25 Best Things to Do in Playa del Carmen According to a Local
Looking for the best things to do in Playa del Carmen Mexico? Look no further!
As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen, I’ve been able to experience all the fun activities that this beautiful beach town has to offer.
From pristine beaches, ancient ruins, thrilling adventures, and delicious food, Playa del Carmen has something for everyone.
In this guide, I’ll share with you my top 25 favorite things to do in Playa del Carmen–all from a local’s perspective.
So whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or just want to immerse yourself in the local culture, I’ve got you covered!
Ready to discover the perfect Playa del Carmen activities for your trip? Let’s get started!
Best Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
These are the best activities Playa del Carmen has to offer:
1. Stroll Down the Lively 5th Avenue
Starting at the top of the list of best things to do around Playa del Carmen has to be taking a stroll down the lively 5th Avenue, also known as “La Quinta Avenida” in Spanish.
This vibrant pedestrian-only street is pretty much the place to be in Playa del Carmen, lined with restaurants, bars, shops, and street vendors.
Here you’ll find everything from souvenirs and local handicrafts to designer boutiques and international brands.
It’s a great spot for people watching, Playa del Carmen souvenir shopping, admiring street performers, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Playa del Carmen.
I’d recommend starting at Parque Fundadores at the start of 5th Avenue and then working your way down from there. It’s a busy place but lots of fun!
Travelista Tip: Whenever you’re walking in busy tourist areas like 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen, I highly recommend wearing a belt bag or crossbody purse to prevent pickpocketing.
2. Hit the Beaches
It’s no secret that Playa del Carmen is home to some of the best beaches in Mexico.
With crystal clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and swaying palm trees, the beaches in Playa del Carmen are a true paradise.
If you want to stay in downtown Playa del Carmen, I’d recommend hitting up one of the Playa del Carmen beach clubs like Mamitas Beach Club or Martina Beach Club, where you can rent lounge chairs and have food and beverage service right in the sand.
And if you’re looking for a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, head to Playa Xpu-Ha (my personal favorite) or Punta Maroma, just outside of Playa del Carmen.
Travelista Tip: Don’t forget to pack plenty of biodegradable sunscreen as regular sunscreen is often prohibited when swimming in the ocean as it can contain harmful chemicals to the marine life.
3. Visit a Freshwater Cenote
A cenote is a natural sinkhole filled with crystal clear freshwater, and the Yucatan peninsula (where Playa del Carmen is located) is famous for its cenotes.
There are many different cenotes near Playa del Carmen that you can visit, and each one offers a unique experience.
Visiting a cenote is probably one of the most unique things to do in Playa del Carmen and some of the most popular ones include Cenote Eden, Cenote Azul, and Cenote Cristalino.
While visiting, you can typically can swim, snorkel, scuba dive or just admire the cenotes’ stunning beauty. Some even offer fun adventure activities like cliff jumping and overwater zip lines.
Travelista Tip: If you don’t have a car, cenotes can be a bit more difficult to get to so I would recommend booking one of these Playa del Carmen cenote tours for a hassle-free experience with transportation included.
4. Explore Ancient Mayan Ruins
One of the best things to see in Playa del Carmen is its incredible ancient Mayan ruins.
The most popular ruins near Playa del Carmen are Chichen Itza, the Tulum Ruins, and Cobá, but there are also lesser-known sites like Muyil and Ek Balam that offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Each ruin has its own fascinating history and stunning architecture, making it a Playa del Carmen must do activity for any history buff or culture lover.
And even if you’re not a history buff, these ruins are still interesting to visit and worth the trip.
Travelista Tip: Beat the crowds by visiting the ruins early in the morning before the large tour groups arrive. And don’t forget to bring plenty of water and biodegradable sunscreen–it can get extremely hot!
5. See the Papantla Flyers at Parque Fundadores
If you happen to be strolling down 5th Avenue and hear the sound of drums and chanting, make sure to stop by Parque Fundadores to catch a glimpse of the Papantla Flyers.
Parque Fundadores is a small beachfront square right at the start of 5th Avenue , and the Papantla Flyers perform at the square multiple times per day.
This traditional ceremony features a small group of men climbing a tall pole and then slowly descending while attached only by ropes tied to their feet.
It’s a bit nerve-wracking to watch but really fascinating and a must see in Playa del Carmen if you want to experience some authentic Mexican culture.
6. Go on a Local Food Tour
Mexico is famous for cuisine, and while Playa del Carmen isn’t exactly one of the country’s food capitals, it’s still a great place to try some authentic Mexican food.
If you want to experience the best food in Playa del Carmen, I’d highly recommend booking one of these Playa del Carmen food tours.
These tours typically take you to some of the best hidden gems and street food stalls that only the locals know about.
You’ll be able to try a variety of local dishes like tacos al pastor, cochinita pibil, and fresh seafood, all led by a local food expert.
7. Try Some Traditional Street Food
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try some traditional Mexican street food on your own, there are plenty of options in Playa del Carmen.
Some popular Playa del Carmen street food dishes include elotes (grilled corn on the cob), churros, and marquesitas (rolled wafers filled with sweet toppings).
You can find many street food vendors along 5th Avenue, near the beach, and in local markets near the Palacio Municipal.
You can also book a Playa del Carmen street food crawl tour for a guided experience that will take you to the best street food spots in town.
8. Visit an Xcaret Adventure Park
For a full day of adventure and fun, I highly recommend visiting one of the Xcaret adventure parks, which are some of the top things to do in Playa del Carmen.
These parks are a major step above your average theme park and offer a variety of activities like ziplining, snorkeling, underground rivers, and cultural performances.
There’s currently 8 different parks to choose from and they each have their own admission ticket.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Xcaret parks:
- Xcaret: The original park with a focus on the culture and history of Mexico.
- Xel-Ha: A natural aquatic park with snorkeling, overwater ziplines, and water slides.
- Xplor: An adrenaline-pumping park with ziplines, amphibious vehicles, and underground rivers.
- Xplor Fuego: A nighttime version of Xplor with fire-illuminated experiences.
- Xenses: An interactive park that plays with your senses and perception.
- Xoximilco: A Mexican fiesta on a colorful trajinera boat.
- Xavage: The newest and most extreme park with activities like whitewater rafting and monster trucks.
- Xibalba (Coming soon): Cenotes, caves, and other natural wonders in a mystical setting.
Travelista Tip: Visit my Xcaret Parks Resource Hub for full park reviews, comparison guides, and current coupon codes.
9. Go Snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea
No trip to Playa del Carmen is complete without a day of snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Playa del Carmen is part of the famous Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world.
This means that there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and diving with colorful fish, sea turtles, sting rays, and other marine life.
There are many different Playa del Carmen snorkeling tours to choose from, including group tours on large catamarans to private boat tours that will take you to more secluded spots.
Some popular snorkeling excursions near Playa del Carmen include El Cielo on Cozumel, the Puerto Morelos National Marine Park, and snorkeling with sea turtles in Akumal Bay.
10. Go Scuba Diving
For certified divers, Playa del Carmen is one of the world’s top scuba diving destinations.
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is home to a diverse range of marine life, including sea turtles, sting rays, manta rays, bull sharks, and more.
Playa del Carmen also offers the unique opportunity to scuba dive in cenotes, where you can explore underwater cave systems with stalactites and stalagmites.
If you’re not certified, there are plenty of opportunities to get certified while in Playa del Carmen or take an introductory scuba diving course.
For both beginner and experienced divers, I’d recommend diving with Jaguar Divers. I got certified with Liz and had a great experience!
11. Trek Through Underwater Caves at Rio Secreto
Rio Secreto (Secret River) is another one of the best Playa del Carmen tourist attractions for adventure seekers.
It’s an underground river system that you can explore by walking and swimming through a series of caves and tunnels.
This unique experience takes you through stunning natural formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear pools.
You can also add on some extra activities like biking, rappelling, and a dry walk through the caves for a different perspective.
The tour is guided by knowledgeable local guides who will share interesting facts about the geology and history of the caves.
Plus, what’s great is that it’s not overly commercialized so it feels more authentic and you can really appreciate the natural wonders of the caves.
12. Go Ziplining Through the Jungle
If you’re looking for some adrenaline-pumping activities, ziplining through the jungle is a must-do in Playa del Carmen.
You can find various Playa del Carmen zipline tours that will take you soaring over the lush green jungles and cenotes.
Some zipline courses even include rappelling, ATVs, and cenote swims for an even more thrilling experience.
The best place to go ziplining in Playa del Carmen is at Xplor Adventure Park, which has the tallest ziplines in Riviera Maya.
Or Selvatica offers a less commercialized and more off-the-beaten-path zipline experience in the jungle.
13. Ride ATVs in the Jungle
Another fun way to explore the jungles of Playa del Carmen is by riding ATVs, where you can speed through the dirt paths and splash through mud puddles.
You can find various Playa del Carmen ATV tours that will take you through the jungle trails and cenotes, allowing you to experience the natural beauty of Riviera Maya up close.
Adventure parks like Xplor and Xavage also offer ATV rides on amphibious vehicles and monster trucks as part of their activities.
Just be sure to wear appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes, as it can get muddy and dusty while riding through the jungle.
14. Take a Catamaran Cruise
If you’re someone that really loves being on the water, definitely consider taking a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen.
You can choose from daytime or sunset cruises that will take you along the coast of Riviera Maya, providing stunning views of the turquoise waters.
Many catamaran tours in Playa del Carmen also offer opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and even beach stops for some fun in the sun.
Plus, a lot of them include an open bar and delicious lunch or snack options. It’s a great way to relax on the water and soak in the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean.
15. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding
For a more laid-back water activity, try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), which is one of the most fun things to do in Playa del Carmen and a great workout too!
The best place for paddleboarding in Playa del Carmen is at Aloha Paddle Club, where you can rent boards and take lessons from experienced instructors.
They’re located right on the beach and offer paddleboard rentals, as well as daily group sessions for sunrise and early morning paddling.
And even if the weather conditions are less than ideal, you can book a tour with Aloha Paddle Club to go paddleboarding in a nearby cenote or lagoon.
16. Relax at a Rooftop Pool
After all the adventurous activities in Playa del Carmen Mexico, sometimes you just need to relax and take in some beautiful views.
That’s where rooftop pools come in! Many hotels in Playa del Carmen have stunning rooftop pools that offer panoramic views of the city, ocean, and even Cozumel.
Some popular rooftop pools in Playa del Carmen include the Thompson Playa del Carmen, the Reef 28, and The Fives Downtown Hotel & Residences.
You can enjoy a refreshing cocktail and some snacks while taking a dip in the pool and enjoy the stunning views.
It’s one of the best activities in Playa del Carmen when the seaweed gets bad and you want to avoid the beach.
17. Learn How to Salsa Dance
When in Mexico, it’s a must to learn how to salsa dance!
Playa del Carmen has many options for dance classes and clubs where you can learn the basics or improve your moves.
Some of the best places for salsa dancing in Playa del Carmen include La Bodeguita del Medio and Zenzi Beach Bar.
Zenzi is one of the best bars in Playa del Carmen and offers salsa dancing lessons on Sunday nights at 8PM.
It’s a fun and cultural activity to add to your Playa del Carmen itinerary, and you’ll definitely impress your friends back home with your new salsa dancing skills!
18. Visit Hidden Beaches
While Playa del Carmen has its famous beaches like Mamitas Beach, there are also many hidden gems to discover.
If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do near Playa del Carmen, head to the less-crowded beaches in Riviera Maya like Xpu-Ha Beach or Playa Xcacel.
These beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming, and snorkeling in quieter waters. Xpu-Ha is loved by locals with some great beach clubs and amenities while Playa Xcacel is a protected nature sanctuary.
It’s a great way to escape the crowded beaches of Playa del Carmen and avoid obnoxious beach vendors.
19. Get a Massage at a Local Spa
After all the activities and exploring in Playa del Carmen, treat yourself to a relaxing massage at one of the local spas.
You can find many affordable yet luxurious spas for Playa del Carmen massages and treatments with Mayan techniques and natural products.
My favorite spa in Playa del Carmen is the spa at the Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen, which offers a unique Cenote spa experience, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxing pools.
For more budget-friendly options, check out Quinto Elemento or Bric Spa. These spas are going to be way more affordable than spas in the US!
20. Attend a Traditional Temazcal Ceremony
For a unique and cultural experience in Playa del Carmen, don’t miss out on a traditional Temazcal ceremony.
A Temazcal is a type of sweat lodge used in ancient Mesoamerican cultures for spiritual and physical cleansing.
During the ceremony, you will enter a small dome-shaped structure and participate in rituals led by a shaman while hot stones are placed in the center.
It’s a powerful and healing experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and connected to the Mayan culture.
21. Take a Day Trip to Cozumel Island
Cozumel Island is just a short ferry ride away from Playa del Carmen and offers a great day trip option for those wanting to explore beyond the mainland.
On a Cozumel day trip from Playa del Carmen, you can take a guided tour or rent a car or jeep to explore the island’s stunning beaches, coral reefs, and charming town.
Some must-visit spots in Cozumel include downtown San Miguel de Cozumel, Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, Playa Palancar, and El Cielo.
What I love about Cozumel is that it’s much more laid-back and quieter than Playa del Carmen and the ocean views are incredible!
22. Cool Off at a Water Park
When you’ve had enough of the beach, head to one of these water parks in Playa del Carmen for a fun and refreshing day.
Xel-Há Park is a natural water park with unlimited snorkeling, overwater ziplines, a lazy river, and spiral water slides.
Jungala is a newer water park located at Vidanta Resorts with exhilarating water slides, a wave pool, and an interactive children’s area.
These water parks are some of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen for families or anyone looking for an adrenaline-filled day.
23. Charter a Private Yacht
For a luxurious and unforgettable experience in Playa del Carmen, chartering a private yacht is a must.
Playa del Carmen yacht rentals are available for different durations and destinations, from short trips around the coast to full-day excursions to nearby islands like Isla Mujeres or Cozumel.
Many yacht charters depart from Puerto Aventuras and include food, an open bar, and water activities such as snorkeling or paddleboarding.
Many also come with your own crew, captain, and private chef! Plus, you can customize everything from the menu to the itinerary to the music onboard.
Yacht charters are definitely worth the splurge and are perfect for families, group celebrations, or even a romantic date night.
I chartered a boat when my parents came to visit me and it was the highlight of their trip and totally unforgettable!
24. Book a Day Pass at an All-Inclusive Resort
You don’t have to stay at an all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen to experience its luxury and amenities.
Many resorts offer day passes for non-guests, allowing you to enjoy their pools, restaurants, beach access, and other facilities for a set price.
This is a great option if you’re staying in an Airbnb, vacation rental, or boutique hotel in Playa del Carmen and want to splurge for a day without committing to an all-inclusive stay.
Some of the best Playa del Carmen day passes are at Barcelo Resorts, Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, and Riu Palace Mexico.
Once you arrive, you’ll be treated like a guest and get to enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and resort amenities.
25. Experience the Nightlife at Coco Bongo
If you’re looking for things to do in Playa del Carmen at night, consider going to Coco Bongo.
This is one of the most iconic and popular nightclubs in Playa del Carmen, known for its energetic performances and wild party atmosphere.
The club features live music, acrobatic shows, confetti blasts, and open bar-all in one night! Plus, you’ll get to enjoy pop culture-inspired performances from your favorite movies and shows.
It’s definitely a must do in Playa del Carmen for anyone looking to dance the night away and experience a high-energy party scene in Mexico.
Playa del Carmen Attractions: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to Playa del Carmen excursions:
Playa del Carmen is best known for its vibrant Fifth Avenue packed with shops, restaurants, and nightlife, alongside its stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and freshwater cenotes.
I recommend booking Playa del Carmen tours and activities through Viator or GetYourGuide. These websites offer flexible cancellation policies and allow you to read reviews and compare prices beforehand.
When considering Playa del Carmen vs Cancun, Playa del Carmen tends to offer a more intimate, laid-back vibe with its walkable town center and unique activities, compared to Cancun’s bustling, party-centric atmosphere.
Yes, the beaches in Playa del Carmen are typically very swimmable with calm waters and soft sand. However, weather conditions and occasional seaweed in Playa del Carmen may affect swimming conditions.
To really soak up the vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and a variety of activities, I’d say spending at least 5 to 7 days in Playa del Carmen gives you just the right amount of time to explore and relax without feeling rushed.
The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is between December and April when the weather is less humid, and there’s little rain. But with warm weather all year round, there isn’t really a bad time to visit Playa del Carmen.
Conclusion: What to Do in Playa del Carmen Mexico
I hope this guide has given you some ideas for what to see in Playa del Carmen on your next trip!
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beach getaway or an adventurous excursion, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful beach town.
Definitely don’t miss out on visiting 5th Avenue, exploring the incredible cenotes, and relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
And if you’re looking for more adventure, consider visiting one of the Xcaret adventure parks, going ziplining, or riding ATVs in the jungle.
No matter which of these attractions in Playa del Carmen you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time exploring this vibrant town in Mexico!
🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?
These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:
🏨 Hotels: I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com. If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.
🚗 Rental Cars: I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!
🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list! Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most snorkeling tours, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
