Playa del Carmen is a gem of a resort town known for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. There are all sorts of accomodations available from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.
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I've always loved the laid-back vibe of Playa del Carmen, and I prefer the beach clubs to the all-inclusive resorts in Cancun. However, if you're looking for that picture-perfect beach shot and a vacation with plenty of things to do, then Cancun may be the better choice for you.
The beaches in Playa del Carmen experience a seasonal seaweed influx that can change throughout the year. While efforts are being made to address the situation, visitors should know that the seaweed may impact their beach experience.
Compared to Cancun, Playa del Carmen is known for its more laid-back and intimate nightlife scene. It's perfect for those who prefer a relaxed night out, sipping cocktails at beachfront bars, and listening to live music. That being said, Playa del Carmen also has its fair share of clubs and late-night hotspots.
Playa del Carmen, the north beach in Tulum, and Akumal all have lifeguards for the beaches but they are limited. Swim close to shore and it you are not a big swimmer, wear a life vest. Waves will not get to big, this is a not a surfers paradise so swimming can be done every day!
Sargassum season in the Mexican Caribbean typically runs from May through October, with July and August generally being the worst months for its arrival.
Playa del Carmen started out as a Fisherman's village, as many as 110 years ago. The white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back feel have made it a popular destination for tourists.
This coastal town runs along the Riviera Maya, where divers and snorkelers can explore one of the world's largest coral reef systems. The central part of Playa del Carmen is a vibrant avenue filled with quirky shops and restaurants, as well as a beachfront park that hosts traditional Mayan performances in the evenings.
Punta Esmeralda Beach is known as the hidden local beach in Playa del Carmen. This undeveloped beach is perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds, relax and unwind. At Punta Esmeralda Beach, visitors will find a natural cenote that flows into the Caribbean.
Walking the beaches of Playa Del Carmen. Walking along the beach is a great way to get some exercise. All beaches in Mexico and public, however, access is dependent on public access.
Located on the scenic Mexican Coast, Playa Del Carmen is a small resort town known for its pristine beaches with light blue water and white sandy shores.
Be extra careful at night in Playa del CarmenAs with many places in the world, most crimes in Playa del Carmen occur at night. Besides being extra careful at the bars in Playa del Carmen, you'll also want to be extra careful when walking alone at night.
The beaches in Playa del Carmen experience a seasonal seaweed influx that can change throughout the year. While efforts are being made to address the situation, visitors should know that the seaweed may impact their beach experience.
Although many of the all inclusive resorts do spray for mosquitoes and fumigate on a regular basis for other insects, you may want to wear bug repellent especially at dawn and dusk. Some resorts have a lot of tropical vegetation and you may be participating in excursions that take you into the jungle.
To get to Playa del Carmen, most travelers fly into Cancún International Airport (CUN), which is about 35 miles north of Playa del Carmen. To reach Playa, you can rent a car, take a bus or hop in a taxi.
The beaches on Tulum are much more picturesque when compared to Playa del Carmen. However, Tulum isn't very walkable. If you're staying in Downtown Tulum, you'll have to rent a car, get a cab ride, or bike to the beaches. The same goes for if you're staying at a beach resort and want to visit downtown.
East Coast: Mexico's east coast, particularly the Caribbean Sea's turquoise waters in spots like Tulum, are the stuff beach vacation dreams are made of. The east coast also has a reputation for soft white sand and warm, calm waters.
Where It Is: Los Cabos is the strip of coast between San Jose Del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, in Baja California. Playa Cemeterio, Playa Santa Maria, and Playa Costa Azul are all located close to downtown Cabo San Lucas. Playa Costa Azul and Los Cerritos are favorites with the surfing crowd.