#free diving playa del carmen

[m-diving]

Exploring the Hidden Wonders: Casa Cenote Diving in Playa del Carmen

Nestled on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, the breathtaking world of cenotes awaits adventurous divers and nature enthusiasts. Among the numerous cenotes that dot the landscape, Casa Cenote in Playa del Carmen stands out as a unique and mesmerizing destination for diving enthusiasts. In this blog post, we'll delve into the wonders of Casa Cenote and why it's a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience.

The Allure of Casa Cenote:

Casa Cenote, also known as Cenote Manatee, is a stunning natural sinkhole that provides divers with a one-of-a-kind adventure. What sets Casa Cenote apart is its intriguing blend of freshwater and brackish water, creating an ecosystem that is home to a diverse array of marine life. The crystal-clear waters and the abundance of underwater vegetation make Casa Cenote a prime location for both novice and experienced divers.

Getting There:

Casa cenote diving is conveniently located just a short drive from the vibrant town of Playa del Carmen. Whether you're staying in Playa del Carmen or nearby Tulum, reaching Casa Cenote is a straightforward journey. Many local dive shops and tour operators offer guided excursions to Casa Cenote, providing a hassle-free way for visitors to experience this natural wonder.

Underwater Marvels:

Once submerged in the refreshing waters of Casa Cenote, divers are treated to a surreal landscape of limestone formations, submerged trees, and vibrant aquatic life. The cenote's unique blend of fresh and saltwater creates an environment where diverse species of fish, turtles, and even manatees can be spotted. The visibility in Casa Cenote is often exceptional, allowing divers to appreciate the intricate details of the underwater world.

Cavern Diving Experience:

For those seeking a more advanced diving adventure, Casa Cenote offers captivating caverns to explore. The underwater cavern system is a series of interconnected passages adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. While cavern diving requires specialized training, certified divers can embark on an unforgettable journey through these subterranean wonders.

Conservation Efforts:

Casa Cenote, like many cenotes in the region, benefits from conservation initiatives aimed at preserving its natural beauty. Local dive operators and environmental organizations work tirelessly to promote sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of Casa Cenote. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to responsible diving guidelines and respect the delicate ecosystem of the cenote.

Cenote diving Playa del Carmen offers a unique and awe-inspiring diving experience for enthusiasts of all levels. From the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to the enchanting cavern systems waiting to be explored, Casa Cenote provides a glimpse into the wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula's underwater world. So, if you're planning a trip to Playa del Carmen and have a passion for diving, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of Casa Cenote.

[stingrayvilla]

Come Discover The Magic Of Passion Island

The Magic of Passion Island

Passion Island is a stunning tropical paradise located off the coast of Mexico. This private island is perfect for a romantic getaway, offering spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea, white sand beaches, and lush green jungles. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or an adventure of a lifetime, Passion Island has something for everyone.

Passion island is also home to world-class amenities and services. The island’s tour operators serve fresh seafood with many local specialties, too. Passion Island’s waters are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing. The surrounding coral reefs and abundant marine life make it a perfect spot for your adventure with a variety of activities, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and jet skiing.

Location of Isla de la Pasión. 

A few years ago, a group of people purchased an island near Cozumel and created it into an eco-resort. Passion Island is a private island in the northern part of Cozumel. It’s called Isla Pasion, which means “passion island,” and it’s located less than 10 miles from Cozumel International Airport.

It is now the most famous beach on the island, with a secluded bay of soft white sand with crystal-clear water at the northernmost tip. In addition, it’s only a short drive from some of the best dive sites in the world, like Barracuda Reef and San Juan Reef.

How to get to Cozumel

Traveling from the United States to Cozumel is a straightforward process. First, you need to purchase a plane ticket from your departure airport to Cancun International Airport (CUN), Mexico. Once you arrive, there are several options to get to Cozumel. The most popular and economical option is to take a bus to Playa del Carmen, a 75-minute drive from Cancun. In Playa del Carmen, you now need to get on a ferry to Cozumel. The ferry ride takes 45 minutes and offers stunning views of the Caribbean. If you do not want to do the “bag drag”, you can also take a direct flight from the United States to Cozumel International Airport (CZM). Once you arrive in Cozumel, you can take the shuttle or rent a car to get to your hotel or destination. When planning your vacation, remember to check the current travel advisories, travel restrictions, and entry requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Transportation from Cozumel to Isla de la Pasión. 

To get to Passion island, you can arrange for pickup at your hotel or your cruise pier depending on your mode of travel. This involves taking a bus from downtown San Miguel to the bay of Isla de la Pasión where you will take a ferry to Isla Pasion. This is the quickest way to get to Passion Island in Cozumel.

You’re going to take the ferry to the island, so it may as well be the package that includes food, drinks, and access to all the water sports and activities on the island. Some of the all-inclusive trips to Passion Island include English-speaking tour guides, round-trip transportation, kids’ activities, babysitters, and an all-inclusive food and beverage service.

If you have a rental car, drive yourself to the ferry at the bay of Isla de la Pasión. The car ride is about half an hour long, and there are quite a few bumps along the way. It is your responsibility to ensure you are insured and permitted to drive this car on this road.

At the Bay, free parking is available and then you can board the small ferry across the bay for the 10-minute ride to Passion Island. The ferries cross a lagoon, not an open sea, so the water is calm. After your visit to Passion Island, you’ll get on the ferry back to Isla de la Pasión bay and drive straight back to Cozumel.

What to do on the island? 

If you’re planning on taking in some sun, then Isla Pasión is the perfect place to go. It has hammocks over the water to rest and cool off a massage area, and a small floating park on the sea with an obstacle course.

If you’re looking for speed, how about jetting off on a ride on a high-speed jet boat? We’re in a high-powered speedboat and we’ll make sharp maneuvers, so you can feel the adrenaline while you’re going toward the private island.

You can’t miss the unmissable activity at Isla Pasión – a kayak tour through Laguna Ciega. While you are kayaking, a guide shows you the species that live there and tells stories of the diverse wildlife in the mangroves, including various birds. The kayak tour lasts one hour and at the end of the tour, you can relax on the beach.

Eating after your Off-Road Adventures

If you’re adventurous and love thrill rides, the Off-road Adventure is the activity for you. It gives you the opportunity to experience thrill rides, all at an affordable price. The day begins by getting a 4×4 jeep to the North Point of Cozumel, then a boat takes you to the island of Passion. You can spend the day at the beach club, where you can lie in a hammock or on a lounger. If you get hungry, you can order à la carte food in the restaurant, or a drink.

[grandresidencesvillas]

Plan Your Vacation and Get Luxury Home Rentals Puerto Morelos

Plan your holiday and stay stress free with luxury home rentals Puerto Morelos. Puerto Morelos in Quintana Roo, Mexico is a small town with a population of nearly 9000 people. It is port town on the Yucatan Peninsula, situated between the Riviera Maya resort of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. The port town is named after Jose Maria Morelos, a revolutionary Mexican Catholic priest who led the Mexican war of Independence. As one of the less known tourist destination, it is untouched by the pollution and its beaches are not crowded. People here enjoy making handmade hammocks, traditional Mexican cloths, and handmade jewellery. There are around 19 underground cenotes in Puerto Morelos, which are accessible by bike or just by track through jungle. Tropical wet and dry climate of Puerto Morelos is perfect for people who are not afraid to get wet.

There are abundant of resorts in Yucatan Peninsula. Therefore, Luxury Home Rentals Puerto Morelos are affordable and luxurious at the same time. Thus, renting a condos, home, villa, or apartment is within the budget of any travel enthusiast. Puerto Morelos vacation villa by owner is facilitated with all high end comfort and technology. Safety and privacy of visitors is one the primary concern of resort owners, with which they never compromise. Apart from the good hospitality and delicious Mexican food, travellers enjoy half-day to two hour snorkel and scuba diving in the naturally formed underwater caves. Luxury Condo Rentals in Puerto Morelos authorities also take care of visitor’s underwater diving, snorkelling and scuba diving gears. Some of the top rated Puerto Morelos Vacation Villa by Owner and luxury home rentals are Suite Stella Marina D5, Ocean view Apt, and Blue Palma. Amenities include, free Wi-Fi, beachfront, free parking, picnic area, outdoor furniture, socket near bed, and bikes.

[laurasbeachfrontcondos]

Make Your Vacation Pleasurable in Playa Del Carmen within Your Budget

Enjoying a pleasurable does sound a bit expensive at first sight. But, you can enjoy it within the range of your affordability in Playa Del Carmen. The reason is that luxury condo rentals in Playa Del Carmen won’t cut a hole in your pocket as they are available at the very best prices. Apart from accommodations, Playa Del Carmen itself is an amazing vacation destination with good weather conditions, attractions and many exciting things to do.

Playa Del Carmen is a magnificent vacation destination with lots of attractions both natural and man-made. The attractions that will make you awe-struck here are Rio Secreto, Cenote Chaak, Quinta Avenida, Kool Beach Club, Ultramar Ferry and Parque Los Fundadores. In terms of activities, you can go for surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. As a foodie, visit La Parrilla Mexican Grill - Playa del Carmen, Ferron's Jerk Chicken and Porfirio's Restaurant.

Regarding accommodations, penthouse condo rentals in Playa Del Carmen are available at affordable prices. If you are coming to this destination for the first time, then it is suggested that you get in touch with one of the best vacation rental by owner. It will be a great help to you and you will be tension-free. You will get to enjoy all the modern amenities in your condo.

All in all, Playa Del Carmen is a pleasurable vacation destination with good weather conditions, attractions and good things to do. Moreover, luxury vacation rental homes are available at the very best prices, You can easily rent any of these rental homes within the range of your affordability.

[fallencomrade-a]

𝐁𝐄𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐊.

     hello  dash !  hope  everyone  has  been  well.  i’ve  finally  returned  from  vacation  and  as  always  -  i  am  super  behind  on  all  my  drafts  and  messages.  thankfully  though  my  muse  is  very  active  and  itching  to  come  out  and  play.  i’m  going  to  dive  into  drafts  now  and  try  and  make  a  dent  in  these  replies  i  owe,  but  i  also  wanted  to  say  hello  to  all  the  new  followers  /  mutuals  that  have  stumbled  across  my  blog.  feel  free  to  jump  into  my  inbox  or  send  an  im  if  you  would  like  to  play  with  my  buckeroo.  plotting  is  always  welcomed  here.  c;  i  also  have  discord  if  mutuals  would  prefer  that.  happy  monday  everyone.  have  a  piccy  of  me  from  vacation  swimming  in  a  mayan  cave  in  playa  del  carmen,  mexico.  

[curatedglobaltravel]

FOUR UNIQUE SANCTUARIES SOUTH OF THE BORDER

MAGIC OF MEXICO

FOUR UNIQUE SANCTUARIES SOUTH OF THE BORDER

There’s nothing quite like the excitement and anticipation that comes from planning your next getaway, and this is especially true if your destination is to our neighbor south of the border. Mexico is infinitely alluring, recalling picture-perfect beaches, airy and stylish resorts, and a vibrant culture packed with irresistible flavor. Open now to U.S. travelers by air, Mexico is uniquely accessible if you've been craving international travel customized to your comforts. Enjoy reading our picks of pristine properties, and get in touch when you're ready to say adios to mundane routines at home and plan your visit to this magical place.

FOUR SEASONS RESORT PUNTA MITA

PUNTA MITA

It's hard to say which is superior at Punta Mita by Four Seasons: the unparalleled Mexican hospitality or its prime location on the Pacific's Bahía de Banderas, one of the world's largest natural bays. What is for certain is that this property is truly one-of-a-kind.  Picture this: You've just stepped into your gorgeous casita overlooking an infinity pool that appears to stretch into the ocean. Pour yourself a margarita and enjoy chips and fresh guacamole while you breathe in the salty ocean air and consider all the possibilities available to you during your stay. You can enjoy world-class snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing, and whale watching. Play golf, tennis, ride horseback on the beach, or even prepare your own tequila blend. Cheers to you for seizing this unforgettable moment in an unforgettable place. At Four Seasons, your fourth night is free so there's no need to leave paradise too soon. Private Perks:

✅Upgrade upon arrival ✅Full daily breakfast for two, ✅$100 resort credit, ✅Early check-in, late check-out, and more

NIZUC RESORT & SPA

CANCUN

Ancient Mayans believed in holistic health, and the body and soul were treated as one. They believed that healing occurs only when there is balance and harmony in one's life, and we can't think of a better place to achieve both than at Nizuc Resort & Spa. This stunning property is situated on 29 secluded acres of Punta Nizuc, a peaceful nature preserve where you can imagine ancient Mayan astronomers who once studied starry night skies. Stylish and luxurious accommodations include private pools, spacious terraces, lush tropical gardens, sweeping views, outdoor showers and free-standing soaking tubs. Feel wholly rejuvenated after visiting the most impressive spa in the Mexican Caribbean, where you can indulge in a variety of holistic spa services, including your complimentary hydrotherapy session included as a private perk. Private perks:

✅Upgrade upon arrival ✅Full daily breakfast ✅One-way airport transfer on arrival ✅Hydrotherapy session for two ✅Welcome amenity (a bottle of tequila and dried fruit) ✅Early check-in, late check-out, ✅Complimentary Wi-Fi, and more

ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA

RIVIERA MAYA

What's better than feeling truly spoiled while on vacation? You'll be in awe from the moment you arrive at Rosewood Mayakoba and step into your private boat transfer. Marvel as you float through tranquil lagoons lined with lush mangroves before arriving at your seriously spacious suite where your personal butler awaits. This five-star resort is just north of Playa del Carmen, and conveniently situated a short distance from ancient Mayan ruins, ecological parks, stunning beaches, and incredible diving in the Great Mayan Reef, the second largest coral system in the world. Private perks:

✅Upgrade on arrival ✅Full daily breakfast for two ✅$100 spa credit ✅Welcome mezcal amenity ✅Early check-in, late check-out ✅Complimentary Wi-Fi, and more

ONE&ONLY PALMILLA

SAN JOSE DEL CABO

Don't let the dramatic jagged coastline of Mexico's Los Cabos peninsula where One&Only Palmilla presides fool you; this sublime property sits atop one of the region's few swimmable beaches and has played host to Ernest Hemingway, John Wayne and President Eisenhower. Accepting reservations now and set to reopen later this year, this is the ultimate Baja retreat and is certainly worth waiting for. If you're seeking an idyllic destination to spend the holidays, look no further. Get in touch to inquire about special rates and private experiences, like intimate dinners in the herb garden and specialty tequila classes.  Private perks:

✅Upgrade on arrival ✅Full daily breakfast for two ✅$150 resort credit ✅Early check-in, late check-out ✅Complimentary Wi-Fi, and more

CONTACT US NOW TO BOOK YOUR NEXT GETAWAY

[topfygad]

The Best Routines and Excursions In The Riviera Maya, Mexico: Boat Journeys, Cenotes, Historical Ruins And Additional!

From testing the historic civilisations of the Mayan individuals, to crusing through the sensible turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and sampling all of the delectable Mexican meals stuff the realm has to produce, it’s time to simply take a search at the perfect excursions, routines and excursions within the Riviera Maya!

Mexico’s Riviera Maya is a Fairly distinctive place for me. It’s during which I purchased my very first appropriate dose of wanderlust! I headed off on my preliminary solo extended haul flight, landed in Cancun, joined a tour, and spent 10 days discovering Mexico.

I’ve explored fairly numerous items of the place about the previous few many years, however it’s the Riviera Maya that pulls me once more time and time yet again. I benefit from the big selection of things to do, the women and men and the views. There’s a feistiness and enjoyable, plus though it’s an easy put to take a look at as a vacationer, there are some extremely real locations additionally.

Cocktail on the seashore entrance in Mexico

So, time to exhibit you round a single of my favorite components of the setting, with a quick info to the perfect issues to do in Mexico’s Rivera Maya.

Examine The Riviera Maya’s Cenotes  

If in case you have by no means ever learn of a cenote, you then definitely haven’t visited the Riviera Maya upfront of! Think about a cave / lake hybrid and that’s kind of what a cenote is like. These outstanding sinkholes are loaded with brilliant blue, crystal crystal clear h2o, and there are round 6,000 of them within the Yucatan Peninsula. They’re thought-about to be sacred, and it’s assumed the Mayans noticed them as the doorway to the underworld.

I discover them unquestionably magical, and though I’ve been to a a number of of the identical varieties in extra of and about, it’s been satisfying exploring and having a dip in new varieties on each of my return visits. There are a substantial amount of Riviera Maya excursions that can purchase you to well-known cenotes like Dos Ojos and Ik Kil. In the event you get the probability though, head to Cenote Xkeken and Cenote Samula. They’re positioned shut to one another and will not be solely a lot much less visited, but in addition fully superb!

Cenote Samula, Mexico

Cenote Xkeken

Alternatively, journey alongside the Ruta De Los Cenotes (involving Playa Del Carmen and Tulum) and you’ll receive quite a few cenotes on both aspect of the freeway.

Take it simple In An All-Inclusive Resort

You will have most likely learn in regards to the outstanding all-Inclusive resorts within the Riviera Maya. For the highest inconvenience-totally free vacation break, you may verify right into a swanky trip resort, feast on tasty meals and shell out your days soothing by the pool, getting half in a variety of entertaining routines or experiencing a daily routine of leisure.

Simply think about all you may eat ice cream? Or pina coladas? Or tacos? Mmmm! Most motels within the location have entry to enticing white sandy seashores, incredible pool places and meals from everywhere in the whole world, so you’ll under no circumstances be bored.

Test Out 1 Of The Journey Parks

There are a couple of fantastic excursions within the Rivera Maya constructed for adrenaline addicts! The one explicit that caught my eye closing time I visited Mexico was XPLOR. I attempt to keep in mind driving down the first freeway and recognizing anybody flying off a tall system on a zipline.

XPLOR is an journey park full of thrilling ziplines, caves and underground rivers. From driving an amphibious automobile by means of rocky, soaked terrain, to exploring an underground river on a floating raft, and hurtling because of the skies on a zipline, it seems like SO an important deal entertaining!

Xplor Cancun

Xplor &#8211 one explicit of essentially the most enjoyable excursions within the Riviera Maya

Benefit from A Boat Trip To Paradise Islands

In the event you’re investing per week having fun with the seashores and sunshine of the Riviera Maya, I’d advocate having at the least a single boat journey. Though there are a number of snorkel and scuba diving excursions, I’d endorse a tour to Cozumel or Isla Mujeres.

The Cozumel ferry leaves from Playa Del Carmen, and solely will take 45 minutes. In the meantime, to reach at Isla Mujeres, you’re going to require to order a working day tour. Most ferry and catamaran excursions contain a finish for snorkelling, lunch and the ferry trip to confirm out the energetic and pleasure islands. As quickly as there, you may recognize the hippie vibes, avenue artwork, and taco stands.

Paradise seashores on Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

If in case you have slightly bit extra time, I’d 100% counsel the holiday to Isla Holbox. It’s actually a single of my favorite locations I’ve been to in Mexico! Extra chilled out and loads much less made than the opposite locations I’ve talked about, it’s a place with the brightest h2o, the best sunsets and a incredible all-round vibe for a couple of days absent from mainland Mexico.

Excellent aerial sights greater than Isla Holbox (taken by drone)

Snorkel With Turtles

There are many prospects to rise up near unimaginable underwater every day life on this location of Mexico. A single of my favourite features from earlier outings has been snorkelling with turtles within the wild. Sadly, there are many superb creatures in captivity within the Riviera Maya, so think about meticulously upfront of scheduling excursions to the waterparks, or experiences involving swimming with dolphins.

Nonetheless, there are a a number of spots I’d endorse going to to get nearer to character.  Head to Akumal (a seaside in between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum) and you may usually location sea turtles swimming, grazing and having fun with the h2o shut to the shore. It’s an unimaginable working expertise to see them within the wild. 

Turtle

Additionally, shut by is Yal-Ku, a lagoon with an abundance of sea creatures. In distinction to the vastly marketed consuming water parks, this can be a completely underrated spot, with inexpensive entry prices, nice visibility and loads of superior fish to rise up shut to!

Learn by Additional: 9 Superb Objects To Do On Your Cancun Vacation

Study The Mayan Ruins At Chichen Itza And Tulum

The most typical Riviera Maya excursions are to the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza and Tulum. This space is brimming with background, with the traditional ruins courting again once more to the seventh Century. While you may&#8217t climb the pyramid at Chichen Itza, you may even now rise up close to to a lot of the monuments. 

Chichen Itza, Mexico

I’ve typically recognized Chichen Itza to be extremely chaotic (bus a great deal of private excursions get there each single hour) so I’d suggest arriving early when you can. I&#8217ve continually found visits to Tulum to be a small much more relaxed. It’s proceed to a typical location, but it surely’s very good to accumulate within the sights of the ruins in direction of a tropical backdrop of the Caribbean Sea. You may even simply take a dip within the h2o to chill off!

Tulum, Mexico

I hope this has introduced you lots of tricks to make your Riviera Maya getaway further particular!

This weblog website submit was sponsored by iberostar.com. As normally, all viewpoints are my possess!

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The write-up The Simplest Routines and Excursions In The Riviera Maya, Mexico: Boat Outings, Cenotes, Historical Ruins And Much more! appeared initially on Wanderlust Chloe.

source http://cheaprtravels.com/the-best-routines-and-excursions-in-the-riviera-maya-mexico-boat-journeys-cenotes-historical-ruins-and-additional/

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The Best Places to Stay in Playa del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Plan your Mexico trip with my advice for the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen (hotels, budget hostels, and resorts) for each unique neighborhood around the city!

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, the Mexican city of Playa Del Carmen was once just a small ferry port for people on their way to the island of Cozumel.

Over the years it grew into a popular beach town in its own right due to a beautiful coastline, tasty Mexican cuisine, sunny weather, and central location along the “Riviera Maya” route.

Playa Del Carmen became a cheaper and less-busy option to Cancun – exploding in popularity in recent years.

Visitors can explore nearby Maya ruins, swim in underground rock pools called “cenotes”, or go scuba diving to see one of the largest reefs in the world.

For those planning a visit and wondering about the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen, I’ve put together this free guide to the city’s best neighborhoods and accommodation options!

Best Places To Stay In Playa Del Carmen

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Playa del Carmen, all-inclusive resorts are typical, however, there are many other accommodation options like smaller hotels and guesthouses if you want to save money.

It’s important to book Play del Carmen hotels early to get the best deals.

Especially if you plan to visit during the winter high season, when finding a good place to stay can be much more difficult.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything from budget backpacker hostels to luxury Playa del Carmen resorts, vacation rentals, local guesthouses, and more — you’ll learn exactly where to stay in Playa del Carmen to have a great time.

Airbnb article for a $35 discount!

Best Neighborhoods In Playa Del Carmen

El Centro “Downtown” Playa

For the typical tourist experience of Playa Del Carmen, El Centro (downtown) is the place for you. This is where all the action is. Stay right on (or close by) La Quinta 5th Avenue for easy walking access to great restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. This is the beating heart of the city.

The North End

North of Avenida Constituyentes is where the city has been growing, and it’s a little more “trendy”. There are more condos and vacation rentals up here than hotels. It’s a bit quieter than El Centro too — but still easily within walking distance to all the nightlife and action on 5th Avenue.

Playacar

Playacar is a residential development just South of Playa del Carmen. It’s split into two “Phases”. Playacar Phase 1 is quieter and more local, with just a few hotels (but some excellent beaches). Playacar Phase 2 is home to a variety of hotels, golf courses, an aviary park, and shopping centers targeted at tourists.

Luxury Resort Area

This area has a handful of luxury resorts for travelers with larger budgets. There are four Mayakoba resorts up here, as well as the Grand Velas. It’s not really walkable from here into the city center, so you’d need to take a taxi or shuttle bus.

Playa del Carmen Hotel Guide

Where To Stay In Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen may be an eclectic mix of the old with the new, but it is still a great destination of any kind of traveler – thanks to the variety available when you come to find a place to stay. So on with the list!

Cheap Hostels In Playa Del Carmen

Hostal MX (El Centro)

Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, Hostal MX is right next to shopping, dining, nightclubs and the beaches. They have access to hammocks, a hot tub, good local transport and free wi-fi. A great place to stay if you’re trying to save money!

Yak Hostel (El Centro)

The Yak Hostel offers a free breakfast to all its guests, with a bathroom for every bedroom and even a charming little book exchange. It’s a simple but pleasant place to stay, close to the beach, and just around the corner from some of Playa del Carmen’s best nightclubs.

Selina Hostel (El Centro)

One of the best things about Selina Hostel is its social atmosphere, including a great outdoor pool area (often with good parties), bar, lounge, and a restaurant with a shared kitchen. The hostel rents out bikes too.

Budget Hotels In Playa Del Carmen

Hotel 52 (The North End)

Hotel 52 is located right in the center of Playa del Carmen with fun decorative touches from the owner, including a rooftop pool and great beach views. They offer massage services and are completely smoke-free for the health-conscious!

Hacienda Real del Caribe (El Centro)

One of my favorite places to stay in Playa del Carmen, it has a very tranquil atmosphere that really lets you escape the noise of downtown. The ornate hotel balconies frame a central swimming pool located right in the middle of the courtyard.

Fiesta Inn Playa del Carmen (The North End)

Despite being a budget hotel, Fiesta Inn has all the luxuries you might expect from a higher-priced place, including air conditioning in every bedroom and private showers. A shuttle to and from the airport is also very convenient.

Mid-Range Hotels In Playa Del Carmen

Reina Roja (El Centro)

Looking for a romantic hotel in Playa del Carmen? Reina Roja is for adults only. Enjoy your free welcome cocktail before settling into one of their very quirky themed rooms or relax in the rooftop pool. Keep an eye out for the creepy mannequins too!

Magic Blue Boutique Hotel (El Centro)

The Magic Blue has a great swimming pool and garden area, along with in-house massage services, and a selection of gourmet restaurants. You get excellent value for your money, with a perfect location only one block away from 5th Avenue.

Hotel Morgana

Hotel Morgana features only 20 rooms, with each paying homage to Mexican history and culture in its design. The whole hotel feels like an immersive piece of historical art, intended to allow guests to experience Mexican culture rather than just observe it. They also have a rooftop terrace, pool, bar, and sea view restaurant.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts In Playa del Carmen

Fairmont Mayakoba – A 5-star all-inclusive resort, Fairmont Mayakoba gives each party their own private terrace, access to water sports and bike hire, and even car hire. When they say all-inclusive, they really do mean it. This resort is one for the luxury-hunters, with every bedroom kitted out with everything from a flat-screen TV to free toiletries. Staff are happy to welcome you in any language, and the on-site restaurant happily caters for all manner of dietary requirements. It’s one of the best-rated locations in Playa del Carmen, and it isn’t hard to see why.

Thompson Hotel – this hotel is great for the fitness fanatics, with an outdoor pool and fitness center available 365 days a year. Every room has air conditioning as well as a complimentary bathrobe, toiletries and a wide variety of included activities. Guests can also enjoy added bonuses as part of their stay, ranging from early morning yoga to tequila tasting – and even Mexican sweets left on their pillow daily.

Hilton Playa Del Carmen – the Hilton Hotel brand is widely accepted as being one of the best, and Playa del Carmen is no different. The hotel is located on the Maya Riviera, right on the beachfront, with every room offering either an ocean or a garden view. One of the highest rated hotels in our research, the Hilton has a hot tub placed in every room, alongside satellite TV, bathrobes and slippers, a proper sound system, free toiletries, and even a premium minibar. Guests don’t even need to leave the resort if they don’t want to, with entertainment available on a daily – and nightly – basis. A real luxury.

Vacation Rentals In Playa Del Carmen

BRIC Hotel and Spa – The BRIC hotel is one of those that makes you feel at home. A small boutique hotel, it offers a concierge service as part of the guest experience, leaving you free to enjoy all the hotel has to offer without lugging around your bags. The hotel advertises its bed linen as some of the best around, with an American breakfast available every day either as room service or in the on-site restaurant. Every room boasts a hammock overlooking the outdoor pool, and guests are free to arrange scuba diving tours and archaeology tours as part of their holiday anytime. And, of course, the beach is never far away!

Enjoy Your Trip To Playa!

So there you go, my roundup of the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen while on vacation.

Playa del Carmen is a perfect place to base yourself in Mexico, and each day will bring something new and entertaining to your trip – whether you prefer a relaxing holiday or a hefty dose of adventure.

Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Car Hire is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.

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READ MORE FROM PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Fun Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen 30 Fun Things To Do In Cancun 15 Things To Do In Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Have any questions about where to stay in Playa Del Carmen? Are you planning a trip to Mexico? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

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Day 15 - Río Lagartos to Tulum, Mexico

We’re on the move.

1. After a 12.30/1am finish last night it was delightful to hear my alarm at 5.50am this morning. Given we were staying at the sea both myself and others wanted to get up for the sunrise at 6am. Heading out of the hotel it was light outside but it was super pretty to watch the sun come up with the day over the course of 20 minutes and always refreshing being by the ocean first thing! Following this we head to breakfast (me having quesadillas) at 7am. Not a bad start to the day. From there we were into the van for the first of our two leg journey.

2. The journey was planned with a stop at Los Colarados (where Kristin and I initially planned to bike yesterday). The drive took a long time so thank god we hadn’t gone through with it! Río Lagartos isn’t a huge tourist place with its main attraction being Los Coloradas. It’s a huge pink lake (I think there’s one also in Melbourne) caused by the shrimp and other sea creatures in the area. It’s also where they get a lot of salt from. During April it’s home to 100’s of flamingos (who go pink due to their diet). It’s on a private property (a salt farm I believe) and is an instagrammers delight. Given we were there it would be rude not to oblige in the classic snaps! You aren’t allowed to touch, let alone swim in the water. Before I went I had looked it up online and there were so many pictures of people in togs so I thought they must’ve swam. Not! Turns out people just get there and take of their kit for the gram. Kinda hilarious to be honest. There was a couple that arrived at the same time as us, who left after us who were crazily snap happy. Each taking 100s is photos in different poses of one another. I was waiting for them to do an outfit change or something it was that serious! Once everyone had their gram we hit the road again.

3. Three hours later and we made it to Tulum! To be honest the worst accommodation we’ve had so far (and the night before was a treat!!). But win some lose some. The hostel had a pool so headed there for a second before making plans for the beach. I’d read online that the area had a seaweed problem and also a random at the hostel mentioned it briefly but Salvador didn’t say anything. Because of this I thought it was possibly an ok time. Boy was I wrong! The whole beach is littered with seaweed. It’s insane, I can’t even describe but there’s pictures below. It must be correct then that it’s from here all the way to Cancun (maybe as low as Playa Del Carmen). Either way a good learning and I won’t be going to a beach again in this area unless I’m certain it’s good. The seaweed even gives a bit of a smell to the beach there’s so much piled up. In hindsight I should’ve gone biking with Ed, Naomi and Diamond!

4. After the bumpiest taxi ride of my life (there wasn’t a spot on the road we went on that wasn’t a pot hole) we made it burrito amor for dinner! Definitely heading in tourist town at the moment but the food was amazing and went down a treat. Then back to the hostel where they had a free drinks hour from 7 till 8. I grabbed a caprioca and then dived straight into the pool. Given the level of decomposing seaweed at beach I was craving being in the water. It had been ages since I’d played in water as well so I was busy doing flips and then doing laps underwater without breathing. Ed asked (kind of competitively) how many I could do. I was trying to compare to mum and dads place where in summer I got to about 3.5 lengths so I was guessing about the same here. I did two easy but wasn’t wearing right togs for it so didn’t try to push further. Turns out it was a competition and he rocked up with goggles and smashed out 4 lengths. He’s probably got 15cms on me but I immediately regretted not actually pushing myself when he first suggested. Inner competitiveness coming out...by then I’d had a bit more capricoa so thought best not to try then as not the best combination. I’m probably going to have to give it a proper go tomorrow.

5. <redacted because I had a rant>. Might post later 😂

Sunrise at Rio Lagartos x2 / Los Colarados x 3 / Paradise beach, Tulum

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Mexico. We know what you’re thinking. Corona and tacos, yes, but also drunk Americans in Cancun for Spring Break. Extravagant beach-side hotels, pool bars serving tequila shots, and big dance clubs to pull all-nighters in. However…

There’s more to Mexico than the package holiday deal

Mexico is so much more than the ‘packaged holiday’ Cancun/Playa Del Carmen experience that so many people choose to have. And the best part is, you don’t have to go too far to find it. And, ladies (and gents), you don’t need to worry about safety in the two places I’ll talk about.

Just keep your wits about you, as you would with any other place that you visit when overseas, and you’ll be perfectly fine.

While known for its party scene, there is so much more to Mexico than spring break. 

How to avoid the tourist trap in Mexico

I wanted to avoid the big hotels, shopping malls and Starbucks, but I did have to fly into Cancun to get to the two bohemian beach spots I’d had my eye on for years. Think Mayan ruins, white sand, turquoise water, caves, jungle, diving, temples, and more.

My first destination was Tulum, an adorably cool little town two hours south of Cancun on the Yucatán Peninsula.

Avoid the tourist hotspots, and instead – enjoy some downtime relaxing in Tulum. 

Getting to the first destination – Tulum

Trust me, Tulum is worth the drive. While the private taxi to get there was a little pricey (around $100 USD), it was definitely worth it to feel safe on the journey there. You can easily book this as soon as you arrive at the airport so you don’t need to do it in advance.

There’s only one company to choose from, and they even give a little bag with water and jalapeno crisps as an added bonus for the drive.

Where to stay in Tulum

There’s two areas where most people stay in Tulum: either the ‘town’ or the ‘beach’ side. I chose the beach end and while it’s probably slightly more expensive, it’s worth it to be close to the ocean. I paid around A$75 per night for a beachside room during my stay.

You can stay right on the beach to be close to the ocean. 

The best way to get around in Tulum

To get around, hire a bicycle and you’ll fit right into the lazy, laid-back vibe of Tulum. Spend the day cycling down the coast, stopping to look at the mysterious Mayan ruins and swimming, of course.

Tulum’s uniqueness is having the beach adjacent to the jungle, with hotels, boutiques, restaurants, juice bars, yoga studios, and markets nestled in between. Oh, and I can’t forget the cenotes.

With bars, cafes and hotels all near to the beach and jungle – Tulum is a total paradise. 

The Cenotes – Mexico’s underwater caves

No visit to Tulum is complete without the ‘cenotes’, Mexico’s stunning, underwater caves. I’d recommend getting an early start when you visit them to avoid the crowds. You can ask your hotel which one is best to visit at the time you’re there for the best advice, and there’s also plenty of local tour guides that can offer you more information.

Get up bright and early to enjoy the quietness of the cenote caves. Image by Lonely Planet

How many days should you spend in Tulum?

I spent 10 days in Tulum, soaking up the beachy, chic energy, steeped in history. It’s the kind of place where you’re not expected to plan anything. Just see what the morning brings and go with the Mexican flow.

There was only one thing that disappointed me about Tulum – the seaweed. Much of the Caribbean is having this issue right now. While the locals do a great job at raking it up, it has given the usually brilliant emerald-green ocean a murky, reddy tone.

This brings me to my next destination: Isle Mujeres.

A balmy evening in Tulum is the perfect getaway. 

Isle Mujeres

While I could have happily stayed in Tulum, I was also looking for that Caribbean island experience. I’d heard great things about three islands: Isla Mujeres, Cozumel and Holbox. I had well and truly settled into the ‘easy goes’ way of thinking, and Isle Mujures was the closest to get to from Cancun – less than a 20-minute ferry ride from the port.

It’s a tiny island, that’s loaded with character. While it’s certainly got some fancy hotels near the main beach (Playa Norte) the quirky, hippie vibe of the island dilutes any commercialism.

Think: Caribbean beach and Playa Norte is it. White sand, that famous sparkling emerald water, palm trees and cocktails. The area between the ferry terminal and Playa Norte is perfect to stay.

Kick back and relax on that famous white sand.

Booking accommodation

I booked all of my accommodation on Booking.com which is my go-to as it’s quick and easy to use. Plus it does give you a few more local and boutique accommodation options compared to other travel websites.

It’s so easy to find delicious and affordable food wherever you go. 

Cuisine options on the Island

Given how small this island is, there are actually hundreds of restaurants to choose from. This means it’s not hard to find cheap yet tasty dishes if you’re travelling on a budget. Delicious A$4 nachos? No worries. Fish tacos with a free Corona? Treezy, breezy, Caribbeaneasy.

The artisan markets in Isla Mujeres are not to be missed.

What you can’t miss in Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres has got those colourful, Cuban-esque streets, artisan markets featuring local wares, with rise-up lights lining these laneways which you should definitely check out on your visit. It also has plenty of opportunities to go diving, not to mention that gorgeous ocean.

If you do just one thing every day, you should watch the sunset. Those Mexican sunsets sure put on a show.

If there’s one thing you have to do – it’s watching a Mexican sunset. 

Do Aussies need a visa for Mexico?

My Mexican fiesta lasted for 14 days, and Aussies don’t need a visa to enter Mexico. Salute!

So, Amigos (and Amiga’s), avoid visiting ‘America’s Mexico’ and set your watch to island time.

Piña colada? Si, si!

  Are you planning a beachside vacation? Where’s the next place on your list?

The post Cancun? Can-miss! Guide to Visiting Mexico appeared first on Snowys Blog.

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Choose Rental Cars Playa Del Carmen for Memorable Vacations

Exploring hidden charms of Mother Nature is certainly the best way of spending your time in leisure way. For those, who are planning to celebrate their holidays in a memorable way, Playa Del Carmen is the best destination – a safe city by day and night where you will find all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay, broadband internet, and phone communications possibilities by credit card or prepaid cards. Rental cars Playa Del Carmen is the best way of enjoying your tour in a memorable way. Here, you will get all types of medical facilities and an option to explore wonderful nightlife. Playa Del Carmen is a destination of excellence to vacation, especially in summer. Its impressive nature makes it a magical place, located in the Riviera Maya. It is characterized by fine white sand and blue-green waters. It is a very quiet area where you can fully enjoy nature. But even if what you are looking for is movement there you will find a myriad of activities aquatic as kayak, jet skis, or you can dive in the wonderful Mayan coral reef. Rental cars Playa Del Carmen is a wonderful option to make your holidays memorable and full of new experience. Playa Del Carmen Car Rental offers you rental cars. Feel free to contact as per your requirement and leave rest of the work on experts working here.

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The Number One Article on Cozumel Margarita Set

If you are a newcomer to Cozumel, you'll find no lack of things to do in Cozumel. Since Cozumel is an established and old cruise port, the assortment of alternatives through the years have swelled to provide cruise guests a lot to contemplate. Cozumel has the makings of a vacation destination that delivers something for everybody in the family. Ever since that time, Cozumel has been a highlight for anybody seeking to dive. Cozumel has it's own edition, where you and your team are not only going to compete, but also receive an opportunity to find a number of the island's greatest sights. Cozumel is by far among the most well-known destinations in cruising.

Carnival fun ships'' have an outstanding itinerary for families and adults only. Moreover, the all inclusive Caribbean cruises too feature onboard experiences like high high quality dining, wonderful entertainment along with well-liked pursuits and clearly, their top class accommodations and support. Everybody knows that cruise ships are large and have numerous crews so as to supply the requirements of each guest.

There are lots of unique accommodations to select from in Cozumel. So you won't lose out on the very best lodging accommodations, make sure that you plan ahead of time and make the necessary reservations ahead of time. The majority of the hotels provide flexible rate options in place of sticking on to a single fixed speed. Or you'll be able to try out a lovely hotel further inland. Hotels are a vital part of a trip to Cancun. Other Options obviously, a condo hotel is just one of the many Playa Del Carmen rentals that you can find.To know additional info visit the website http://bestproducts-4u.com/best-margarita-glasses/

The beach was wonderful, together with the totally free seal show. There are lots of beaches and beach clubs that are attractive to just about everyone. Your vacation is going to be varied and well-spent once you stay at Cozumel Palace. If you're planning your Cancun vacation between March and August, it's also wise to have a product named Safe Sea. A lot of cruise trips is offered from ExpeditionTrips so they will be useful in giving the very best trip experience for their guests. You want to choose an itinerary first.

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Best Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen (On The Riviera Maya)

Things to do in Playa Del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Planning to visit Mexico soon? These are my favorite things to do in Playa del Carmen after living here for over a year. Pretty beaches, cenote swimming, Mayan ruins and more.

Playa del Carmen is a fun beach town on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, part of the classic Riviera Maya route down the coast.

Smaller and less touristy than Cancun, it’s becoming a popular travel destination for people looking for travel experiences that are more substantial than your typical all-inclusive resort.

I spent over a year working and living in Playa del Carmen as a digital nomad.

Lately, friends have been asking for vacation advice about the area — so I wanted to share some my favorite things to do in Playa del Carmen!

Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen

1: Cenote Diving/Snorkeling

Swimming at Cenote Azul

What’s a cenote you ask? It’s an underground cave filled with fresh water. The Yucatan has tons of them — sinkholes that open up into underground rivers with the clearest water you’ve ever seen.

If you have your PADI license, you can go scuba diving in these caves with a guide. Because there’s daylight near the entrance, a more technical cave diving license isn’t required.

Not a scuba diver? No problem. You can also go snorkeling at most cenotes. Some of my favorite cenotes near Playa del Carmen are:

Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Azul

Garden of Eden

Gran Cenote

2: Visit Ancient Mayan Ruins

Coba Mayan Ruins

The ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum are located South of Playa del Carmen in the town of Tulum. Tulum was once a small but important port city that sits on the edge of a cliff, with a beach below where you can swim too.

Because Tulum is so popular, the ruins can be crowded unless you arrive early in the morning. Coba is another Mayan site near Playa del Carmen which sees less visitors. You can even still climb the pyramid there too!

Of course, everyone who visits the Yucatan Peninsula wants to check out Mexico’s most famous ruins, Chichen Itza. This site is a bit further away, about 2 hours by car.

3: Playa Del Carmen Nightlife

Coco Bongo Nightclub

Playa del Carmen’s nightlife is fun, but not quite as crazy as Cancun. It’s a smaller town. However it does have one special nightclub called Coco Bongo that I think is worth a visit.

Part Vegas show, part nightclub, and a bit cheesy — but it’s still one hell of a party.

You’ll see flying acrobats, blockbuster movie characters, and rock-star impersonators take the stage in turns throughout the night while you drink from a giant plastic cup full of alcohol.

Every ticket includes full open bar all night, so take plenty of photos because you probably won’t remember what happened the next day!

4: Swimming With Sea Turtles

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles at Akumal

Who doesn’t want to swim with sea turtles? I’ve always wanted to, that’s for sure. I got my chance at Akumal beach, 30 minutes South of Playa del Carmen.

The shallow blue-green water here is home to Green, Hawksbill and Loggerhead sea turtles that you can swim with.

To visit Akumal, the cheapest way is to take a colectivo taxi headed for Tulum from the stand located on Calle 2 Norte between Avenida 15 and 20 in Playa del Carmen. Tell them you want to get off at Akumal.

From the highway, it’s a 5-minute walk to Akumal Bay. Bring your own snorkeling gear, life jacket or rent some there. Swimming with the turtles is free!

5: Self-Guided Taco Tour

El Fogon Tacos are Tasty!

Hey, it’s Mexico. Mexican food in the Yucatan is cheap & delicious. There are a few special restaurants in Playa del Carmen I want to share with you.

If you’re looking for some authentic tacos, check out El Fogon. It’s a hangout for local taxi drivers. The place is super basic with plastic chairs and Mexican Idol blaring on the TV, but order 3 or 4 tacos pastor, a cold beer, and you’ll be in heaven.

Another great option for tacos is Don Sirloin. Their taco sauces are the best! My favorite is the jalapeno and pineapple one…

Don Sirloin has two locations, one on 10th Avenue between 12th Street and 14th Street and another on Constituyentes Avenue at the corner of 25th Avenue (next to Mega).

6: Salsa Dancing At Zenzi

Zenzi is a beach bar and restaurant, located right off the sand in Playa Del Carmen. While of course the food and drink here is great, the real attraction is the salsa dancing!

Every Saturday night a live salsa band plays as guests and visitors join in or simply watch as local dancers show off their best moves on the dance floor.

7: Boat Trip To Cozumel

Beautiful Beaches of Cozumel

Cozumel is a small island off the coast of Playa del Carmen known for it’s pristine beaches. Normally a stop for cruise ships, you can take a 45-minute ferry over on your own from Playa del Carmen for about $13 USD.

An easy & cheap day trip is renting a scooter and driving it around the island where all the best beaches are. Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can try hitchhiking around the island instead.

As long as there isn’t a cruise ship in port, you’ll have those white sand beaches to yourself. Plenty of stops on the way for lunch & photos. Jump on the last ferry back to Playa del Carmen around sunset.

8: Parque Fundadores

Playa del Carmen’s Parque Fundadores

Parque Fundadores, or the “Founding Fathers Park”, is a public park in Playa del Carmen just north of the Cozumel ferry terminal along the beach with entertainment for the whole family.

While a playground entertains children, adults can take a stroll down the beach and check out the Portal Maya statue, sitting over 50 feet tall.

You might also catch a Papantla Flyer’s (Voladores de Papantla) performance in the park. A spectacular acrobatic show of men swinging from a 90ft pole by their feet! Please remember to tip them too!

9: Ride A Colectivo

Colectivo Public Taxi Vans

You can’t visit Playa del Carmen without using a Colectivo (group taxi). You’ll see these vans cruise down the street picking up locals. It’s an interesting (and confusing) experience if you’ve never tried it before.

They stuff as many people as possible into these things, and rides can cost less than $1.

Destinations are written on the windshield, but if you don’t know the names, it won’t make much sense. A good place to start is by grabbing one at the Colectivo station on Calle 2 Norte from Playa del Carmen to Akumal beach (mentioned earlier).

Remember to tell the driver where you’re going! It’s cheap, fun, and will push you out of your comfort zone a bit.

10: Go Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a great place to base yourself if you’re a scuba diver. Along with all the cool cenote cave diving areas I mentioned earlier, there are some decent reefs nearby too.

A few of the most popular are Pared Verde Ledge and Tortugas near Playa del Carmen itself, Gorgonians down near Akumal, Palancar Reef and Santa Rosa Wall off the coast of Cozumel.

There are tons of dive shops and schools in and around town, so if you’ve always wanted to get your PADI open water diving certification, Playa del Carmen is a great place to do it!

11: Hit The Beach!

Best Beaches in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen’s beaches have been hit be erosion pretty badly over the past few years, and frankly the beaches down in Tulum are a lot nicer, however, you can still find a spot to soak up the sun while enjoying a fruity drink.

Mamitas Beach

One great place to lay out in the sun is Mamitas Beach Club. You can rent lounge chairs with umbrellas, go jet skiing, parasailing, or take a sailboat ride. This is kind of the “party” beach where people go to be seen.

Playacar Beach

Another good beach is in front of Playacar Phase 1 Community. While the gated community is private, the beach is public. Just walk a few minutes South from the Cozumel Ferry Pier. Fewer tourists, more sand, and just a nicer beach. There are no services out there — bring your own food/beverages.

Punta Esmeralda Beach

This is a busy public beach at the far North end of Playa del Carmen, with more locals than tourists. At Punta Esmeralda there’s a limestone sinkhole/cenote that’s connected to the ocean that acts as a protected swimming spot for kids.

12: Walk Playa’s Famous 5th Avenue

Walking 5th Ave in Playa

You can’t visit Playa del Carmen and miss walking down “La Quinta”, aka 5th Avenue. It’s the main walking-street lined with all manner of shops, beach bars, and restaurants.

The cobbled-stoned street is where you’ll find most of the city’s nightlife. It’s a lot of fun to find a bar or cafe, sit down, and watch the (sometimes strange) parade of people walk by.

You can spend hours wandering down the street, stopping into touristy shops, cafes, and trying different vegan smoothies. At night, street performers line the sides dressed in costumes, or breakdancing for tips.

13: Rooftop Pool At Be Playa

After a busy day exploring the sights of Playa Del Carmen, what better than a cocktail while lounging by the pool.

Unlike many of the rooftop pools in the area, the Be Playa pool champions a laid-back atmosphere and provides a welcome escape from the loud music of the surrounding hotels.

Attracting many locals and expats for this reason, Be Playa’s rooftop is small but cozy and a real treat after a long day.

14: Xpuha Beach Day Trip

South of Playa del Carmen, but before Tulum, there are two great beaches that make for a great day trip away from the larger crowds.

A 20-minute drive will bring you to Xpuha Beach; a stretch of beautiful white sand lies interspersed with beach bars and restaurants.

The beach entry fee is 50 pesos, and you can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkeling equipment, and kayaks here too.

15: Relax At Xcacel Beach

Beautiful Xcacel Beach!

A bit further south you’ll find Xcacel, one of my favorite beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula. The ocean is a bit rougher than at Xpuha, but there’s also a freshwater cenote to cool off in.

May-October is sea turtle nesting season, and some areas of the beach may be roped off to protect buried turtle eggs. If you’re a good swimmer, there is some decent snorkeling on the North side of the beach.

The entry fee for this beach is 10 – 20 pesos (for sea turtle protection). This remote beach doesn’t really have many services, although there are bathrooms.

16: Alux Cave Restaurant

Restaurant in a Cave?

For an upscale dining experience, check out Alux, the restaurant built inside an underground cave!

Aluxes are supernatural spirits who protect Mexico’s sacred places.

Colored cave lights created a mysterious atmosphere, while waterfalls set the tone for a romantic evening.

After dinner, make sure to ask for a quick cave tour, because the whole complex is MUCH bigger than it first looks! You may even see a bat or two flying around.

17: Frida Kahlo Museum

Frida Kahlo is one of those artists you either know or you don’t. A local icon in Mexico, Frida created portraits and self-portraits inspired by the nature and artifacts of Mexico; mixing realistic images with fantasy.

The museum doesn’t contain any original works of art, but it does embrace the life and works of Frida Kahlo; giving visitors a chance to learn about her controversial art through photos, videos, diagrams, and collages.

Everything is very artistic and colorful, right through to the inevitable tourist gift shop, and it’s worth a visit if only for a little while!

18: Eat Some Street Elote

What is elote? Elote is essentially corn-on-the-cob, roasted on an open grill with a decadent coating of salt, chili powder, butter, lime juice, cotija cheese and mayonnaise.

Elote is referred to as Mexican Street Corn, famous for its sweet and smoky flavors with a salty hit as you bite through the outside, and found at many Mexican grills, or street food carts.

The best elote in Playa del Carmen can be found sold from carts on the main drag of Avenida Benito Juarez — especially in the evenings.

19: Rent A Jet Ski

Racing Jet Skis off Mamita’s Beach!

I’m sure we don’t need to do much convincing here – who doesn’t want to whizz around on a jet ski as part of their holiday? Particularly when the location is as stunning as Playa Del Carmen!

Mamitas beach is probably the best place to rent one to drive it like you stole it. The flat seas make for a speedy and exhilarating ride, making jet ski hire well worth the cost!

20: Take A Sailing Trip

Take a Sailing Trip off the Coast

From booze cruises to full-day sailing tours, the opportunities for getting out on the water are never-ending in Playa Del Carmen.

While the booze cruises are great for spring breakers, I prefer more relaxing trips to coral reefs for snorkeling. For the most romantic option, there’s also sunset trips.

21: Ocean Paragliding

Ocean paragliding is a hugely popular activity in Playa Del Carmen, with many boats ready to pull their passengers through the sky over the ocean.

Take off can be quite a bumpy ride, once you’re up in the air paragliding is one of the most serene and peaceful experiences on the busy beaches of Mexico.

As a bonus, paragliding gives you an excellent view of the coastline from above. Great for photos if you have a waterproof camera!

22: Sunrise Stand Up Paddle Boarding

You still haven’t seen the ocean in its true beauty until you do a sunrise paddle board session. The Aloha Paddle Club offers sunrise sessions for mixed groups.

Paddleboarding is available for all levels and abilities, with instructors present to provide guidance to anyone who may need it. An incredible way to appreciate the sunrise!

23: Grab An Acai Or Quinoa Bowl

Bio-Natural is an organic store and vegetarian restaurant, with plenty of vegan offerings and healthy options. It’s extremely popular in Playa.

Their fruit bowls are made fresh from scratch you can be sure that any dietary requirements you have will be taken care of. They also have some awesome cold-pressed juices.

Bio-Natural is worth a visit – particularly for the health-conscious! I often came here for breakfast, choosing the healthy & hearty quinoa bowl with a glass of carrot juice.

Where To Stay In Playa Del Carmen

Playa has become a popular tourist hub for travelers to base themselves while exploring the Yucatan Peninsula. If you’re wondering where to stay in Playa del Carmen, here are my recommendations depending on your budget.

Best Accommodation In Playa del Carmen

BUDGET Hostal MX

MID-RANGE Reina Roja

LUXURY BRIC Hotel & Spa

FREE AIRBNB COUPON CODE! Have you ever considered short-term apartment rentals? It’s a great way to save money! Click here to learn how to get $35 off your first booking.

Playa Del Carmen Tips & Advice

If you’re looking for a good time, want to know about best things to buy in Mexico and want something different than Cancun, you really can’t go wrong by basing yourself in Playa del Carmen to explore the best of what the Yucatan Peninsula has to offer. ★

Travel Planning Resources For Playa Del Carmen

Packing Guide

Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Pick up a travel backpack, camera gear, and other useful travel accessories.

Book Your Flight

Find cheap flights on Skyscanner. This is my favorite search engine to find deals on airlines. Also make sure to read how I find the cheapest flights.

Rent A Car

Discover Car Hire is a great site for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

Book Accommodation

Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent apartments from locals on Airbnb. Read more about how I book cheap hotels online.

Protect Your Trip

Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.

Recommended Guidebook: Lonely Planet Yucatan Suggested Reading: The Maya: Ancient Peoples & Places

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READ MORE FROM MEXICO

Best Of The Yucatan Peninsula Tips For Visiting Mayan Ruins Of Tulum How Much Does Traveling Mexico Cost? Chichen Itza: Mexico’s World Wonder Highlights & Things To Do In Cancun

Have any questions about things to do in Playa del Carmen? What about other suggestions? Drop me a message in the comments below!

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

from Tips For Traveling https://expertvagabond.com/playa-del-carmen-things-to-do/

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How To Experience Playa del Carmen In Style

Ideally located on the shores of the Mayan Riviera, about an hour south of Cancun and a short ferry ride from Cozumel, Playa del Carmen is fast becoming one of Mexico’s trendiest destinations.

Once a sleepy fishing village, Quintana Roo’s third largest city is now attracting vacationers with an eclectic beach scene, upscale restaurants, and a sophisticated European flair. The town’s dazzling white sands make for postcard perfect beach days, while the surrounding brilliantly turquoise waters brimming with sea life allow for outstanding diving and snorkeling adventures.

If you’re looking for a chic, laid-back Mexican vacation, Playa is your spot. Here’s a quick guide to exploring this sunny cosmopolitan beach town in style.

Shop along Fifth Avenue

Locally known as Quinta Avenida, the hip and happening Fifth Avenue is Playa del Carmen’s main dining, shopping, and entertainment district. The 5-km-long walkway runs parallel to the beach and is jam-packed with fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and characterful artisan shops, selling everything from leather goods and hand-painted ceramics to beautiful Mayan tapestry.

One of the coolest establishments along this lively cobblestone street is Prison Art, a funky designer store specializing in unique leather bags tattooed by artists who are currently prisoners in Mexican jails.

Furthermore, the high quality arts and crafts on display at both Caracol Purpura (near 14th Street) and Sol Jaguar (4th Street and 6th Street) make for inspiring gifts or souvenirs, while La Bikineria offers the ultimate in stylish beachwear.

Sip cocktails at stylish beach clubs

Make the most of Playa del Carmen’s beautiful, sun-drenched shores and laze the day away at a beach club. Whether you’re looking for fresh, delicious food, a party atmosphere, or a chill-out spot to unwind while basking in the sun, this boho-chic Mexican resort has you covered.

A legendary destination to enjoy cocktails with friends as smooth electronic beats pump in the background is Mamitas. Known for its fashionable tropical atmosphere and highly anticipated music events, the queen of Playa’s beach clubs comes complete with plush lounge beds, a champagne bar, and an upscale restaurant.

For a welcoming change of scene, head to Blue Venado, an eco-chic beach club about 8 km south of Playa del Carmen, along the Riviera Maya. With its charming modern-meets-rustic vibe and sprawling natural beach area facing the sparkling azure Caribbean Sea, this is one of the coast’s most idyllic settings to spend the day sunbathing, indulging in delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and taking in the unspoilt natural beauty of the Mexican Caribbean.

Stay in an upscale rental

Experience Playa del Carmen like a local without having to compromise on amenities with a stay at an upmarket vacation rental. This will allow you to fully customize your experience in order to fit your needs, tastes, and lifestyle. You'll have a well equipped kitchen to cook delicious meals and ample space to stretch out and relax, not to mention free Wi-Fi and laundry facilities – all for considerably less than you’d pay for a luxury hotel room.

If this sounds like your cup of tea, then your next home away from home is waiting for you at BRIC Vacation Rentals, Playa del Carmen’s premier provider of vacation rental properties and travel services.

Established in 2005, this reputable, locally based company manages over 150 condos, penthouses, and high-end residences in the area, which means finding that perfect retreat to spend your vacation couldn't be easier. What’s more, your stay comes with lots of perks, including maid service, a prepaid local cell phone to use during your trip, as well as assistance from their professional concierge staff.

Have fun at Xcaret

Located in the heart of Riviera Maya, between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Xcaret is the area’s most popular eco-archaeological park. A wonderland of underground rivers, ancient ruins, and deep Mayan jungles teeming with wildlife, this amazing theme park brings the best of Mexico together, offering visitors countless opportunities to immerse themselves in the culture, history, and unique natural beauty of this mysterious land.

Soak up the sun on pristine beaches, snorkel in a calm, crystal-clear lagoon, or swim with dolphins. You’ll also find a variety of jungle trails, archaeological sites, and natural bird/animal sanctuaries to explore, as well as a whole range of cultural activities to partake in. Highlights include Xcaret Mexico Espectacular – a voyage through the folklore and traditions of various Mexicans regions, and the Horse Exhibition - a colorful show combining traditional music with elements of Mexican horsemanship.

Take a cultural day trip to Valladolid

For a dose of culture therapy, take a day trip to Valladolid. This picturesque colonial city lies 130 km northwest of Playa del Carmen and provides an idyllic escape from the bustling Riviera resorts.

Once here, sample authentic Mayan chocolate at Cacao Chocolate Factory, cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystalline Cenote Zací downtown, and pay a visit to the stupendous Casa de los Venados to see the nation’s largest private collection of Mexican folk art.

Valladolid is also known for its fabulous food – deeply rooted in Mayan tradition, and distinctively colonial architecture, so a walk down its narrow cobbled streets lined with pastel colored haciendas is a must.

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Creating the title sequence

The first part I made was the final title shot as I felt it was the most important and I was intrigued to find out what was achievable for me personally as someone who has not animated before. I found an online tutorial on youtube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ6fShUxtoo) which showed me how to create the underwater environment with effects such a fractal noise on separate solid layers and the picture of the sky (VDODNA, 2017). I used this  as a great starting base for my final shot and was beyond what I expected myself to be able to create. Once I had made this it looked very cartoony so I altered the effects to be how I wanted them, for example reducing the softness on the glass effect made the sea level layer appear much more true to life. I also changed the image in the background to a lighter one and made the water more of a vibrant blue and the seabed a brighter yellow like sand so it would look more like the exotic settings the show would be exploring. From the lectures with Mikayla I knew how to make some particle effects and had played around with them so I added subtly particles in the background to look like floating particles much like you would get in the real world. Adding the title was obviously a key part to this and I knew I wanted it to move with the sea and eventually past the camera. I also using similar techniques to the particles I added bubble to the title as though it was giving off a lot off air much like a scuba diver does as they swim around. 

The three individual introductions, I created separately so that the effects did not interfere with one another. I used similar techniques for all three utilising the 3d camera tracker which allowed me to make the text part of the environment and then manipulated that text to be just that. I retrospectively added the overlay mode later as I used it while making ‘Brooke’s’ intro to blend it more with the water and then found I liked how the effect worked on all 3. The trickiest part was adding masks to these shots by duplicating the video layer on top and drawing masks around the shapes I wanted to be in front of the text, for example in the Elizabeth animation, I had to draw a mask around her body which moves throughout therefore I had to said many keyframes every couple of frames to keep up with this fluid movement. it was much easier to draw masks for smaller inanimate details such as the rocks to the left interrupting the shadow/reflection in the water.

The final part I created was the initial introduction. This was because the others required fairly strict parameters of what the footage included and so I saw this section as a chance to include footage which introduces themes that had not been touched on yet, which as Antonio pointed out to me, so far I was lacking the key component to the show which is scuba divers. I again used similar techniques with the 3d camera tracking as the other introductions but like with the Brooke title I added extra effects such as the light rays which move hit the camera through the letters as the camera pans down to the divers. I feel this movement really includes the text within the atmosphere and also grabs the attention of the viewer to look at what is going on on their screen. 

Once I had created the animations I then put them altogether in a final after effects file. I created transitions between all the clips which I had planned to do so early on to create movement between the clips, as each one shows a different location, I feel this movement really captures the sense of travel which, again, is another key part to how the show will pan out. I created the transition simply by using transform and RepeTile effect which allowed me to use key frames to repeat the images in any direction and then scroll in that direction with the position. I made this transition to really create the sense of motion. Also to make some of the transitions smoother, on the shots I zoomed in on certain areas of the shot which shared colour with the next shot coming in so it wasn't so abrupt, for example, zooming into the orange car seat as it transitions to the shots of ‘Elizabeth in the sunset.’ Before I did this the transitions appeared clunky and abrupt. I created this zoom animation by making the base footage a 3D layer as a pre composition, then adding a null object and a camera which I zoomed into the areas that matched the next shot.

Once I had put it all together as one full video I then added the soundtrack which I had settled on early in the process as the song titled, ‘Beyond the sea,’ by Bobby Darin. I added effects to this again to really bring some character to the title sequence as when the images move underwater so does the sound, making the audience feel like they are actually there. 

References:

Bobby Darin - Beyond the sea. (2007). [video] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8OlDPqYBLw [Accessed 10 Mar. 2019].

Bucket list family (2018). 5 YR OLD FREE DIVES THE BLUE HOLE!! /// WEEK 105 : Great Blue Hole, Belize. [video] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ja4Mp6y2ovU [Accessed 4 Mar. 2019].

High on life (2019). Scuba diving the longest underwater river system | Yucatan Peninsula, Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. [video] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Key-3wbLq7M [Accessed 26 Feb. 2019].

Rolls Royce Motor Cars (2015). Introducing Rolls-Royce Dawn. Experience open-top driving like never before.. [video] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nx4bkvqoU4U [Accessed 26 Feb. 2019].

VDODNA (2017). Seabed Under-water After Effects Tutorial. [video] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ6fShUxtoo [Accessed 12 Feb. 2019].

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Mama Viña by photographymyl