Vacation Rentals | Playa del Carmen

Tips | Guide | Things to Do

in Playa del Carmen

Welcome to “Playa del Carmen: Your Ultimate Guide to Paradise.” Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, we’re here to provide you with insider tips and recommendations to make your trip to Playa del Carmen an unforgettable experience.

Things to do

All of the beaches beautiful and are public so you are free to bring your own beach chairs, umbrellas (or these items can be purchased at Walmart or Mega) and towels or blankets to use.  If you are enjoying the day in the sand, you are welcome to bring food and drinks to enjoy.

Mamita’s Beach Club

There are many beaches in Playa del Carmen. A very popular beach club is Mamita’s Beach, which can be accessed from 28th Street Norte.   This is a trendy beach club where you can relax, swim in the ocean, get a massage or take in the activities around.  You can also rent lounge chairs and umbrellas and the best part of all is they will bring your drinks and food to you on the beach.

The beach is fairly wide and the water is nice at this beach. It is a beach for the popular set from around the world and you will notice a lot of 20-35 year olds. Needless to say it is a popular beach in Playa Del Carmen. So if you want to be seen and see the scene this is the place. Expect club music to be played at the beach clubs.

 

Akumal Beach

Snorkel alongside sea turtles in the calm, clear waters of Akumal Bay and soak up the natural beauty of this breathtaking beach.

 

Zenzi Beach Club

One of our favorite restaurants on the beach, Zenzi offers a great menu, live music daily at 5pm and a full bar, tables or lounge chairs to sit and enjoy your favorite drink.  Salsa classes are offered once per week, check out their website for the full menu and schedule of events.

 

Paamul

Located only 10 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, Paamul is a small town, that has great snorkeling, powder white sand beaches, diving and kayaking. Enjoy ceviche, tacos and a cerveza at the beachfront restaurant.  A place where you escape the business of life and find harmony in the natural landscape, an exquisite tapestry that appears to be captured by an artist, with the whitest of beaches and a turquoise sea alive with coral reefs and tropical fish.

Within a two-hour radius of Playa del Carmen, you’ll find a plethora of fascinating destinations to explore. Here are some suggestions for things to do and places to visit:

  1. Tulum:
    • Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
    • Relax on the pristine beaches of Tulum and enjoy the turquoise waters.
    • Visit the Tulum Monkey Sanctuary, a rescue center for endangered spider monkeys.
  2. Cozumel:
    • Take a ferry to the beautiful island of Cozumel and indulge in world-class snorkeling and diving experiences.
    • Discover the stunning underwater world at the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park.
    • Visit the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, home to a lighthouse, crocodile sanctuary, and breathtaking beaches.
  3. Xel-Há:
    • Spend a day at the Xel-Há Park, an ecological wonderland offering snorkeling, swimming in cenotes, and zip-lining adventures.
    • Relax in floating tubes as you meander along the lazy river surrounded by lush vegetation.
    • Discover the diverse marine life through guided snorkeling tours.
  4. Puerto Aventuras:
    • Visit the Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras and enjoy swimming with dolphins in a natural lagoon.
    • Explore the marina area with its charming shops, restaurants, and bars.
    • Book a fishing charter or a catamaran tour for a day of sailing and adventure.
  5. Coba:
    • Venture to Coba, an ancient Mayan city nestled in the jungle, and climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid for panoramic views.
    • Rent bicycles and explore the extensive network of Mayan ruins hidden within the lush surroundings.
    • Swim in the Cenote Choo-Ha, a pristine sinkhole offering a refreshing dip.
  6. Akumal:
    • Snorkel with sea turtles in the clear waters of Akumal Bay.
    • Explore the Yal-Ku Lagoon, known for its abundant marine life and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
    • Relax on the tranquil beaches and soak up the serene atmosphere.
  7. Playa del Carmen’s Cenotes:
    • Discover the mystical cenotes (natural sinkholes) near Playa del Carmen, such as Cenote Azul, Cenote Dos Ojos, or Cenote Eden.
    • Snorkel or dive in these crystal-clear freshwater pools and admire the underground cave formations.
    • Enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool, turquoise waters surrounded by nature.

Xcaret Park: Immerse your family in Mexican culture and natural wonders through activities such as snorkeling, swimming in underground rivers, and experiencing a traditional Mayan ceremony.

 

Xel-Há Park: Spend a day at this natural aquatic park, where kids can snorkel, swim with dolphins, and explore cenotes (natural sinkholes).

 

Cenote Dos Ojos: Take your children on an adventure to explore the crystal-clear waters of these interconnected cenotes, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Extra Services & Our Connections

If you are interested in private transportation, please contact us at +52 998-224-6116 or at jjustice2311@gmail.com for more information.

Las Flores Properties offers two types of maid service for our guests.  For $30 USD, we will send a maid for a basic cleaning of your condo.  For an additional $40, we will change all linens (sheets, towels etc).  Please note three bedroom units have a surcharge.

 

Valentina Suites the cost is 10 usd for cleaning or 15 usd to clean and change towels.

 

Please contact us at least 24 hours in advance to schedule your cleaning or write to use in the platform where you rented. Thank you

Guide

There are over 900 restaurants in Playa del Carmen.  So we thought we would help you out by listing some of our favorites. Enjoy!

Café’s

Ah Cacao – has two café’s in Playa. Both on 5th Ave – one on 5th and Calle 28, the other on 5th and Constituyentes . Their coffee, cookies and brownies are to die for.

Chez Celine – located on 5th Ave and 34th, this casual French pastry shop makes everything on site. The smell from the street is magnetic – it is almost impossible to walk by without stopping in. Our favorite is the almond croissant and espresso. They have great egg dishes for breakfast and salads, quiche, sandwiches and soup during the day.

Restaurants on the Beach

Zenzi located on the beach and Calle 10, Zenzi is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They have live music (not electronic) at 5pm every day.  They also offer free salsa lessons every Thursday evening.  They are located right on the beach and have lounge beds with umbrellas, and no minimums! We think their ceviche is the best in Playa.  CLICK HERE for our 10% off coupon!

Cannibal Royal is located in front of Coco Beach between Calle 42 & 44. The 3 story retro design of the building is very cool. They beach bar has many seating and lounging options, the restaurant on the second floor is outstanding and the solarium on the top floor has a hot tub and amazing views of the sea. Food and drinks here are fabulous!

Kool Beach Club is located on the beach and Calle 28 just across the street from Mamitas. It is also open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their 95peso all you can eat breakfast buffet is very popular.

Mamitas Beach Club is located on the beach and Calle 28 (Mamitas), open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Perhaps the most popular Beach Club in Playa, Mamitas has lounge beds for taking sun, a swimming pool and electronic music. They host various events on the beach year round.

 

Mexican Upscale

Aldea Corazon located on 5th Ave between Calle 14 B and Calle 16 has great traditional Mexican food but it’s atmosphere is what sets it apart from all others in Playa. Enjoy a romantic dinner in the glow of candle light sitting at the edge of a natural cenote and listening to the sound of a waterfall.

Oxiote is located on Calle 34 just east of 5th. They serve amazing upscale Mexican food, and are vegetarian friendly.  The duck tacos and tacos de Pibil are amazing, along with almost everything else.

 

Mexican Casual

Aguachiles is located on Calle 34 and 25th  Avenida. Los AguaChiles is a very basic, truly local restaurant. A “high end” taco stand is probably the best way to describe it but serves arguably the best ceviche in Playa Del Carmen. They recently remodeled and have a new menu to offer!

Fogon is located on Avenida Constituyentes, between 25th st and 30th st. .is a small and quaint “taqueria” specializing in typical Mexican tacos. They have great prices and are open at night

*La Cuerva del Chango is located on Calle 38th between 5th Avenue and the Sea (close to Shangri – La Hotel), is a great choice with friendly staff and good prices. They serve authentic 100% natural Mexican food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Everyone loves this place. It is a favorite of locals and visitors alike.

La Fragata is located on 1st avenue and 26st Street, this is a Mexican/French owned very casual restaurant that has great specials of the day and is very cheap. It is great for lunch.

*La Vagabunda – located on 5th Ave between 24th and 26th, is known for it’s great breakfast menu which includes both Mexican standards like Huevo Estrellado served with Chilaquiles as well as international fare like eggs benedict.

 

Seafood

Plank is located on Calle 16 between 1st and 5th ave.  They are known for their salmon cooked on a plank. They also have a great brunch on the weekends from 9am – 2pm.

Fisheria is located on 5th, between Calle 20 and 22. They have a great selection of dishes and is also a great place to people watch.

Catch is located above the Thompson Hotel on Calle Corazon (5th and 12th). The entrance is on 12th street between 5th and 10th ave.  Dine up high, with good views during the day. Great seafood, good service and lovely atmosphere.

 

Italian

Casa Mediterranea – Tucked away off of 5th Avenue, (find an opening between 6th and 8th Streets on your left hand side when facing south), Casa Mediterranea is located in a small courtyard that they share with a few local art galleries. Enjoy handmade pasta dishes, and fresh seafood based on Nothern Italian recipes. Reservations recommended. 984-806-4679. We recommend the tagliate, the brusqueta and ensalada de pulpo y papa.

*Como-Como is located 5th Ave between 38 and 40 st. Como-como boasts one of the best Chef’s in Playa. The food is sensational. Definitely make a reservation; 984-859-1646.

 

World Fare

La Bodegita is located on 5th ave and Calle 34.  Serving authentic Cuban cuisine and live salsa music every night!

Kampai is located on 5th ave between 28th and 32nd.  Great sushi, 2 for 1 rolls Monday – Thursday.

Alux is located on Benito Juarez (across the freeway) between 60th and 70th, this restaurant is found inside a cenote and is very trendy!! GOOD place to go for a drink. www.aluxlounge.net.

Diablito Cha cha cha is Located in 12th street and 1st avenue offers Mexican/ Asian fusion. It is a ‘very cool’ place with a retro vibe, great music, excellent food and creative drinks.

 

 

Vegetarian/Vegan Options….there are many places around town, these are just a few we have enjoyed!

 

Salade is located on Calle 10 and 15 ave.  Fresh salads, wraps and breakfast food.

Kaxapa is located on Calle 10 between 15th and 20th ave.  Just across from the municipal building.  They have Argentinean food for vegans, vegetarians and meat eaters!

Bio Natural is located on10th ave and Constituyentes.  They have a small organic grocery store, as well as a restaurant great for breakfast or lunch.

100% Natural is located on 5th between calle 10 and 12.  Nice outdoor restaurant and good people watching.

La Brocherie – owed by a French couple that are chefs, specializing in roasted chicken.  It is very cheap, very good and a nice atmosphere, just a few blocks away.  On Avenida 15 between calle 4 and 6.

Mu – hamburger place just 3 blocks. Turn right out of the building on 40 ave, it will be a few blocks up on our right, just before the Oxxo.

Romeos – Really good Italian place. Always busy, you will need to make reservation. They are only open for dinner.  Calle 4 and ave 15

Don Sirloin – Little taco place, cheap, fast and really good.  10 Ave between Calle 12 and 14.

El Fogon – Traditional Mexican food that has been in the neighborhood forever, very famous.  This is the best location, although there are several around Playa del Carmen. On the corner of Calle 6 BIS and 30 avenue.

Mr. Marios – local fresh seafood place, always busy.  Calle 42 between 20th and 25th. 

Yum Yum – New Thai restaurant.  10 Avenue and Calle 6.

The Fives Rooftop – Great new rooftop restaurant and bar with infinity pool and great views of the Caribbean Sea.

Cafe Antoinette – Coffee, pastries, fresh baguettes, light breakfast.  Down by the beach and ferry. Walk toward the beach on benito juarez, turn right on 5th and then your first left (1 Sur), its small, about halfway down the street.

Salade – Good salad and wraps – Calle 10 and 15 avenida. Very fresh, breakfast and lunch. 

Restaurant Row – There are several good restaurants on calle 10, between Calle 6 and Calle 16.

Chez Celine – Busy breakfast and lunch place. Fresh pastries, bread coffee and a full menu. Very good little cafe to people watch.  5th ave and Calle 34

After 11 or 12 p.m. 5th Avenue is very slow. If you want to enjoy the night life most bars and clubs are located on 12 Street. Some popular spots are:

Almirante Pech – on the corner of 5th Ave and Calle 30, has a great vibe, lots of outdoor seating and a great open interior. No dancing, just great drinks, good music and usually, lots of beautiful people.

Bodeguita del Medio – Located on 5th ave and 34nd Street, this famous Cuban restaurant has amazing live Salsa music and great dancers. Founded in 1942 in Havana Cuba, they are known for introducing the world to authentic mojitos.

Coco Bongo – this is a small version of a Las Vegas dance show. Very very entertaining. You pay an entrance fee and it is all inclusive for drinks. Definitely worth the money.

Mandala – located on 12th Street between 5th and 1st the most successful disco. Typically quite crowded

Thompson Rooftop – located on 12th street and 5th ave.  This is a beautiful rooftop to enjoy day or night, with great views of Playa del Carmen.

Be Playa Rooftop – located on 10th ave and 26th street. This rooftop pool, bar and restaurant is fun day or night.  A younger but sophisticated crowd, the prices are good and they do not require a minimum spend to enjoy the pool.

Santanera – located on 5th Ave and 12th Street, this roof bar gets busy around 2 a.m and is open very late. They are known for their great dJ’s.

No time for grocery shopping on your vacation? Don’t worry, click the image below and set up grocery delivery to your condo when you arrive!

Mega is a large grocery store that has just about anything you could possibly need from food to alcohol to school supplies, kitchen and bath items, batteries etc. It is located on Constituyentes and 30th.

DAC is the best place in town to find unusual ingredients. It is mostly a fresh vegetable market but they also have basics like cheese and bacon and canned goods. DAC is located on 30th Ave and 20th St (Calle 20).

Walmart is located on 8th Street and 30th Avenue.

Sam’s Club is located about 15 minutes away from 5th Avenue, heading south on the highway.

Police – 060

Red Cross Emergencies : 065

Emergencies : 066

Fire department: 611

Hyperbaric Chamber: 984-873-1365

Highway emergencies: 078

Hospiten Riviera Maya

This is a very modern hospital that can facilitate most needs. They accept many insurances and English is widely spoken.

Address:

Federal, Playacar Fase II in Playa del Carmen

77710 Quintana Roo.
Mexico
Phone: +52 (984) 803 10 02
FAX: +52 (984) 803 16 06

http://www.hospiten.com/
e-mail: rivieramaya@hospiten.com

Tips

The Mexican Peso is the official currency of Mexico. The exchange rate is always changing, but most recently (2017) the exchange rate is around 20 pesos to $1 USD. most places of business will accept US dollars, Euros, and Canadian dollars. Keep in mind they will not give you the best exchange rate, and your change will be returned in pesos making it difficult to ensure you paid the right price. You will receive the best exchange rates through a bank, or ATM machines attached to the bank.  If you need to cash travelers checks you should go directly to a bank for the least amount of hassle. In addition, although more and more places are accepting credit cards there are still many businesses who do not accept them as a form of payment. Make sure to check before you order or buy. Also keep in mind some places will charge you up to 6% additional when you use a credit card!

 

We STRONGLY suggest NOT using the stand-alone ATM machines on 5th ave or around town.  They have been known to have card readers, and your credit card information is more at risk when using these machines.  Using the ATMs attached to actual bank branches, or at the grocery stores are best.

The best rates to exchange other currency to pesos are often given at the banks.  You will also find currency windows throughout town, that will exchange your money as well.  Make sure to bring your passport as you will need to show it to the teller before they exchange your money.

Banamex: 10th Avenue and 12th Street

Scotiabank10th Avenue and Constituyentes, there is also a bank at the end of 5th Avenue across from the bus stop next to McDonalds.

HSBC : 30th Avenue between Mega and San Francisco grocery.

Buy Local

We encourage you to support the local community by choosing local purveyors. In this way, the community roots become deeper and Playa continues to attract talented chefs, artisans and service providers.

Safe Box

Playa del Carmen is a safe city, but we nonetheless recommend that all valuables be stored in the safe box. To set your code, you need to push the reset button found on the side of the back of the safe door. After pushing the reset button, go to the front of the door and enter any 4 numbers you make up plus the letter B. Before you close the door, reenter the same 4 numbers and letter B and you will see the green light go on. Next close the door and reenter the 4 numbers and the letter B.

Water

Tap water in Mexico is not the same as tap water in your country and most people here don’t drink it. Your apartment has a 5 gallon bottle of water, but if you need more, you can buy one for a nominal amount (50 pesos + tip). Just call us and we can arrange for the care taker of the building to deliver water to the apartment when the water bottle (20L) needs replacement or just ask one of the guys that works around the building.

We suggest that you clean your fruits and vegetables using a product that rids them of bacteria. There are several brands, but the most popular is called Bactericida. Just a few drops in a bowl of tap water does the trick. A small bottle can often be found in the kitchen or may be purchased at most grocery stores.

Tax and Service Charges

A 10% value-added tax called IVA is added to all goods and services within the State, including hotel rooms and rental cars. Be sure to ask if the tax is included in the quoted price on the menu in restaurants.

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip when being served at a bar or restaurant.

Charities and Volunteering

Las Flores Properties proudly supports the KKIS Project (Keep Kids in School) in Playa del Carmen.  KKIS provides school supplies to the primary schools of Playa del Carmen, scholarships for secondary school and volunteer opportunities (short and long term).  Should you desire to volunteer while you are in town, they make it very easy to sign up and get involved.  Donations can be made on the KKIS website.