Which is the best area to stay in Playa del Carmen?
Born a humble fishing village on the shores of the Yucatán Peninsula's Riviera Maya, this Mexican beach destination is said to be a more ‘grown-up’ version of its more famous (though some say notorious) neighbor, Cancun. While its history as a tourist playground is fairly short, Playa del Carmen is growing rapidly - in both infrastructure and the volume of tourists it attracts. Unlike Cancun though, it offers more than just lounging on the beach by day, and partying at night. A pleasing mix of hedonism, culture and nature make Playa del Carmen an attractive alternative, and at a gentler pace.
In a small town with a big heart, you want to feel its pulse, so find your way to its center - El Centro, in Spanish - of which Fifth Avenue is the aorta from which the fun flows. El Centro is the best area to stay in Playa del Carmen - an eclectic mix of old and new, hustle and chill, culture and vibe. It has a diverse range of accommodations on offer - everything from self-catering options to exclusive beachfront resorts. No matter your budget, you’re sure to find a place to rest your head and the end of a long day (or night).
The best place to stay in Playa del Camen for first time visitors is El Centro. And the advantage of staying there, is that you won’t need a car, as its attractions are within walking distance - the beach, shops, restaurants, bars, and accommodation. The drawback is that it can be noisy if you’re sensitive to sound, particularly along the more ‘touristy’ streets. Thankfully, there are a lot of accommodation options tucked away on quiet side streets, so you will be able to find something to your liking After all there are about 400 accommodation options listed!
The best place to stay in the heart of the action of Playa del Carmen is Fifth Avenue. Here you can spend hours in a retail version of Whack-a-Mole, as you pop in and out of souvenir shops and more familiar outlets dotted along its colorful 3-mile course. You’ll find everything from Mayan-inspired trinkets to international brand cosmetics and fashion along this safe, pedestrian mall. And when you need some sustenance along the way, a multitude of both familiar and traditional food outlets offer cuisine for every taste.
If you’re looking for the best place to stay for nightlife, you’ll be spoiled for choice on the nearby 12th Street. You could choose to kickstart the evening’s festivities with pre-drinks at a bar on Copyright Steve Bebington 5th Avenue - or keep it simple at Abolengo Bar, which offers a fresh take on a traditional Mexican cantina with light meals and cocktails. Although it starts fairly tame, it gets pretty wild as the night progresses. Generally, the nightclubs are open from 11 pm and can stay open well into the early hours.
Known for its upmarket homes, several all-inclusive beach resorts, and a prestigious golf club - Playacar is the best place to stay for families. Accessible via the southern end of Fifth Avenue, Playacar offers beachgoers crystalline waters lapping up on white, sandy beaches that are safe for swimming. There is a mix of marine activities on offer, from SCUBA diving to luxury yacht sunset cruises - and everything in between. Ask around and you could find your way to the ancient ruins of Xaman-Ha, which date back to the Mayan era.
Mayakoba is also a gated community and the 650-acre development is the best place to stay for beaches and luxury hotels - incorporating the natural beauty of the area. It is nestled between the tropical waters of the Cozumel channel on one side and canal-linked lagoons and pristine mangroves on the other. Here you will find luxurious hotels, world-class cuisine, and incomparable resort options. There are wellness centers, a golf course, and exclusive beach clubs - all designed to encompass the natural landscape.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO STAY?