Playa del Carmen

Sitting midway between the dazzling resorts of Cancun and the bohemia-chic aura of Tulum, this city by the sea blends a European vibe with warm local hospitality.

Street scene in Playa del Carmen along La Quinta Avenida with restaurants, shops, and bars. Photo: Arkadij Schell/Shutterstock

Overview

For centuries the village now known as Playa del Carmen was little more than a stopover. Mayan pilgrims passed through on their way to the island of Cozumel’s temple of Ixchel. Coastal traders stopped in to refill from the clear fresh waters that welled up in nearby jungle cenotes. Lacking a secure harbor, it was largely ignored by arriving Spanish colonists. Change came in the early 80s when vacationers seeking a quiet alternative to Cancun’s burgeoning resort district headed south in search of uncrowded beaches.

First to come were Europeans, setting a continental tone to the scene. North Americans followed, and today the destination has come into its own as a world-class beach destination. Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) is the bustling heart of Playa del Carmen. This pedestrian-only street stretches for miles and is lined with shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Day and night, it buzzes with energy, offering everything from local crafts and souvenirs to high-end fashion and gourmet dining.