If you are planning to visit Mexico and want to experience some of its best beaches, then Playa del Carmen should be on your list. This beautiful coastal town located in the Riviera Maya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. There are many things to do in Playa del Carmen, from relaxing on the beach to exploring ancient Mayan ruins. In this article, we will guide you through the 14 best things to do in Playa del Carmen.
Swim in Cenotes
Playa del Carmen is home to many cenotes, which are natural swimming pools formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. These cenotes are crystal clear, freshwater pools that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Some of the most popular cenotes in Playa del Carmen are Gran Cenote, Cenote Dos Ojos, and Cenote Azul.
Visit Xcaret Eco Park
Xcaret Eco Park is a must-visit attraction in Playa del Carmen. This eco-archaeological park is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, jaguars, and monkeys. You can also swim in underground rivers, watch cultural performances, and explore a Mayan village.
Snorkel at Akumal Beach
Akumal Beach is located just south of Playa del Carmen and is one of the best places in Mexico to go snorkeling. The beach is home to a large population of sea turtles, and you can swim with them in their natural habitat. You can also see a variety of fish and other marine life while snorkeling at Akumal Beach.
Take a Day Trip to Tulum
Tulum is a beautiful beach town located about an hour south of Playa del Carmen. The town is known for its ancient Mayan ruins, which are situated on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. You can also relax on the beaches of Tulum and explore the town’s shops and restaurants.
Visit the Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico and is located about 2.5 hours from Playa del Carmen. The site is home to a large pyramid, known as El Castillo, which was built by the Mayans around 1,000 years ago. You can also see a ball court, observatory, and other ancient structures at Chichen Itza.
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Go on a Jungle Adventure Tour
If you are an adventure seeker, then you should try a jungle adventure tour in Playa del Carmen. These tours allow you to explore the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula and participate in activities like zip-lining, rappelling, and ATV riding. You can also learn about the local flora and fauna and see wildlife like monkeys and exotic birds.
Experience the Nightlife of Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs located on and around Quinta Avenida. You can dance the night away at popular clubs like Coco Bongo or enjoy live music at La Bodeguita del Medio.
Explore Cozumel Island
Cozumel Island is located just off the coast of Playa del Carmen and is known for its beautiful beaches and world-class scuba diving. You can take a ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel Island and spend the day exploring the island’s attractions.
Take a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a small island located near Cancun and is a popular day trip destination from Playa del Carmen. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. You can explore the island’s shops and restaurants or rent a golf cart to explore the island.
Go Shopping on Quinta Avenida
Quinta Avenida, also known as Fifth Avenue, is Playa del Carmen’s main shopping and entertainment street. The avenue is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars and is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. You can shop for souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Relax on the Beaches of Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. You can relax on the white sand beaches, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and soak up the sun. Some of the best beaches in Playa del Carmen are Mamitas Beach Club, Playacar Beach, and Xpu-Ha Beach.
Get a Massage or Spa Treatment
If you are looking for some relaxation, then Playa del Carmen has many spas and massage centers where you can unwind. You can get a traditional Mayan massage, a hot stone massage, or a variety of other treatments to soothe your body and mind.
Go Scuba Diving in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is one of the best places in Mexico for scuba diving, with many dive sites located just off the coast. You can explore coral reefs, underwater caves, and shipwrecks and see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and sharks.
Conclusion
Playa del Carmen offers something for everyone, whether you are an adventure seeker or just looking to relax on the beach. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to swimming with sea turtles, there are many things to do in Playa del Carmen. So, plan your next trip to this beautiful coastal town and experience all that it has to offer.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen? The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is between November and April when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Is it safe to travel to Playa del Carmen? Yes, Playa del Carmen is a safe place to travel to, but like any tourist destination, you should take precautions to stay safe.
- What currency is used in Playa del Carmen? The official currency of Playa del Carmen is the Mexican peso, but US dollars are widely accepted.
- Do I need a visa to visit Mexico? US citizens do not need a visa to visit Mexico for tourism purposes.
- What is the distance between Cancun and Playa del Carmen? The distance between Cancun and Playa del Carmen is approximately 68 kilometers
- Can I rent a car in Playa del Carmen? Yes, there are many car rental companies located in Playa del Carmen that offer a range of vehicles to choose from.
- What are some popular restaurants in Playa del Carmen? Some popular restaurants in Playa del Carmen include El Fogon, La Cueva del Chango, and Alux Restaurant.
- Can I visit the Mayan ruins in Playa del Carmen? Yes, there are several Mayan ruins located near Playa del Carmen, including Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza.
- What is the best way to get around Playa del Carmen? The best way to get around Playa del Carmen is by walking, biking, or taking a taxi or colectivo (shared van).
- What are some other nearby destinations to visit from Playa del Carmen? Some other nearby destinations to visit from Playa del Carmen include Cancun, Tulum, Cozumel, and Isla Mujeres.
With so much to do and see, Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mexico. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to swimming with sea turtles, there are many exciting activities to experience in this beautiful coastal town. So, plan your next vacation to Playa del Carmen and discover all that this amazing destination has to offer.
