Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is located on the Riviera Maya about an hour’s drive south of Cancún. Many tourists’ first introduction to the town is when they take a bus from Cancún that drops them off at the bus terminal from where they walk through town to the pier. This part of Playa del Carmen is congested and lacking in charm, giving the impression that the town does not have much to offer. However, this is misleading. The nicest part of Playa del Carmen is not near the port, but a few blocks north where the main street, Quinta Avenida, parallels the sea. This pedestrian-only area, several blocks long, between the Quinta Avenida and the beach, is the most attractive part of town. Here you find shops, restaurants, hotels, and lots of local color. The wide strip of beach here is outstanding, with beautiful white sand that seems to go forever. Facing this sensational beach is a string of hotels, most of which are nice, but usually quite simple, catering to travelers on a limited budget. As you go farther north along the beach, the hotels become more expensive. All in all, Playa del Carmen gives the impression of being a relatively sleepy seaside town with a relaxed atmosphere. The town is small enough for you to walk anywhere. Save one day for an excursion to Cozumel.