✓ Joining us on our Whatsapp Channel: 💬 Explore and Escape!.
Booking through us:
✓ 🏩 🛌 Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget: Booking.com | Agoda.com
✓ 🍹⛱️ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips : 📍🗺️ GetYourGuide | 🛵🧳 Klook
If you have done the things to do in Mexico, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Playa del Carmen.
Welcome to a beach-haven where paradise meets adventure!
Playa del Carmen is a tropical gem that offers a cornucopia of exciting activities and breathtaking sights.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on pristine beaches, explore mysterious cenotes or dance the night away with some of the world’s best DJs, this coastal city is the perfect holiday destination.
Let’s dive in and explore the top things to do in Playa del Carmen!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Playa del Carmen:
1. Playa del Carmen Beach
Playa del Carmen Beach is a white sand beach in the coastal city of Playa del Carmen in Mexico.
What to see or do: – Sunbathing and swimming in the crystal clear waters.
Don’t miss: – El Faro, the lighthouse on the southern end of the beach, offering spectacular views of the coast.
Insider travel tips: – Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
2. Quinta Avenida
Quinta Avenida, also known as Fifth Avenue, is the main pedestrian street in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
What to see or do: The avenue is lined with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Stroll along the street and take in the lively ambiance and colorful architecture.
Be sure to stop by the beautiful Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen (Our Lady of Carmen Church) and the popular beach clubs.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the street performances by local artists and musicians, and the opportunity to try authentic Mexican food and drinks.
Insider travel tips: – The street can get very crowded, especially in the evening. It’s best to visit during the daytime if you prefer a more relaxed and peaceful experience.
3. Xcaret Park
Xcaret Park is an eco-archaeological park in Playa del Carmen.
What to see or do: There is an abundance of activities to partake in, including swimming in underground rivers, exploring Mayan ruins, and visiting a sea turtle sanctuary.
You can also watch cultural performances, go snorkeling, and visit the beautiful beach.
Don’t miss: The park’s famous nightly show “Xcaret Mexico Espectacular” is a must-see, featuring over 300 performers showcasing Mexican history and culture.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring a towel and swimwear, and plan to spend an entire day at the park to truly take in all it has to offer.
Additionally, purchasing the “Plus” package gives you access to a buffet lunch and snorkeling gear rental.
4. Cozumel Island
A tropical island paradise located in the Caribbean Sea, off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
What to see or do: Explore Cozumel’s spectacular coral reefs by scuba diving or snorkeling, take a sunset sail on a catamaran, visit Mayan ruins at San Gervasio, shop for Mexican souvenirs in downtown San Miguel, or simply relax on the island’s pristine beaches.
Don’t miss: Cozumel’s world-famous underwater sculpture park, Chankanaab National Park, and the opportunity to swim with dolphins.
Insider travel tips: Rent a scooter or jeep to explore the island’s hidden beaches and remote backroads, try local seafood dishes like ceviche and grilled lobster, and avoid peak tourist season (December to April) for lower prices and fewer crowds.
Nearby Playa del Carmen also offers a lively nightlife scene and access to the stunning Mayan ruins of Tulum.
5. Xplor Park
Adventure park offering outdoor activities in a natural setting.
What to see or do: Zip-line through the jungle, raft through underground rivers, drive amphibious vehicles through the jungle and caves, swim through underground rivers, explore caves on foot.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views from the zip-lines, the stunning underground rivers, and the unique experience of driving amphibious vehicles.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that can get wet and/or dirty. Bring a towel, a change of clothes, and waterproof camera.
Get there early to avoid crowds and make the most of your day. You can bring your own food and drinks, but they also offer food options on-site.
6. Tulum Ruins
Ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the beautiful beaches of Tulum.
What to see or do: Explore the impressive stone structures of the ancient civilization, including the Temple of the Frescoes and El Castillo. Take in breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and snorkel in the clear waters.
Don’t miss: The beach below the ruins, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and the heat. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is rocky and uneven.
Bring sunscreen and water as there is limited shade and facilities on site. Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and culture of the Mayan civilization.
7. Cenote Dos Ojos
Crystal-clear freshwater caverns.
What to see or do: Snorkel or swim in the stunning blue waters, explore the underground limestone caves and tunnels, and marvel at the unique rock formations.
Don’t miss: The “Pit” area of the cenote, which features an incredibly deep pool perfect for experienced divers.
Insider travel tips: Bring snorkel or dive gear if possible, as rentals can be expensive. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and have the cenote to yourself.
Take a waterproof camera to capture the breathtaking views.
8. Akumal Beach
Akumal Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline located approximately 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, known for its clear turquoise waters and magnificent coral reefs.
What to see or do: The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Akumal Bay is home to an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful fish, and even stingrays.
Visitors can take a snorkeling tour to explore the underwater world or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to snorkel with the sea turtles. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t soon forget.
Additionally, be sure to keep an eye out for other marine life such as tropical fish and rays.
Insider travel tips:
9. Rio Secreto Nature Reserve
Rio Secreto is a natural underground river system located in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico. It’s a unique and spectacular destination that showcases the beauty and diversity of the Yucatan Peninsula.
What to see or do: Visit the Rio Secreto Nature Reserve to embark on an unforgettable adventure that includes exploring the vast underground caverns, swimming in crystal clear waters, and navigating through stalactites and stalagmites.
You can choose from a variety of tour options that are suitable for different skill levels and interests.
Don’t miss: The most exciting part of the Rio Secreto tour is the chance to explore the cave system’s varied geological formations that have taken thousands of years to form.
The guided tour takes you through a maze of caverns where you’ll see breathtaking natural sculptures, including incredible patterns and colors of mineral deposits found on the cave walls.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to pre-book your tour to ensure availability as it can get crowded during peak season.
10. Xel-Ha Park
Xel-Ha Park is a natural aquatic wonderland located in the Riviera Maya region of Mexico.
What to see or do: visitors can enjoy a full day of attractions and activities including snorkeling in crystal clear cenotes and lagoons, floating down lazy rivers on inner tubes, and ziplining over the turquoise sea.
Don’t miss: The Cliff of Courage, a 5-meter jumping platform for adrenaline junkies, and the Meliponary, a bee farm featuring stingless bees and their honey.
Insider travel tips: arrive early to beat the crowds and make sure to bring water shoes for exploring the rocky underwater terrain. Also, the all-inclusive package is worth it for unlimited food and drinks during your day at the park.
11. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Playa del Carmen in Mexico. This vast protected area spans over 1.
3 million acres and consists of tropical forests, wetlands, and coastal lagoons.
What to see or do: – Take a boat tour to see the diverse array of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, crocodiles, and sea turtles.
Don’t miss: – The breathtaking views from the top of the ancient Mayan pyramid at Muyil.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
12. El Faro Lighthouse
El Faro Lighthouse is a historic landmark and one of Playa del Carmen’s top attractions.
What to see or do: Visitors can take in stunning panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Playa del Carmen from the top of this legendary lighthouse.
The beach promenade also offers a fantastic opportunity to take memorable photographs.
Don’t miss: Take a leisurely stroll along the beach promenade in downtown Playa del Carmen to reach the picturesque lighthouse.
Insider travel tips: There are several local guides who can provide a brief history tour of the lighthouse and surrounding area.
It’s suggested to visit early in the morning or right before sunset to avoid the crowds and get the best views.
Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring your sunscreen.
13. Punta Esmeralda Beach
Punta Esmeralda Beach is a serene and stunning public beach located in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Don’t miss: Make sure to take a stroll along the beautiful shoreline of Punta Esmeralda Beach, which features soft white sand and picturesque palm trees.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunrise or sunset views from this stunning beach.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure a prime spot on the beach. Bring your own snacks and drinks, as there are limited food vendors in the area.
Consider renting a beach umbrella or chair from a local vendor for added comfort during your visit.