Playa del Carmen, Mexico: Vacations and travel info

Description

The capital of the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen has evolved from, originally a small village of Mayan pilgrims, into a lively, cosmopolitan city with the highest urban growth in the country. Its natural features, beauty and miles of white sandy beaches, its enviable geographical location and its blend of sea and jungle make this destination on the Mexican Caribbean a magnet for both Mexicans and visitors from all over the world.

Playa is a fantastic place to spend your vacation, hang out, or even live. The town has grown along the beach, so wherever you go, you will feel the close to the ocean. The main street is called Quinta Avenida, or 5th Avenue. It is a pedestrian walkway and a prominent point of reference. Here is where you will find the majority of hotels, restaurants, bars and shops. Life in Playa del Carmen is characterized by variety and diversity.

South of the dock there is an area called Playacar. This planned development is where all the big, all-inclusive resorts are located. You will also find the golf course, some private homes and condos, the aviary, and some interesting Mayan ruins.

There are diving facilities both inland and by the sea, the deep waters, separating it from Cozumel, are also ideal for sport fishing. If diving's not your thing then the jungle invites you to explore its lush, magical world, while trips to the nearby archaeological sites are extremely gratifying.

Beaches and Attractions

Whilst on your vacation in Playa del Carmen you will find an enormous variety of water activities, ranging from swimming or playing in the sea, or more strenuous sports such as windsurfing, sailing or diving in the nearby reefs, to going on boat trips or using the other types of watercraft available, such as canoes or jet skis.

Diving enthusiasts can enjoy scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Playa del Carmen. You can also go snorkeling and diving on the Great Mayan Reef, located less than 100 meters out from the beach. Alternatively, you can go diving in the nearby caves, which is an experience out of this world.

Playa del Carmen is also an ideal spot for visiting one of the most beautiful parks in Mexico: Xcaret, which also happens to be the location where ferries set out for the Island of Cozumel. It is also near the natural well area of Puerto Aventuras, while the largest natural aquarium in the world, Xel-Ha, is just a forty-five minute drive away.

When the sun sets in 'Playa' the fiesta begins! The evening offers a huge variety of options; every conceivable taste is catered for, from quick and cheap to a five star fine dining experience. The night clubs and bars open early and close late. Lose yourself in the balmy Caribbean nights and fill your senses with the sights, sounds, food and music that make up this tropical paradise!