Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo sights and attractions
Flanked by turquoise sea and dazzling white beaches, Playa del Carmen is a picturesque resort in the Quintana Roo state of Mexico. Resting in the heart of the Riviera Maya, it is both a top vacation spot for sun and leisure seekers as well as the perfect jumping-off point for discovering all that the region has to offer. Known for its tropical climate and pristine beaches, Playa del Carmen boasts fantastic water sports, stylish restaurants, and a lively night scene, while nearby, lush jungle vegetation and ancient Mayan archeological sites abound.
What to do in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
Playa del Carmen provides each visitor with a unique experience, depending on the type of vacation they are looking for. You can sink your toes into the sand, work on your tan and take a dip in the sea, snorkel or dive among the coral reefs, visit Mayan ruins or trek through the jungle. Evenings can be best spent sampling traditional and international fare, or exploring the variety of inviting nightlife on offer.
While taking a vacation in Playa del Carmen, you can:
Visit the ancient Mayan site of Chichén Itza, one of the country's best-preserved Mayan ruins
Gain insight into Mayan culture and traditions at a Mayan village
Sail to Cozumel Island, where you will find sublime diving conditions and a superb beach
Go shopping for souvenirs and luxury brands on Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), Playa del Carmen's most famous and glamorous street
Indulge in a spa treatment influenced by Mayan traditions
Feast on local cuisine and traditional fish and seafood-based Mayan dishes
Embark on the route of the cenotes (sinkholes) and discover the Mayan river underworld
Take a day trip to the Mayan city of Tulum, one of Mexico's most beautiful and best-loved destinations
Drink a cocktail at sunset along the Quinta Avenida and soak up the atmosphere
Try balche, "the drink of the gods", made from corn and fermented tree nectar
Airports in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
Passengers travelling to Playa del Carmen will most likely land at Cancun International Airport. It is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean, and one of Mexico's main gateways. A wide range of international airlines have direct or connecting flights with Cancun International Airport.