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Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen, now one of Quintana Roo's largest cities, ranks right up there with Tulum as one of the Riviera's trendiest spots. Sitting coolly on the lee side of Cozumel, the town’s beaches are jammed with super-fit Europeans. The waters aren’t as clear as those of Cancún or Cozumel, and the sand isn’t quite as powder-perfect as they are further north, but still Playa grows and grows.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Playa del Carmen
An impressive three-story aquarium with 200 marine species and 45 exhibits. One of the few options in Playa for nonbeach days.
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen’s most iconic park is bordered by the famous Quinta Avenida on one side and by a popular local beach on the other side. Here, kids can…
Playa del Carmen
Two blocks west of the highway, this pretty park has play areas for kids, shady picnic spots and walking trails as well as activities such as movie…
Playa del Carmen
Emerald Point has become a favorite beach among Playa del Carmen locals, set on the northern edge of the city. Here, a shallow cenote provides a calm…
Museo Frida Kahlo Riviera Maya
Playa del Carmen
This 'museum' is mainly info about Kahlo rather than displays of her artwork. It's also small. But if you're looking for something to do on a non-beach…
Playa del Carmen
Restaurants, bars, stores and craft stalls line a 2km stretch of this busy pedestrian thoroughfare.
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Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Things to Know
Our guide features important things to know before your visit to Playa del Carmen in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, including safety tips, etiquette and more.
Read articleDay Trips
Here are the top day trips from Playa del Carmen – and how to do them – so you can hit the road and check out the highlights of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Read articleMoney and Costs
We give you the lowdown on how to enjoy the best of Playa del Carmen on the Rivera Maya without breaking the bank.
Read articleFree Things to Do
We round up the top 10 free things to do in Playa del Carmen so you can stay and play for longer.
Read articlePlan with a local
Articles
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