Guidebook for Playa del Carmen
Food Scene
A local hotspot, this authentic French bakery’s aromatic scents of fresh baked bread can be detected from blocks away. The enticing menu includes healthful options such as seasonal fruit with granola and omelettes, as well as a succulent offering of sweet works of art from tarts, pastries and of course buttery croissants. For an inventive twist on traditional lemonade, I recommend the ginger infused Limonada Celine.
984 lokale inwoners raden aan
Chez Céline
Esquina Calle 34 NteA local hotspot, this authentic French bakery’s aromatic scents of fresh baked bread can be detected from blocks away. The enticing menu includes healthful options such as seasonal fruit with granola and omelettes, as well as a succulent offering of sweet works of art from tarts, pastries and of course buttery croissants. For an inventive twist on traditional lemonade, I recommend the ginger infused Limonada Celine.
This local favorite is known for its delicious brick-oven pizzas and blended basil martinis! There is plenty of seating and a large patio area from which to enjoy drinks with friends or casual dinner with the family.
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Piola
lt 2 Calle 38 Nte.This local favorite is known for its delicious brick-oven pizzas and blended basil martinis! There is plenty of seating and a large patio area from which to enjoy drinks with friends or casual dinner with the family.
Flowing through the center of the lush “Monkey’s Cave” is a river inhabited by turtles and koi fish. Famous for their vast selection of blended fruit juices, the breakfast menu also includes an array of traditional Mexican offerings (the chicken enchiladas with chile pasilla sauce are a personal favorite), fresh fruit, omelettes and crepes.
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La Cueva del Chango
Mz. 4 Calle 38 Nte.Flowing through the center of the lush “Monkey’s Cave” is a river inhabited by turtles and koi fish. Famous for their vast selection of blended fruit juices, the breakfast menu also includes an array of traditional Mexican offerings (the chicken enchiladas with chile pasilla sauce are a personal favorite), fresh fruit, omelettes and crepes.
The fresh ingredients, cold drinks, and vast menu of seafood dishes will tantalize your taste-buds at Los Aguachiles. Try popular dishes such as the mixed ceviche (mixed seafood cured in lime and salt), fish tacos, fresh tuna lettuce wraps and tostadas. To wash it down, order a refreshing Mexican beer or their tasty micheladas (beer with lime, clamato and spices.)
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Los Aguachiles
Centro Calle 34 NteThe fresh ingredients, cold drinks, and vast menu of seafood dishes will tantalize your taste-buds at Los Aguachiles. Try popular dishes such as the mixed ceviche (mixed seafood cured in lime and salt), fish tacos, fresh tuna lettuce wraps and tostadas. To wash it down, order a refreshing Mexican beer or their tasty micheladas (beer with lime, clamato and spices.)
For authentic Mexican cuisine and Mariachi music, sit on the upper level of La Parilla, which overlooks the vibrant 5th Avenue and adds to the magic of your dining experience. The friendly staff serves dishes like chicken enchiladas in a mole sauce, arrachera steaks (thin, tender, grilled cuts of beef), shrimp tacos and traditional fajitas. By the time you come to the bottom of your fishbowl cocktail, you will be belting out songs right along with the mariachi!
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La Parrilla Playa del Carmen
For authentic Mexican cuisine and Mariachi music, sit on the upper level of La Parilla, which overlooks the vibrant 5th Avenue and adds to the magic of your dining experience. The friendly staff serves dishes like chicken enchiladas in a mole sauce, arrachera steaks (thin, tender, grilled cuts of beef), shrimp tacos and traditional fajitas. By the time you come to the bottom of your fishbowl cocktail, you will be belting out songs right along with the mariachi!
This fine dining establishment and wine bar overlooks the effervescent 5th Avenue and offers an extensive wine list coupled with a vast menu of seafood and international specialties. Start with the fig salad or lobster bisque, then choose form a selection of culinary sensations such as the seafood risotto, braised duck, lamb shank with couscous or a tender grilled steak.
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La Casa del Agua
Quinta AvenidaThis fine dining establishment and wine bar overlooks the effervescent 5th Avenue and offers an extensive wine list coupled with a vast menu of seafood and international specialties. Start with the fig salad or lobster bisque, then choose form a selection of culinary sensations such as the seafood risotto, braised duck, lamb shank with couscous or a tender grilled steak.
This restaurant, meaning “green tree” is Mayan cuisine at its finest. The warm and intimate environment invites you to savor regional favorites such as jicama and cucumber salad, shrimp tacos seasoned with local spices, marinated orange pork baked in a banana leaf or stuffed peppers with shredded meat or Oaxaca cheese. Many vegetarian options are available, along with an impressive menu of fine tequilas.
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Yaxche
This restaurant, meaning “green tree” is Mayan cuisine at its finest. The warm and intimate environment invites you to savor regional favorites such as jicama and cucumber salad, shrimp tacos seasoned with local spices, marinated orange pork baked in a banana leaf or stuffed peppers with shredded meat or Oaxaca cheese. Many vegetarian options are available, along with an impressive menu of fine tequilas.
If exceptional food and service is what you are looking for in Playa del Carmen, we suggest you choose to dine under the palapa roof at Madre Tierra. Sip on the best in local and international wines while enjoying samplings of tuna tartar, lobster ceviche, grilled steak and poultry, stuffed salmon fillet or the sinfully good homemade walnut brownie drizzled in caramel.
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Madre Tierra
Calle 14 NorteIf exceptional food and service is what you are looking for in Playa del Carmen, we suggest you choose to dine under the palapa roof at Madre Tierra. Sip on the best in local and international wines while enjoying samplings of tuna tartar, lobster ceviche, grilled steak and poultry, stuffed salmon fillet or the sinfully good homemade walnut brownie drizzled in caramel.
This little hole in the wall type Italian bistro serves some of the best handmade pasta, pizza, seafood salads and desserts in town. Since the generous portions are meticulously prepared, at times there can be a wait for the main course. We recommend making a reservation before you go, and ordering a glass of chilled Prosecco from the impressive wine list while you await your savory meal.
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Romeo Trattoria Pizzeria
150 Calle 4 NteThis little hole in the wall type Italian bistro serves some of the best handmade pasta, pizza, seafood salads and desserts in town. Since the generous portions are meticulously prepared, at times there can be a wait for the main course. We recommend making a reservation before you go, and ordering a glass of chilled Prosecco from the impressive wine list while you await your savory meal.
The extensive gourmet salad bar featuring soups, a variety of salads, sushi, tuna, paella, and international cheeses is enough to satisfy a hungry patron on its own. However, we recommend you save room to sample the choice cuts of beef, lamb, buffalo, pork and quail presented on a Brazilian rotisserie sword by the jovial and attentive wait staff.
Reservations are recommended and we suggest going on an empty stomach!
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BBVA
& 25 Avenida NteThe extensive gourmet salad bar featuring soups, a variety of salads, sushi, tuna, paella, and international cheeses is enough to satisfy a hungry patron on its own. However, we recommend you save room to sample the choice cuts of beef, lamb, buffalo, pork and quail presented on a Brazilian rotisserie sword by the jovial and attentive wait staff.
Reservations are recommended and we suggest going on an empty stomach!
Dine on freshly prepared rolls, teriyaki rice bowls, an incredible seafood carpaccio, sashimi, and much more. The soft lounge music sets a chic vibe whilst taking in some delicious Asian cuisine and cool cocktails, like their fantastic cucumber or watermelon martinis.
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SUSHICLUB
S/N 10 Avenida NorteDine on freshly prepared rolls, teriyaki rice bowls, an incredible seafood carpaccio, sashimi, and much more. The soft lounge music sets a chic vibe whilst taking in some delicious Asian cuisine and cool cocktails, like their fantastic cucumber or watermelon martinis.
Drinks & Nightlife
This is where the trendy resident and visitor crowd of Playa del Carmen go for a posh night out. Patrons will be impressed with exquisite menu items, which include beets with goat cheese and roasted ceviche starters, gourmet Yucatan panuchos, barbecued lamb, grilled fish with lentils, or slow roasted pork. The full bar presents the most sophisticated selection of tequilas, mezcals and wines.
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ALMIRANTE PECH
This is where the trendy resident and visitor crowd of Playa del Carmen go for a posh night out. Patrons will be impressed with exquisite menu items, which include beets with goat cheese and roasted ceviche starters, gourmet Yucatan panuchos, barbecued lamb, grilled fish with lentils, or slow roasted pork. The full bar presents the most sophisticated selection of tequilas, mezcals and wines.
For a fun-filled night of dancing and live music, we recommend El Boguedita del Medio. The live Cuban band lures salsa professionals and novices alike onto the steamy dance floor. The mojitos are perfectly blended and free salsa lessons are offered twice weekly.
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LA BODEGUITA DEL MEDIO
For a fun-filled night of dancing and live music, we recommend El Boguedita del Medio. The live Cuban band lures salsa professionals and novices alike onto the steamy dance floor. The mojitos are perfectly blended and free salsa lessons are offered twice weekly.
Coco Bongo presents Las Vegas style performances, premium cocktails and a party atmosphere like no other in Playa del Carmen! Impersonations of some of the most celebrated artists in music history, acrobatics and exceptional dance music are what you can expect from a memorable night in the city’s most stellar night club.
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Coco Bongo
Coco Bongo presents Las Vegas style performances, premium cocktails and a party atmosphere like no other in Playa del Carmen! Impersonations of some of the most celebrated artists in music history, acrobatics and exceptional dance music are what you can expect from a memorable night in the city’s most stellar night club.
Sightseeing
Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, Mamitas Beach Club is considered one of the liveliest and most popular beaches for the single twenty to forty something crowd. Every week, DJ’s from around the world travel to spin their pulsating beats at this posh bikini heaven.
Situated on this sultry beach is the headquarters of the world-famous BPM music festival, which is held yearly in January. Mamitas is also the main stage for many other celebrated festivals including Corona Elements and The Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, to name a few. For a fee, beach-goers may revel in the sun and have access to sun beds, lounge chairs and food and premium drink service. A variety of water sports such as kite surf, paddle board, parasail, wave runner, and catamaran rentals are available.
934 lokale inwoners raden aan
Mamita's Beach Club
8 Calle 28 Nte.Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, Mamitas Beach Club is considered one of the liveliest and most popular beaches for the single twenty to forty something crowd. Every week, DJ’s from around the world travel to spin their pulsating beats at this posh bikini heaven.
Situated on this sultry beach is the headquarters of the world-famous BPM music festival, which is held yearly in January. Mamitas is also the main stage for many other celebrated festivals including Corona Elements and The Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, to name a few. For a fee, beach-goers may revel in the sun and have access to sun beds, lounge chairs and food and premium drink service. A variety of water sports such as kite surf, paddle board, parasail, wave runner, and catamaran rentals are available.
Head down the verdant, cobblestone street on Calle 38, past some of Playa del Carmen’s best restaurants, and you will end up on the mesmerizing Shangri-La shore. This pristine, palm-lined beach is a popular local gathering spot. If beach volleyball is your sport, pick a partner and join in the fun! A cooler, beach bag with snacks, toys or a good book are what we suggest for a memorable family day or sublime afternoon with your partner in paradise!
With so much variety and exquisite beauty to experience in and around Playa del Carmen, one week is never enough! Even as residents, we still look forward to an adventurous day of exploring the region’s many majestic works created by Mother Nature’s generous hand.
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Playa Shangri La
Head down the verdant, cobblestone street on Calle 38, past some of Playa del Carmen’s best restaurants, and you will end up on the mesmerizing Shangri-La shore. This pristine, palm-lined beach is a popular local gathering spot. If beach volleyball is your sport, pick a partner and join in the fun! A cooler, beach bag with snacks, toys or a good book are what we suggest for a memorable family day or sublime afternoon with your partner in paradise!
With so much variety and exquisite beauty to experience in and around Playa del Carmen, one week is never enough! Even as residents, we still look forward to an adventurous day of exploring the region’s many majestic works created by Mother Nature’s generous hand.
A day trip to Tulum is certainly something to consider when spending time in the Mayan Riviera. Few locations in the world extend visitors the invitation to encounter such a magical scene as they splash in crystal clear waters with views of ancient archeological ruins in the distance.
There is a stretch of public beach to the left of the fork in the road, where you can set up your own cooler and chairs and enjoy the picturesque views. However, in either direction of the fork, there are boundless options for beach clubs and restaurants offering loungers with umbrellas, usually for a minimum purchase of food and drink. Ziggy’s, Rosa del Viento and La Vita e Bella are three top choice beachside clubs in this quaint, bohemian town
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Tulum
A day trip to Tulum is certainly something to consider when spending time in the Mayan Riviera. Few locations in the world extend visitors the invitation to encounter such a magical scene as they splash in crystal clear waters with views of ancient archeological ruins in the distance.
There is a stretch of public beach to the left of the fork in the road, where you can set up your own cooler and chairs and enjoy the picturesque views. However, in either direction of the fork, there are boundless options for beach clubs and restaurants offering loungers with umbrellas, usually for a minimum purchase of food and drink. Ziggy’s, Rosa del Viento and La Vita e Bella are three top choice beachside clubs in this quaint, bohemian town
Entertainment & Activities
Beneath the Yucatan Peninsula flows the planet’s longest underground river system. Due the porous limestone bed of the peninsula, the river has carved out thousands of sinkholes, known as cenotes. These natural pools are shrouded in green foliage and the waters are crystal clear. There are several of these striking swimming holes in and around Playa del Carmen to explore.
Of the nearly ten thousand uncovered in the region, seven thousand are suitable for swimming. Most have cliffs of varying heights off of which visitors can jump into the refreshing waters. Some have barbecue pits and picnic tables or a snack shop selling cold fresh, coconut water. There are a few hidden within caves showcasing incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations, while others are open and better for snorkeling.
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Cenote Azul
Beneath the Yucatan Peninsula flows the planet’s longest underground river system. Due the porous limestone bed of the peninsula, the river has carved out thousands of sinkholes, known as cenotes. These natural pools are shrouded in green foliage and the waters are crystal clear. There are several of these striking swimming holes in and around Playa del Carmen to explore.
Of the nearly ten thousand uncovered in the region, seven thousand are suitable for swimming. Most have cliffs of varying heights off of which visitors can jump into the refreshing waters. Some have barbecue pits and picnic tables or a snack shop selling cold fresh, coconut water. There are a few hidden within caves showcasing incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations, while others are open and better for snorkeling.
For a rainy afternoon, why not to go and enjoy a good movie with delicious popcorn and a soda!!
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Cinépolis Las Américas
For a rainy afternoon, why not to go and enjoy a good movie with delicious popcorn and a soda!!
Parks & Nature
Cenote Cristalino (also along the highway 20 minutes from Playa) has both an open, natural pool to swim in, as well as a cave to explore. I often bring guests here who are tickled by the fish pedicures and enjoy the cold fresh cocos (fresh coconut water) available at the small on-site store.
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Cenote Cristalino
Km. 269 Carr. Cancún - TulumCenote Cristalino (also along the highway 20 minutes from Playa) has both an open, natural pool to swim in, as well as a cave to explore. I often bring guests here who are tickled by the fish pedicures and enjoy the cold fresh cocos (fresh coconut water) available at the small on-site store.
A magical journey through the crystal museum where the history of our planet is written on the myriad geological formations, and where floating in its clear fresh water your life will change forever. Río Secreto could very well be one of the great world wonders. Experience this stunning underground river with thousands of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. It's like stepping back in time to witness something mysterious and truly spectacular.
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Rio Secreto
A magical journey through the crystal museum where the history of our planet is written on the myriad geological formations, and where floating in its clear fresh water your life will change forever. Río Secreto could very well be one of the great world wonders. Experience this stunning underground river with thousands of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. It's like stepping back in time to witness something mysterious and truly spectacular.
World wide known Natural sanctuary where the history of Mexico combines with fun traditions and the splendor of the Mayan culture. Located along the Caribbean Sea invites you to discover magical experiences where underground rivers await you, along with the fauna of the Mayan jungle and unforgettable shows.
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Xcaret
World wide known Natural sanctuary where the history of Mexico combines with fun traditions and the splendor of the Mayan culture. Located along the Caribbean Sea invites you to discover magical experiences where underground rivers await you, along with the fauna of the Mayan jungle and unforgettable shows.
Arts & Culture
Offering human sacrifices to appease the gods, constructing pyramids with mind-boggling mathematical precision and participating in fierce matches of Poc-a-Toc with the possibility of being beheaded at the end of the game, was just another day in the life of the ancient Maya. They are a civilization that has inhabited parts of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador and Honduras for thousands of years, building empires which thrived until approximately the 12th century AD.
Chichén Itzá, considered to be a sacred Mayan Mecca, was a significant religious and urban center for the ancient indigenous people. After being colonized around the 8th century by the Itzá, hundreds of thousands of Maya pilgrimaged to the great ceremonial site, which possessed equal prominence as a Central American trade hub. Construction of the first stone buildings began during this time, and over 1000 years later, many of the monuments on the 16 square kilometer archeological site still stand.
What is truly spectacular is the special effect which occurs during the spring and fall equinox. As the sun begins to set on these two particular days every year, a shadow is cast which gives the illusion of a massive snake slowly slithering down along the side of the pyramid. Approximately 5 hours later, it connects with a serpent head at the base of the structure. Spectators travel from around the world to witness this marvelous scene.
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Chichén Itzá
Offering human sacrifices to appease the gods, constructing pyramids with mind-boggling mathematical precision and participating in fierce matches of Poc-a-Toc with the possibility of being beheaded at the end of the game, was just another day in the life of the ancient Maya. They are a civilization that has inhabited parts of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador and Honduras for thousands of years, building empires which thrived until approximately the 12th century AD.
Chichén Itzá, considered to be a sacred Mayan Mecca, was a significant religious and urban center for the ancient indigenous people. After being colonized around the 8th century by the Itzá, hundreds of thousands of Maya pilgrimaged to the great ceremonial site, which possessed equal prominence as a Central American trade hub. Construction of the first stone buildings began during this time, and over 1000 years later, many of the monuments on the 16 square kilometer archeological site still stand.
What is truly spectacular is the special effect which occurs during the spring and fall equinox. As the sun begins to set on these two particular days every year, a shadow is cast which gives the illusion of a massive snake slowly slithering down along the side of the pyramid. Approximately 5 hours later, it connects with a serpent head at the base of the structure. Spectators travel from around the world to witness this marvelous scene.
SAYAB Planetario de Playa del Carmen
S/n Calle 125 NorteCity Planetarium
Kurt Wenner, originario de Michigan y conocido por ser el inventor del concepto interactive 3D pavement art illusions, trajo su arte y creatividad para darle a Playa del Carmen un “plus”. El artista monta manifestaciones de la perspectiva, ilusión, y la geometría junto con las técnicas de dibujo y pintura clásica. Entre las pinturas que podrán observar e interactuar en este museo se encuentran: Catching the Wave, Flying over the Bosphorous, Breeders’ Cup, entre otras. 3D Museum of Wonders está abierto todos los días de 9:00 hrs a 22:00 hrs
105 lokale inwoners raden aan
3D Museum of Wonders
10 Avenida NorteKurt Wenner, originario de Michigan y conocido por ser el inventor del concepto interactive 3D pavement art illusions, trajo su arte y creatividad para darle a Playa del Carmen un “plus”. El artista monta manifestaciones de la perspectiva, ilusión, y la geometría junto con las técnicas de dibujo y pintura clásica. Entre las pinturas que podrán observar e interactuar en este museo se encuentran: Catching the Wave, Flying over the Bosphorous, Breeders’ Cup, entre otras. 3D Museum of Wonders está abierto todos los días de 9:00 hrs a 22:00 hrs
Everything Else
Almost all activity takes place around Playa's 5th Avenue, a pedestrian walkway decorated with restaurants, sidewalk cafes, bars, handicraft stores, and boutique shops. It is on this lively cobblestone street, where people from around the world come together to indulge in great food, drink and entertainment options. This vibrant culmination of multinational residents and visitors, is where Playa del Carmen’s hip, cosmopolitan atmosphere originates from.
The multicultural fusion is reflected in the gastronomy, which mixes regional ingredients within its international dishes. Renowned chefs speckle this vast dining district and offer exquisite samplings from a variety of ethnicities.
The paradise-like settings are exceptional from sipping cocktails at a quaint beach bar or an eclectic lounge, to being awed by sensational live music and top-notch DJs, to dancing salsa oceanfront under the palm trees. The opportunities for fun and memorable nights abound!
230 lokale inwoners raden aan
Calle Quinta Avenida
5 Avenida NorteAlmost all activity takes place around Playa's 5th Avenue, a pedestrian walkway decorated with restaurants, sidewalk cafes, bars, handicraft stores, and boutique shops. It is on this lively cobblestone street, where people from around the world come together to indulge in great food, drink and entertainment options. This vibrant culmination of multinational residents and visitors, is where Playa del Carmen’s hip, cosmopolitan atmosphere originates from.
The multicultural fusion is reflected in the gastronomy, which mixes regional ingredients within its international dishes. Renowned chefs speckle this vast dining district and offer exquisite samplings from a variety of ethnicities.
The paradise-like settings are exceptional from sipping cocktails at a quaint beach bar or an eclectic lounge, to being awed by sensational live music and top-notch DJs, to dancing salsa oceanfront under the palm trees. The opportunities for fun and memorable nights abound!