Playa residents have tried to retain Playa del Carmen's charm as a small fishing village and artists' colony by passing a law limiting buildings to three stories – so there aren't likely to be any high rise towers – but more of a village feel of funky informality.
Here are some quick practical tips and suggestions to have a positive Mexican Mayan holiday.
Mayan History
Playa Del Carmen served as a main gathering point for Mayans to travel across the water to Cozumel to worship the Goddess of Fertility - Ixchel. The village also acted as a central port for a Mayan commercial sea route. Many outstanding archeological sites - some still being unearthed - surround this historic area.
Playa Del Carmen Transportation
Most people arrive by bus or van to get from the Cancun airport. Taxis can be very expensive. Playa has a great affordable bus system to help visitors get around town or get to nearby locations. Most points of interest in town are within walking distance. Bikes can also be rented.
Playa Del Carmen Accommodation
Lodging here comes in all price ranges from high-end resorts to smaller boutique hotels and even hostels. Surprisingly the new Playa Del Carmen Holiday Inn although not right on the beach – is a reasonable option - providing a great buffet breakfast, a pool and access to a Beach Club. It can be a quieter option to some of the busy beachfront hotels. Fusion Hotel, a boutique hotel with a beachfront location, offers unique waterfront or garden view accommodation at fairly reasonable non-resort prices i.e.: $70 US and up per night.
Playa Del Carmen Activities
5th avenue (Quinta Avenida) is the main pedestrian friendly street with a host of street vendors, souvenir shops, international restaurants, and nightlife. This central street is also very close to the main beach. Getting around is easy with the locals friendly, welcoming guidance. A multitude of activities are available to take part in – seasonal festivals, nature treks, Mayan Ruin tours, sailing, kayaking, windurfing, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, beach-combing and people watching. Travelers can also take the ferry to nearby Cozumel for the day. (although the lineups can be long).
Just south of Playa del Carmen you'll find Puerto Aventuras, the eco-parks of Xcaret and Xel-Ha, the ancient Mayan Ruins and the beautiful beaches of Tulum. The main bus depot has regular trips to these locations.
Playa Del Carmen Beaches
The dazzling white sand and stunning turquoise water are great for sunning and swimming. Tourists and locals mix easily. The public, for a nominal charge, can often use Beach Clubs, for those who prefer their own private beach chair. The Playacar Hotel Zone, south of the ferry pier, has the more expensive hotels and all-inclusive resorts with private beaches.
Playa Del Carmen Food
Visitors will find tasty Mexican, Italian, German, American, seafood and all manner of international choices. A favourite and affordable beachfront restaurant to try is Fusion. Try their tasty vegetarian burrito platter, seafood offerings or tropical drinks while relaxing under a palapas (thatched palm roof). Live entertainment is also an enjoyable mellow addition while watching the warm soothing waves. Even travelers who stay in an all-inclusive resort, will appreciate geting out into the town to explore and experience the flavours of Playa.
Of course, it goes without saying, that flying back to a northern colder home will be difficult! But all more reason to return yet another time for a longer stay.
Other Resources
Travel Guides such as Lonely Planet also offer great information on Mexican locations.
Bev Yaworski - Bev Yaworski is a published writer and photographer for magazines such as Green & Organic Lifestyles, various parenting publications such ...
Join the Conversation