Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? My Honest Review 2025

Playa del Carmen, Mexico, is one of my favorite spots when I’m in the mood for a busier vibe, somewhere right in the middle of the action but still with beautiful beaches and great hotels all around.

To me, Playa del Carmen feels like a mix between Cancún and somewhere a little more relaxed, which is exactly why I love it.

I’ve been to Playa quite a few times now, and every single visit has been a good one. The beaches are stunning, the food sceneis fantastic, and the bars and nightlife are always buzzing.

It’s definitely one of the more established destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula, so not a hidden gem by any means, but it’s still incredibly popular with both locals and international visitors. And honestly, for good reason.

Since I always get asked whether Playa del Carmen is worth visiting, I thought it was time to put together a few honest guides about it. So let’s dive in and answer that very question: is Playa del Carmen worth visiting?

Is Playa Del Carmen Worth Visiting? My Quick Answer

I’d say yes, Playa del Carmen is absolutely worth visiting. But, it really depends on what kind of trip you’re after. If I had to describe it, I’d say it sits somewhere between Cancún and Tulum. It’s not as big and resort-heavy as Cancún, but it’s also more of a functioning city than Tulum, so it’s that perfect middle ground.

What makes me keep coming back to Playa del Carmen is that it still feels authentic. There’s incredible food everywhere, plenty of locals actually live here, and you’re still right on the beach, which isn’t always the case in Tulum.

That said, I need to be in the mood for Playa. The city center can be pretty busy, with tons of restaurants, bars, shops, and nightlife. I usually stay for three or four nights, then head somewhere quieter like Tulum, Isla Mujeres, or Holbox for a few days to wind down.

There are also larger resorts just outside Playa del Carmen if you want a more relaxed base. I’ve heard great things about places like Paradisus La Perla, which is high on my list for my next visit. Playa really gives you the best of both worlds, a lively city scene and easy access to a peaceful resort experience if you want it.

What I Really Like About Playa del Carmen Mexico

The Food Scene: Because Playa del Carmen is still a very authentic beach city with a strong local community, the food scene is incredible. You’ll find everything from proper taquerías and family-run fondas to high-end restaurants, some of the best and most authentic Mexican food I’ve ever had, honestly.

The Nightlife: Playa del Carmen has a great nightlife, it’s fun, energetic, and much more down-to-earth than Tulum’s. I’m personally not a fan of the overpriced, overhyped beach clubs in Tulum, so Playa’s mix of casual bars, local clubs, and live music spots (playing everything from reggaeton to electronic) feels more my speed, and way more reasonably priced too.

Affordability: Playa del Carmen can be surprisingly affordable depending on where you stay. Beachfront hotels and boutique stays tend to be better value than in Tulum, and dining out or grabbing drinks doesn’t come with the same eye-watering price tag either.

Free Beaches: Unlike in Tulum, the beaches here are actually free and open to everyone. You can just walk right up and enjoy them without worrying about day passes or minimum spends, which I love.

The Location: Playa del Carmen is very well located for exploring the region. From here, you can easily do day trips to Chichén Itzá, swim in cenotes, visit Tulum, or take a boat to Cozumel for snorkeling or scuba diving. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Riviera Maya.

What I Don’t Like About Playa del Carmen Mexico

It can be a lot: Playa del Carmen definitely has its moments where it feels overwhelming. It’s not a cute little beach town, it’s busy, especially around the main strip, which can feel quite touristy. With all the nightlife comes the usual not-so-great side effects too (think noise and the occasional chaos).

Not the nicest beach: Even though the beaches are free and perfectly fine for lounging, swimming, and soaking up the sea breeze, they’re not quite as stunning as the powdery white-sand beaches you’ll find in Isla Mujeres or Holbox.

Top Things to Do in Playa del Carmen

1. Experience the Nightlife

The nightlife in Playa del Carmen is such a blast, and I mean everything from casual beach bars to rooftop lounges and open-air clubs. I love wandering down the famous Fifth Avenue ( 5th Avenue) in the evenings. 

It’s always buzzing with people, street performers, music, and the smell of tacos and margaritas in the air. I usually pop into a few shops, grab a drink (or two), and finish the night with dinner somewhere lively.

2. Celebrate Día de Muertos

I had the most amazing time spending Día de Muertos in Playa del Carmen. The whole town turns into one big celebration with colorful decorations everywhere, live music, parades, and food stalls. We even got our faces painted and joined in on the festivities, which was so much fun. If you happen to be here in late October or early November, don’t miss it.

3. Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving in Cozumel

Cozumel is just a short ferry ride away, and the snorkeling and diving there are incredible. I’ve done a few dives and saw eagle rays, sharks, and so many colorful fish and honestly one of the best underwater experiences I’ve had in Mexico. 

You can either take the ferry over for the day or book a boat tour directly from Playa del Carmen.

Book Here: Sailing & Snorkeling from Playa del Carmen

4. Visit the Cenotes

The cenotes around Playa del Carmen and Tulum are some of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. I usually rent a car so I can visit early before the tour groups arrive, but joining a guided tour is also a great option if you don’t want to drive. 

Either way, swimming in those crystal-clear, freshwater sinkholes surrounded by jungle is something you have to experience at least once.

5. Take a Day Trip to Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Mexico and an absolute must-see. I’ve been twice now, once from Tulum and once from Playa del Carmen, and it’s always worth the trip. 

You can either rent a car and go at your own pace or join a guided tour (which usually includes lunch and a cenote stop). Whichever way you go, it’s such a fascinating day out.

Book Here: Day Trip to Chichen Itza

Who is Playa del Carmen for?

Honestly, from my experience, Playa del Carmen can be for almost anyone. The last time I stayed there, I was right in the center near Fifth Avenue, the main strip, and it was buzzing with people of all kinds. Young travelers, older couples, locals on weekend trips, friend groups, solo travelers… everyone seemed to be having a great time in their own way.

That said, I probably wouldn’t stay right in the middle of town if I were traveling with kids or on a family holiday. 

Playa del Carmen definitely works for families, but in that case, I’d recommend one of the larger resorts on the outskirts. You’ll get a much more relaxed atmosphere, and whenever you feel like dipping into the city’s energy, you can just grab a quick taxi or even walk into town.

FAQs About Visiting Playa del Carmen

Is Playa del Carmen safe?

Yes, absolutely. I’ve always felt safe in Playa del Carmen, even though it’s busy and known for its nightlife. In fact, I’ve felt safer here than in Tulum. Of course, the usual travel precautions apply, but overall it’s one of the more comfortable cities to explore in Mexico.

When is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen?

Just like the rest of the Yucatán, I personally prefer visiting between December and February. It’s high season, I know,  so it’ll be busier and a bit more expensive, but the weather is perfect and I get to avoid the seaweed (sargassum) season.

Are there good beaches in Playa del Carmen?

Yes, the beaches here are definitely good enough for swimming and sunbathing, not the most pristine in Mexico, but far from disappointing. Plus, they’re free and easily accessible, which I really appreciate.

How to get to Playa del Carmen?

I usually take the ADO bus from Cancún International Airport straight to Playa del Carmen, it’s easy, cheap, and comfortable. But if you want a more relaxed experience (especially after a long flight), booking a private transfer can be a great option too.

Final Thoughts: Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?

All in all, I definitely think Playa del Carmen is worth visiting, if only for the amazing food, super fun atmosphere, and fantastic nightlife. My favorite thing about Playa is that even though it’s touristy, it still feels real. Locals live, work, and go out here, so it’s easy to mingle and make new friends, which I really enjoy doing. Now I get to have local friends in Playa, who I can visit every time I come back!

That said, Playa del Carmen isn’t for everyone. It’s not a sleepy beach town, it’s lively, energetic, and sometimes a bit chaotic. Personally, I love splitting my time: 3–4 nights in Playa, then a few quieter days in Tulum, Isla Mujeres, Holbox, or Cozumel to relax.

I hope this guide helps you decide and answer the question of ‘Is Playa del Carmen worth visiting?’ (spoiler: it totally is). Happy travels!

Check Out My Other Playa del Carmen Travel Guides

How to Get to Playa del Carmen: My Playa Transportation Guide

Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen Mexico: My Top Areas & Hotels

Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

Best Time to Visit Playa del Carmen: A Season by Season Guide