Are you ready to visit another paradise on the Caribbean coast? In today's article, we are going to travel to the popular tourist city of Playa del Carmen, which has become one of the most popular resorts in Mexico. Find out more about the best-kept secrets and unique attractions of this wonderful city

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Playa del Carmen is a real paradise for fans of beach vacations and diving. The city, located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, is situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya resort area on the Caribbean coast. Tourists here can enjoy a luxurious vacation and a wide range of entertainment and attractions.

Visitors can go on excursions to the ruins of the Mayan civilization, explore picturesque botanical gardens, and take a walk in the rainforests of the national parks. Of particular note is the Rio Secreto karst cave, where an underground river flows along the bottom. Nightlife lovers will find many clubs, bars, cafes and restaurants.

According to statistics, the majority of tourists vacation in the Mexican resort of Playa del Carmen from Canada, the USA, Argentina and Spain.

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What is Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the west coast of Mexico, which was once a quiet fishing village. Today, it is a lively resort that attracts travelers from all over the world thanks to its unique atmosphere, picturesque beaches, and plenty of entertainment. Walking around the city, you will inevitably find yourself on the main street - La Quinta Avenida, where the atmosphere of celebration constantly reigns. Here you will find numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. Do not miss the opportunity to try authentic Mexican cuisine and enjoy the local tequila.

The nature around Playa del Carmen is spectacular, and the city itself holds a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. The resort is an ideal destination for both beach lovers and those interested in the natural and historical attractions of Mexico.

Thanks to its favorable location, Playa del Carmen provides easy access to such famous places as Cozumel Island, Cancun city and the Tulum archaeological zone. The resort's name translates to “Carmen's Beach” and it is considered one of the most prestigious vacation destinations in the state of Quintana Roo, located on the Yucatan Peninsula.

In ancient times, there was a Mayan settlement on the site of the modern resort called Shaman Ha, which means “northern waters”. The first Europeans arrived here in the mid-nineteenth century and turned it into a small fishing port. For a long time, Playa del Carmen remained a little-known town until the development of tourism in the 1970s changed its appearance. Thanks to the construction of hotels and restaurant infrastructure, as well as the popularity of the Caribbean coast, the resort has become one of the most important tourist centers of the Riviera Maya.

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Weather in Playa del Carmen

Traveling to Playa del Carmen is a great choice for those who want to enjoy the warm and sunny climate. The local weather creates ideal conditions for a vacation that will be remembered for a long time.

From the moment you arrive, you will feel a pleasant warmth surrounding you. The temperature here is mostly comfortable: in summer it varies between 25°C and 32°C, and in winter it remains at 18°C - 23°C. Although it can be hot and humid during the summer months, especially in July and August, this is offset by occasional clouds that make the climate a little milder. Winters are characterized by sunny and dry days.

The humidity in Playa del Carmen peaks in summer, often reaching around 80%, but this does not prevent you from enjoying the beautiful beaches and swimming in the warm Caribbean Sea.

The rainy season lasts from May to November, known as the “temporada de lluvias”. During this period, especially in August and September, you can expect the highest rainfall. However, the rains are usually short-lived and the sun quickly returns, making the weather pleasant again.

Beaches in Playa del Carmen

Tourists come to Mexico not only to see the sights, but also to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea and relax on the sunny beaches. The beaches of Playa del Carmen are one of the main treasures of the coast. The clear turquoise water combined with white sand creates a unique atmosphere that fascinates everyone. Besides, it is much calmer here than on the popular beaches of Cancun, which makes this place attractive for those looking for a relaxing vacation.

Playa del Carmen also attracts diving enthusiasts due to its crystal clear waters, picturesque coral reefs and diverse marine life. Sport fishing and parasailing are popular activities at this resort.

One of the most favorite places for families is Chunzubul Beach, where both adults and children can enjoy snorkeling. In addition, among the best and most famous beaches in Mexico are El Faro, Shangri-la and Alejari. Their unspoiled nature creates ideal conditions for a romantic vacation, attracting honeymooners and lovers.

All the beaches of Playa del Carmen are well equipped, and there are many bars and cafes on the coast where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks.

Attractions in Playa del Carmen that every tourist should visit

Due to its favorable location in the heart of the Mexican Riviera, Playa del Carmen offers a wide variety of interesting excursions. We offer to learn more about them.

Tulum

If you plan to explore the sights of Playa del Carmen, you should start with Tulum. This is the only Mayan city located right on the Caribbean coast. Tulum captivates with its unique combination of stunning sea beauty and the mysterious atmosphere of ancient civilization. 

There are 13 architectural structures preserved here, including temples with bas-reliefs and frescoes, as well as a fortress wall, which adds a special historical flavor to the place. This place is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in culture and history.

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is the largest archaeological site on the Yucatan Peninsula and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place preserves the rich history of the ancient Mayan civilization and is under the protection of this organization. 

By visiting Chichen Itza, you can see the remains of the majestic city, including the famous Kukulkan pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, sacrificial platforms, as well as the largest ball field found in Mesoamerica. Other attractions, such as the Convent of the Women, the Sacred Cenote, the Caracol Observatory, and the Thousand Columns group, will reveal unique aspects of Mayan culture and religion. 

Cenotes

Cenotes are freshwater bodies of water located throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. They are known for their crystal clear water, which often allows you to see to a depth of 70 meters. Cenotes come in different types: some are open, others are hidden underground and surrounded by caves. They also vary in size - from small ones with a diameter of a few meters to large bodies of water that can be compared to lakes.

Many of these unique places are available for swimming and diving. However, to dive in the cenotes, you need a PADI certificate and at least five dives. If you do not have such a certificate, you can always enjoy snorkeling.

In the vicinity of Playa del Carmen, about 30-50 minutes away, there are several cenotes worth visiting. They offer an unforgettable experience of diving into clear water amidst picturesque natural landscapes that will not leave anyone indifferent.

Shkaret

The Shkaret is one of the most popular eco-parks in the Riviera Maya, located just 10 kilometers from Playa del Carmen. This unique complex offers visitors to plunge into the amazing world of Mexican nature and Mayan cultural heritage. A special feature of the park is an underground river that flows through caves and underground canals. Tourists have the opportunity to make an unforgettable swim through these waters, enjoying the views of fossilized corals and amazing underground landscapes.

Shkaret is also famous for its rich show program. The most popular among visitors is the evening show, which reveals the history and culture of Mexico to the country's guests. About 300 artists take part in this grand performance, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

In addition, the park includes numerous cultural and historical sites, such as Mayan archaeological sites, the Mexican Cemetery, the House of Whispers, the Stained Glass Plaza, the Church of St. Francis, and the Blue Agave Plantation. 

Hidden Worlds Park

The name of this fascinating amusement park translates to “Hidden Worlds”. Located 25 kilometers from Playa del Carmen, the park offers visitors a lot of active entertainment among the picturesque nature. Here you can take part in jungle tours, which include snorkeling in cenotes, rock climbing, zip-lining, skycycling, as well as diving and interacting with dolphins. 

The nature of Hidden Worlds impresses with its diversity and beauty. This unique park has become a location for filming many popular science programs, including for the BBC and National Geographic, which only confirms its special appeal to tourists.

5th Avenue

La Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue, is the central pedestrian street of Playa del Carmen, where most tourists spend their evenings. It is known for its active nightlife and shopping opportunities, making it one of the most popular places to stay. If you are looking for a place for evening dancing and cocktails, this street will be the perfect choice. There are numerous clubs and bars on both sides of the avenue, where loud music creates a party atmosphere even outdoors. Among the most popular clubs here are Mandala and Shots Factors, which attract guests with their energetic atmosphere.

Local mescaleria are especially interesting to visit, where you can taste the traditional Mexican drink mezcal, made from fermented blue agave juice. 

During the day, Fifth Avenue turns into a lively shopping area where you can find everything from clothes and shoes to various souvenirs. Among the popular purchases are handmade hammocks and a variety of dishes that will become great mementos of your trip.

Where should tourists stay in Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular resorts in Mexico. Here you can find a wide range of hotels and hostels to suit different budgets and preferences:

Luxury hotels:

1. Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort. Located directly on the beach, this hotel offers magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea, stylish rooms and first-class service. It has several restaurants, a spa and swimming pools, making it the perfect place for those looking for a luxurious vacation;

2. Mahekal Beach Resort. Surrounded by tropical gardens, this hotel offers a unique experience of living in a bungalow by the sea. Guests can enjoy private beaches, spa treatments and Mexican cuisine at local restaurants;

3. Thompson Playa del Carmen. Located in the heart of the resort, Thompson offers stylish rooms with modern design, as well as a rooftop terrace with a pool and bar. It is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy the nightlife of Playa del Carmen.

Budget hotels and hostels:

1. Selina Playa del Carmen. This popular hostel offers budget accommodation options, including shared rooms and private rooms. Selina is also known for its events such as yoga, movie screenings and parties, making it a great choice for young travelers;

2. We Playa Hostel. Ideal for those looking for an active social experience, We Playa Hostel offers comfortable rooms and a variety of activities, including excursions, group dinners and beach games. The hostel also has a convenient location close to central restaurants and shops;

3. The Yak Hostel. This hostel offers cozy rooms and a lively atmosphere for travelers. Guests can use the shared kitchen, relax in the outdoor area and take part in various activities organized for residents.

We remind you! Do you think that the Netherlands and a tropical paradise climate are incompatible? We are in a hurry to surprise you, because the Dutch ABC overseas islands are waiting for tourists all year round. Read more about the tropical Antilles in the Caribbean.

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