Playa del Carmen is a veritable outdoor playground. Whether you want to dive below the sea’s surface, soar above the lush jungle, swim in underground caves, or exploring teeming coral reefs, this Mexican resort town is where to do it. Here’s how.
Water Sports
There are countless ways to spend time in and on the clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean. Must-do water activities include snorkeling and scuba diving, and both half- and full-day tours take visitors to multiple spots to see sea turtles and whale sharks in their natural habitats. Kitesurfing and sailing are popular among travelers, and stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to practice balance, get a core workout, and experience the thrill of gliding over the Caribbean’s crystal-clear water.
Cenotes
The jungle around Playa del Carmen is filled with cenotes, underground, fresh-water–filled sinkholes that are accessible through caves. The natural wonders are great places to relax, enjoy a secluded swim, and escape from the oppressive jungle heat. Explore the area’s cenotes on a private or group tour, or even via ATV after exploring some Maya ruins.
Dune Buggy and ATV Rides
To really get off the beaten path, navigate the area’s winding roads thick with ancient tree roots and forest foliage aboard an all-terrain vehicle. Drive a dune buggy or an ATV over the sandy hills and through grassland, jungle, and mangrove forests, then cool off at the beach or in a cenote after the ride.
Ziplining
Hard-core adventure seekers can spend a day soaring hundreds of feet above the Riviera Maya’s lush jungle canopy on a zipline. Enjoy panoramic vistas as you zip from platform to platform—a truly unforgettable perspective and experience.