Location: Playa del Carmen
Top Things to do in Playa del Carmen
Countries
The 6 Best Things to Do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del Carmen is one of the top diving destinations in the world, thanks to vibrant sea life and dazzling underwater caverns. On dry land, Playa is a hipper and more modern version of the fishing village it once was. Spend some quality time on the golf course or wave hello to the playful spider monkeys at The Jungle Place sanctuary. Explore the ancient ruins of the Coba Mayan Village, or get in some quality people-watching as you shop and stroll along 5th Avenue.
Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
1. Xplor Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By Breyoot - Long Beach, California
Xplore is the best water park attraction in the area. My kids loved it, my grandkids loved it, and I loved it. You can spend the entire day without getting bored or tired. We were thrilled with the zip line most of all. The kids also enjoyed 4X in the jungle and paddling in the cenote. The food buffet is extensive and diverse and everyone found food they were happy with. We all felt a bit stuffed by the time we were done eating. There is some walking to be done between venues and signage could be a bit better. However, there are many staff members available to point you in the right direction. The locker is a bit skimpy, so don't bring too much you don't need for the day. Highly recommended for a day of fun.
2. Xcaret Eco Theme Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 34 reviews
Xcaret (pronounced eesh - carette )is a must-see destination while visiting Cancun and Riviera Maya, situated only 37 miles from Cancun International. Xcaret," Mexico ’s sacred paradise" was opened in December 1990 as an eco-archeological park where visitors from all over the world can enjoy the splendor of Mexico’s biodiversity and cultural heritage. Attractions: Underground Rivers, Beach, lagoon & pools, Tropical Jungle Trail, Rotating Scenic Tower.
Reviewed By GenoMichiganYooper - Escanaba, Michigan
-We tried Xcaret in the afternoon, when some other plans fell through. It was too late to book the park for all day, so we purchased the half-day ticket, starting at 4:00 PM.
-We took a cab from the resort, it was fast, and not too expensive. Entry to the park was easy and efficient. This park is built for a huge crowd, and it was not very busy at the time.
-The gift shop/dining/entrance lobby it incredibly huge. There are tons of lockers available for storage, and fee was only about $6/day USD.
-We went on an underground river swimming ride, and it was great. After the swim, we had just enough time to clean up, empty our locker, and head for the finale/closing show.
-The closing show was in a HUGE outdoor, open, thatched roof building, large enough to seat at least 2000 people. You can purchase snacks and drinks to watch during the show. Check out the XCaret website for photo's and views of the show.
-The show itself was incredible, lots of actors, lots of scenes, lots of action, and a history of the evolution of Mexico, dating from before the Spanish landing/invasion.
Well worth the cost, don't take the shortcut, like we did, plan for the whole day, and we are certain you still won't have time to see everything. Very clean, very efficient, very friendly personnel.
We are giving it a two thumbs up cold beer in the river for you guarantee...
Mahalo
3. Quinta Avenida
Overall Ratings
4 based on 19 reviews
The Five AvenueThe most Important street in Mexico, you can find Shopping, Souvenirs, Jewelry stores,Bars, etc.
Reviewed By Robert F
Huge selections of places to eat and drink and take in various entertainment. Yes, the sales pitches for trips, cigars, massages etc can get tiresome but found if told no thank you they will leave you alone. Fifth Avenida is quite long so be prepared. And watch your step as it is very uneven.
4. Tequila Academy
Overall Ratings
5 based on 84 reviews
Private professional Tequila tasting in Playa Del Carmen at the heart of Riviera Maya in Mexico.
Reviewed By Ga-Snowlady - Atlanta, Georgia
We like Tequila but not experts by any stretch. We learned a lot and Adam was so informative and able to adapt to what one already knows or doesn't. It's great to have an unbiased Tequila snob's point of view. I never knew one Tequila could be so different from another! A refreshing break from the crowded Beaches and tours--don't miss out!
5. Rio Secreto
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Mexico reveals its newly-discovered underground river: Very few places in the world boast conditions that make it possible to witness the extraordinary beauty of an underground river. Rio Secreto is a fantastic journey into a unique system of underground rivers and ancient caverns that reveals both the astonishing interaction of time within the interior of our planet and the miraculous existence of our lives. Come and experience this magical journey with us on your next vacations in Mexico.
Reviewed By Terp1988 - Chicago, Illinois
Wonderful time with my young son - from the moment we met Edson we knew we were in for an adventure. Our guide, Carlos was exceptional. He took great care of our group and paid particular attention to the kids...he is extremely knowledgeable and fluent in both Spanish and English. I can’t type enough regarding just how good he was to both me and my son. Thank you amigo! Be sure to take advantage of the repelling - Dani will take good care as you descend into the sink hole. The picture package is also a must if you want keepsakes of the natural beauty of the cave system.
6. Cenote Chaak Tun
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By fillpolo - Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom
Brilliant place to explore new experience, entrance cost with full package was 500 pesos($ 30 or £20) included ( wet suit, resistant water light, locker and swimming mask plus guide) , my advice it’s great idea take own resistant water camera . Our guide was Abel, his English was very good and knowledge about cenote.
