Choosing a vacation destination can be daunting, given the vast worldwide options, ranging from exquisite beaches to vibrant cities, historical landmarks, and serene retreats. However, if you’re considering a trip to Mexico, specifically the Riviera Maya, here are seven compelling reasons why Playa Del Carmen is an ideal destination. These factors make Playa Del Carmen a desirable location, and you can take advantage of these features to enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
When vacationing, many people still prefer to relax on the beach. If you stay at a resort outside the city, in the Playacar area or the heart of Playa Del Carmen, you will have access to the beach. There are several beach clubs where you can unwind or bring a towel and relax on the beach. For further information, please refer to our articles on the best beaches in Playa Del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. Most of the accommodation options in the downtown area are just a few blocks away from the beach.
The turquoise waters are inviting, and the waves are not too large, so it’s easier to swim.
Regardless of the season, the weather in the Riviera Maya is always summery. The temperature typically averages around 27°C (80°F) during the day. The ocean is always warm and swimmable, and we bask in abundant sunshine and blue skies. Sometimes, we take it for granted, but compared to places where the skies are often cloudy or smoggy, we genuinely appreciate the clear skies here.
Many people wonder when the best time to visit Playa Del Carmen is. The town is usually busy during Christmas, New Year's, and Easter. The dry season from March to June is a little arid in the forest, but the lush greenery during the rainy season from July to October is more appealing to us. Nonetheless, if you’re a beach lover, the dry season can be an excellent time to enjoy the sunny days at the beach.
Playa Del Carmen was once a tiny fishing village that attracted travellers for its beautiful beaches. While the beach remains a major attraction, the city has shifted towards cosmopolitanism. With an increasing diversity of residents and rapid growth, there has been a surge in luxury amenities and conveniences. Playa Del Carmen’s restaurant scene is developing rapidly; boutique hotels offer visitors rooftop pools and spas, and shopping enthusiasts can find various options on 5th Avenue. So, if you’re not a beach person, don’t miss out on exploring the city’s shopping and dining experiences, and be sure to check out the wide range of hotels available.
Visiting the Mayan ruins is usually at the top of everyone’s itinerary when they come to Playa Del Carmen. Chichen Itza and Tulum ruins are the most popular ones, but other lesser-known ruins like Coba and Ek Balam are also easily accessible from Playa Del Carmen. Additionally, there are some less touristy Mayan ruins that you can explore.
Having one of the world's new wonders nearby is a great reason to travel to Playa Del Carmen and use it as a base for your exploration.
Although most people usually focus on the beach, it’s essential not to overlook its rich colonial history. Several cities date back to the late 1500s and early 1600s which can be visited as day trips or weekend getaways. Three of the best examples of colonial towns in the area are Valladolid, Izamal, and Merida. Visiting these cities will add a new dimension to your vacation and allow you to experience three different cultures in one trip, including modern Playa Del Carmen, colonial towns, and Mayan culture.
Cenotes are pools of fresh water that have been filtered through limestone underground. These beautiful pools form in areas that have eroded over time. Some of them are open, while others are located in caverns. Our guide lists all the cenotes you can visit, some of which are just a short 18-minute ride south of Playa Del Carmen by taxi, car or colectivo. In addition to cenotes, there are other natural areas to explore, such as inlets where you can snorkel, Sian Ka’an Reserve, lagoons, and islands.
The Riviera Maya is named after the people who once ruled this area and built a massive civilization. Today, descendants of the Mayans still live in the area, and you can even hear Mayans spoken in Playa Del Carmen. Although Playa has become a more modern city, there is still a lot of influence from Mayan culture and traditional ways of living.
We like to refer to parts of the Yucatan Peninsula as a living museum where you can see how people have lived for hundreds of years, learning the skills of their elders and living off the land. Some tours will take you to see what a real working town is like and to experience more authentic areas.
Some companies offer tours that combine history, culture, and fun, where you can visit Mayan ruins and be embedded in a Mayan community. For example, there is a tour that offers excitement and the chance to see more than just a resort.
These seven things will give you much to do and see in the area. It makes travel to Playa Del Carmen unique and special in its way.
