Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Visitors can explore the iconic Fifth Avenue, a pedestrian-friendly street filled with an array of restaurants, bars, shops, and local artisans. Playa del Carmen serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions such as the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, the eco-parks Xcaret and Xel-Ha, and the captivating island of Cozumel.
Adventurers can also partake in water sports like snorkeling, diving, and fishing or relax on the beach with a refreshing cocktail in hand. With a diverse culinary scene and a lively nightlife, Playa del Carmen caters to various interests, making it an ideal destination for couples, families, and solo travelers seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
What to do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
A Day at the Beach
Playa del Carmen is renowned for its stunning beaches, with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can unwind under the sun, take a dip in the gentle waves, or partake in a variety of water sports. One of the most beloved beach spots is Mamitas Beach Club, where you can savor cocktails, indulge in delectable cuisine, and even enjoy live music. For a quieter experience, Xpu-Ha Beach boasts a more tranquil ambiance and offers opportunities for snorkeling and swimming with its serene, turquoise waters.
Explore Mayan Ruins at Tulum
Just a short drive from Playa del Carmen, the ancient ruins of Tulum are a must-visit. These well-preserved archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Mayan civilization, featuring impressive structures overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can wander through the remnants of temples, pyramids, and ceremonial sites while learning about the historical significance of this ancient city. The breathtaking coastal views and the intriguing historical narrative make Tulum a captivating and educational day trip for travelers.
Ecopark Adventures at Xcaret
For nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Xcaret Eco Park is a paradise. This ecological wonderland features a myriad of activities, including underground rivers for swimming and snorkeling, lush jungle trails, and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The park also hosts riveting cultural performances that showcase traditional music, dance, and rituals. Additionally, visitors can witness the mesmerizing Papantla Flyers, a captivating acrobatic spectacle. Xcaret is an ideal destination for those seeking to connect with nature, culture, and ancient traditions.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Cozumel
Cozumel, an island just a ferry ride away from Playa del Carmen, is a diver’s paradise. Its world-renowned coral reefs and marine life make it a sought-after destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The vibrant underwater ecosystem of Palancar Reef and Columbia Reef beckons enthusiasts to explore its mesmerizing beauty. With its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine species, and captivating underwater landscapes, Cozumel offers an unforgettable experience for both seasoned divers and novices alike.
Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) Exploration
Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue, is Playa del Carmen’s vibrant hub, brimming with an array of restaurants, bars, shops, and boutiques. This pedestrian-friendly avenue captivates visitors with its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings. Here, travelers can sample authentic Mexican cuisine, savor international delicacies, and browse through an assortment of artisanal crafts and souvenirs. As the sun sets, the avenue comes alive with live music, captivating street performances, and a bustling nightlife scene that adds another layer of excitement to this dynamic thoroughfare.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Morning
Start your day by visiting the famous Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida). This bustling pedestrian street is lined with shops, restaurants, and colorful buildings. Take a leisurely stroll, soak in the local vibes, and perhaps pick up some souvenirs or local crafts.
Late Morning
After exploring Fifth Avenue, head to the nearby Playa del Carmen beach. Spend a few hours unwinding on the soft white sands, swimming in the turquoise waters, or simply relaxing under the warm sun.
Afternoon
For an adventure, visit the eco-archaeological park of Xcaret. Explore the underground rivers, visit the vast butterfly pavilion, and discover the diverse wildlife. End your visit with the mesmerizing evening show which showcases traditional music and dance.
Day 2
Morning
Get an early start and take a ferry to Cozumel, an island just off the coast of Playa del Carmen. Explore the island’s coral reefs by snorkeling or diving, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Afternoon
Return from Cozumel and head to the vibrant Mamitas Beach Club. This is the perfect place to enjoy the beach, music, and perhaps take part in some water sports or beach activities.
Late Afternoon
Spend the late afternoon exploring the nearby Mayan Ruins of Tulum. This archaeological site offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and provides a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing evening at a beachfront bar or restaurant, soaking in the stunning sunset and enjoying the cool ocean breeze.
Mayan Ruins Exploration
Explore nearby ancient Mayan ruins like Tulum and Coba to learn about the rich history of the region.
Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour
Explore Chichen Itza, an impressive Mayan archaeological complex. Visit a sacred sinkhole and enjoy a buffet meal.
Get picked up from your hotel in Cancun or the Riviera Maya, or choose a convenient meeting point. Journey to one of the Yucatan Peninsula's most important monuments.
Upon arrival, marvel at the step pyramid of Kukulcan, renowned for its shadowy serpent image created by equinox light.
Experience an ancient cenote, part of a sacred underground river network to the Maya people. Indulge in a tasty buffet and take a leisurely stroll in Valladolid.
Book Today on Viator From $69.00
Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves
Experience the ultimate 3-in-1 adventure along the stunning Riviera Maya with our Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, and Cenotes Tour. Explore the ancient Tulum ruins, immerse yourself in the vibrant world beneath the Caribbean Sea with a snorkeling adventure among colorful coral reefs, and cap off your day by taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear cenotes and exploring mystical caves. This unique tour promises a day of unforgettable exploration and relaxation in one of the world's most enchanting destinations."
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $119.00
Chichen Itza, Cenote, Valladolid, Tequila & Lunch
Unlock the mysteries of the Mayans with this tour to Chichén Itzá, a magical cenote & Valladolid.
Start this experience by visiting the charming Valladolid, a colonial town where we will make a panoramic visit. Afterward, you will be having a refreshing bath at a sacred cenote, an enchanting underground sinkhole. Take your time to enjoy its magical water. After this, you will be enjoying a Mexican buffet here, as well as enjoying a tequila tasting.
Finally, you will arrive at Chichen Itza, UNESCO World Heritage site, where you will be learning the secrets and history of the pre-Columbian city while marveling at the Pyramid of Kukulcan. Follow your guide around Chichén Itzá, one of the main archaeological sites of Yucatan’s peninsula. You'll also have free time to stroll this fantastic archeological site.
Book Today on Viator From $62.00
Full Day Tulum Ruins Tour Cenote and Swimming with Turtles
A guided tour of the Tulum Mayan ruins, swimming with sea turtles in Akumal and a jungle oasis cenote swim in the Riviera Maya plus round-trip transportation, beverages and a delicious local lunch included!
This Tulum Swimming with turtles and Cenote Tour brings you to three of the top attractions in the Riviera Maya with an expert guide and all you need for a great escape in history, culture and nature.
Book Today on Viator From $118.00
Shopping and Dining
Indulge in shopping for souvenirs, local crafts, and enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine at the many restaurants and cafes.
Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour
This is an authentic local experience in local Mexican food. Perfect for couples, groups of friends, or families. We walk through the main artery of the city to fill us with typical flavors and smells of Mexico: street stations and restaurants that the locals frequent. A unique and incomparable experience with a knowledgable guide that accompanies you in this three-hour tour around the city, typically away from tourist places. If you have an adventurous spirit and want to taste the authentic flavors of Mexico and it's people, this is the tour for you. Join us!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $70.14
Playa del Carmen Mexican Cooking Experience and Local Markets Tour
Meet Chef Alma and begin your Cooking day with a visit to some of the Local Spice Markets to buy the fresh ingredients for the dishes and the salsas of the day, we look for the local spice and product shops for the original flavors.
After selecting and shopping the produces, we will go to the home of the Chef for the hands-on cooking class. Our Chef and her family will share with you the best of her own family recipes, as well as the finest of the traditional Mexican dishes.
You will hand make your own corn tortillas, learn cooking techniques and you will indulge yourself into the delicious and more representative dishes of the Mexican cuisine.
And the best of all: you eat what you cook during the class.
All this in authentic "Mi Casa es su Casa" atmosphere
Book Today on Viator From $147.98
Cenote Exploration
Discover the unique cenotes around Playa del Carmen, perfect for swimming, diving, and exploring underground rivers.
Best ATV Tour, Ziplines and Cenote Swim with Lunch
Dare to be part of one of the most enigmatic activities in Cancun and Mexico. We pick you up in vans equipped with air conditioning, we have the best service in the state, the food is prepared with the highest standards of hygiene. Please feel completely safe with our zip lines which cover the highest safety worldwide standards.
We recommend bringing towel with you and water shoes or close toe sandals, also you must use biodegradable sunblock. Due to our commitment to nature, we suggest using biodegradable products.
The experience is so incredible that it takes you to live the Mayan jungle in its 3 terrains, in the air on our Ziplines, in the water at our cenote, and on land on our ATVs.
It is important to mention that only 18 years old and above are permitted to drive, if not, you need to share an ATV.
All our vans are sanitized daily, we are a certified company in Quintana Roo. Thank you for choosing us please give us the opportunity to offer an excellent service.
Book Today on Viator From $75.00
Half-Day Sea Turtle and Cenote Snorkeling Tour from Cancun & Riviera Maya
This incredible tour offers the experience of snorkelling with sea turtles in their natural habitat, with opportunities to see rays and brightly coloured tropical fish at the coral reef, take a guided trail into the sub-tropical forest and visit amazing underground worlds with mysterious cenotes, marvel, snorkel and swim at the thousands of spectacular stalagmites and stalactites that surround you at every turn.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $99.00
Hidden Cenote Swim, Snorkeling With Sea Turtles and Beachside Lunch
• Float along on a guided tour in the brisk waters of an ancient Mayan cenote.
• Navigate through breathtaking caverns and discover the ancient rock formations up close!
• Our knowledgeable tour guide will take you on this impressive swimming experience, to get up close and personal with beautiful turtles in their natural habitat.
• Savor a delicious lunch at our exclusive hideaway on the beach.
Book Today on Viator From $169.00
Jungle Buggy Tour from Playa del Carmen Including Cenote Swim
Enjoy a 3-hour adventure tour in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Have a thrilling and unforgettable experience as you drive a CAN AM buggy and explore the Mayan jungle. Along with your professional guide, you will discover the local fauna and flora and the hidden treasures of the subtropical forest.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $109.78
Water Sports Rentals
Rent equipment for activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing to enjoy the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Reef Snorkel In National Park In Puerto Morelos With Lunch And Transportation
Welcome to one of the most requested activities in Mexico, the Extreme Snorkel, we make this activity in Puerto Morelos, that is an enigmatic fishermen town, we will start our trip boarding a brand new boat and we will go to the national reef park, this is consider as the biggest 2nd reef wall worldwide, here you will see a huge variety of fishes of all colors, types and sizes. Imagine the beauty of this places with all the corals, the reef and all the sea life if we are lucky maybe we will see a stingray or a big turtle. This is the 1st time you will see corals in it´s own natural world.
Then we will go to our private beach club to have a morning meal and water to refresh ourselves, we will have a walk through the center of Puerto Morelos and the local people will show us some interesting things like handicrafts of Mexico. This tour will show you a little piece of Mexico and it´s folklore.
Book Today on Viator From $55.00
Adventure Tours
Embark on thrilling adventure tours like zip-lining, ATV rides, jungle treks, and more in the jungles around Playa del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim and Mayan Village Visit
Welcome to our unique buggy tour, providing a mixture of fun, adventure and discovery. This tour provides two activities in addition to driving a buggy:
-a refreshing swim in a natural fresh water cave
-spend time in a Mayan community; visit of the hidden side of Playa del Carmen
Our tour is well known for helping out this community, and if you wish, you can take part in this activity as well. The experience is rewarding and eye-opening.
Book Today on Viator From $99.00
ATV Tour with Cenote swim, Ziplines, Transportation and Lunch Included
Dare to be part of one of the most enigmatic activities in Cancun and Mexico. We pick you up in vans equipped with air conditioning, we have the best service in the state, the water to drink is purified and the food is prepared with the highest standards of hygiene. Please feel completely safe with our zip lines which cover the highest safety worldwide standards.
We recommend to bring a towel with you and comfortable close shoe, you must use biodegradable sunblock.
Due to our commitment to nature we recommend our travelers use biodegradable products
The experience is so incredible that it takes you to live the Mayan jungle in its three terrains, in the air, in the water, and on land. It is important to mention that you need to be 18 years old and above to drive your own ATV.
Thank you for choosing us please give us the opportunity to give you an excellent service.
Book Today on Viator From $75.00
Horseback Riding and Cenote Swim from Cancun or Playa del Carmen
Combine two Yucatan adventures on this half-day horseback ride through jungle followed by a swim in one of the region's famous natural cenotes. Hotel pickup and drop-off, guide, all necessary equipment, water, snacks, and towels included.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $110.00
ATV COMBO CHALLENGE (reef snorkel, atv, ziplines, cenote, lunch and transport)
Welcome to the max combo, here we will visit the elemental activities that you must do when you visit Mexico beaches. All activities are done in Puerto Morelos, we will go to the national REEF park, this is consider as the biggest 2nd reef wall worldwide,Imagine the beauty of this places with all the corals, the reef and all the sealife
Then we will go to our private beach club to have a morning meal and water to refresh ourselves.
Later we will held up to our park, Imagine yourself driving an ATV inside the mayan jungle, drive on an imperfect road full of mud, stones, climbs, descents, water and lots of fun in company of your partner or your family.
Then ZIPLINES, we will go to the circuit of zip lines, here you can fly through the treetops.Imagine being able to fly, scream, and be amazed with the beautiful views, by the end we will go to the CENOTE, you will discover an ancient place for the Mayan people that is considered an entrance to the infraworld.
Book Today on Viator From $115.00
Nightlife and Entertainment
Experience vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, live music, and entertainment options in the town center of Playa del Carmen.
Cirque du Soleil® JOYÀ Admission Tickets
Immerse all of your senses with the Cirque du Soleil® show 'JOYÁ' — the first Cirque show in the world to offer the option of gourmet dinner — opening in November 2014. Follow the story of an alchemist and his granddaughter embarking on a transformative quest to uncover the secrets of life, with the help of half-human, half-animal creatures. Set inside an intimate theater in the heart of the Riviera Maya jungle, ‘JOYÀ’ draws on Mexico’s history and heritage to bring you a world where physical ability meets the extraordinary. .
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $111.43
Coco Bongo Playa Del Carmen Gold Member VIP Night Out by After Dark
At Coco Bongo Playa Del Carmen, the VIP Gold Member ticket allows you to skip the crazy line and receive express entry into Coco Bongo to be sure you get a good seat to view the show!
*Front row seats are available (yet limited) for the elevated price point, and can be added to your Gold Member ticket if you choose to do so.
Keep in mind that spaces fill up very fast due to limited seating and high demand for these VIP tickets, so we suggest reserving your tickets well in advance
Book Today on Viator From $165.00
VIP Nightclub Tour in Playa del Carmen
Visit three of the hottest bars and nightclubs in Playa del Carmen on this tour! You’ll be guided through the ultimate night-time scene in Playa del Carmen, from fun beachside bars to trendy dance nightclubs. Enjoy easy entry past the velvet rope, unlimited drinks and dancing all night on this exciting beachside city tour!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $99.99
Local Culture Exploration
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting markets, art galleries, and learning about traditional Mexican customs and art.
Tour Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret with Guide, Lunch & Beverages
Leap into four different cenotes (flooded sinkholes) amid a jungle oasis in the Yucatan – all in one day! Rappel and zipline over rock walls into the crystalline springs, and explore the caverns by kayak, snorkel and inner tube. Enjoy delicious snacks plus a gourmet picnic lunch amid splendid natural surroundings and hear about ancient Mayan legends of mythical guardians that protect these sacred waters. Receive personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour, limited to 19 people.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $142.99
Private Tour The Best Cenotes in Tulum Riviera Maya
This tour is one of the ways to enjoy the Riviera Maya in the best way, visiting 3 cenotes in one day, the adventure begins at your hotel or place of lodging, we will drive to the first cenote, it will be the great cenote, a cenote open for swimming and take some photos we will be in the place for an hour, followed by this place we will drive to a beautiful cavern located in the dos ojos park is the cenote taak-bi-ha a magical place to connect with nature, then we will visit the cenote xunan ha a Cenote open sky incredible for a refreshing swim.
It is an activity that you cannot miss on your vacation to the Riviera Maya.
Book Today on Viator From $199.00
Beach and Water Activities
Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, and other water sports at the beautiful beaches of Playa del Carmen.
Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel. Lunch & Open Bar Onboard and Visit to Isla Mujeres
Join us for the Luxury Sailing Adventure to Isla Mujeres onboard a state of the art sailing catamaran. You'll explore some of the most beautiful locations along Cancun’s stunning Caribbean coastline where you will go snorkeling in its warm crystalline waters. Taste a delicious gourmet lunch onboard before visiting the charming island of Isla Mujeres. Explore the island at your leisure to stroll around, taste the local food, go shopping, or recline on the smooth, sandy shores. Back on the catamaran relax in the tropical sun and enjoy the open bar as you sail across the blue Caribbean waters under the power of the wind.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $139.00
Isla Mujeres catamaran tour with open bar & optional buffet lunch
Set sail onto the Caribbean Sea toward Isla Mujeres on this tour where you can snorkel in the turquoise waters and access a beach club.
Relax at the beach with a buffet lunch and open bar if you choose the option or have free time at Isla Mujeres to explore and relax in Playa Norte, one of the top 10 beaches of the world.
Book Today on Viator From $50.00
Xplor Park All-Inclusive Admission - With Lunch and Drinks
Xplor is a unique underground world, located in the heart of the Riviera Maya that invites you to explore and rediscover your emotions and senses in nature. It is an impressive site ideal for a day surrounded by adventure and fun. Your all-inclusive ticket gives you access to the park and its four adventure activities in a total of 7 circuits. These are ziplines, amphibious vehicles, underground rafts and stalactite rivers. On top of this, you'll also get all the services necessary to enjoy a full day of unlimited thrills and comfort.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $146.66
Beach Escape: Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling.
Board our comfortable boats on an incredible voyage to the Caribbean island of Contoy and Isla Mujeres. Your first stop is a guided reef snorkel tour where brightly colored coral and tropical fish are plentiful. Next stop is the protected nature reserve of Contoy Island which boasts an incredible population of bird species, and clear shallow water perfect for snorkeling, swimming and just relaxing Caribbean-style. After a delicious lunch on the beach you will have some free time before we leave for Isla Mujeres. You can enjoy 1 hour of free time on this typical Caribbean island to see the colorful streets and beautiful beaches, to buy a delicious ice-cream or souvenir.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $169.00
Eco-Parks Visits
Visit eco-parks like Xcaret, Xel-Ha, and Xplor to enjoy nature, water activities, zip-lining, and cultural shows.
Priority Access: Xcaret Day Trip+ Night Show+ Transportation *Official Product*
*** This is an offical product of Grupo Xcaret ***
Spend a day in paradise at Xcaret, an eco-archaeological park located in the Riviera Maya. Discover an underground maze of rivers where Mayans once prepared for ceremonial rites, frolic in a lagoon, and snorkel in clear Caribbean waters. Keep your eyes peeled for birds, butterflies and monkeys as you wander the lush forested grounds and visit archaeological sites. When the sun goes down, settle in for a spectacular show of lights, music and dance highlighting Mayan history and culture. Convenient pickup and drop-off from most Cancun hotels are included.
Book Today on Viator From $153.99
Xplor Fuego Nighttime Adventure + Transport *Official Product*
After the sun goes down you can experience the unique nightime adventure in the All-Inclusive park — Xplor Fuego —. When the stars come out, the jungle comes alive with the nighttime adventures that highlight the Riviera Maya natural beauty.
You’ll get your adrenaline shot while you are rafting, swimming in a red-lit underground river, driving an ATV, falling in the highest and longest zip-lines in Riviera Maya and also you can swim through underground caves. It’s an all-encompassing outdoor adventure that is the perfect way to enjoy in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or The Riviera Maya.
In this attraction the transportation is included. Enjoy the delicious all you can eat buffet which is also included too.
Book Today on Viator From $153.99
Priority Access: Xplor Adventure Park with lunch & transportation
Indulge your love for adventure at Xplor Adventure Park, located less than an hour from Cancun. Soar through the treetops on the highest ziplines in the Riviera Maya and drive an amphibious vehicle over all kinds of terrain. Swim in underground rivers, or paddle a raft through caverns adorned with stalagmites and stalactites. Then dig into an all-you-can eat buffet lunch offering delicious and healthy food. With round-trip hotel transport, entrance fees and lunch included, this all-inclusive tour is perfect for families.
Important: Minimum age is 5 years old.
Book Today on Viator From $175.99
Xcaret Park Entry Ticket with Night Show included *Official Product*
Enjoy access to beaches, bays and natural pools with complimentary lounge chairs, hammocks, lifejackets and inner tubes.
Swim or snorkel in the pristine waters of Xcaret’s underground rivers and stroll through the Tropical Jungle Trail.
Marvel at the views from the Rotating Scenic Tower, visit the House of Whispers and see the Living Museum of Orchids.
At the end of the day, dazzle your senses with a musical spectacle of light and color that takes you on a journey through the history of Mexico since pre-Columbian times.
For sure there will be something to excite you because this park is for all ages.
The Full Day Admission ticket includes the access to more than 50 spectacular activities.
The Plus Admission ticket includes the access to more than 50 spectacular activities plus a buffet lunch, one beer and unlimited soft drinks.
Book Today on Viator From $102.85