offering refreshing cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
Bar Ranita
0.4 km
Experience the lively nightlife at Bar Ranita, a must-visit bar in Playa del Carmen, offering delicious cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
Dirty Martini Lounge
0.5 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Dirty Martini Lounge in Playa del Carmen, known for its creative cocktails and vibrant social atmosphere.
L'Ambassade
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at L'Ambassade, an inviting bar in Playa del Carmen, offering affordable drinks and a lively atmosphere for all.