17 essential insights for visiting Playa del Carmen

Situated between the lively party scene of Cancún and the laid-back vibe of Tulum, Playa del Carmen is a vibrant beach destination that offers everything from wellness retreats to nightlife and fine dining. It’s popular among digital nomads and sun-loving families due to its walkable layout, easy beach access, and close proximity to Mayan ruins, coral reefs, and cenotes (natural swimming holes).

While Playa del Carmen and the entire Riviera Maya attract many tourists, this beach town retains a friendly authenticity that draws in those seeking a diverse travel experience. As an expat here, I’ve picked up valuable tips for navigating this lively locale. Here are my personal recommendations to enhance your visit to Playa del Carmen.

1. Travel during the shoulder season for fewer tourists and better deals

As the fastest-growing town in the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen sees a surge of visitors, especially from December to April. The skies are usually perfect, and nights are pleasant—but so are the prices. The streets can become overcrowded during Christmas and spring break.

The low season lasts from May to June and again from September to November. Although temperatures can be high, we suggest visiting during the shoulder season in July and August for lighter crowds. You might encounter occasional rain or a power outage if a tropical storm occurs, but the sun usually shines between showers.

2. Select the ideal area for your stay

Playa del Carmen may appear small at first, but exploring its diverse neighborhoods reveals lush parks, weekend markets, and authentic taquerias. Centro, stretching from the ferry terminal to Calle 8, serves as the bustling hub for tourists, filled with vibrant nightclubs, salsa bars, and colorful souvenir shops.

Adjacent to Centro, Gonzalo Guerrero is a vibrant mix of international eateries, taco trucks, and supermarkets extending to Calle 40. This area is perfect for those who prefer a lively atmosphere without being full-on partygoers. Further northeast lies Zazil-Ha, an emerging neighborhood popular with medium-term visitors and creatives, offering affordable short-term rentals and co-working spaces.

Just south of Centro is Playacar, a gated community ideal for couples and families with young children seeking greenery and peace. This area features several family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, numerous short-term rentals, and boasts one of the finest beaches in Playa del Carmen. Keep in mind that you may need to bike or walk 15 minutes to reach the town center.

3. Explore a different beach every day

What makes Playa del Carmen unique compared to its neighbors, Cancún and Tulum, is its exceptional beach access. To prevent coastlines from becoming overcrowded with resorts and private beach clubs, Playa del Carmen was designed to ensure that most beaches are open to the public. This allows you to enjoy the soft, white sands without needing to splurge on a beachfront hotel or pricey day pass.

4. Book your activities and day tours online in advance

It's a good idea to reserve boat tours and day trips in advance, particularly during peak season—booking a month ahead is typically sufficient. The only exception is the ferry to Isla Cozumel, which runs daily and can be booked at the terminal just one day in advance. Early reservations also help you avoid tourist solicitors and other hassles at the pier.

5. Embrace a casual dress code

Leave your jeans and high heels at home; the style in Playa del Carmen is relaxed and casual. Both laid-back backpackers and upscale travelers tend to wear tank tops, board shorts, and flip-flops during the day. It's perfectly acceptable to don a linen shirt and cargo shorts for a nice dinner or even a night out at Coco Bongo.

Women’s attire is similarly informal, with cover-ups, sundresses, and sandals being the norm. Beachwear is flexible; no one will judge you for your choices. If you’re visiting during the rainy season, consider bringing a light jacket for the cooler evenings.

6. Explore on foot and venture into side streets

One of the great advantages of Playa del Carmen is its walkability. With a well-planned grid layout, this compact city is easy to explore on foot. Most attractions are concentrated along Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrian-friendly street filled with shops, souvenir stalls, restaurants, and bars. As you move away from Fifth Avenue, you'll discover quieter areas and local gems.

7. Rent a bike for beach-hopping

While Playa del Carmen isn't as bike-friendly as Tulum just yet, it's making strides. The city features a bike-sharing program with bright green BiciPlaya bicycles available at various kiosks. Simply download the app to unlock a bike and explore for just M$129 ($6.77) per day.

The best cycling route follows Tenth Avenue, running parallel to the beach from the Playacar residential area to Avenida Constituyentes. Keep an eye out for pedestrians who may wander into the bike lane, and be cautious. It's best to avoid main roads, as drivers often overlook cyclists.

8. Drive carefully and familiarize yourself with the traffic laws

If you're looking to visit the ruins, cenotes, and adventure parks near Playa del Carmen, renting a car offers the flexibility to explore at your leisure. While driving in the Riviera Maya is generally straightforward, renting a car in Mexico can come with challenges. Numerous appealing deals are available online, but they often exclude mandatory third-party liability insurance, airport fees, and taxes. Be ready for the total cost to exceed your initial quote.

Traffic in Playa del Carmen is minimal, but once you hit the 307 Federal Hwy, you'll encounter a steady stream of vehicles, especially during rush hours. Keep an eye out for 'TOPE' signs, as speed bumps are abundant, even on the highway. It's advisable to avoid driving after dark, as speed bumps and potholes can be difficult to spot.

9. Exercise caution when and where you withdraw cash

While more small businesses are accepting credit cards, Playa del Carmen predominantly relies on cash, so keep small bills handy for local taco spots, bars, and shops.

It's best to avoid exchanging money before arriving in Mexico, as you'll likely get unfavorable rates. Not all ATMs in Playa del Carmen are safe; there have been incidents of card cloning and counterfeit bills. Steer clear of ATMs on Fifth Avenue and opt for those located inside banks. For convenience, consider withdrawing cash at Cancún airport upon arrival for added peace of mind.

Interestingly, banks and ATMs can experience long lines in the middle and at the end of each month, as this is when many locals receive their paychecks and rush to withdraw their funds. During these times, ATMs may not only be crowded but could also run out of cash.

10. Tipping is appreciated

With a lively dining scene, Playa del Carmen features numerous restaurants, each with its own tipping customs. Generally, a tip of 10 to 15% is standard at most places that aren't high-end or gourmet. In casual cafes and local eateries where you order at the counter, tipping isn't expected, but many have tip jars if you're inclined to show appreciation.

In Mexico, the prices you see on menus include all charges; there's no need to add taxes or tips. Some restaurants may suggest a tip amount, which is acceptable, while others may discreetly include it in the total price, which is not. Always review your bill closely to ensure accuracy.

11. Learn some Spanish to blend in

Street vendors in Playa del Carmen, especially around the busy Fifth Avenue and Parque Fundadores, can be quite persistent. Although you can manage with English, which is widely spoken, be ready for inflated prices. To receive fair treatment, it helps to learn some useful Spanish phrases beyond just 'Una cerveza, por favor!' ('A beer, please!').

If you're planning a stay of more than a week, consider enrolling in an intensive Spanish course at the renowned International House Riviera Maya. For those with a basic understanding, participating in the free conversation evenings hosted by Chichén Itzá Language School is a great way to enhance your skills while socializing over drinks.

12. What to know about cartel activity in Playa del Carmen

Recently, a series of shootings has raised concerns within the tourism sector in Playa del Carmen. Notably, two Canadian tourists were fatally shot at Hotel Xcaret in January 2022, followed by the discovery of the manager of Mamitas Beach Club murdered that same week. Mexican authorities have acknowledged a growing drug-related crime presence in the area.

It's essential to note that crimes here are typically organized and linked to cartels, with violence often being targeted rather than indiscriminate. Generally, Playa del Carmen remains safe for tourists and expats who avoid illegal activities. Most interactions with cartel members occur when tourists purchase drugs, and it's important to remember that all dealers are associated with a cartel.

Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Keep yourself updated on recent developments in Playa del Carmen before your visit.

13. Don't be concerned about the presence of police and military forces.

It's common to see military personnel and police vehicles moving through Playa del Carmen, as recent events have necessitated increased security measures. Numerous police checkpoints have been established along Highway 307, including one at the Playa del Carmen exit.

Since police may conduct random checks and request your documents, ensure that your rental agreement and valid driver's license are easily accessible. If you happen to break a traffic rule, you might be asked to pay a fine. Remember, tickets should never be settled on the street; any cash request could be a bribe. Politely request that the ticket be issued, and offer to pay it at a police station instead, which can help you avoid corruption and often results in a lower fine than the bribe.

14. Avoid using drugs or drinking excessively in public.

Given the vibrant nightlife in Playa del Carmen, petty theft and robberies can occur, particularly at night. Solo travelers should steer clear of getting overly intoxicated or using drugs in public spaces. Stick with friends if you plan to enjoy late-night outings. Always keep an eye on your drink and refrain from accepting beverages from strangers.

15. Stay alert for common scams.

While Mexicans are generally very friendly, it can sometimes be tricky to tell genuine hospitality from a sales tactic. A good rule of thumb is to be wary of anyone selling on the streets. If someone approaches you with, 'Do you remember me? I'm your waiter!' just smile, nod, and walk away; chances are they're trying to lure you into an overpriced shop.

One well-known scam in Playa del Carmen, especially among expats, is the distraction technique. Typically, a couple will approach and offer to help clean off bird droppings or ketchup, diverting your attention long enough for them to swipe your belongings while you’re distracted.

16. Be aware of taxi fares before you get in.

Uber is not available in Playa del Carmen, but you can easily find official white-and-green taxis. These taxis often charge tourists higher rates than locals, so it’s wise to ask someone nearby for guidance on appropriate fares. Always confirm the price before getting in; a trip within the city center should generally be no more than M$50 ($2.50). Alternatively, consult your Airbnb host or hotel concierge for a trustworthy driver you can reach via WhatsApp.

17. Avoid drinking tap water.

Tap water in Playa del Carmen is not safe to drink, so it's best to avoid it. You can use it for brushing your teeth, and many people find it suitable for rinsing vegetables, cooking pasta, and washing rice. At restaurants, the water served is always purified, and the ice is also safe, so don’t hesitate to request a vaso de agua when you eat out.

In Playa del Carmen, several companies offer delivery of large 20-liter bottles of purified water right to your home. You can also purchase bottled water at any OXXO convenience store, which are conveniently located throughout the town center.