Playa del Carmen Travel Guide. Free and Updated for 2023
Playa Del Carmen is a coastal resort town located just 1-hour drive away from Cancun and Cancun airport. It is famous for its gorgeous white sand beaches and hot parties. With its crystal clear waters, white sandy shores, and rich Mayan culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Playa del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen offers a unique experience compared to Cancun. Unlike Cancun, which is known for its "resorts only" atmosphere, Playa del Carmen has a bustling city center with a wide range of activities. In the past, Playa del Carmen was known for its lively nightlife and raves, but as Tulum has grown in popularity, Playa del Carmen has evolved into a more mature and temperate city that offers a mix of peace and excitement at night.
Read our full showdown between Playa Del Carmen vs Cancun vs Tulum (here)
Table of Content:
Who Playa Del Carmen is for.
Playa Del Carmen is an energetic city that entices its visitors to venture out of the resorts. Overall, Playa del Carmen is a great destination for anyone looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Beach lovers will love the stunning beaches and crystal clear waters, while party-goers will appreciate the vibrant nightlife and variety of bars and clubs. Those interested in history and culture will find plenty to explore, albeit these experiences are not directly in Playa and are most commonly visited as a one-day trip. Playa Del Carmen by itself is more superficial than a cultural city tailored for entertainment. If you want to experience the culture and tradition directly, read our blog about another small Mexican town - Valladolid.
What to expect from the City.
Beautiful beaches. One of the best things to expect from Playa del Carmen is its stunning beaches. The crystal clear waters and white sandy shores are perfect for lounging, swimming, and soaking up the sun. Whether you're looking to relax and unwind or try your hand at watersports like snorkelling and scuba diving, Playa del Carmen's beaches have something for everyone.
Night Life & Clubbing. In addition to its beautiful beaches, Playa del Carmen is also known for its vibrant nightlife. With a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants, there is always something happening in Playa del Carmen. From lively beach parties to intimate rooftop bars, you'll find the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy the night.
Excursions. Another major attraction in Playa del Carmen is its rich Mayan culture. The area is home to several important Mayan ruins, including the ancient City of Tulum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or archaeology, Playa del Carmen has something to offer.
Best time to visit Playa Del Carmen.
If you want to visit Playa del Carmen when the weather is at its best, you should plan your trip between October and April. Be aware that February, March, and April are popular months for tourists, which may result in higher prices for accommodations and other expenses.
Rainy & Seaweed seasons in Playa Del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen experiences a rainy season from June to October, which can be uncomfortable due to the high temperatures and humidity.
There is one season that many tourists may not be aware of: seaweed season. Typically occurring from May to September, seaweed season brings large amounts of seaweed to the shore, making the beaches less appealing to some visitors at best and making them entirely intolerable at worst. The seaweed itself is not harmful, but it can have an unpleasant odour and can make swimming and sunbathing difficult. Some local businesses may offer services to clean the seaweed from the beaches, but it is a natural phenomenon that occurs every year.
Read our more detailed article on seaweed season in Tulum and Playa Del Carmen here.
How long should you stay in Playa Del Carmen?
If you're looking to get a general feel for Playa del Carmen, we recommend staying for at least five to seven days. However, many tourists choose to extend their stay, as the City has become a popular destination for people who work remotely. Playa Del Camren is also a good starting point for exploring other parts of the Yukatan Peninsula.
Is it safe to travel to Playa del Carmen?
Playa del Carmen is generally a safe place to visit, but like any tourist destination, there are always a few things to watch out for. While you're unlikely to run into any major cartel-related drama, you may come across the occasional pickpocket or petty thief. To avoid any mishaps, just use your common sense and stick to the well-trodden tourist path. As long as you do that, you'll have a blast in Playa del Carmen!
Where to stay in Playa Del Carmen.
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Playa del Carmen, the options are plentiful. The City is home to a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious beachfront resorts, Airbnb's, to budget-friendly hostels. One popular area for tourists is the Hotel Zone, which is located along the beach and offers easy access to the City's top attractions. Here, you'll find a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars, as well as plenty of opportunities for water sports and beach activities. Another popular option is to stay in the downtown area, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and traditional Mexican charm. Here, you'll find a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals, as well as a wide range of dining and shopping options. In reality, these two areas are so closely connected that they practically yield no significant difference. So do not feel that you will lose on nightlife if you choose to stay at an all-inclusive resort or beachside if you stay in town in an Airbnb. Ultimately, the best place to stay in Playa del Carmen will depend on your personal preferences and budget.
Hot to get to Playa.
Private transportation. If you're feeling tired after a long flight, or just don't want to hassle with public transit, then hiring a private transfer is the way to go. It's definitely the most convenient option, but it can also be the priciest. Be sure to set up your transfer before you arrive in Mexico, so you don't have to worry about it once you're there.
Renting a car. If you're planning on doing a lot of exploring around the Yucatan Peninsula or the Mayan Riviera, then renting a car is your best bet. The roads might be a little different than what you're used to in the US or Canada, but it's still easy to get around. Just be on the lookout for rental car scams where they advertise super cheap prices but then hit you with expensive "mandatory" insurance.
ADO bus. If you're coming from Cancun, then the ADO bus is a great option. It's easy to use, comfortable, and you can purchase your ticket at the airport. They usually run every 30 minutes, and they are modern and very comfortable, making them the best well-rounded option. The trip on the bus From Cancun to Playa Del Carmen takes no longer than 45 minutes to an hour.
In conclusion:
Playa Del Carmen is a vibrant and beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, you'll find it here. With its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and rich Mayan history within short reach, Playa Del Carmen is the perfect place to escape from the stresses of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Caribbean. So if you're planning a trip to Mexico, be sure to add Playa Del Carmen to your list of must-visit destinations.