Curator’s statement
Playa del Carmen isn't just a travel destination for me; it's become a second home, a place where the energy of the Caribbean meets a vibrant, sophisticated international community. This town’s incredible charm lies in its diverse, bilingual atmosphere—you can always find someone who speaks both English and Spanish, making it instantly welcoming to travelers from across the globe. Perfectly positioned between the bustle of Cancún and the bohemian heritage of Tulum, Playa serves as the ideal, centralized hub for easily accessing all of the Riviera Maya's famed ruins, reefs, and unique ecological parks. The ability to seamlessly transition from an authentic street food experience to a chic beach club is why I keep coming back.
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Things to do in Playa del Carmen
Stroll and shop on Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida): This pedestrian street is the pulsing heart of the city, lined with international boutiques, artisanal craft stores, and countless bars, making it the perfect place for an evening stroll and people-watching. It's where you feel the international flair and high-end energy that defines downtown Playa del Carmen.
Explore local cenotes at Casa Tortuga and Cenote Atik: Venture beyond the major tourist attractions to experience the cool, clear waters of natural sinkholes like Casa Tortuga and Cenote Atik, which offer beautiful cavern snorkeling and cave swimming. These hidden gems provide a tranquil escape from the heat and a truly unique ecological experience essential to the Yucatán.
Day trip to Akumal to swim with sea turtles: Head south to Akumal Bay, where you can safely swim alongside magnificent green sea turtles in their natural, protected habitat. This highly regulated and unique experience is one of the most memorable natural encounters the Riviera Maya offers.
Snorkel or dive the reef on Cozumel Island: Catch the high-speed ferry from the main pier for a quick day trip to Cozumel, home to some of the world's most spectacular sections of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. The island's famously clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a world-class destination for any aquatic adventure.
Visit a theme park for a day of adventure: Spend a thrilling day at one of the Xcaret parks, such as Xplor for zip-lining and amphibious vehicles, or Xel-Há for open-water snorkeling and lazy rivers. These highly curated eco-parks offer an organized, all-inclusive day of adventure that showcases the region's stunning natural landscape.
Take a day trip to the ruins of Tulum: Drive south to visit the Mayan fortress situated dramatically on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea. This breathtaking archaeological site provides incredible historical context and offers the most beautiful coastal views in the entire region.
Places to eat & drink in Playa del Carmen
Harry's Prime Steakhouse & Raw Bar: Located right on Fifth Avenue, Harry's offers a high-end, sophisticated dining experience known for serving the finest cuts of meat, including Japanese Wagyu and USDA Prime. The elegant black-and-white decor, impressive raw bar, and impeccable service make it the top choice for a celebratory evening.
Ilios Greek Estiatorio: This lively and upscale Greek restaurant provides a vibrant atmosphere with its stunning Mediterranean-inspired architecture and nightly entertainment, including plate-breaking and fire shows. It’s a complete sensory experience that transports you far from Mexico while offering delicious, fresh Greek cuisine.
Porfirio's: A true fusion of elegance and Mexican tradition, Porfirio's elevates classic Mexican street food and regional dishes with a contemporary twist and a celebratory atmosphere. Diners are treated to live mariachi bands, traditional calenda performances, and refined tequila and mezcal options, making it the perfect spot for an energetic, upscale Mexican meal.
La Cueva del Chango: Tucked away in a lush, jungle-like setting off of Fifth Avenue, this spot is a long-standing favorite for its rustic atmosphere and incredible traditional Mexican breakfast and brunch. You feel immediately secluded from the city bustle while enjoying fresh, natural dishes like their famed chilaquiles and fruit shakes.
El Fogon: For the best authentic street tacos, El Fogon is the essential local experience, serving up cheap, delicious, and highly energetic meals, especially their famous tacos al pastor sliced fresh from the vertical spit. While it is always busy, the quick service and authentic flavor of this iconic taqueria are absolutely worth any wait.
Oh Lala: A small, intimate fine-dining gem with only a handful of tables, providing an exclusive and romantic experience focused on exquisite international and contemporary cuisine. The personal service and sophisticated menu make it ideal for couples seeking a quiet, culinary-focused evening away from the crowds.
Need to know
Optimal location: Playa del Carmen is the perfect home base because it sits centrally between Cancún (45 minutes north) and Tulum (45 minutes south), making nearly all of the Riviera Maya's major attractions easily accessible.
Currency and value: While many businesses accept US dollars, you will always get a better exchange rate and fairer price when paying in Mexican Pesos (MXN). Use bank ATMs for withdrawals, as the small exchange booths often have unfavorable rates.
Transportation tip: For affordable, safe travel between Playa and other towns like Tulum or Akumal, use the colectivos (shared vans) that depart frequently from the main depot. Taxis are also plentiful, but always confirm the price with the driver before beginning your trip.
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