Playa del Carmen Holidays
Playa del Carmen, also known locally as Playa, is located in eastern Mexico in an area known as Riviera Maya or the Mayan Rivera. The population has almost doubled in the past five years as the tourism industry continues to grow to meet the needs of the masses that flock to this sun-drenched heaven each year.
Find that perfect spot on the sand to sit back and soak up the sun. Apart from hurricane season in September and October, Playa is typically bathed in clear blue skies, and with average yearly temperatures of 26 degrees Celsius, you won't have to try too hard to get that flawless, sun-kissed look. Huge cruise ships can be spotted passing by as they head to the Calica quarry docks to allow visitors to disembark for some fun in the sun.
For those who'd like a little more adventure, Playa has a wide variety of water-based activities for you to take advantage of. Just off shore, the island of Cozumel is renowned for its beauty and is a prime snorkelling and diving location. It is easily accessible by ferry and well worth a day trip. Take a dive into the deep blue waters and experience the reefs and marine environment that Jacques Cousteau once described as some of the most beautiful in the world. Underwater caves known as cenotes are common in the area and guided tours can be arranged. Fishing was once the main industry in Playa and is still a popular activity today along the marina. Boats can be hired to take you out to sea to get the perfect catch.
If you don't manage to hook yourself some fish for dinner, Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue, has a multitude of cafés, bars and restaurants to satisfy your appetite and is located only a short distance from the beach. This pedestrianised street is dotted with boutique shops, making it ideal for a little shopping spree followed by some local cuisine and a cocktail or two to quench your thirst. Nightfall sees the street come alive as clubs keep the party going into the early hours.
Playa del Carmen is quite centralised, so you'll never be too far from the beach, shops and food, and if you want to venture a little farther away from town, taxis and car rental options are readily available.
