Escape the Ordinary in Playa Del Carmen

Transcending the tourist blitz that conquered its Mayan Riviera counterpart, Playa del Carmen is a destination where the simple pleasures take center stage and relaxation is always the order of the day. Beaches, historical attractions, and local comforts are served up in abundant quantities, and everything you need for a memorable seaside getaway is at your fingertips for a Playa del Carmen getaway to remember.

The central part of Playa del Carmen, or Playa as it is commonly called, offers a wide beach that gradually narrows as it winds it way past the various vendors, beach bars, and restaurants. While you will find a sparkling white sands and gorgeous turquoise waters that are ripe for swimming, the beach can become narrow and rocky as the winds and current change. If this happens during your sunbathing hours, it is a good idea to move north and enjoy the gorgeous fine sands of Playa Tukan. As one of the best beaches in the area, be sure to rent a canopy bed and stake out a prime sunning spot early so you can experience this beautiful stretch of sand at your own leisure.

While strolling along the sands and soaking up the tropical breeze are ideal for forgetting your worries, more active pursuits are at your disposal along the banks of this stunning paradise. Scuba diving and snorkeling are available around reefs and caverns that can be accessed far offshore, but a better option lies around the island of Cozumel. Simply hop aboard the ferry and you are on your way towards underwater adventures beyond compare. If you are looking for boat and deep-sea fishing charters, your best bet is to try the nearby community of Puerto Aventuras.

Impossible to miss since it is the starting point for essentially every Playa del Carmen excursion, Quinta Avenida (or 5th Avenue) is a 14-block extravaganza where pedestrians can stroll the cobblestone-lined streets and soak up the distinct and lively atmosphere. Buzzing with bars, clubs, restaurants, shops, and vendors, you can pick up a few souvenirs, enjoy some tasty cuisine, or plan your seaworthy adventures along this bustling thoroughfare.

If you can pull yourself away from the refreshing waters, fine white sand, and excitement of Quinta Avenida, other towns along the coast offer some must-see historical attractions that are sure to leave you spellbound. The Coba and Tulum Ruins are easily within striking distance and offer stunning examples of Mayan settlements and civilization. Although the Coba Ruins have not been reconstructed or uncovered to the same degree as the Tulum Ruins, they are still worth the effort for the striking pyramid and mysterious aura. The Tulum Ruins, the most visited archaeological site in Mexico, feature a massive wall that surrounds the imposing civilization and is one of only a few in the Mayan culture.

Two other sights that certainly should not be missed are the nature parks Xcaret and Xel-Ha. Xcaret, located just south of Playa del Carmen, is a spectacular eco-park that features a gorgeous swimming beach, a butterfly pavilion, a museum with models of ancient Maya cities, and numerous other outdoor pursuits. Xel-Ha is a natural wonderland where waterways and paths wind their way through a tropical jungle and past crystal-clear lagoons and coves. When you aren’t soaking in the stunning scenery, snorkeling around schools of multicolored fish and swimming with the dolphins are all popular in this area.

Playa del Carmen is a land of endless opportunities, where you can swim, play, and explore to your heart’s content in a shockingly simple and diverse waterfront riviera. Always commanding attention for its stunning natural beauty and its exciting attractions, you can surround yourself with the best the Mayan Riviera has to offer in Playa del Carmen vacation rentals. Resting along the sparkling white sands and within sight of the clear Caribbean waters, the finest pleasures of a seaside vacation are just a short stroll away morning and night. Set our own agenda or follow the pace of the town, whatever you want out of your Mexico getaway, Playa del Carmen rentals are always an accommodating host.