Located South of Cancun and the center of the Mayan Riviera, Playa Del Carmen is often referred to as the European Cancun. Over the years Cancun has been servilely overwhelmed by the tourism industry and Playa Del Carmen has become the more relaxing alternative. There are not as many nigh clubs here but there are plenty of other reasons why you should visit this tropical paradise.

Things to do in Playa del Carmen

Downtown Playa

The most popular spot in Playa Del Carmen goes by the name of Quinta Avenida or “5^th avenue.” Quinta Avenita is a cobblestone, pedestrian only street that is lined with restaurants, bars, all plenty of shopping.

Enjoy the Playa Del Carmen weather

The weather in Playa Del Carmen is great all year round but the best time to visit is between April and June.

Nightlife

Playa del Carmen is not as wild as its neighbour Cancun but its definitely a great experience. The restaurants in the area usually close around 10pm but the clubs will rage till around 6 following morning. The best clubs in Playa Del Carmen are the ones on the beach so don’t dress up too much. Enjoy =)

Visit the Cenotes

The Yucatan peninsula of Mexico is famous for its Cenotes. A Cenote is a underground fresh water pool formed naturally by sinkholes in the ground. Cenotes vary in size but are they are known to run for miles underground, which make it a really cool place to swim. There are plenty of Cenotes in the area but I would only recommend swimming in the cenote with a local or a guide.

Playa Del Carmen Resorts

Like its neighbour to the north Cancun, Playa Del Carmen is famous for its all inclusive resorts. The all inclusive resorts are a must try when you come to this part of the world. Enjoy =)

Located a few miles north of Playa Del Carmen are the famous, all inclusive Cancun Resorts. Cancun is famous for its beautiful coastlines and party atmosphere, which make it a top destination for young people all over the world. There are so many things to do in Cancun. You can take a day trip to the Island of Cozumel and race Quads or simply relax and enjoy the warm Cancun weather from the beach, either way you will enjoy your visit.

Things to do in Cancun

Tulum

Famous for its ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum is home one of the most popular cultural attractions in Cancum. Tulum features well preserved Mayan temples that were constructed over centuries located right along the coastline.

Night Clubs

No trip to Cancun can be complete without at least one night of clubbing. Cancun offers a party atmosphere that will compete with any big city in the world. Most of the best nightclubs in Cancun can be found in the hotel zone.

Moon Palace Cancun

I haven’t been here yet but playing a round of golf at the Moon Palace Cancun Resort is definitely on my bucket list. This is probably the most coveted place to stay in Cancun but its very expensive, especially during the high season.

Cozumel Island

Cozumel is a tropical island paradise located just off the shores of Cancun and Playa Del Carmen. Take a ferry to the island and explore the nature of Cozumel by Quad. There are many tour companies that offer day trips to the island so check with your accommodation to inquire about prices and packages.

Playa Del Carmen

Located south of the Cancun Resorts, Playa Del Carmen is touted as the European Cancun. I have been to both Cancun and Playa Del Carmen and have only good things to say about each of them but if I had to pick a favorite it would definitely be Playa Del Carmen. As much fun as it is in Cancun, it’s a little too heavy on the cheap vodka. On the other hand Playa Del Carmen offers you equal parts party, relaxation, and culture.

Cancun Underwater Museum

The museum was founded in 2009 by an artist who set out to reconstruct the marine environment after it had been devastated by Hurricane Dean in 2007. The Cancun Underwater Museum features more than 400 underwater sculptures that aid in the marine life recovery process.

Take a Ferry to Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is my favorite place to visit when I am in Cancun. The island is very small but it has plenty of personality. Isla Mujeres which translates to “island of women,” is an old fishing village with beautiful quite beaches. Try some delicious almond tequila, swim with sharks and go sailing on your day trip to the tropical island Isla Mujeres.

Delicious Food in Cancun

Street tacos

Dollar street tacos are the best way to avoid hangovers in Cancun. I don’t know what it is about the tacos in Mexico but they are so delicious, especially after a night of partying. You can choose between chicken, carne asada, or pork tacos wrapped around a warm hand made tortilla. If you cant decide, get one of each. You wont be disappointed.

Cancun Hotels

When it comes to accommodation, all inclusive Cancun Resorts are the way to go. Book in advance because rooms fill up quick in the high season. (April-July)

Caribe

The Hotel Riu Caribe Resort is located right on the beach and the day parties are absolutely bananas! The prices are pretty expensive so 1 or 2 nights here is enough plus you want to save some time to see the rest of Cancun.

Krystal Cancun

Another all inclusive Cancun Resort but I would have to say Krystal Cancun is more reserved for families. The pools are amazing and the staff is great.