Playa del Carmen Travel Tips

Make the most of your time in Playa del Carmen with these expert tips.

Get All Your Docs Together: U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport to enter Mexico. Visas are not required for stays under 180 days.

Stay Cool: Mexico enjoys warm weather year-round, with average temps between 75°F and 90°F. Pack light layers for hot days and breezy evenings.

Remember Beach Essentials: Bring breathable clothing, swimwear, a hat, and reef-safe sunscreen. Flip-flops are a must, but water shoes are great for excursions.

Be Rain-Ready: Rainy season runs from June to October, but showers tend to pass quickly. A light, packable rain jacket or umbrella can come in handy.

Explore Like a Local: Ask our staff for tips on authentic tacos, hidden cenotes, and local markets to add a little extra flavor to your getaway.

Tipping is Customary: While not required, small tips for housekeeping, drivers, and tour guides are always appreciated and go a long way.

Mind the Time Zone: Cancun does not observe Daylight Saving Time. Depending on the time of year, it is either on Eastern Standard Time or Central Standard Time.

Use Pesos or Plastic: While U.S. dollars are widely accepted, paying in pesos often gets you better prices. ATMs and currency exchanges are easy to find.

Don’t Drink Tap Water: Stick to bottled water for drinking.

Bring Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be active, especially near jungle areas or cenotes. Pack insect repellent with DEET or picaridin.

Exploring Playa del Carmen: The Ultimate Beach Town

Playa del Carmen pairs laid-back beach days with lively local culture, great food, and everyday moments worth savoring. Whether it’s your first walk down Fifth Avenue or a return visit to a favorite café, this walkable seaside town strikes a balance between local life and global flair.

Head for the Beach
Playa’s shoreline is often the main draw, with soft, white sand, calm Caribbean waters, and palm trees framing the view. Spend the day stretched out on the beach, or enjoy resort comforts like loungers, music, and drinks at one of the beach clubs. If you’re feeling active, enjoy the water while snorkeling or paddleboarding.

Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida)
Fifth Avenue is Playa del Carmen’s lively main street, and your go-to for shopping and dining. Stretching for miles, it’s lined with boutiques, artisan shops, cafés, and restaurants offering regional and global flavors. From handmade crafts and silver jewelry to colorful textiles and local art, it’s a great place to find a meaningful souvenir—or simply go for a walk.

Dining, Cafés, and Nightlife
Food is a highlight in Playa, with everything from street-style tacos and Mayan dishes to international cuisine and fresh seafood. Café culture thrives here, making it easy to pause with a cup of Mexican coffee or dessert. As evenings unfold, Fifth Avenue comes to life with relaxed lounges, live music, and beachfront bars to unwind at.

Playa’s Ancient Roots
Long before it became a modern destination, Playa del Carmen was home to the Maya. Remnants of the ancient settlement of Xaman-Há can still be found in and around town, a reminder of its role as a coastal trading hub and gateway to Cozumel, sacred to the goddess Ixchel. This history adds depth to Playa’s vibrant present.

Guest-Favorites at The Royal Haciendas

With activities for all ages, these experiences make it easy to stay active, entertained, and connected throughout your vacation.

Kayaks on the Water
Kayaking is available daily. Sign up at the Activities Center.

Sports Tournaments
Join scheduled soccer and basketball tournaments on the sports court. Sign up at the Activities Center.

Kids’ Mocktail Mixology
Kids’ can learn to make fruit-based mocktails during this hands-on activity, hosted every Thursday. Reserve their spot at the Activity Center.

Karaoke, Silent Parties & Disco Nights
Live it up with karaoke on Tuesdays, silent dance parties on Thursdays, and disco nights on Saturdays with a DJ at La Rotonda Bar. Learn more at the Activities Center.

Pickleball Courts
Play a match or two on our courts. They’re open every day. Check with the concierge about open slots and equipment.