Things To Do
Quinta Avenida
Playa del Carmen’s main pedestrian street for shopping, dining, and nightlife, located just steps from the Aloft Hotel. Walk down any side street (Calle 34 or 38) to reach the beach in under 10 minutes.
Chez Céline
Chez Céline is a beloved French bakery on 5th Avenue known for its authentic boulangerie atmosphere and high-quality ingredients. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed breakfast or a quick coffee and pastry before starting your day.
La Cueva del Chango
Set in a lush, jungle-like garden, this is a local favorite for its incredible chilaquiles and wide variety of fresh-squeezed fruit juices. It is located on Calle 38, one of the most beautiful streets in Playa, which leads directly to the ocean and is lined with local artisans selling handmade crafts.
Los Chachalacos
Located just steps from the Aloft Hotel, this is the perfect spot for a quick and reliable meal. It’s a favorite for their authentic tacos al pastor and house-made aguas frescas.
Marquesitas
A must-try Yucatecan street treat, these are crispy, rolled wafers (think a crunchy crepe) made fresh on a press right in front of you. The traditional version is a unique blend of sweet and savory, typically filled with Nutella and shredded Edam cheese (queso de bola). You’ll find these carts lining La Quinta Avenida every evening—just be sure to have some pesos on hand, as these local vendors are cash-only.
Parque Los Fundadores
Located at the south end of La Quinta Avenida, this beachside plaza is home to the iconic 50-foot "Portal Maya" arch and offers wide, public beach access. It is a hub for cultural heritage, where you can frequently watch the "Voladores de Papantla" (flying dancers) and traditional Mayan performances right on the sand.
Xcaret Park
Xcaret Park is a massive eco-archaeological destination south of Playa del Carmen that features over 50 natural and cultural attractions, including underground rivers, an aviary, and a butterfly pavilion. The absolute highlight is the "México Espectacular" evening show, which is a must-see for its 300+ performers and storytelling.
Chichén-Itzá
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city is a 2.5-hour drive from Playa del Carmen. Plan for a full day (10-12 hours) if booking a tour, as most include a swim in a nearby cenote and a stop in the colonial town of Valladolid.
Cenote Azul
An open-air, natural swimming hole known for its crystal-clear turquoise water and varying depths for swimming or cliff jumping. It is located about 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and sits right next to Cenote Cristalino and Cenote Jardin del Eden.
Río Secreto
Rio Secreto is a guided trek through a semi-sunken limestone cave system filled with thousands of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. You'll spend about 90 minutes hiking and swimming through the crystal-clear underground river for a unique experience.
San Miguel de Cozumel
A world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving, this island is a 45-minute ferry ride from the terminal located right at the south end of La Quinta Avenida. Once you arrive, you can rent a Jeep to explore the rugged "wild side" of the island or visit a private beach club for the day.
Isla Mujeres
Known for its crystal-clear, shallow waters and golf cart culture, this island is a popular day trip from the Cancun area. You can spend the day at Playa Norte, frequently ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, or rent a cart to explore the island's scenic cliffs.
Tulum
Tulum is a bohemian beach town known for its well-preserved archaeological sites and eco-chic atmosphere. Located about an hour south of Playa del Carmen, it offers a distinct contrast to the bustle of the city with its focus on wellness, boutique shopping, and jungle-set dining.