Traveling To Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Just south of the popular resort city of Cancun, Playa del Carmen is a rapidly developing resort area as well, but is a more laid back, authentic destination with smaller buildings and a variety of unique shops offering handmade wares.  Playa del Carmen is near many of Mexico’s major attractions, making it a perfect location for seeing the sights, and is a favorite resort among young couples looking for a relaxing vacation.

Playa del Carmen has a small airport but the landing strip is for small charter planes.  Visitors flying in on a major airline will land in Cancun and can reach Playa by bus or car.  Most travel within the city can be done on foot or on one of the available tricycle taxis.  Cars can also be rented for traveling further around the region.

The 120 mile stretch of sandy beaches known as the Riviera Maya accommodates several resort areas, including Cancun and Playa del Carmen.  The weather here is hot and humid year round, ranging from about 23°C (75F) to 35°C (95F).  November to February is the peak season in the region, and May until October is the rainy season.  Hurricanes are likely during the months of August, September, and October so it is best to avoid these times.

The beaches at Playa del Carmen are some of the world’s finest.  The white sands are quiet and peaceful, and the waters are crystal clear.  Favorite activities are sunbathing, swimming, fishing, and kayaking.  Visitors can also enjoy diving and snorkeling along the gorgeous coast.

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There are a number of nearby attractions that can be enjoyed as a short day trip if you tire of the sun and sand.  Cozumel is a short ferry ride away from Playa.  This luxurious island is a diver’s paradise, perfect for diving and snorkeling.  Visitors to Cozumel can also see the San Gervasio ruins, dating back to 100 BC in Mayan civilization.  Other Mayan ruins in the area include those at Tulum, Coba, and Chichen Itza.  There are also a few popular water parks nearby as well as the natural aquariums at Xel-Ha.

Playa del Carmen has some of the most unique shopping along the Riviera Maya.  There are several shops and specialty craft boutiques in the main plaza with one of a kind handcrafted trinkets and gifts.  There are also a number of restaurants offering tasty local flavors and authentic Mexican atmospheres.

At night, Playa del Carmen is alive until about midnight.  Visitors can have a drink at one of the many local bars or dance the night away at one of the popular night spots offering live music and dance floors.  Those interested in partying a bit later can visit nearby Cancun for all night entertainment.

Before visiting any part of Mexico, it is recommended that individuals are up to date on their immunizations, especially tetanus and polio, and travelers may want hepatitis A and typhoid shots as well.  Simple robberies are common throughout Mexico so store valuables in a safe and keep your belongings close while wandering around.  Avoid being out alone, especially after dark.