When looking for things to do in Playa del Carmen, there are plenty of popular attractions that offer unforgettable experiences. Of course, there are the legendary Xcaret Experiencias parks and tours, which guarantee good times and unique nature encounters. Not to mention the astounding excursions to local cenotes and Mayan archeological sites. But if this isn’t your first Riviera Maya rodeo, chances are you’ve already been dazzled by the big adventure parks and ancient cities. For this reason, we’re exposing a list of secret gems right within Playa del Carmen’s city limits. You don’t have to go far for a wow-factor when you vacation in this seaside paradise.
El Jardin de Marieta
If you’re not consciously looking out for the Jardin de Marieta you may sadly miss this jewel. After all, it’s easy to get swept up by the bustle of 5th Avenue. But this little sweet spot situated between Calle 6 and 8, is an endearing gem worthy of your attention. Displaying works by Gastón Charó and other featured artists, the gallery showcases an alluring exhibit of thought-provoking pieces.
Once through the arched entrance, the whimsical setting transports you inside the mind of an artist. Sculptures and vibrant canvases sit amongst lush foliage within the exterior art garden. Following the stone path, you’ll enter the main gallery adorned with a vibrant mix of oil and acrylics, as well as exquisite carvings and photos. You’ll appreciate the masterpiece both in the works of art and the stunning setting.
Super Carnes HC de Monterrey
This casual eatery is hidden away on Calle 1 Sur in between 20th and 25th Avenue. Super Carnes offers fresh, grilled flank steak so tender, no knife is needed. It’s a mystery whether the secret is in their marinade, their perfect cuts, or their special salsa. Whatever it is, they are the grill masters. The carne asada is like butter and it’s about $30 USD to feed a hungry family of five, including all the sides.
Call for take-out and grill it yourself, or pick it up fresh off the grill, which is convenient, especially when you’re on vacation. The carne asada is served by the kilo (1kg per family is usually enough.) Keep in mind, to assemble the most delish steak tacos, you’ll need to add salsa, guacamole, warm tortillas, and a grilled onion to the order. Just can’t say enough about this simple, yet mouth-watering meal— a perfect conclusion to a beach day in Playa del Carmen.
Murals
If you’re looking for a unique way to pass the day, rent some bicycles and head down to the quieter north end of Playa del Carmen. Just past CTM Avenue, you’ll fall in love with quaint eateries and remarkable murals that add a splash of color to your unofficial city tour. Stop for a passionfruit lemonade at Que Huevos on the corner of Calle 48 and 5th to quench your thirst. Ride on to admire the street art that continues north to Calle Pintores. It’s an ideal route by bike as this part of 5th Avenue has very little traffic. Go at an easy pace to take time to appreciate the remarkable details in the graffiti art.
Punta Esmeralda
Photo By @matisse.rm via Instagram
Due to Playa del Carmen’s prime position along the coast of Mexico’s Caribbean, it draws sunseekers and beach bums from around the world. Since it’s one big stretch of white sand, the beach town offers plenty of ocean view lodgings and beach clubs to choose from. However, if you’re looking for a more peaceful beach experience, with more space to spread your blanket, Punta Esmeralda is a secluded paradise.
Few visitors are aware of this treasure as it’s located on the city’s far north end. With this in mind, this beach is naturally the next best stop after viewing the city’s murals. Continuing on 5th Avenue, you’ll eventually come to the Punta Esmeralda beach access sign at Calle 110. If you’ve rented bikes, you’ll need to secure them here while you enjoy a memorable beach day. But a 5-minute taxi from downtown Playa del Carmen is also an option.
This beach is unique because it boasts a coastal, freshwater cenote. A deep hole a few meters from the sea’s shore connects to the Yucatan Peninsula’s underground river system. As a result, a crystal clear, natural swimming pool has formed on the beach. The cool, shallow waters are ideal for younger children, plus there’s also a playground structure to add to the fun.
On a side note, there are bathroom facilities and limited umbrella rentals, which come in handy as there’s not an excess of shade. Since parking is free and it is a public beach, it’s popular with the locals and can get crowded on the weekends. If possible, try to plan your sunbathing and Caribbean swim session on a weekday.
Alux
Dinner in an underground cave is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. How often can you enjoy a glass of wine in a candle-lit cavern dripping with centuries-old stalactites? At Alux, (pronounced Aloosh) it’s all part of the dining experience. The atmosphere is serene, with small pools of cenote water, soft music, and chandeliers. Alternatively, it can be one of the coolest field trips if you’re traveling with children.
The impressive underground restaurant and lounge is as vast as it is spectacular. Featuring a main dining room, a wine cellar, several cavern pockets set with private tables, as well as a cocktail lounge, it is a must-see. It can be an incredible grand finale to your week in Playa del Carmen or a mid-stay evening out for cocktails. In addition, the otherworldly setting makes for a sublime wedding banquet venue.
Lunada by Bric
Last but not least, if you’re looking for an accommodation gem for 4, the expansive Lunada development has much to offer. One highlight is its ideal location— just far enough from the busyness of the city’s famed 5th Avenue, yet still an easy walk to superb dining options and the beach. As well, the sprawling condo-hotel boasts an outstanding communal roof terrace with multiple jacuzzis, wet bars, and inviting pools.
Besides being a favorable distance to nearby beaches, you’ll love exploring the area’s incredible shops and cafes. After basking in the sun for the day at Martina Beach Club, sample the brick-oven pizzas at Salento on CTM. For brunch, try a nutrient-packed breakfast bowl at Aloha Raw Bar across the street. Plus, if you’d like to sample fresh produce and local flavors, there are markets and tacos stands conveniently located along Calle 38.
No matter where you choose to stay, our hospitality ambassadors are the perfect go-to resource for a Playa del Carmen vacation. What’s more, you’ll find a wealth of information on the Bric Vacation Rental travel blog page. Filled with Playa del Carmen tips and guides you’ll discover the city’s best-kept secrets and most enticing attractions. Happy exploring!
Updated August 25, 2025
There are infinite reasons for developing an infatuation with the Rivera Maya. You don’t have to travel far to come face to face with phenomenal natural beauty. Take Playa del Carmen for example, which sits in the heart of the 75-mile stretch of Mexican Caribbean coastline. In the backyard of this little paradise alone is an abundance of memorable things to see and do.
In fact, if you were to cross one thing off the bucket list every week, the site-seeing schedule would fill your weekends for a decade. Not to mention that each year, new attractions, adventure parks, or secluded beaches are added to the catalog. The more you discover, the more you realize the pure and undeniable magnificence of the Yucatan Peninsula and its people.
Adventure and Ancient Cities: The Ultimate Playa del Carmen Day Trip
Whether traveling with friends, family, or as a twosome, this culturally-immersive, full-day trip is for you. The journey begins at Playa del Carmen, continues to the ancient Mayan city of Ek’ Balam, then through Hubiku Cenote Park, with a final stop at the colonial town of Valladolid. You’ll climb the 106 steps of the Acropolis temple, swim in a majestic cenote cavern, explore cathedrals, and sample traditional Mexican fare.
Tip: The adventure lasts from eight to ten hours, which may be long for young children. The hiking portion might not be suitable for parents traveling with infants. As for the rest of the day trip, people of all ages will appreciate the historical and cultural aspects of this special Mexican expedition.
Getting There
Aim to set off early. You’ll want to absorb every aspect of the journey without feeling rushed. The best scenario is to rent a vehicle if you are temporarily visiting the Mayan Riviera. Hertz on the south end of 10th Avenue in Playa del Carmen or booking on Orbitz.com are two good options.
Driving through the Yucatan Peninsula is very safe and enjoyable. By taking the toll highway 305, you can shave 50 minutes off your trip. You’ll forego the authentic route through small villages and their endless string of ‘topes.’ These dreadful speed bumps pop up every 100 meters within a pueblito. Not only will they increase your drive time, but they’ve also been known to scatter vehicle parts across the road if you’re not paying attention!
While a rental car is ideal, there are plenty of reputable private van services that allow you to customize an itinerary. If you have a group of four or more, a private van tour is the way to go. You can split the cost and have a personal chauffeur willing to stop whenever and wherever you like along the route. A flat rate is determined at the time of the booking and usually includes beverages and even snorkel gear.
Stepping Back In Time At Ek’ Balam
Compared to its neighboring Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba, Ek’ Balam is the least visited of the Mayan ruins in the area. Unlike at the other archeological sites, you’ll avoid large hoards of tourists. The tranquility enhances the sacred ambiance of the city said to be completed around 800 A.D.
Upon entering, you’ll notice marked native trees, particularly the fascinating duo of good versus evil. Known as the Chechem and Chaka trees, this pair grows side by side in the Central American jungle. The Chechen releases a toxic sap that when in contact with human skin, produces a flaming rash. Remarkably, the bark of the nearby Chaka provides the antidote. Another notable tree, the Baalche, is still used to this day to make the ceremonial (and mildly intoxicating) balche wine.
The first interesting structure on the site is a pointed archway erected next to the remnants of a sac-be (elevated Mayan road.) These ‘white roads’ once connected the Mayan empire and led to the nearby Coba and Chichen Itza.
A City In Ruins
Ek’ Balam was inhabited for approximately 1000 years and may have been occupied as early as 100 B.C. The initial major excavation work only began in 1985 and uncovered, not the highest, but certainly one of the Mayan civilization’s most splendid works – The Acropolis. The notable temple is 160 meters long, 70 meters wide and has a height of 31 meters. Archaeologists discovered 72 rooms within the structure, one containing the tomb of the city’s former ruler Ukit Kan Le’k Tok.
Intricate carvings two-thirds of the way up the dominant temple have revealed what is said to be a monstrous jaguar standing guard at the entrance. In the middle of the site are The Twins. The structures showcase carved pillars, which the Maya erected to commemorate important dates or events. Hieroglyphics on one of the pillars depict Ukit Kan Le’k Tok with his massive headdress.
X’Canche: A Natural Swimming Pool
Although 12 square kilometers of this ancient city have been mapped, only the central ceremonial square (about 1 square mile) can be viewed. A kilometer and a half from the site is the beautiful X’Canche cenote. You can rent a bicycle or get a ride on a tricycle, also referred to as a ‘Mayan limousine.’
A separate fee for X’Canche is charged, but the cool waters are inviting after trekking the grounds of Ek’ Balam. You can enjoy the scenic jungle views and the mystical atmosphere from the suspension bridge above the cenote. If you dare, take an exhilarating swing from the rope or zip line into the natural pool.
What to know:
- Parking is free.
- General admission is $556.00 MXN pesos for adults, $95.00 for children 4-11 and $227.00 for Mexican residents (with ID). The ticket office accepts cash only and is open from 8 am – 4 pm daily.
- Visitors are allowed to climb the structures. Bring good walking shoes as the steps are steep and can be smooth and slippery in some places.
- There is a modest Mayan souvenir area. The people are friendly and not aggressive with their sales pitches. Also on the premises is a convenience store selling snacks and beverages.
- You can find plenty of shade on the grounds under one of the many giant Ceiba trees, or sacred Mayan ‘Trees of Life.’
- Guided tours in English are available for $800-$1300 pesos, but usually, the price is negotiable. Don’t be afraid to ask if there is a valid promotion.
Directions
In a rental car, take Luis Donaldo Colosio exit and head west out of Playa del Carmen. You’ll pass the green superstore Bodega Aurrera. This road turns into 305 Federal Highway. The well-maintained road is lined with thick jungle brush and becomes 2 lanes in each direction not long after you’ve exited Playa. Pay close attention because often you’ll see a tarantula or even a monkey attempting to cross the highway.
Follow the Merida Cuota sign, which veers to the right. At the tollbooth, you’ll need to pay 250 – 270 pesos ($15USD) for a small to mid-size vehicle. From here, take the Tizimin exit to Highway 295. Just before the town of Temozon is an agave field (the spiky plants that tequila is produced from.) On the main road in town, you can grab a delicious empanada or stop at a taco stand for some authentic Mexican grub.
Continue on this principal road. When you arrive on the outskirts of the town, you’ll see Cenote Hubiku on the right. We chose to go on to Ek’ Balam first before it got too hot in the day. It’s about a 5-minute drive further down an unpaved road, just follow the signage. Go straight until the dead end and you’ll reach the Ek’ Balam parking lot.
Hubiku Cenote and Park
Next on the itinerary, Hubiku, a picturesque tropical oasis 5 kilometers before Ek’ Balam. Within this impeccable Mayan village are gardens bursting with vibrant, native blooms. On the vast property, you’ll also discover an almost entirely enclosed cenote, along with a tequila museum, hammocks, beverage station, gift shop, and buffet hall.
This is not your basic cenote visit. In addition to the exceptionally warm Mayan welcome, the grounds and facilities are in immaculate condition. The $350 peso entrance fee for foreign visitors includes a buffet lunch, a tequila tasting, cenote access, and lifejackets. Children 10 and under receive a 50% discount.
The buffet features a variety of traditional Yucatecan cuisine. You’ll have a chance to sample popular regional dishes such as cochinita pibil and Tres Leche cakes for dessert. Besides the delicious spread, you’re in for a treat. But no spoil alert here, you’ll have to go to see it for yourself.
Afterward, follow the gravel path leading to the tequila factory. A brief tour gives an introduction to the history of tequila and its production process. You’ve possibly tried añejo and reposado, but this is a rare opportunity to sip tequilas infused with peanut, coconut, and coffee flavors.
Into The Deep
Last but not least, you’ll proceed to a staircase leading to the underground wonder, Cenote Hubiku. Each step down reveals more splendor. By the time you reach the first platform, the magnitude of this beautiful, natural pool’s beauty will astound you. It’ll leave you in awe, so give yourself a couple of minutes to take it all in. A small opening in the cave’s ceiling allows just enough sunlight through. Not only does the natural light illuminate the breathtaking limestone formations, but it also highlights its clear, emerald-colored, waters.
Lifejackets and lockers are available, but you have to bring a lock. Or you can set your bags in a corner and dive in. Floating in the cool waters of this thousand-year-old cavern will be a high point of the day.
Last Stop: Valladolid
It’s hard to top the fun you’ll have had up to this point, but the magical encounters keep on coming. The grand finale takes place at Valladolid, about 12 kilometers from Temozon. This small colonial city, with its rich history and charming character, received the honor of being one of the country’s 112 Pueblos Magicos, or Magical Towns in 2012.
Valladolid was constructed in 1545 upon the Mayan village of Zaci. It is believed that the revolution that sparked the Caste War first ignited here. A monument just outside the downtown core is dedicated to six local heroes. These brave young men fought to their death to hold off the US Army at the Castle of Chapultepec in Mexico City.
In the center of Valladolid, is a picturesque square with park benches and a fountain at its heart. The bustling Parque Francisco Canton presents the perfect chance to get a taste of the Mexican life. There are vendors selling ice cream and marquesitas (crispy Nutella and cheese crepes typical in the Yucatan.) Residents catch a break from the piercing sun under the shade of the massive trees throughout the scenic plaza. On the streets surrounding the park, are multi-hued hotels, shops as well as the towering Cathedral de San Gervasio.
The City’s Dark Past
In the 19th century, Mayan natives revolted against the Spanish hacienda owners due to the mistreatment of the indigenous people. Mayan landowners along with their families who had taken refuge inside the cathedral were found and massacred inside the cathedral. Innocent bodies were scattered from the entrance to the altar. As a consequence of the horrific bloodshed, it is believed a curse was placed on the church.
Despite grim tales of its past, Valladolid maintains a cheerful and appealing allure. The quaint, walkable city boasts a myriad of charming artisan shops and restored mansions that have been converted into hotels and restaurants. There is also a museum with the largest collection of privately owned Mexican folk art called La Casa de Los Venados.
Before leaving one of Mexico’s most friendly cities, be sure to make a pit-stop at the Convent de San Bernardino. Built in 1560, the mustard-colored building features finely carved altarpieces as well as a row of archways in its frontal façade. In addition to housing the evangelical Franciscan Friars, the convent also once contained the cell that held the famous pirate Lorencillos.
What you should know about the Convent de San Bernardino:
- There’s an entrance fee of $50 pesos
- A free, historical video mapping show takes place each night on the exterior walls. At 9:00 p.m. the audio is in Spanish and at 9:30, it’s in English
- Open daily from 8 am – 7 pm
- The most advanced water wheel of its time sits in the well in the garden at the back of the property
This easy day trip from Playa del Carmen is an experience you and your travel companions will not soon forget. With historical and cultural components along with a hint of adventure, this mini getaway is a must when visiting the Riviera Maya!