What to Do in Playa del Carmen? Best Activities and Experiences
Playa del Carmen is one of the most lively tourist destinations in the Riviera Maya, offering activities for both those looking to relax and those seeking adventure.
In this guide, we share some of the best things you can do in Playa del Carmen, from must-see plans to experiences that bring you closer to the sea in a different way, such as a dolphin encounter. Make the most of your visit and let yourself be carried away by everything this destination has to offer.
Main Attractions and Experiences in Playa del Carmen
There are numerous activities to enjoy in Playa del Carmen, and here we highlight the must-see tourist attractions you shouldn't miss.
1. Relax on the beaches of Playa del Carmen
One of the most important places to visit in Playa del Carmen is its paradise-like beaches; relax and enjoy every single one of them. Some of the best beaches you can find in this city are:
- Playa Mamitas
- Playa Punta Esmeralda
- Playacar
- Playa Parque Fundadores
- Playa 88
2. Live the experience of swimming with dolphins at Delphinus Riviera Maya
One of the unique experiences you must include in your plans is a dolphin encounter. Delphinus Riviera Maya has an accessible location, making it easy to plan a visit to this natural habitat from the city center. It does not matter if you are traveling alone, as a couple, with friends, or with family—at Delphinus, you will find the ideal interaction for you! Visit us at Cancun - Chetumal Federal Highway km. 282 and enjoy your vacation to the fullest by interacting with and learning more about these aquatic animals.
3. Explore Fifth Avenue: Shopping and Entertainment
Fifth Avenue is one of the most popular tourist spots in Playa del Carmen, and strolling down this street is a must-do activity during your visit. Here, you can enjoy a pleasant time at a bar or restaurant and shop for souvenirs or high-end clothing.
If you walk the entire length of Fifth Avenue, you'll come across the Parque de los Fundadores, where the famous Portal Maya statue is located.
Outdoor Activities in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen es perfecta para disfrutar actividades al aire libre y de contacto con la naturaleza.
1. Discover Cenotes and Caves
Playa del Carmen is situated in the Riviera Maya, an area rich with a variety of cenotes. Among the top cenotes to visit in Playa del Carmen are:
- Cenote Cristalino
- Cenote azul
- Cenote Jardín del Edén
- Cenote Chaak Tun
- Cenote Chac Mool
- Cenote Río secreto
Some of them are enclosed, allowing you the chance to explore their caves.
2. Engage in water sports like diving and snorkeling
Another favorite activity in Playa del Carmen is diving and snorkeling. You can enjoy these activities at Playa de Puerto Morelos to admire the Coral Reefs or at Cenote Chaak Tun, where you can discover Mayan remnants.
Excursions and tours from Playa del Carmen
Thanks to Playa del Carmen's prime location, you can easily visit other tourist areas in the Riviera Maya such as Tulum, Cobá, and Cozumel.
1. Tour to the Mayan Ruins of Tulum and Cobá
Embark on a Mayan adventure by taking a tour to Tulum, an ancient walled Mayan city located by the beach, or explore the ruins of Cobá, set in a jungle area where you can see a series of carved and sculpted monuments.
2. Tours to Cozumel Island and Swimming with Turtles
Reaching Cozumel from Playa del Carmen is easy, as the ferry to the island departs from the city's maritime terminal. Additionally, in Cozumel, you can join a snorkeling tour to swim in the turtle sanctuary.
3. Discover Xcaret, Xel-Há, and Nearby Natural Parks
If you're traveling with family or have an adventurous spirit, one of the recommended activities in Playa del Carmen is visiting the natural parks of Xcaret and Xel-Há.
Xcaret is a large park inspired by nature and Mexican culture, offering more than 40 activities and the famous Xcaret México night show. Meanwhile, Xel-Há is an eco-friendly water park with various activities like snorkeling and cycling.
Cuisine in Playa del Carmen: The Best Restaurants
In Playa del Carmen, you'll find a variety of restaurants and bars located throughout the city, with the most popular spots being the beaches or the famous Fifth Avenue. Among the top restaurants, we can mention: La Chopería, Alux, El Tigre, Deck5 Sky Bar, and Mamba.
Nightlife in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with the most famous nightclubs and bars in the Riviera Maya located here: Coco Bongo, Mandala, Reina Roja, The Roof 28, Kitxen, and Party Playa.
Art and Culture in Playa del Carmen
Art is also a highlight, as Playa del Carmen tourism is characterized by cultural activities. We recommend the exhibition of paintings and photographs by local artists called "Galería de Playa," which you can find on Thursdays from 6:30 to 11:00 on Fifth Avenue, between 26th and 32nd streets.
Enjoy all the experiences Playa del Carmen has to offer and don't miss visiting Delphinus Riviera Maya. Don't miss out on this unique and incredible experience! Book your dolphin swim now.
