Play del Carmen

Playa del Carmen enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, but some seasons are better for different experiences:

• December–April (Peak Season): Best for sunny days, dry weather, and a lively atmosphere.
• May–August (Shoulder Season): Ideal for fewer crowds, warm waters, and sea turtle nesting.
• September–November (Low Season): Great for budget travelers, but expect higher humidity and a chance of rain.

• Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida): A bustling pedestrian street with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Playa Mamitas & Playa Xcalacoco: Stunning beaches with crystal-clear water and beach clubs.
• Cenote Azul & Cenote Cristalino: Beautiful freshwater sinkholes perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Xcaret Park: A famous eco-archaeological park featuring underground rivers and Mayan culture.
• Xplor Adventure Park: A thrilling park with zip-lining, ATV trails, and underground rivers.
• Rio Secreto: A breathtaking underground river and cave system with crystal-clear waters.
• Cozumel (Day Trip): A quick ferry ride away for world-class diving and snorkeling.
• Tulum Ruins: Ancient Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
• Xel-Há: A natural water park offering snorkeling, lazy rivers, and cliff jumping.
• Akumal Bay: A beautiful spot where you can swim with sea turtles in their natural habitat.

• Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork tacos served with pineapple and fresh cilantro.
• Ceviche: Fresh seafood cured in lime juice with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.
• Cochinita Pibil: A slow-roasted pork dish, a specialty of the Yucatán Peninsula.
• Tikin Xic Fish: A Yucatán-style grilled fish marinated in achiote and citrus.
• Panuchos & Salbutes: Traditional fried tortillas topped with shredded meat and pickled onions.
• Sopa de Lima: A flavorful lime-infused chicken soup.
• Mezcal & Margaritas: Classic Mexican cocktails to enjoy with ocean views.
• Churros: Crispy fried dough coated in cinnamon sugar, often served with chocolate.

• Flights: Arrive at Cancún International Airport (CUN), then take a shuttle or private transfer.
• Taxis & Private Transfers: Available but can be expensive—confirm fares before riding.
• Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring cenotes, ruins, and nearby towns.
• Colectivos (Shared Vans): Budget-friendly public transport connecting Playa del Carmen to Tulum, Cancún, and other areas.
• Ferries to Cozumel: Depart every 30 minutes from the main pier.
• Bicycles & Scooters: A fun way to get around town and the beach areas.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 180 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Mexico’s visa requirements based on your nationality.
• Tourist Card (FMM): Required for entry—often provided on your flight or available online.

• Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN), but U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas.
• Credit cards: Accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
• ATMs: Available throughout town, but use bank-affiliated ATMs for better exchange rates.
• Cash: Recommended for small vendors, taxis, and tips.

• Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Most signs, menus, and information are available in English.

• Playa del Carmen has a friendly, laid-back vibe—greet people with a smile and a simple “Hola” or “Buenos días.”
• Tipping is customary (10-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars).
• Beachwear is fine on the beach but not in restaurants or shops.
• Respect the environment—avoid using plastic and bring reef-safe sunscreen.
• Don’t take shells, coral, or sand—it’s illegal to remove them from protected areas.

• Restaurants: 10–20% tip is standard, but some places include a service charge.
• Bars: $1–2 per drink or 10–15% of the total bill.
• Hotels: $2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is appreciated but not required—negotiate the fare in advance.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: $10–20 per person for great service.

• For peak travel season (December–April): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (May–November): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For cenote tours and Xcaret/Xel-Há parks: Book at least a few days ahead.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Sunscreen with oxybenzone is banned—bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect Playa del Carmen’s marine life.
• Some cenotes require biodegradable sunscreen—plan accordingly.

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com