The capital of the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen has evolved from, originally a small village of Mayan pilgrims, into a lively, cosmopolitan city with the highest urban growth in the country. Its natural features, beauty and miles of white sandy beaches, its enviable geographical location and its blend of sea and jungle make this destination on the Mexican Caribbean a magnet for both Mexicans and visitors from all over the world.

Playa is a fantastic place to spend your vacation, hang out, or even live. The town has grown along the beach, so wherever you go, you will feel the close to the ocean. The main street is called Quinta Avenida, or 5th Avenue. It is a pedestrian walkway and a prominent point of reference. Here is where you will find the majority of hotels, restaurants, bars and shops. Life in Playa del Carmen is characterized by variety and diversity.

South of the dock there is an area called Playacar. This planned development is where all the big, all-inclusive resorts are located. You will also find the golf course, some private homes and condos, the aviary, and some interesting Mayan ruins.

There are diving facilities both inland and by the sea, the deep waters, separating it from Cozumel, are also ideal for sport fishing. If diving's not your thing then the jungle invites you to explore its lush, magical world, while trips to the nearby archaeological sites are extremely gratifying.

Whilst on your vacation in Playa del Carmen you will find an enormous variety of water activities, ranging from swimming or playing in the sea, or more strenuous sports such as windsurfing, sailing or diving in the nearby reefs, to going on boat trips or using the other types of watercraft available, such as canoes or jet skis.

Diving enthusiasts can enjoy scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Playa del Carmen. You can also go snorkeling and diving on the Great Mayan Reef, located less than 100 meters out from the beach. Alternatively, you can go diving in the nearby caves, which is an experience out of this world.

Playa del Carmen is also an ideal spot for visiting one of the most beautiful parks in Mexico: Xcaret, which also happens to be the location where ferries set out for the Island of Cozumel. It is also near the natural well area of Puerto Aventuras, while the largest natural aquarium in the world, Xel-Ha, is just a forty-five minute drive away.

When the sun sets in 'Playa' the fiesta begins! The evening offers a huge variety of options; every conceivable taste is catered for, from quick and cheap to a five star fine dining experience. The night clubs and bars open early and close late. Lose yourself in the balmy Caribbean nights and fill your senses with the sights, sounds, food and music that make up this tropical paradise!

Coba
This ancient archeological site was constructed between two lakes, spanning more than 80 kilometers square of buildings, remains and history. The main pyramid is the tallest in the whole Peninsula, 42 meters high (130 feet tall) overlooking the lush rainforest.

Xel-Ha
Xel-Ha, literally meaning 'where the water is born', is considered the largest natural aquarium in the world. Constructed along a huge inlet, it's a spectacular setting for hundreds of different species of tropical fish, birds and wildlife. Famous also for the beautiful Mayan ruins, many cenotes and caves, Xel-Ha is truly an amazing experience. Open daily from 8.30 to 17.00, restaurants, showers and lockers are also available.

Cenotes (Freshwater Sinkholes)
Cenotes (Mayan for 'underground well') are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful natural attractions in the Playa del Carmen area. There are literally hundreds located all over the Yucatan Peninsula. A Cenote is basically an underground freshwater river formed over millions of years. Such expanses of crystal clear freshwater are ideal for swimming and scuba-diving, imagine diving amongst stalactites and stalagmites millions of years old! Some examples are: Dos Ojos, Ponderosa, Taj Majal, Gran Cenote as well as many others through out the area.

Kool Beach Club
Kool has become of late one of the most sophisticated beach clubs in Playa del Carmen. They have created a pure lounge atmosphere, enhanced by a mix of music that will take your senses on a kaleidoscopic journey throughout the day; just kick-back and relax on one of the sumptuous beds around the pool, or on one of their exclusive 'diamond' beds on the beach, and enjoy. The well thought out menu is designed to excite every sense and consists of an excellent selection of appetizing international fusion cuisine. Also enjoy tropical cocktails, martinis, champagne, wines and an extensive variety of drinks to satisfy every taste.

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Heading south, travelers arrive at the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Natural Reserve, also known as "the place where the sky begins". It is an area of 530,000 hectares comprising of rain forest, lakes, swamps, coastal ponds, bays and reefs; all of which are home to the natural habitat of thousands of animal species, such as jaguars and pumas, white-tail deer, crocodiles, howler and spider monkeys and an astonishing 345 species of birds. About 1,000 inhabitants in the reserve still make there livelihood from fishing. All day treks, which include a three hour boat-trip are available.

Scuba Diving
Playa del Carmen's underwater world still holds the magic of being a young scuba diving destination in an almost virgin environment. The continuous presence of sea water streams, due to the tunnel-like effect between Playa del Carmen and the island of Cozumel, coupled with the large reef, make for clear visibility and an unparalleled dive experience, highly appraised by scuba divers because of the comfort and safety as well as the enormous sea-bed there to be explored. The spectacular growth of the Scuba-Diving facilities has caused for example, the opening of a Hyperbaric Medical Assistance Center in the city.

Mamita's Beach Club
If you get a little hungry while enjoying the sun and sand of Playa del Carmen then stop by Mamita's restaurant located right on the beach, for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or just to snack on some nachos. The crowd is easy-going and the kitchen is open till 6 pm every day. You will also find incredible facilities, such as showers, parking, a pool and a play area for children. Mamita's Beach Club offers excellent service, delicious cuisine, and always tons of fun.

Casa Adela
If you're the adventurous type, looking to savor the unique flavors of typical Mexican cuisine and you're also interested in learning more about Mexico's traditional and contemporary plastic arts, then consider eating at Casa Adela, an interesting mix of a restaurant and an art gallery. Located in Playa del Carmen, Casa Adela serves an excellent variety of dishes, including deep fried chicken "taquitos", charcoal grilled steaks and delicious seafood "ceviches" (raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice).

To accompany your meal, sample their selection of tequila, mezcal, and wines from Baja. Then, after dining, take some time to appreciate the colorful textiles, ceramics and jewelry on display at this charming restaurant.

Chez Matisse
While visiting Playa del Carmen, enjoy the delicious flavors of gourmet French cuisine and the charming atmosphere of Chez Matisse. This amazing restaurant offers a selection of sophisticated French dishes as well as fresh seafood, all cooked to perfection. At Matisse Chez, you'll find a great selection wines from France, Italy, Chile, Argentina and other countries, so you'll have no problem choosing the perfect bottle to accompany your meal.

Di Vino
This cozy restaurant consists of an inner area and terraces, with a fantastic bar that has just about every drink under the sun, in addition to their well stocked wine cellar brimming with an incredible selection of Italian, Spanish and Mexican wines. The cuisine leans towards a classic blend of Italian and Mediterranean, although there are numerous other creative and innovative dishes on the comprehensive menu.

El Bistro
Unique and different, with its own charming appeal it's Playa's only French bistro. This is a very casual, small restaurant, creating a relaxed, intimate atmosphere where you can eat a great meal accompanied by select wines from around the world. People come to El Bistro for either a full meal or simply a platter of fruit and cheese and a bottle of wine and stay for hours.

Il Pescatore
Located at the luxurious Gran Porto Real hotel 'El Pescatore' offers a good variety of Mediterranean cuisine such as Spaghetti, antipasto, shrimps and more.

Ipanema's Grill
Ipanema's Grill is an authentic Brazilian steak house that features more than 20 delicious charcoal grilled meat options, such as beef, lamb, pork, poultry, fish and seafood (USDA and Angus certified). This is where waiters, holding 3 foot long stakes of skewered savory meat, come to your table and your portion directly onto your plate, at your request. All of this, complemented by our lavish and extensive salad bar and seafood buffet. Definitively a meat lover's paradise!

John Gray's Place
Excite your palate with the delectable classic American dishes and mingle with the people of "Playa" at this quaint bistro, located in the heart of the famous Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), in Playa del Carmen. Pick your favorites from an attractive menu featuring a good selection of entrees, soups, main courses and decadent desserts to turn your meal into a real feast for the senses. A cozy courtyard and a variety of wines by the glass encourage diners to stay a while longer to enjoy some good conversation and the ambiance of Playa.

Karen's
Karen's is a colorful restaurant specializing in grilled steaks and seafood, located on the very famous Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue). Opening its doors in 1992, Karen's was one of the area's first restaurants, captivating the taste buds of both locals and tourists alike. Live music, professional, friendly service and an extensive menu full of exquisite grilled dishes, are what you can expect at this vibrant restaurant, located in the heart of Playa del Carmen.

La Casa del Agua
La Casa del Agua is an international restaurant specializing in seafood. Located right in the heart of 5th Avenue, the restaurant offers great views from its second floor balcony. The chef is dedicated to discovering new twists to classic cuisine. The wine cellar is exemplary with a variety of more than 170 wines from 11 different countries. Unique to the 'La Casa del Agua' is the home made bread, desserts and cakes, European pastry at its best!

La Ceiba
A new concept in Playa, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in buffet style with open bar and drinks included for two hours. Enjoy a cool atmosphere and delicious specialties right here, in the heart of Playa del Carmen!

La Parrilla
A perfect restaurant to discover the real Mexican flavor among so much International cuisine, red roof tiles on the ceiling and paving stone floors, complimented by wooden tables, talavera from Puebla and piatas give that special touch to this restaurant without walls. Mariachi music and a family atmosphere won't disappoint any lover of traditional Mexican cuisine.

Madre Tierra
Enjoy a great evening out at this chic restaurant which features a variety of International cuisine, right in the heart of Playa's 5th Avenue. Try an Angus steak and a cold beer or a fish filet with a glass of wine, there's a whole host of options to choose from. The Madre Tierra restaurant is widely recommended for both the quality and presentation of the dishes, and also its fashionable minimalist decor.

Playasia
This tree house fantasy village seems to emerge from an aquamarine-colored pool, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and with a sparkling waterfall on the side. It is illuminated by a collection of eccentric Mexican crystal chandeliers, glass ornaments, and Moroccan stained glass lanterns. The water in the pool gradually changes through the full spectrum of colors creating a magical effect.

The DJ mixes a cool blend of the smoothest grooves, creating a romantic sensual atmosphere, ideal for enjoying the unique Oriental and seafood specialties from the international menu.

Sur
Founded by a group of Argentineans, this restaurant specializes in International cuisine, to which it adds Mediterranean dishes and seafood. The interior is decorated with smooth light and pastel tones on the walls. The open kitchen is located next to the dining area on the first level in sight of the fellow diners, helping add to the overall ambience.

The Glass Bar
The Glass Bar is an Italian/Mediterranean restaurant, utilizing flavors from all over Italy, from rustic to modern. Everything happens in a cozy atmosphere of dark wood and half light, most impressive is the extensive wine list with more than 5,000 bottles from all over the world catering for every palate.

Yaxche
Does Mayan cuisine exist? Dining at the Yaxche restaurant will show you it certainly does. The Yucatan Peninsula is mainly inhabited by Mayan people that cook and eat according to their extensive culinary tradition. Now, Yaxche restaurant offers its vision mixed with Yucatecan and European cuisine. There are countless specialties, come and taste the real heart of Mexican food.

Ula Gula
This charming seafood restaurant uses the freshest ingredients maintaining the quality that distinguishes them. Ula Gula buys the shellfish from a fisherman who catches exclusive pieces just for them. These are then prepared by the expert chefs, creating lightly seasoned culinary masterpieces.

Brahma
Dance the night away to the latest chart toppers in this very cool nightclub. It can hold over 1200 people, and with a large bar in the center an exotic drink is never far away. They also have spectacular shows that only add to the fun, and help to ensure that you have great night out in Playa del Carmen.

Blue Parrot
In 1998 Newsweek Magazine named the Blue Parrot 'one of the 10 best bars in the world'. Things have just gotten better since then and it is now an obligatory stop when in Playa del Carmen. It is located right on the white sandy beach by the shore of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea whose waves literally lap against the dance floor.

Coco Bongo
All the best in pop culture can be found here at CocoBongo, with references to movies and television programs and playing the most representative in modern music. All of this with the modern backdrop of technology that makes it not only a nightclub but a total experience called CocoBongo. It's a long-standing favorite in Cancun that has now found it's way to Playa del Carmen, offering an excellent show, music, the best DJs, refreshing cocktails and above all, a sophisticated experience.

Deseo
Deseo is one of the coolest bars in Playa. An open-air second-floor lounge, you have to see it to believe it: big mattresses among flowing curtains, old time silent movies projected on the wall and smooth lounge music mixed by the resident DJ. It's worth the price for the unsurpassable atmosphere.

Diablito Cha Cha Cha
This place is a fresh fusion of Asian with a coastal Mexican retro vibe, with a super cool atmosphere and the best DJ's spinning the latest tracks from funky to hip hop and groovy to house. The striking retro 50's decor, between wild and extravagant, encourages you to sit back, relax and enjoy an exotic drink. El Diablito is definitely the 'place to be' for the 'beautiful' people of Playa and tourists alike that know the meaning of 'cool'.

Reina Roja
For a fantastic night out you should consider heading to the Reina Roja Hotel. In the hotel's lobby you'll find a modern bar and also swimming pools, where you can chill out and enjoy a drink. Illuminated entirely in red and with unusual decor, the hotel has a vibrant and almost eccentric feel. On the roof there is another huge pool that offers a really spectacular view. This place is renowned for holding many of the city's best pool parties hosted by famous DJs. At Reina Roja you can also enjoy a bite to eat, and the extensive cocktail menu really is impressive.

Los Danzantes
Los Danzantes, one of the newest bars in Playa del Carmen, is a great place to chill out and admire the incredible ocean view from its terrace. It has a fantastic atmosphere, and a massive range of Mezcal from different parts of Mexico, as well as an exotic cocktail menu. The DJs here will have you dancing the night away to the rhythm of a fantastic range of music.

Mezcalinna
Popular with a younger crowd, "La Mezca", as it is known locally, is located on the famous Twelfth Street. It's renowned in the area for its wide variety of Mescal, and also for the fantastic DJs, who really know how to get the crowd going with their expert mixes. During your vacation, if you want to try an authentic Mexican drink and party in a really lively atmosphere, then you should definitely pay a visit to Mezcalinna.

Mandala
Decorated with huge Hindu statues and other handmade Asian features, Mandala provides three levels to party on. On the first level and the mezzanine floor you can dance to the rhythm of the latest chart hits and also plenty of house and trance. Later, head up to the roof terrace where you can chill out, while enjoying a drink and a conversation at the tables. This is without doubt one of the top clubs in the city, and it's usually full pretty much every night of the week.

Kartabar
Because of its prime location amongst the best clubs and bars of Playa del Carmen, Kartabar is the perfect choice for those who enjoy a drink in the most sophisticated of atmospheres. All the fun and excitement in Playa centers itself on this corner and Kartabar is witness to it all. Then, when the sun is once more high in the sky, Kartabar morphs itself again into an elegant restaurant serving delectable Mediterranean and Lebanese specialties that you simply have to try.

La Santanera
La Santanera has so much to offer. Spread over two floors: the top part being a comfortable lounge with "kitsch" decoration encompassing facets of Mexican wrestling and "Santeria" (Caribbean voodoo). The bottom floor is much more of a club, with an excellent light show and always a packed dance floor. It has a luminous bar in the middle with small VIP areas that have beds and curtains, perfect for a more private and 'elite' evening out.

OM Lounge
The cosmic vibration becomes apparent as you enter OM, constructed using the principals of Feng-Shui, this lounge bar seamlessly fuses eastern mysticism with the flavor of the Caribbean. It specializes in fruit juice cocktails and it is definitely somewhere you should check out while on your vacation.

Tequila Barrel
The Tequila Barrel is located on the famous Fifth Avenue, and serves a fantastic range of drinks, including over 70 different types of Tequila. It is well known for its "show girls", due to its promotion where anybody who dances on the bar wins a shot of Tequila. With its lively atmosphere it is always full of tourists. They open at 11 a.m. for their "Happy Hour" promotion, making it the ideal place to have a lunchtime drink and people watch, while sitting in one of the comfortable and very Mexican barrel-shaped chairs.

Fusion
Located right beside the beach, Fusion is a modern hotel with a bar famous for its concerts and performances. Here you can spend a romantic evening at tables lit by candlelight, or enjoy the feeling of the fresh sea breeze on the beach, as you dance barefoot to music by bands playing salsa, rock and bossa nova.

Coco Maya
Located right on the beach, this club has two different dance floors, and features world renowned DJs, singers, and bands. On the sand you'll be able to dance the night away to the expertly mixed sounds of house and trance music, while the other dance floor is located under a huge thatched-roof "palapa", and sways to the beat of Hip Hop and Latin music played by local DJs.

The Fifth Avenue
La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) is a cobblestone pedestrian street, here you will find people from many different nationalities creating a truly cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is the main convergence point in Playa del Carmen and it's also located just one block from the beach! Here you will find the most important restaurants, lively nightclubs, and a huge variety of stores, small handicraft stands, as well as all the big, well renowned designer boutiques.

Besides the beaches, La Quinta Avenida is the most visited area and it gets pretty crowded in high season. It has a magnificent multicultural atmosphere. Located at the far end is the pier where the ferry departs for Cozumel.

Paseo del Carmen
Paseo del Carmen is a spacious, inviting open air mall located between 5th Avenue and Playacar. Designed with a contemporary Mediterranean feel, combined with the eastern influences of Feng Shui, this mall has a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. High Fashion Boutiques, exclusive handicrafts, fine art, souvenirs and jewelry make it the perfect starting point to begin your shopping experience.

Soho
In this exotic boutique you will find the most outlandish, urban chic couture, plastic vogue, retro and cyber trends, among many others. Here garments are as stylish as astonishing, originality and uniqueness is what Soho is all about. If you enjoy the wilder side of high fashion from Madonna to Hollywood then Soho will fit your personality and style.

Handicrafts Stores
Whilst browsing the numerous boutiques in Playa del Carmen you will find a great variety of stores featuring different kinds of colorful handicrafts and items created by Artisans from all over Mexico. You may want to take home a souvenir with you or purchase a beautiful decorative object. You will find traditional masks, hand made dresses, amber and silver jewelry as well as onyx pieces, seashell souvenirs and wooden items.