Playa del Carmen is one of the destinations for excellence, if you visit the Riviera Maya you should visit it. Erected near to the ancient Mayan village of Xaman Ha (Northern Water) as a fishing village. At the moment it is one of the cities of Latin America with greater population growth.
Currently Playa del Carmen is synonymous with fun, beaches, restaurants and nightlife, all accompanied by a great atmosphere. If you visit Playa del Carmen during your stay here are 5 things you should not overlook.
1. Visit the Maya portal
Located in the park founders is ubicate the “Portal Maya”. It was inaugurated in 2012 with a weight of 60 tons and 16 meters wide, by 16 of high. This monument symbolizes the end of one of the Mayan calendars, to be precise the calendar of the “long count”. This calendar is the one that was linked with the end of the world of 2012.
The Maya portal is an iconic monument, taking a photo in front of it is almost mandatory. Currently a few meters from there are the letters “Playa del Carmen“. The letters of the name of Mexican cities are popular throughout Mexico. If you take photos in both, do not hesitate upload it in your social networks.
2. Walk along 5th Avenue
The 5th avenue is the most popular in Playa del Carmen, it is the main artery of the tourist area, it has restaurants of all tastes, bars, shops. The 5th avenue is ideal for lunch or have a romantic dinner, you should not pass up going to a restaurant of it. If you just want to walk, you will discover when you walk in it many nuances that will make you feel the culture of Mexico.
When walking down 5th Avenue, do not hesitate to buy handicrafts and souvenirs, take pictures with locals, drink a beer or a cold michelada in a bar, or just go down to the beach to enjoy the sunrise or sunset.
3. Go to the beach
Going to one of the beaches in Playa del Carmen is very logical, but, to many people it’s common going to the beach in front of the park founders or mamitas beach, because are the most populars, but not are the best. Currently in Playa del Carmen there is a beach with “Blue Flag” category, we are talking about “Playa 88”, this is a very quiet beach, located at 88 street Playa del Carmen, can be accessed until walking along the 5th avenue , has bathrooms, showers and ample areas of sand.
Other interesting beaches to visit are Playa Car, although it is a residential area there are free access to the beach, although the easiest way is by the entrance near the pier, its white sands and crystal clear waters are perfect. If you are looking for a place to rest, this is an ideal beach, with few people in the off-season. If you visit any of these beaches do not forget to bring plastic bags to put your trash.
Other beaches near Playa del Carmen that you should visit are: Xcalacoco and Xcacel, the latter is a nesting sanctuary for sea turtles, has an open cenote, as well as bathrooms and showers.
4. Go to 12th Street
The nightlife of Playa del Carmen is named: “Calle 12”, this street is popular for have the most popular nightclubs and nightclubs. Starting at Avenida 10 with street 12 meetings “Coco Bongo”, one of the most popular nightclubs in the world. Walking to Avenida 5ta and up to Avenida 1ra avenue you will find other interesting places, such as Blue Parrot, Coco Maya, will make the night more boring becomes a night of unforgettable fun. At the end of the party night do not forget for a pizza, very common in the nearby posts.
5. Go to Eco Parks
Throughout the state of Quintana Roo there are “ecoparques”, ecological parks that offer to know the nature. These also offer the services of: food and beverages, bathrooms and showers, water activities equipment, etc. There are ecoparques like Kantunchi and Rio Secreto in which you can know cenotes and caves. Parks like Xplor, Xcaret and Xelha, offer varied activities, from aquatic, zoological and theater shows.
Are you visiting Playa Del Carmen? Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy your stay to the fullest. In Mayan Riviera Tours we have tours and deals so that you know different places. If you need information do not hesitate to contact us.