We first visited Mexico a few years ago, and ever since, we’ve been eager to return. Mexico is much more than just its famous margaritas, tacos, and stunning white sandy beaches. It’s a vibrant country brimming with rich culture, fascinating history, world-renowned cuisine, and endless activities. On our most recent trip in March—a fantastic time for good weather and sun —we explored the best of Playa del Carmen, along with memorable stops in Tulum and Bacalar. This comprehensive guide to Playa del Carmen covers everything from where to stay and dine to the top attractions and hidden gems to make the most of your visit.
We flew direct from London to Cancun with British Airways. The flight takes approximately 10 hours, and thanks to the time difference, we arrived in the morning feeling ready to explore. While our main goal was to experience the magic of Tulum, we decided to make the most of our journey by spending two days in Playa del Carmen first. Conveniently located just an hour’s drive from Cancun Airport, Playa del Carmen is the perfect starting point to soak in the vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen: Reef 28 - Adults Only Hotel
We chose to stay for 3 nights at Reef 28 - Adults Only Hotel in Playa del Carmen, and it was an excellent choice for a central location. The hotel is right in the heart of Playa del Carmen, just steps away from lively bars, diverse restaurants, and the buzzing Fifth Avenue.
Travelling with two friends, we stayed in a Deluxe Junior Suite that featured two spacious double beds, a comfortable seating area, and a private balcony. The room size and modern decor exceeded our expectations, and we found the staff to be welcoming and attentive.
One of the best parts of Reef 28 was definitely the rooftop pools. Thanks to jetlag, we experienced serene sunrises from the rooftop, enjoying a morning swim with breathtaking views before the crowd arrived. The vibe completely transforms in the afternoon, turning into a vibrant pool party scene with a live DJ and multiple bars—perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. We did notice a good mix of bachelor and bachelorette parties, adding to the fun, social environment.
Another highlight was the hotel's breakfast buffet. The selection was fantastic, offering everything from sweet and savory options to made-to-order omelettes. We looked forward to starting our day with a hearty and delicious breakfast.
The hotel also features a spa with a pool that requires an additional fee. We checked it out but ultimately preferred soaking up the sunshine at the rooftop pool.
Top Places to Eat in Playa del Carmen: Must-Try Restaurants
When you arrive in Playa del Carmen, you'll quickly notice the vibrant culinary scene, with bars and restaurants lining every street. Whether you're craving authentic Mexican cuisine or international flavors, the dining options are endless. Here are some of our favourite spots and the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen that you won't want to miss!
Porfirio's: A Must-Visit Dining Experience in Playa del Carmen
Porfirio's is one of the top restaurants in Playa del Carmen, ideal for an unforgettable dinner. This lively spot combines fantastic food, vibrant music and exceptional service to create a memorable dining experience. Some standout dishes include the mouthwatering corn appetiser, expertly cooked steak served on a hot stone, crispy squid and fresh salmon ceviche. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends, Porfirio's is a must-visit for anyone wanting to indulge in the best flavours of Playa del Carmen.
La Perla Pixan Cuisine & Mezcal: A Hidden Gem for Authentic Mexican Flavors
La Perla Pixan Cuisine & Mezcal is a must-visit restaurant in Playa del Carmen, perfect for lunch. Renowned for serving the best guacamole and refreshing spicy margaritas, this eatery offers a vibrant menu that showcases the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. We indulged in a variety of ceviche, each dish bursting with freshness and flavor. Be sure to bring cash, as the card machines may not always be operational. For a taste of authentic Mexican culinary artistry in a relaxed atmosphere, La Perla Pixan is an exceptional choice that should not be missed during your visit to Playa del Carmen.
La Vagabunda: Enjoy a Casual Mexican Dinner with Live Music in Playa del Carmen
La Vagabunda is the perfect spot for a laid-back Mexican dinner in Playa del Carmen, offering a lively atmosphere. Known for its delicious margaritas and flavourful nachos, this restaurant provides a fun dining experience where you can enjoy your meal while soaking in the vibrant ambiance. With live music enhancing the atmosphere, La Vagabunda is an excellent choice for those looking to savor authentic Mexican cuisine while people-watching in a bustling setting. Whether you’re dining with friends or enjoying a night out, La Vagabunda guarantees a memorable evening filled with great food and entertainment.
Top Beaches in and Around Playa del Carmen: Your Guide to the Best Coastal Spots
Playa Punta Esmeralda: The Best Beach Near Playa del Carmen
Playa Punta Esmeralda is a hidden gem located just a short walk from the bustling centre of Playa del Carmen. This beautiful beach quickly became our favorite spot due to its tranquil atmosphere, pristine sands, and clear waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. Although it offers a serene escape from the crowds, it’s advisable to bring your own food and drinks, as the beach has limited amenities, with only a couple of small stands selling cold beverages (cash only). Enjoy a relaxing day at Playa Punta Esmeralda, where you can soak up the sun in peace while still being conveniently close to the town.
Akumal Beach: A Popular Spot for Snorkeling Near Playa del Carmen
We saw stunning photos of Akumal Beach, which prompted us to take a 30-minute taxi ride to check it out. Located within a national park, there is an entrance fee of about $6 (USD). Upon arrival, we found the public section of the beach to be quite crowded, which detracted from the serene atmosphere we had hoped for. While the private areas are reserved for hotel guests, the public side was bustling with visitors. The sea was filled with snorkelers eager to catch a glimpse of the turtles that the area is famous for. If you don’t mind the crowds, it’s still worth a visit for the beautiful scenery and the chance to snorkel in this popular location.
Exploring Cozumel Island: A Must-Do Day Trip from Playa del Carmen
One of the top activities for travellers visiting Playa del Carmen is a day trip to Cozumel Island. Initially, we considered staying on Cozumel, but ultimately chose to experience the town of Playa del Carmen instead. A quick 30-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling. This day trip is perfect for those looking to explore the island without committing to an overnight stay.
How to Get to Cozumel Island from Playa del Carmen: Ferry Tips and Travel Guide
Travelling from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel Island is easy and convenient, with regular ferries operating daily. We took a short walk from the town centre to the ferry port, where we encountered several individuals offering tickets. To ensure a safe purchase, I had previously read that it's best to buy tickets directly from the ferry terminal to avoid the risk of counterfeit tickets. Two reputable ferry companies operate from this terminal, both providing service to the same destination. Ferries depart for Cozumel every hour, and a round-trip ticket costs approximately $20 USD (or 500 Pesos). The ferries are spacious and comfortable, offering passengers the option to sit inside or outside, with refreshments and snacks available for purchase during the journey.
Exploring Cozumel: Best Ways to Get Around the Island
You can walk around the main town of Cozumel, but to get to the main beaches, they are quite far so walking isn't really an option. There are a few options for getting around Cozumel including taxis, renting a bike or another vehicle. We decided as we were only there for a few hours to get a taxi. There are loads of taxis as you exit the ferry, but be sure to ask how much your journey is going to be before you get in.
Isla de la Pasión: A Secret Paradise Near Cozumel
We visited Cozumel with one goal: to find a beautiful, serene beach where we could unwind for the day. After doing some online research, we stumbled upon Isla de la Pasión, a secluded paradise just off the coast of Cozumel. The island was perfect for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and soaking up the stunning surroundings—a much-needed escape to recover from jet lag. If you plan to visit, be sure to pack some snacks and drinks, as the island is quite remote and amenities are limited.
Your Guide to Travelling from Cozumel to Isla de la Pasión
We grabbed a taxi right from the Cozumel ferry port and told the driver we were headed to Isla de la Pasión. Luckily, he knew exactly where to go. The ride took about 25 minutes and he dropped us off at a small fishing pier, the launch point for a quick boat ride to the island.
A helpful tip: make sure to arrange a pick-up time with your taxi driver since there aren’t many taxis in the area, and phone service can be spotty.
Although the trip may seem complicated, it was surprisingly simple and totally worth it once we arrived!
Hemmingway Lounge & Restaurant, Cozumel: Where to Eat and Drink
We discovered Hemmingway Lounge & Restaurant while heading back from the beach and decided to stop for a late lunch before catching the ferry back to Playa del Carmen. This seaside restaurant did not disappoint. The food was delicious, and the beachside setting made it the perfect ending to the day. Hemmingway Lounge is perfectly positioned on the sand, so you can savour your meal with ocean views, sip cocktails, and even go for a swim. If you're into snorkelling, the waters here are excellent for exploring.
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