Entrada de Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen on The Maya Train

Quintana Roo

Playa del Carmen, nestled on the Mexican Caribbean coast, entices with its pristine beaches, vibrant ambiance, and diverse attractions. Fifth Avenue, the heart of Playa del Carmen, offers a bustling array of shops, eateries, and nightlife venues, epitomizing the city’s lively spirit.

Named after the Virgen del Carmen, the city boasts a rich maritime heritage. From the allure of its stunning beaches to the vibrant marine life and coral reefs, Playa del Carmen captivates visitors with its natural splendor.

Moreover, the city serves as a gateway to exploring Maya culture, thanks to its proximity to the Maya Train route. This transformative railway opens doors to a world of archaeological wonders and cultural treasures, enriching the visitor’s experience.

Playa del Carmen’s allure lies in its multifaceted offerings—be it the thrill of theme parks, the serenity of historical sites, or the excitement of its vibrant nightlife. It’s a destination that caters to every traveler’s whims, promising a memorable experience for the whole family.

Weather

Between 26°C and 38°C

Fundation

1902

What is the history of Playa del Carmen?

Originally, the area was inhabited by the Maya, who established a trade route connecting the Yucatan Peninsula with Honduras. Along this route, several important Mayan cities were built, including Tulum, Cobá, and Chichén Itzá.

At the beginning of the 20th century, Playa del Carmen was a small fishing village. The city began to change starting from the 1970s.

Where is Playa del Carmen located?

Playa del Carmen is located in the municipal seat of Solidaridad, Quintana Roo.

It is within the tourist area known as the “Riviera Maya” between Cancún and Tulum.

Gallery

Playa del Carmen on the Mayan Train Route

What are the Festivities of Playa del Carmen?

Playa del Carmen has several festivities and celebrations throughout the year. Some of the most important ones include:

Playa del Carmen Carnival

It is celebrated in February and is one of the liveliest and most colorful festivities in Playa del Carmen. For several days, the city is filled with music, dances, parades, and contests.

International Jazz Festival

It takes place in November in Playa del Carmen and brings together jazz musicians from around the world to perform at various venues throughout the city.

Sacred Mayan Journey

It takes place in November and represents an ancient tradition of the Maya, commemorating the ancestral journey made by the ancient inhabitants of the region to the island of Cozumel to pay homage to the goddess Ixchel, goddess of the moon and fertility.

What to do in Playa del Carmen on the Maya Train?

Playa del Carmen has a wide variety of tourist attractions and activities to enjoy during your visit. Some of the things you can do:

Beaches

Boat Tours

Explore Archaeological Sites

Spa and Relaxation

Stroll along Fifth Avenue

Visit Cozumel Island

Outstanding Activities in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen offers a wide variety of activities for all tastes and ages, some of the most outstanding ones:

Swimming in Cenotes

Touring Playa del Carmen by Bicycle

Explore Sian Ka’an

Beaches in the City of Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Some of the most outstanding beaches:

Mamitas Beach

Punta Esmeralda Beach

Xcalacoco Beach

Archaeological Sites in Playa del Carmen

Although Playa del Carmen itself does not have archaeological sites, some of the most impressive and iconic ones of the Mayan culture are located in the surrounding areas.

Know the news of Playa del Carmen

Install the Maya Train Guide on your mobile device and discover more attractions during your journey along the Maya Route.