Parque Fundadores pulses with energy, history, and color—an open-air stage where Playa del Carmen comes to life. Here you’ll find striking monuments, cultural performances, daring acrobatics, fresh tropical flavors, and sunrises that steal the show. Read on to discover 7 fascinating highlights to experience in this bustling park at the heart of Playa del Carmen.
Portal Maya: The Picture-Perfect Symbol of Playa del Carmen
The iconic Portal Maya monument, unveiled in 2012, pays homage to the rich heritage of the ancient Maya civilization and their enduring influence on the region. The bronze arch depicts a man and woman reaching skyward, symbolizing the balance of life, the forces of nature, and the strength of Maya culture. Set against the sparkling turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, it’s not only a striking cultural landmark but also the perfect spot to capture a memorable photo of your Playa del Carmen visit.
Discover the Charm of Nuestra de Señora Chapel
Tucked along Playa del Carmen’s famous 5th Avenue, the small but charming Nuestra Señora del Carmen Chapel offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city. With its simple white façade and windows that frame stunning views of the turquoise sea, this beloved landmark blends spiritual serenity with Caribbean beauty, making it a favorite stop for visitors and locals alike.
Step Back in Time: Watch the Mayan Warrior Dance Live!
The Mayan Warrior Dance at Parque Fundadores is a lively peek into the rich traditions of the ancient Maya. Dressed in colorful feathered headdresses and traditional attire, performers bring to life the stories of brave warriors, ceremonies, and the Maya’s deep connection with nature. Happening daily and completely free, these energetic performances take place under the park’s iconic arches, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a bit of history and culture while soaking in the dynamic atmosphere of Playa del Carmen.
Experience Culture in Motion with the Voladores de Papantla
The Voladores de Papantla is an ancient Mesoamerican ritual traditionally enacted to ensure good harvests and harmony with nature, Performers climb a tall pole and spin gracefully from above, combining daring acrobatics with centuries-old tradition. At Parque Fundadores in Playa del Carmen, you can catch these incredible performances every day for free, right next to the park’s iconic arches, making it a thrilling and culturally rich experience for visitors of all ages.
Fresh Fruit, Front-Row Seats to Playa Life
For a true taste of Playa del Carmen, stop by a local street vendor at Parque Fundadores for fresh, ripe fruit like mango, coconut, and pineapple. Not only is it delicious, but it’s a refreshing way to quench your thirst in the heat. Grab a seat nearby, take in the sights, and enjoy a little people-watching while the seagulls soar overhead—it’s the perfect way to savor the flavors and energy of the Mexican Caribbean.
Frame Your Vacation at the Playa del Carmen Letters
Furthermore, a standout attraction at Parque Fundadores is the vibrant Playa del Carmen letters, instantly recognizable and full of Caribbean flair. Whether you’re striking a pose solo, with friends, or family, they make the perfect backdrop for a fun, memorable photo to capture your incredible beach getaway. Bright, bold, and unmistakably Playa, these letters are a must-capture moment for anyone exploring the park.
Start Your Day with a Sunrise at Portal Maya
Wake up early to experience Parque Fundadores like never before, when the first light of day spills across the Caribbean and bathes the iconic Portal Maya in golden hues. Indeed, the beachfront is serene and awe-inspiring, with gentle waves and the calls of coastal birds. As the sunrise paints the sky in vibrant shades, it’s the perfect time to savor the tranquility and stunning scenery of Playa del Carmen.
From cultural performances and historic monuments to fresh tropical flavors and Caribbean sunrises, Parque Fundadores has something for everyone. No matter if you’re snapping photos, enjoying local traditions, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, these seven highlights make the park a memorable part of any Playa del Carmen visit.
After deciding to make our move to Mexico, my husband and I began our house search in Cancun. There were several draws— the close proximity to the international airport, the beach, and the beach! However, the sprawling city of over one million people, with its traffic and fast pace was not the life we had in mind. Fortunately, an acquaintance suggested Playa del Carmen, about an hour south, in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
Soon, we were in touch with a local realtor, who met us in Playacar, a gated community just off the 307 Federal Highway. Upon entering through the main security caseta (booth), we noticed a golf cart cruising leisurely on the cobblestone road. Driving up alongside the golf cart, my husband and I smiled at each other. We had been in Playa del Carmen for not more than ten minutes. But that was all it took to realize with 100% certainty that we had found our new home.
Whether you choose to reside in Playacar or to vacation here for a week, this residential development has much to offer. In this travel blog, you will discover the long list of fantastic reasons to stay in this sought-after Playa del Carmen neighborhood.
Playacar On The Map
Located on the south end of Playa del Carmen, Playacar has two gated phases, Fase I and Fase II. Fase I is closer to the beach and is mostly residential with a couple of hotels. The entrance is just off of the city’s main tourist hub, 5th Avenue. Fase II can be accessed via 4 entrances, two on the west side of the community, and two on the north side. The main visitor entrance is on the north end at 10th Avenue.
From this access and exit point, just a few yards to the east, 5th Avenue begins with its host of boutique stores, restaurants, museums, and beach clubs. Furthermore, Playa del Carmen’s ADO bus station and ferry terminal are within 5 minutes by foot. Also in this vicinity is the iconic Portal Maya structure, a symbol of Playa del Carmen, which overlooks the Caribbean Sea. Not only is this 50-foot-high, seaside arch a prime spot for a photo op, but also, it’s a gathering point for observers of the free, daily cultural shows. Here, in Parque Fundadores, visitors can watch ancient Mesoamerican ceremonies including Danza de los Voladores (Dance of the Flying Men) or Mayan warrior ritual dances.
Playacar Vacation Rentals
Paseo del Sol
Since this tropical oasis backs onto Playacar’s peaceful, 18-hole golf course, Paseo del Sol is the ultimate serene sanctuary for weary travelers. As you step into the lush gardens, you’re greeted by a symphony of colors and scents. Towering palm trees sway gently in the breeze, while exotic flowers bloom in a riot of hues, painting a vibrant landscape.The expansive grounds boast amenities such as a pristine 95-meter pool, a fitness center, as well as a pickleball/tennis court. Nestled amidst the swaying palms and vivid foliage of the tropics, this condo hotel is where elegance and nature meet in perfect harmony.
Each 2 or 3 bedroom condo and penthouse rental is a private retreat. The expansive interiors showcase a mix of charming Mexican and modern design, evoking a sense of relaxation and comfort. Fully appointed kitchens make it easy to prepare a feast or whip up a round of margaritas and guacamole for happy hour. Generous terraces with outdoor seating and dining offer sweeping views of the immaculate gardens.
Paseo del Sol invites you to unwind in paradise, where every moment is infused with the essence of tropical bliss.
Vaiven del Viento Penthouse 31
This luxurious, 2 bedroom penthouse is a tranquil haven, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the downtown core, where privacy and exclusivity reign supreme. As you arrive, a sense of wonder washes over you, as if stepping into a secret paradise hidden from the rest of the world. Meander along walkways enshrouded with verdant vegetation, past the property’s 4 enticing pools. Head up the elevator to your 2-level refuge, complete with every amenity for a 5-star stay.
Savor a scrumptious meal al fresco on the main floor patio, where the landscape unfolds like a living tapestry. Later, as the birdsong fades into the night, sip wine in your rooftop jacuzzi under a starlit sky. With an air-conditioned gym, open-air games room, and plenty of poolside loungers, you can enjoy a superb stay with the perfect fusion of relaxation and fun.
For certain, you’ll leave this urban hideaway with cherished memories of unparalleled service, exotic beauty, and the serenity of a truly unforgettable escape.
Villa Uxmal
Welcome to the magnificent, 5 bedroom, luxury vacation home of your dreams, Villa Uxmal, where every element has been meticulously crafted to provide an unmatched vacation experience. Set amidst sprawling grounds adorned with tropical flora, this modern masterpiece exudes sophistication and elegance at every turn. As you step inside, you’re greeted by a chef’s kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and sleek countertops, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Beyond the sliding, accordion patio doors lies an outdoor kitchen, complete with a teppanyaki grill, where sizzling delicacies can be prepared amidst the exotic splendor. The pièce de résistance—a private pool with a beach entrance, inviting you to immerse yourself in its glistening waters. Amid the refreshing dips and sunbathing, blend a batch of margaritas for your favorite travel companions at the swim up bar.
Admire the elegant artwork adorning the walls as you unwind in the spacious living areas, where modern design seamlessly merges with tropical aesthetics. Whether lounging in the sun-drenched backyard, enjoying al fresco dining under a vast azure sky, or simply reveling in the tranquility of this exquisite property, Villa Uxmal offers the perfect interlude for discerning travelers seeking a supreme stay exuding relaxation and refinement.
Casa Quetzali
Playacar Activities
Hit the Beach!
Without a doubt, one of the most anticipated activities when visiting Playa del Carmen is spending time at the beach! The Playacar stretch of sand is one of the best in town as it tends to be less crowded than the beaches in the downtown core. There are no lively beach clubs in Playacar, which makes this part of the coastline ideal for spreading out on a blanket with a good beach read and a cooler of ice cold cervesas. Alternatively, if you are curious about the city’s main beach clubs, they are only about a 15 to 20 minute leisurely walk from most of Bric’s Playacar rentals.
The principal access to the beach is through the gate adjacent to the Reef Playacar Resort. Situated almost directly across from Paseo del Sol on Paseo Xaman-Ha in Playacar, is the door to paradise! All guests staying in Playacar can gain entry to the white sand shoreline via this gateway. That being said, there is a limit of 4 per property. Speak to your designated Bric ambassador for options if you have a larger group so that all may enjoy a day by the sea.
Hard Rock Riviera Maya Golf Club
Following along the 6 kilometer scenic path in Playacar, the Hard Rock Riviera Maya Golf Club stands as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike. Designed by renowned architect Robert von Hagge, this 18-hole championship course offers an exhilarating blend of natural beauty and challenging terrain.
What’s more, this par 72 course is all-inclusive. In addition to cart rentals and lockers, receive unlimited food and beverages throughout your round as well as in the Hole 19 lounge.
Explore Playacar Via the 6 Kilometer Walking Path
Encircling the gated community is a sidewalk path lined with tropical blooms and jungle vegetation. Along the 6km pathway, you’ll discover a mix of interesting attractions and eateries. From bird sanctuaries to centuries-old Mayan remnants to spectacular sunrises over the golf course, you’ll love the scenery along the way.
The entire journey following Paseo Xaman-Ha takes just over one hour to complete on foot and is a delightful way to stay active on your vacation.
Skydiving
Photo by Skydive Playa, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
While not exactly inside Playacar, Skydive Playa’s headquarters are on Avenida 15 near Calle 3, only a 5-minute walk from the main entrance of Playacar. Although not your typical way to see the sights of a city, skydiving is the most exhilarating! The professionals at Skydive Playa have been jumping out of planes in the area for almost 3 decades. With their perfect safety record and abundance of experience in helping visitors cross fulfill their bucket list, you’re in good hands.
Playacar Attractions
Xaman-Ha Aviaro
This nature and wildlife sanctuary is a gathering place for Playa del Carmen’s most fascinating locals. Within the Aviary, you can spot iguanas, sereques, flamingos, the odd toucan, and the striking green parakeets. This is an ideal activity for families and nature lovers alike.
Plaza Playacar
Plaza Playacar is located in the hotel zone, just down the road from Paseo del Sol condominiums. At this outdoor souvenir market, you can browse and purchase the perfect Mexican handicraft as a memento from your vacation. There are also a variety of beach apparel and jewelry stores. Plus, for convenience you can buy pharmaceutical products, sunscreen, snacks, and beer without leaving the community.
Playacar Restaurants
Jungle Gastrobar
(Open Monday to Saturday from 3 to 11pm)
Photo courtesy of Jungle GastroBar
A superb addition to the Playacar restaurant scene, Jungle GastroBar offers a mouthwatering mix of Mexican and international cuisine. Unexpected combination flavors such as a caprese salad with passionfruit not only highlight delightful local ingredients, but also are a sensational surprise for the palate. Indeed, the ribeye steak is reason alone to visit. However, the jungle setting, divine margaritas made from premium spirits, and exceptional service is why you will return.
Tucked towards the back end of Playacar Plaza, it’s difficult to miss the gorgeous, entwined archway. The open-air dining room is enshrouded by dense jungle foliage, giving the impression that you are eating in the heart of the rainforest. Moreover, live musicians enhance the already warm atmosphere on the weekends.
The Admiral
(Open Monday to Saturday from 1 to 11pm, Sundays from 11am to 10pm)
Without a doubt, the Admiral Sports Bar wins the prize for the friendliest neighborhood pub in Playa del Carmen. Any excuse for a party, the superhost team is happy to entertain patrons with holiday themes and important sporting events. The menu features typical pub fare such as wings, burgers, as well as their signature fish ‘n chips.
The Admiral’s offerings also include outstanding oysters, British staples like bangers and mash, along with vegetarian options. Not to mention, the impressive craft beer selection, an essential accompaniment to the big game!
Casa Sofia Playacar
(Open Mondays to Saturdays from 1:30 to 11pm and Sundays from 8am)
This delightful Italian eatery has been serving delicious pasta dishes and pizzas for nearly 10 years. With multiple patios as well as an air-conditioned dining room, it is unusual to have to wait for a table. Of course, this is crucial when traveling with children.
Friendly bartenders at Casa Sofia mix some of the best margaritas in town. But the most impressive section on the menu is their selection of over 1800 combinations of pasta and sauce made from scratch. An attentive wait staff contributes to the welcoming ambience and their Sunday morning brunch is fantastic. What’s more, the prices are quite reasonable compared to the restaurants in Playa’s main tourist hub, 5th Avenue.
Lara&Luca Playacar
(Open daily from 7:30am to 10pm, Sundays 9pm)
Photo courtesy of Larayluca
Lara&Luca has earned its place as one of Playa del Carmen’s most beloved dining spots—and for good reason. Blending fresh, local ingredients with modern Mexican and European flavors, every dish is crafted to please both locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re starting your day with a hearty breakfast or winding down with a cozy dinner, the warm service and relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere make it feel like home.
Located on Aviacion Avenue in between 15 Avenue and the Federal Highway, Lara&Luca is one of our top picks in the city for an exquisite brunch. After 8 years of delighting guests, it’s no wonder Lara&Luca is a Travelers’ Choice 2025 favorite!
Off the Vine Playacar Wine & Deli Bar
(Open Monday to Saturday 11am to 11pm)
Photo courtesy of Off The Vine
Situated between the southernmost Playacar entrance and Sam’s Club on the 307 Highway, Off the Vine is a lively gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The popular wine and deli bar has several locations in the state and is an excellent choice for brunch and mimosas. On the other hand, Off the Vine presents the perfect space for a romantic evening with tapas including gourmet charcuterie boards, mussels in a white wine sauce and a variety of pates.
This location also hosts fun events including guided tasting nights as well as live music performances. In addition, every Tuesday, is wine and paint and wine night. Attendees learn techniques of various artists and can enjoy nibbles with two glasses of wine as part of the experience.
Our team is available anytime to help you have the vacation of your dreams. Whether you’re seeking recommendations for local attractions, need assistance with reservations, or simply have a question or concern, we’re here to ensure every aspect of your getaway is perfect. Don’t hesitate to reach out at (800) 519-2486 or information@bricrental.com— we’re dedicated to making your vacation experience unforgettable
Updated May 17, 2024
Besides Christmas, summer is the most highly anticipated season of the year! Longer days mean you have more time to spend outdoors barbecuing, having drinks on the patio, and relishing the warm summer air.
As the days heat up, we are inclined to head towards water. Kids crowd around sprinklers at spray parks and boats are launched into lakes in assembly line fashion.
Fortunately, if you have booked your summer vacation in Playa del Carmen, there is plenty of outdoor fun to be had. Being on the water is an integral part of the lifestyle in this seaside community. If you want to stay cool, just go…well in any direction in the Riviera Maya. You’re bound to discover an alluring body of water compelling you to dive in. The following is a list of top ten things to do near Playa del Carmen for summertime fun.
1. Swim with Whale Sharks
I know what you’re thinking— sharks? Really? But hear me out. This is not an extreme sport just for loco daredevils with nine lives. People of all ages have surreal encounters with these mellow sea giants every year. In fact, my three kiddos (aged 10, 8 and 7 at the time) still vote it as one of their most memorable day trips since living in Mexico.
During the summer months, the whale sharks take a pause on their migration route. Chilling here for 3 and a half months, they spend their time near the islands of Isla Mujeres and Holbox. Luckily, the intimidatingly massive fish prefer the taste of plankton over humans. They come to the area where their food source is plentiful. For the most part, they don’t seem to mind that people tag along for a surreal underwater experience.
Note: This excursion can easily be done in one full day from Playa del Carmen. Tours are offered from the end of May to the beginning of September.
2. Rio Secreto
This TripAdvisor Hall of Famer receives rave reviews for being a one-of-a-kind experience in the Riviera Maya. Only 10 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, the nature reserve and eco-park boasts a series of caves and natural limestone pools. These turquoise marvels are fed by the largest underground river system on the planet.
As a bona fide explorer (with helmet headlamp and all), you will navigate through waist-deep water and dimly lit pathways leading to cenotes.These crystalline pools were once considered sacred by the ancient Maya. Sacrificial artifacts dating back 10000 years are still being discovered to this day.
One of the many things we love about Rio Secreto is the company’s dedication to the environment. All of the guides are passionate and educated in the science behind this natural phenomenon. That is to say, they are committed to keeping you safe, fascinated and entertained.
Best of all, the tour groups are small giving you the sense that you have the whole park to yourself. All you need to bring is your swimsuit; life jackets, wetsuits, towels, and lunch are provided. This unforgettable trip beneath the surface of the earth really does seem out of this world.
Note: Recommended for ages 4 and up.
3. Yoga Paddle Board With Aloha
Can you imagine a better opportunity to connect to nature than paddling towards the sun at dawn? Picture it – you’re on the paddle board, gliding into the fiery orange horizon. This sunrise peace is so far from usually hectic morning routines. Forget prepping for work, scarfing down a bowl of oatmeal, and rushing out the door to sit in traffic on your commute.
Instead, savor the tranquility as you witness a pelican nearby target a school of fish. Just as he nose dives into the water, you look up to see the sun emerge from behind a puff of white clouds.
For certain, there are few things that nourish the soul more than a splendid sunrise paddle. Playa del Carmen based company Aloha Paddle Club has been around for over a decade. Aloha offers Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Surfing, along with SUP Yoga classes at sea and as well as at local cenotes. Their business headquarters is located on the powdery soft sand at Fusion Beach on Calle 6. (Talk about a hard day at the office!)
Sander, the founder of Aloha and his team, lead daily one-hour tours just off the shores of Playa del Carmen. On superior weather days, a two-hour paddle session to a nearby reef is available. On the weekends, with a group of 4 or more, Aloha offers a Tulum SUP Yoga tour which lasts about 6 hours with a stopover for authentic Mexican tacos in Puerto Aventuras.
Note: There is no minimum age requirement as younger children can sit on the board with an adult.
4. Xplor Park
This nature park, located under 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen, offers a full-day itinerary of various activities. You’ll soar like an eagle above the dense jungle on death-defying (ok, not really, but still intense) zip lines. At the steering wheel of your amphibious vehicle, you’ll cruise over forest trails and through stunning caverns. Furthermore, you’ll paddle past centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites on a raft along the vivid, blue-green subterranean river.
There are dozens of picture-worthy points throughout the vast park where you can practice your photography skills. You’ll come across waterfalls, extraordinary rock formations, and their exhilarating new slide attraction, the Toboganxote. Alternatively, there are hammocks if you need a short break from the non-stop adventure.
A minimum age of 5 years is required and children must be at least 3 and a half feet tall to be permitted on the zip lines. The all-inclusive park provides a buffet and non-alcoholic beverages.
Tip: Purchase your tickets online 21 days in advance to receive a 15% discount.
5. Rent A Boat And Spend The Day In ‘Heaven’
Just off the coast of Cozumel is a little piece of Mexican Caribbean heaven appropriately named ‘El Cielo’. This paradise is only accessible by boat and the clarity of the aqua blue water is shocking. It is so clear that you can see stingrays 50 meters away gliding along the seafloor.
While dipping in the breathtaking bay, the odds are good that you’ll have an up-close-and-personal encounter with these graceful creatures. Along with the non-threatening stingrays, there are starfish, grouper, angelfish and sea turtles in the area. Not only is The pristine water is as translucent as a backyard pool. Similarly, the depth is quite shallow. Only 3 to 4 feet deep, it’s perfect for all ages and is ideal for snorkeling.
The tours typically last 4 hours and usually include snorkeling equipment, lunch, alcoholic beverages, pop and water. As well, the includes two stops, one to explore the vibrant Mesoamerican Reef and the second is El Cielo. We recommend Sergio’s team from Aquatic Sports and Expeditions or cozumel-tours.net. This place is what Caribbean dreams are made of and well worth the trip over to the island!
6. Cenote and Frozen Margaritas in Akumal
With the heat in Playa del Carmen at its maximum strength from June to September, you’ll need a solid list of cool down methods. As it happens, freshwater cenotes, fed by a chilly subterranean river system, abound in the region. In fact, there is an easily accessible mini cenote route 20 minutes south of the city along the 307 highway. Choose from 3 unique cenotes – Jardin del Eden, Cristalino or Azul.
In contrast to some resort pools which can feel like a warm bath come mid-August, cenote waters remain cool throughout the summer. The depth in these cenotes can range from 12 to 120 meters and are perfect for divers to explore the mystical underwater caves. However, if you’re not the Jacques Cousteau type, there are other exciting activities for every age. For example, you’ll have a blast snorkeling or jumping from the modest limestone ledges into the pristine ponds below. There are bathrooms, life jackets, snorkel rentals and picnic areas. Between the cost of a Colectivo (shared van taxi) and the entrance fee, you can expect to pay $1to $200 to $250Mxn per person or $12 – $15.00Usd.
Just five minutes south of the cenote strip is the quaint fishing village of Akumal. Meaning ‘The Place of the Turtles’ in Maya, Akumal is a superb spot for swimming with sea turtles. The barrier reef system, which sits a few hundred yards from the shore, protects the bay, calming the picture-perfect Caribbean waters.
There is a main dive shop where you can rent snorkel equipment or book fishing and diving tours. Along the white-sand coastline, a few restaurants present front-row seating to the captivating view.
After a day of cliff jumping, snorkeling and swimming with the turtles, stingrays, and tropical fish in Akumal Bay, you’ll be ready to sit back and relax. Find casual bites and cold beverages at one of the beachside restaurants. Take a moment to watch the fishing boats bob on the bay. Witness the beauty of the setting sun’s rays piercing through the palms as you sip on your refreshing cocktail. If you haven’t fallen in love with the Riviera Maya yet, Akumal will definitely capture a piece of your heart.
7. See Dolphins and Flamingos on Holbox Island
Step aside Tulum, Isla Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is the latest Quintana Roo gem to be hailed by savvy travelers as Mexico’s best-kept secret. Visitors love the laid-back charm and tranquility of this rustic wonderland. Cars are a rare sighting. Instead, golf carts outfitted with heavy duty all-terrain tires taxi people to and fro. However, the majority of boutique-style hotels, restaurants and main boat dock are walking distance to the ferry terminal.
Just an hour from Playa del Carmen plus a 20-minute ferry ride to the island, Holbox offers an escape from the stressors of everyday life. The island is surrounded by the Yum Balam Reserve. Boat tours are available throughout the year, but summer is our favorite time to visit.
In the offseason, tour companies take you on a 3-hour journey, which includes a stopover at Isla Pasion (a gathering spot for dozens of migratory and local birds) as well as a visit to a cenote. It seems as though you’ve stepped into your own version of the Blue Lagoon movie. But instead of foraging for your own food, a friendly local family serves fresh coconuts and snacks at their little shop.
From the end of May to the beginning of September, the island’s most revered guests, the whale sharks, are in town. On this tour, you’ll spend the day sailing along the waters of the reserve. On the way to the whale sharks, you’ll spot turtles, dolphins and sailfins, also known as flying fish. One of the highlights is an hour visit at a deserted island paradise. Here, you can wade through waist-deep crystal clear water that’ll make your jaw drop. Meanwhile, the captain prepares the most divine ceviche (cured fish) dish on this side of the peninsula. Finally, at the end of the day, you’ll reach the final point of interest. From a safe distance, you’ll coast near a sandbar, covered with hundreds of bright pink flamingos. In all honesty, it is almost as magnificent a sight as the whalesharks.
Surprisingly, for a small community, there is a substantial amount of eateries on the sleepy island. From lobster pizza to fresh catches of the day to upscale international cuisine, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Since it’s such a short distance from Playa del Carmen, we recommend a day or an overnight trip to this enchanting, little nature refuge. Holbox provides an excellent opportunity to disconnect and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.
8. Find Bliss at a Beach Club
Arguably the best summertime activity, a beach day is a hit whether you’re in the mood for fun or relaxation. Even the little ones love the sand (although eating it is not recommended.) If lounging on a silky soft beach is your happy place, then you will find utopia in the Riviera Maya.
From Maroma Beach to the north, Lido Beach Club in Playa del Carmen and La Zebra Tulum to the south, there is a bounty of stunning beaches. Speaking of dreamy beaches, Xpu Ha (20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen) was once chosen for one of Corona’s famous beer ads.
An entrance fee of $75 Mxn per person gives you a bracelet and access to the Xpu Ha. Before you know it, you’ll have your toes in the sand and a margarita in your hand. With your bracelet, you can use that cost towards your food and beverage consumption at La Playa Restaurant Xpu Ha. Create your own Caribbean-inspired commercial with that turquoise seascape backdrop that daydreams are made of.
For sure, there is no shortage of breathtaking beaches to choose from near Playa del Carmen. Bring your snorkel gear and explore the reefs just off the shore in Puerto Morelos. Strike up a game of volleyball on Maroma’s abundant coastline. Strut your beach style at Mamitas in the heart of Playa del Carmen, where Djs spin all day and fashionistas gather. Find a daybed and chill along with a bottle of your favorite bubbly on the renowned beaches of Tulum. If beach bliss is what you’re after, you can’t go wrong when you vacation in Mexico’s Riviera Maya.
9. Cruise the Caribbean on a Catamaran
Soak up the sun, splash in the sea, and experience the quintessential Mexican Caribbean vibe on board a catamaran for the day. Set sail to secret locations throughout the Riviera Maya for snorkeling, fishing, and swimming alongside turtles and stingrays. In addition to pit stops at remarkable gems, you and your crew will love the lively atmosphere while sailing the seas. While on deck, you will be treated to music, regional snacks such as ceviche and guacamole, as well as cool cocktails.
Reputable companies like Riviera Elite offer private yacht and catamaran tours from Puerto Aventuras, just 15 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. Indeed, their 3 to 8 hour expeditions are magical as their services have garnered them TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice Awards and #1 ratings in the Riviera Maya. Their chartered tours include snorkeling the MesoAmerican Reef or viewing the ancient city of Tulum from the crystal clear waters below. Without a doubt, this rousing day on the water will be an adventure to remember!
10. Hydrate and Stay Cool at La Flor de Michoacan
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, try to hydrate with more than cervezas and tequila. In central Playa del Carmen (Constituyentes and 30th Avenue across from Mega Soriana superstore) is the authentic Mexican fresh juice and ice cream shop, La Flor de Michoacan. These ice creameries are as popular with Mexicans as Starbucks is with Americans. In most cities you can find one on nearly every corner.
What makes these delicious Mexican popsicles so special is that they are made with fresh exotic fruits like Mamey, Soursop and Dragonfruit. We suggest the frozen Paleta (on the stick) de Coco (coconut), Nuez (creamy walnut) or Cajeta (rich caramel-flavored goat-milk.)
Not only does La Flor de Michoacan sell fantastic ice creams but their aguas frescas (fruits and vegetables blended with water) are a perfect way to stay hydrated. Try the limon con pepino (cucumber and lime), the Sandia (watermelon) or the horchata (sweetened milky rice water with cinnamon) which is a dessert in itself!
Here are just a few of the many ways to cool off when the sun strikes in Playa del Carmen. If you see an activity that interests you and you require further information, please do not hesitate to call the Bric Vacation Rental office at +52(984) 803-3191 or WhatsApp +52 (984) 134-3131. One of our friendly representatives will be happy to help you with the details.