Guide to Playacar: Things to see and do in Playa del Carmen
Discover Playacar:
- What makes Playacar special?
- Things to see and do in Playacar
- How to get to Playacar from Princess Hotels Riviera Maya
To the south of the heart of Playa del Carmen lies Playacar, a tranquil residential community that combines tropical vegetation, hotel complexes, private villas, sports facilities, and traces of Mayan culture.
The development is broadly divided into two areas:
- Playacar Phase I stretches along the coast and is noted for its residential properties, the small archaeological ruins, and its proximity to down-town Playa del Carmen.
- Playacar Phase II is centred around a renowned golf course and is home to numerous resorts, residential properties, and tourist facilities. Controlled access, well-maintained surroundings, and a relaxed ambience have helped make it one of the most exclusive areas of the Riviera Maya.
This destination tends to appeal particularly to couples, families, golf enthusiasts, and travellers who wish to combine relaxation, nature and culture without straying too far from the bustle of La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue).
Read on to find out more.
What makes Playacar special?
One of the main differences between Playacar and other areas of Playa del Carmen is the vibe.
Although it’s just a few minutes from the centre of town, what first springs to mind is the general vibe, which is far more relaxed, as well as the accompanying tropical gardens, palm trees, and pathways that make it ideal for strolling.
The local beaches are ideal for relaxing, strolling along the seashore, or just enjoying the calm waters of the Caribbean. The setting is particularly pleasant for those seeking to spend the day away from the busier areas, although beach conditions can vary, depending on the tides, the wind, and the season.
Playacar also allows visitors to combine different kinds of experiences in a single visit.
Over the course of just a few hours you can relax by the sea, explore Mayan archaeological sites, walk trails surrounded by lush vegetation, play golf, and round off the day by visiting the restaurants and shops in down-town Playa del Carmen.
Furthermore, its location next to the southern end of Quinta Avenida makes it easy to switch from a peaceful, residential setting to one of the Riviera Maya’s best-known shopping and dining areas in minutes.
Things to see and do in Playacar
1. Enjoy Playacar Beach
The beach is one of the area’s main attractions, where white sands, the turquoise colour of the sea, and the surrounding palm trees combine to create the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day out.
Here you can sunbathe, take a dip in the Caribbean, stroll along the shore, or simply kick back and take in the scenery. The early morning hours are particularly pleasant for a stroll, as there are usually fewer visitors and the temperatures are milder.
Before going into the water it’s a good idea to check the sea conditions, and always follow safety instructions.
Also, in an effort to help protect the environment, it’s advisable to use biodegradable sun cream and avoid leaving litter behind.
2. Discover the Mayan ruins at Playacar
Playacar is home to the remains of the ancient Mayan settlement of Xamanhá, whose name can be translated as “Water of the North”.
In pre-Hispanic times this was a small fishing village and an important stop on the coastal trade and pilgrimage routes to the island of Cozumel.
Unlike larger archaeological sites like Tulum or Chichén Itzá, the small-scale structures here are seamlessly integrated among the dwellings, gardens, and vegetation, a feature that lends a unique touch to the site.
A visit here allows one to discover a lesser-known part of Playa del Carmen’s history and understand that, long before it became an international tourist destination, the region already had a close connection with the sea and Mayan culture.
3. Play golf in tropical surroundings
Another iconic feature of the Playacar development is the golf course, which is set amongst a landscape of lush tropical vegetation, sandy patches, and water hazards, offering an enjoyable experience for both regular players and those simply wishing to practise while on holiday.
In addition to playing, and depending on the services available, visitors can also enquire about equipment hire, lessons, or practice areas.
It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, and to confirm current opening hours, rates and conditions directly with the establishment.
4. Visit the Xaman-Há aviary
Nature lovers should include in their itinerary a visit to the Xaman-Há Aviary, a natural space surrounded by vegetation that is home to various species of birds native to the region.
During the visit you’ll be able to spot tropical birds, butterflies, iguanas, and plants, many of which are native to the Mexican Caribbean.
This activity is particularly interesting for families, photography enthusiasts, and visitors wishing to learn about the local biodiversity.
The morning is usually one of the best times to visit, when the temperatures are more pleasant and the birds are most active. Before visiting it’s a good idea to check opening times, admission prices, and availability.
5. Explore Playacar on foot or by bike
The tree-lined avenues and tranquil ambience of Playacar are perfect for walking or cycling.
Along the way you’ll be able to admire gardens, villas, green spaces, and small archaeological remains hidden amongst the vegetation.
This is a great way to explore the area at a leisurely pace, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
Be sure to bring water, sun cream, and insect repellent, and remember to respect residential areas and follow signposted access routes.
As Playacar is a gated community, it’s advisable to check in advance which entrances you can use and which areas are open to visitors.
6. Go shopping on Paseo del Carmen
At the entrance to Playacar is Paseo del Carmen, an open-air shopping centre that links up almost directly with the start of La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue).
A combination of shops, cafés, restaurants and craft stalls make this a handy place to stop for a rest after a walk, grab a drink, or pick up a holiday souvenir.
The location makes it easy to combine a visit to Playacar with a tour of down-town Playa del Carmen.
7. Stroll down La Quinta Avenida
Although La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) isn’t strictly speaking within Playacar, it begins very close to one of the main entrances, making it the perfect addition to any daytime excursion.
This famous pedestrianised street is home to a wealth of restaurants, terraces, shops, galleries, and entertainment venues.
During the day the relaxed ambience is ideal for strolling and shopping, while at night it comes alive with music and dining options to suit all tastes.
You can also start your tour in the Paseo del Carmen area before continuing on to Parque Fundadores and the Portal Maya, two of Playa del Carmen’s most photographed spots.
Click here for our nightlife guide to Quinta Avenida in Playa del Carmen.
8. Visit Parque Fundadores (Founders’ Park) and take in the view of the Caribbean
Very close to Playacar is Parque Fundadores, one of Playa del Carmen’s most iconic landmarks.
From here, you can admire the Portal Maya (Mayan Gateway), take in cultural performances, and enjoy the views of the sea and the island of Cozumel.
The park is also right next to the ferry terminal for Cozumel.
Even if you’re not planning to visit the island it’s worth popping along to soak up the atmosphere of the town centre and watch the boats come and go.
9. Check out the local cuisine
Why not round off a visit to Playacar with a culinary adventure?
In and around Playa¡car you’ll find everything from restaurants serving Mexican cuisine to international options, seafood, cafés, and outdoor dining areas.
For some traditional flavours of the Yucatan Peninsula, you should try cochinita pibil, panuchos, salbutes, or a freshly made marquesita.
The proximity to Quinta Avenida means you can choose from a wide range of options and tailor your plans to any time of day.
Make sure you sample at least some of these Seven not-to-be-missed Mexican classics.
How to get to Playacar from Princess Hotels Riviera Maya
Princess Hotels Riviera Maya are located north of Playa del Carmen, along the Xcalacoco coast.
From the hotel complex to Playacar, situated at the southern end of the city, the journey by car usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, though this may vary depending on traffic and your exact destination.
The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private transport, which can be arranged through the hotel. You can tell the driver whether you wish to go directly to Playacar, Paseo del Carmen, Parque Fundadores, or the start of Quinta Avenida.
Princess Hotels Riviera Maya also offer a shuttle service to the centre of Playa del Carmen. Timetables, availability and fares may vary, so it’s advisable to check for the latest information at reception or with the concierge team during your stay. From the centre, Playacar and Paseo del Carmen are just a short distance away.
Another option is to hire a car, especially if you wish to combine a visit to Playacar with other destinations on the Riviera Maya. In this case, you should drive south along Federal Highway 307 and take the exit for Playacar. It’s a good idea to use a sat-nav app and check in advance the location of the entrance to the place you wish to visit.
Our hotels allow each traveller to choose the experience that best suits them:
- Grand Riviera Princess, an all-inclusive resort particularly well suited to families, couples, and groups of friends.
- Grand Sunset Princess, ideal for a romantic break overlooking the Caribbean, and with a wide range of dining and entertainment options.
- Princess Family Club Riviera, designed for family holidays, with lots of spaces and activities for the little ones.
- Platinum Yucatan Princess, a resort exclusively for adults aged 18 and over, perfect for couples and travellers looking for a getaway with a more relaxed vibe.
All our hotels are set in stunning natural settings and offer an excellent base from which to explore Playa del Carmen, Playacar, and other attractions on the Riviera Maya.
Discover Playacar during your next holiday
Playacar brings together many of the elements that make the Riviera Maya so special: Caribbean beaches, tropical nature, Mayan culture, sporting activities, and a prime location right next to down-town Playa del Carmen.
Stay at the Princess Hotels Riviera Maya and make Playacar one of the destinations on your next holiday. After exploring Playa del Carmen you can return to the resort to continue enjoying the swimming pools, restaurants, activities, all with that unmistakable Caribbean vibe.
FAQs concerning Playacar
- What makes Playacar different from the rest of Playa del Carmen?
Playacar is renowned for its relaxed vibe, its streets lined with tropical vegetation, its white-sand beach, and its blend of nature, history and tourist facilities. What’s more, it’s just a few minutes’ drive from Fifth Avenue, allowing visitors to enjoy both the tranquillity of the area and the lively atmosphere of down-town Playa del Carmen.
- Where can I visit on a day trip to Playacar?
In Playacar you can enjoy the beach, visit the Mayan ruins of Xamanhá, explore the Xaman-Há Aviary, play golf, cycle along its tree-lined streets, and visit nearby places such as Paseo del Carmen, Quinta Avenida or Parque Fundadores.
- Are the Mayan ruins at Playacar worth a visit?
Definitely. The ruins of Xamanhá offer a glimpse into a lesser-known part of Playa del Carmen’s history. Although they are smaller than other archaeological sites, the way they blend into the gardens and surrounding greenery makes a visit there a particularly special experience.
- What outdoor activities are available in Playacar?
Playacar offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as relaxing on the beach, strolling along the seafront, cycling through the streets, visiting the Xaman-Há Aviary, or playing golf while surrounded by tropical vegetation.
- How do I get to Playacar from Princess Hotels Riviera Maya?
From Princess Hotels Riviera Maya the journey to Playacar usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes by car. You can get there by taxi, private transport, using the hotel’s shuttle service to Playa del Carmen, or by hire car.
- What is there to do near Playacar after visiting the area?
Very close to Playacar you can stroll along La Quinta Avenida, visit Paseo del Carmen for a spot of shopping, explore Fundadores Park, admire the Mayan Portal, or head to the ferry terminal where ferries depart for Cozumel.
- Is Playacar a good destination for a family holiday?
For sure. Playacar combines beaches, natural landscapes, walking trails, the Xaman-Há Aviary, and a location very close to down-town Playa del Carmen, where there are activities for travellers of all ages.
- What traditional dishes can I try while visiting Playacar?
In the restaurants in and around Playacar you can sample a variety of specialities from Mexican and Yucatecan cuisine such as cochinita pibil, panuchos, salbutes and marquesitas, as well as a wide range of international dishes.
- Can you get around Playacar on foot or by bike?
Yes. The tree-lined avenues and relaxed vibe make it an ideal place for a stroll or bike ride. Along the way you’ll come across gardens, villas, green spaces, and small archaeological remains that blend seamlessly into the landscape.
- Why stay at Princess Hotels Riviera Maya when visiting Playacar?
Princess Hotels Riviera Maya are ideally situated for exploring Playacar and Playa del Carmen. As well as being just a short drive away, they allow you to combine day trips with a stay at all-inclusive resorts where you can enjoy swimming pools, restaurants, activities, and the natural surroundings of the Mexican Caribbean.
Categories: Caribbean, Travel Tips, Riviera Maya
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