The word ‘playa’ in Spanish word translates to ‘beach.’ But inside Mexico, the word Playa, when spoken as a destination, refers specifically to Playa del Carmen on the Riviera Maya.
Once a sleepy village located on the Yucatan peninsula, the town served as the ferry terminal for scuba divers heading to Cozumel. Now the town provides a unique Mexican vacation experience. As a place absent from hotel chains and large all-inclusive resorts, the vibe stems from streets filled with quaint shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Playa differentiates itself from the all-inclusive and eco-friendly on the coast with its boutique style for all budgets.
Tourists who fly to Playa del Carmen or any destination on the Riviera Maya fly to Cancun. After arrival, its south down the Riviera Maya coast to Playa del Carmen.
As a central point for the Riviera Maya, tour operators such as Alltournative and Experiences Xcaret provide daily escapes from town. Tourists can take trips to Mayan Ruins such as Tulum, Coba or Chichen Itza or swim in the sacred centoes to refresh the soul of discovery. Others trips include option to tropical water snorkels, zip-line adventures, nature hikes and water parks.
For the days when no agenda is needed, the crystal clear on the soft sands of the ‘playa’ (beach) await. Some hotels offer lounge chairs and bar service on the beach, but the beach is public. Expect some water sports salesman for jet ski or parasailing. But it’s not a hard sell, its very casual just like the town.
To reserve a lounge chair and umbrella check out Mamita’s Beach Club for the day. Here, the colorful clear water and white soft sand are not the only beautiful view. It is the place to be seen during the day.
At night, Mariachi bands circle the main streets searching to set the romantic mood for a few pesos, live music plays from certain cafes and fire dance troupes delight crowded beachfront bars with shows of bravery and skills. Leisurely strolls down the main street, Avenida Quinta (5th Avenue) become a perfect way to spend time between meals and drinks. With no cars, people set the traffic patterns and a party begins. But when the restaurants start to close, the fiesta migrates towards 12th street. There thirsty tourists can find famous spots such as Coco Bongo, the Blue Parrot, or even settle in for some salsa at a small spot along the way.
Playa is very popular among Mexicans and also growing as an European destination. Visitors can find strong Italian influence and can even hear eastern European languages. English and Spanish are still spoken everywhere and the town provides a good time for all who visit.
Where to Eat:
With such a heavy Italian influence, you can find numerous cafes for Pizza and Pasta after a day at the beach or even for a late night snack. Romantic options are plentiful too. El Bistro on 10th avenue sets the perfect mood. And for Tacos in an authentic and casual setting every local recommends El Fogon.
Where to Stay:
Travelers stay on the north side of town at the numerous boutique hotel options in proximity to the famous 5th avenue between 2nd and 28th streets. On 2nd, the newly renovated Hotel Posada Sian Kaan (reopened in January 2010) provides a 3 star accommodation and access to a sundeck for vast views of Playa. Another option, Hotel Hacienda Paradise on 10th Avenue and 22nd street, gives guests a four star treatment and discounted access to Mamitas Beach Club.
Flights:
Sample flights to Cancun are based on round-trip, non-stop purchases:
New York flights to Cancun, from $295
Chicago flights to Cancun, from $300
Houston flights to Cancun, from $315
Denver flights to Cancun, from $378
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Craig Zabransky is a writer specializing in Mexico travel. See more of his work on his Stay Adventurous blog.
