Itineraries for Your Trip to Playa del Carmen
3 Days in Playa del Camen for First Timers
The first time I stayed in Playa del Carmen, I planned to spend all my time enjoying the white-sand beaches. Return visits have let me branch out to take in the gorgeous cenotes and learn about the area's cultural history with visits to archaeological sites, such as the Maya ruins of Coba (Zona Arqueológica de Cobá) and Tulum.
With three days in Playa del Carmen, you'll have plenty of time for water adventures and day trips to Akumal or Isla Mujeres. If shopping is on your list, Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) is the place to go—you'll find plenty of souvenirs to remember your time in the Riviera Maya and the Yucatan. Here's your 3-day Playa del Carmen itinerary for first timers.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a dip in a cenote.
You'll find hot and muggy weather year-round in Playa del Carmen, with the summers being particularly oppressive.
Playa del Carmen's proximity to so many Maya sites makes it easy to visit at least one during your stay. Whether you head off to Chichen Itza or Tulum this morning, booking a guided tour is the way to go. Most include hotel pickup and drop-off (so you can avoid renting a car at the Cancun airport).
There are so many fascinating animals to discover in Quintana Roo. This afternoon, learn about some of them at the Akumal Monkey Sanctuary, where monkeys and other animals that were previously used in shows are rehabilitated.
On day two, explore Playa del Carmen's food scene. A stop at the mercado will show you what's in season, and you can try some agua fresca while you're there. Then head to a taqueria for street tacos before you enjoy a mango or tamarind popsicle at a paleteria. A food tour is the best way to find under-the-radar hot spots.
After you've fueled up for the day, it's time for some adventure. Playa del Carmen has plenty of options if you have a need for speed, from all-terrain vehicle (ATV) tours to ziplining. Many include pickup from hotels in Playa del Carmen. Just be sure you hold on tight!
Getting out on the water is one of the top must-do activities in this part of Mexico. Today, choose a snorkeling adventure or a catamaran cruise; you’ll see this region of the Caribbean Sea and maybe even spot some sea turtles swimming by.
Later, take a break from the heat, spending your afternoon exploring the area's hidden caves, or cenotes. At Rio Secreto Nature Reserve you can swim through an underground river and take in all the mysterious stalactites. Then top off your three days in Playa del Carmen with a sunset cruise.
