Playa del Carmen is a cosmopolitan city in the heart of the Riviera Maya. A global mix of fun-loving travellers and vacationers gather year round to relax on white sandy beaches, check out the happening night-life and soak up the international atmosphere. ‘Playa’, its local name, boasts stylish beach clubs, great vacation accommodations, excellent amenities and the ferry to Cozumel Island.
A hip destination in the Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen is the hub of the Riviera Maya and the most popular destination for visitors. Its central location and quick access to taxis and bus terminals, makes discovery along the coast easy and fun. Located 45 minutes from the Tulum ruins to the south and Cancun to the north, the trip to this beach paradise and shopping haven is a great way to go. Its central location makes it convenient to all the sights and attractions on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.
Playa del Carmen— fun on and off the beach
Playa del Carmen is a happening town which has exploded over the last few years. The number and quality of businesses has increased to keep pace with its growing popularity. It is safe to say that Playa is the most well serviced town on the Riviera Maya. Enjoy world-class restaurants serving local and international cuisine, hole-in-the-wall taquerias and countless stores selling everything from handicrafts to designer labels. This combination makes Playa del Carmen desirable to both the budget and high-end traveler. Water sports are a popular way to pass the time and enjoy the sea in Playa del Carmen. Kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, fishing, para-sailing and more can be easily commissioned with local professionals and water sports facilities. Playa del Carmen’s ‘La Quinta’ (5th Avenue), the main pedestrian promenade, is THE place to see and be seen in the tourist zone. Located one block off the beach, this pedestrian walkway runs 3 kms, beginning at the ‘Zocalo’ (main square) in the center of town and ending (for now) at 44th street.
Cool accommodations for rent in a hot location in the Riviera Maya
People flock to Playa del Carmen from all over the globe to enjoy the tropical Bohemian atmosphere in a luxurious setting. A growing number of high quality boutique hotels and condominiums have popped up in Playa del Carmen to accommodate the more sophisticated traveler. Many of these top rated hotels have been built within the last few years and offer high end luxury accommodation, either on or just off the beach. Budget travelers can find their place in small hotels that provide friendly, courteous service.
Playacar – a step from Playa del Carmen that offers a different rent vacation experience
To the south of Playa del Carmen is the gated community of Playacar, designed to create a sophisticated, peaceful environment in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Here you will find a number of vacation homes in a residential atmosphere. The community is split into two areas, Playacar Phase 1, where most houses have a view of the Caribbean or a short walk to the beach. Large all-inclusive resorts are found in Playacar Phase 1 along the beaches of the Riviera Maya. Playacar Phase 2 is highly residential and a longer walk to the beach.
When Playacar was developed, urban planners retained several small Mayan archaeological sites found in the area. The Xaman-Ha Aviary, which has exotic Toucans, Scarlet Macaws, Green Parrots and Pink Flamingos, is an open-air sanctuary for tropical birds. Sporting attractions include an 18 hole golf course, tennis courts and water sports. There is also shopping at Paseo del Carmen at the entrance to Playacar and Plaza Playacar located just 2 kms from Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue.