Playa del Carmen boasts countless activities, making it tough to sift through all the options. Having spent three months living there, I’ve compiled a list of the top 21 things to do to ensure you make the most of your trip to this stunning spot on Mexico’s Mayan Riviera.
Getting to Playa del Carmen from Cancun Airport offers several choices: bus, taxi, car rental, shuttle, or pre-booked private transportation. For the fastest and most comfortable experience, I recommend private transportation or a shared shuttle for about $25. Avoid wasting precious vacation time waiting for buses or overpaying for cabs. Cancun Airport Transportation provides various vehicle options for solo travelers, couples, and groups. Alternatively, eTransfers offer rides ranging from basic to luxury.
Here are my top picks for fun activities in Playa del Carmen!
Swim in a Cenote
The best swim spots aren’t in the ocean but in cenotes, which are natural underground swimming holes formed when limestone collapses, exposing underground rivers and springs. In the Yucatan peninsula, cenotes abound, making them a must-visit. My personal favorite is Cenote Azul, accessible via collectivos headed to Tulum, car rental, or as part of a tour. For certified divers, many cenotes also offer diving opportunities.
Chichen Itza
A visit to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a must. This significant archaeological site deep in the jungle is about a two-hour drive from Playa del Carmen, which you can do yourself or through a tour. Pro tip: Go early to beat the crowds and the heat.
La Perla Restaurant
While tourist zones are filled with celebrity chef chain restaurants, La Perla stands out on La Quinta Avenida for its authentic and delicious Mayan cuisine and live music. Try traditional dishes like tlayuda or grasshopper-based recipes for a true Mexican culinary experience.
Lido’s Beach Club
For a no-fee, affordable beach experience, visit Lido’s beach club. Here, you only pay for what you order, and the relaxed atmosphere is perfect for lounging on comfy green loungers or swings at the bar. Note: You must pay 500 pesos ($23) per chair with an umbrella, but this is deducted from your food and drink orders.
Rooftop Pools
One of the most relaxing activities in Playa is enjoying a rooftop pool. The Be Playa hotel pool is a favorite, with a 200 pesos ($9.60) minimum spend per person. It’s less crowded compared to others and offers excellent drinks and a cool way to beat the heat.
El Fogon
El Fogon is the most popular restaurant in Playa del Carmen, renowned for its Mexican cantina fare. Expect lines starting around 7:30 PM, but the fast-moving wait is worth it for its delicious food.
Xpu Ha Beach
A short ride from Playa del Carmen, Xpu Ha is a secluded beach known for its white sand and clear waters. You’ll need to rent a car or take a collectivo, and there’s a 50 pesos ($2.40) entrance fee, which can be offset by spending at a beach club or just bringing your own towel.
Alux Restaurant
Located off a busy street, Alux restaurant is set in an underground cavern with a mini-cenote, offering both a unique atmosphere and fine dining. Though pricier, it’s worth the visit for cocktails or wine from their cellar.
Frida Kahlo Museum
Located on La Quinta, this museum is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm with a $15 USD entrance fee. It features exhibits on the life of Mexico’s famous artist, although original works are rarely on display.
Elote Street Food
Elote, grilled corn with mayonnaise and cayenne pepper, is a tasty local delicacy. Find it at street vendors, notably around Avenida Juarez and Calle 15, for about a dollar.
Zenzi
For nighttime fun, visit Zenzi for live music and dancing. Sundays are typically salsa nights, and the laid-back beachside ambiance is perfect, even for those with two left feet.
Rio Secreto
Experience the unique adventure of swimming in a cave at Rio Secreto. Located just minutes outside the city, this complex of five caves offers guided tours through stunning underground rivers.
Jet Ski Rentals
Renting a jet ski is a thrilling water activity, costing around $50 per hour. Vendors are located along La Quinta Avenida, or you can book in advance.
La Quinta Avenida
This primary pedestrian street, running parallel to the beach, is lined with shops selling everything from designer bags to unique artwork. Explore beyond the main drag to discover more of Playa del Carmen’s charm.
Paddleboarding
The calm Caribbean waters are ideal for paddleboarding, especially at sunrise or sunset. Rentals and lessons are available from Aloha Paddle Club at Fusion beach bar, starting at $45 USD.
Coco Bongo
For an unforgettable night, Coco Bongo offers spectacular shows with rotating acts for an entry fee of around $80 USD, including drinks. It’s the highlight of Playa’s nightlife.
Marquesita
This crunchy, hand-held crepe dessert is traditionally filled with Nutella and Edam cheese but has other topping options. Look for vendors around Calle 2 and Avenida Juarez.
Punta Esmerelda
Escape the crowds at Punta Esmerelda, a quieter beach with a small cenote. Take a short taxi ride or walk north from central Playa.
Parque Fundadores
Visit Parque Fundadores to see the Portal Maya Statue and enjoy street vendors and public performances.
Swimming with Turtles at Akumal
A short ride south, Akumal is one of the best places to swim with sea turtles. Join a guided tour or take a collectivo and rent your own gear. Turtles can be found close to shore.
Day Trip to Cozumel
Hop on a ferry to Cozumel for world-class diving and snorkeling or rent a car to explore the island. The ferry ride is about 30–45 minutes, costing around 250 pesos.
Volunteer Dog Walking
Give back by volunteering at organizations like Voluntarios Perrunos, which shelters rescue dogs. Shower them with love for a rewarding experience.
Jungle Buggy and Cenote Trip
This short, 3-3.5 hour adventure offers a thrilling drive through the jungle and a swim in a secluded cenote. It’s a great way to explore off-track locations.
Exclusive Cenote Experience
Descend into a magical cenote with guide Guilhem. The tour includes equipment, transportation, food, and drinks.
Foodie Tour
For authentic Mexican cuisine, join a foodie tour stopping at various local eats. This experience is a must-try for food lovers.
Playa del Carmen offers so many activities that you can’t go wrong with any on this list. A quick money-saving tip: Use pesos instead of US dollars to avoid bad exchange rates, and use the savings to enjoy more of what this vibrant destination has to offer.
