People playing beach volley in Playa Del Carmen.

© Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images

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.

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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.

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Day 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.

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Money 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.

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Free 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.

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Latest stories from Playa del Carmen

Storm and rain coming to the Caribbean sea of Playa del Carmen Mexico. Fishing boats anchored near the beach; Shutterstock ID 1589015776; your: Brian Healy; gl: 65050; netsuite: Lonely Planet Online Editorial; full: Best time to visit Playa del Carmen

Festivals & Events

When to head to Playa del Carmen for fabulous weather, fun festivals and hotel deals

Apr 21, 2022 • 7 min read

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