A Complete Guide To Playacar, Playa del Carmens Picturesque Residential Community

Playacar is a gated community comprised of two phases within the charming city of Playa del Carmen. Playacar phase 1 was first established in 1979 along the region’s pristine, undisturbed coastline.  At that time, Fernando Barbachano, development company owner, often hosted beach barbecues inviting his own employees as well as potential investors, including George Bush.

Playa del Carmen Beaches

These outdoor gatherings prompted a surge in visitors to the region as word spread about this virtually untouched paradise in the Mayan Riviera. Phase 1 became the first high end residential community in Playa del Carmen. Eventually two condo-hotels were constructed facing the breathtaking Caribbean Sea.

The stunning Caribbean Sea views from Playacar Phase 1 beaches

A few years later, the second phase in Playacar was developed around a championship golf course, now The Hard Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya. Today, the largest all-inclusive hotels in the city speckle the white sand beaches of Phase 2 and the budding residential area has sprouted several businesses, including two schools.

Hard Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya in Playacar Phase 2

One of the many advantages of living in this endless summer climate is that the weather, for over three hundred days a year, is favorable for outdoor living. Walking or cycling the scenic, six kilometer trail which encircles Playacar phase 2, is an excellent way to begin the day. The nearby mesmerizing, turquoise waters, the glorious Mexican sunshine and the palm-fringed sidewalk offer many opportune moments to connect with nature and attain a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of a busy schedule.

The scenic 6km Playacar Phase 2 path

Following the paved path painted fuchsia and red with bougainvilleas and hibiscus blooms, trekkers will come upon town home developments, striking, luxury villas, and some of Playa del Carmen’s most exquisite condo-resorts. Also lining the walkway is a bird sanctuary, home to flamingos, toucans, parrots, and over 60 other feathered species, two ancient ruin sites, spas and an outdoor shopping center. Plaza Playacar offers guests and residents convenient access to tour and rental car companies, money exchange services, and artisan shops.  From time to time, cultural performances and other family friendly events are held in the plaza’s main square.

Plaza Playacar

Another aspect of Playa del Carmen which makes it an ideal permanent or vacation destination, is the minimal traffic. Although the effervescent urban center is only a five minute drive from Playacar, the quaint community offers almost every convenience within walking distance.  At the furthest point within the exclusive phase 2, guests can access the famed 5th Avenue by foot in thirty to forty minutes.

The Famous 5th Avenue

Inside this suburban heaven is a dozen restaurants featuring authentic Mexican cuisine and standard North American menus, two pizzerias, a French bakery, an organic restaurant,  spas, a Gelato shop, two pubs, two Oxxo convenience stores and yes, even a Starbucks for those who cannot live without.

La Vaqueria – one of the many eateries in Playacar Phase 2

With a resident card, guests and Playacar occupants can access the glistening sea via the Reef Hotel which offers complimentary beach and poolside lounge chairs with umbrellas. There is also one other access point in the area which passes by an archeological site and leads to the world-class beaches of Playacar Phase 1.

The road to paradise

Four secured stations offer admittance into the desirable residential community with many services just beyond the gates. One of the city’s top hospitals, a shopping mall with a Soriana superstore, a movie theatre, hair salons, and two bulk membership stores are a leisurely walk from the Playacar highway entrance.

One of the many beautiful villas you will come across in Playacar

For those seeking a serene environment bursting with natural splendor, where golf carts are a common mode of transportation and local wildlife roams free, Playacar is a tropical haven like no other in the Mayan Riviera.