Our most recommended things to do in Playa del Carmen

Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour

1. Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour

Discover the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá on a guided tour from Playa del Carmen. Immerse yourself in the jungle at an eco-park, with some time for swimming in a cenote and a hearty buffet lunch. Start with pickup from Playa del Carmen and first travel to the jungle eco-park. Marvel at the sacred cenote as you refresh yourself with a purifying swim in crystalline waters. Dig into a delicious buffet lunch at the restaurant at the eco-park, and be ready for a flavor sensation. Try some of the famed Mexican cuisine with regional dishes from Yucatán. After your buffet, head to the world-famous Mayan ruins of Chichen Itzá. Take a guided tour of the ceremonial site and listen to fascinating tales of the ancient Maya civilization. Learn more with your expert guides and hear entertaining stories of life at Chichen Itzá. Discover a culture that was way ahead of its time. Then, enjoy some free time to explore by yourself and walk in the footsteps of the Mayan people. Your final stop is in the colonial center of Valladolid for a quick visit to this charming “Magic Town” of Mexico. The imposing church and architecture of the town surrounding the “zocalo'' or town square are perfect photo ops and a chance to relax and enjoy the laid-back vibes of Yucatán, before heading back to Playa del Carmen.

From Cancun or Riviera Maya: Isla Contoy & Mujeres Day Trip

2. From Cancun or Riviera Maya: Isla Contoy & Mujeres Day Trip

Explore Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres on a day trip from Cancun or Riviera Maya. Experience rich cultural heritage and history, have fun snorkeling, relax on beautiful beaches, and enjoy a delicious lunch. Begin with pickup from your hotel in the Cancun area, passing through Playa del Carmen, and arriving at the new private marina, located at the Punta Sam Ferry Terminal. Benefit from fast check-in and enjoy a light breakfast that includes sweet bread, fruit, cereal, coffee, and juice. After breakfast and check-in, board the boat and head toward the Ixlache Reef. The reef is located off the coast of Contoy and right at the beginning of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second-largest reef system in the world. Then, try snorkeling with your guide before boarding the ship and heading to Contoy Island. In the event of bad weather, you will do the snorkeling activity on the island in the safety of its shallow waters. Disembark on Contoy Island and have the chance to sightsee with a guide and visit the museum, observatory, and lagoon. Go to the dunes and learn about the flora and fauna species of the island. Alternatively, choose to relax on the beautiful beach or do some more snorkeling in the Caleta area. Next, enjoy a lunch of Pescado Tikinxic, a broiled fish with achiote and other local species as well as broiled chicken, rice, and salad, accompanied by your favorite drink with access to an open bar. Finally, enjoy free time on the beach before boarding the boat and heading to Isla Mujeres. Visit the fishermen’s village or do some shopping, then head back to Cancun.

Playa Del Carmen: Round-Trip Ferry Ticket to/from Cozumel

3. Playa Del Carmen: Round-Trip Ferry Ticket to/from Cozumel

Pre-book a quick round-trip ferry service between Playa Del Carmen and Cozumel. Get maximum flexibility with continuous daily departures and a 6-month ticket validation period. Enjoy added perks including a snack bar, open-air decks, live music, TVs, and electrical outlets. On the day of your chosen departure, hop on board a high-speed 157-foot JETLINE Class catamaran type ferry, constructed of aluminum and featuring 3 decks with a capacity between 150 and 800 passengers. Enjoy new generation gangways for express boarding and carry-on baggage handling. On board, take advantage of covered and open-air decks, panoramic windows, TV screens, a snack bar, electrical outlets, live music, and underwater illumination. Ride in maximum comfort with on-board air conditioning, leather seats, and restrooms. As you head to your destination, take some time to relax with plenty of legroom in high-quality ergonomic high-quality leather seats designed and constructed in Europe by the same high technology companies that work with Porsche and Ferrari. Premium Class Tickets include round-trip transportation with general ferry access. If you’re looking to add a little more to your trip, choose First Class Tickets for referred access to the ferry, reliable seats with more space, and access to a lounge area. Whatever ticket option you choose, you’ll get to experience a ferry transfer focused on passengers and making their journey something even more special. The beauty of the islands, coupled with the comfort and quickness of the boats, make this the preferred trip for visitors to this area. 

Cancun/Riviera Maya: Isla Mujeres All-Inclusive Snorkel Trip

4. Cancun/Riviera Maya: Isla Mujeres All-Inclusive Snorkel Trip

Experience the ultimate tour of Isla Mujeres that doesn't just show you the typical tourist spots but also all the hidden gems that make this island so special. Enjoy snorkeling, a buffet lunch, and free time to explore Isla Mujeres downtown. Check in at the activity provider's marina at the Punta Sam Terminal while enjoying some coffee and pastries. Upon boarding, head straight to the first snorkel point on the reef. Along the way, marvel at the vibrant colors of the Caribbean Sea. Once at the reef, embark on a guided snorkeling exploration for 40 minutes with all snorkeling gear provided. Admire the local marine life up close in the clear waters. Next, navigate along the island's shore on your way to the activity provider's beach club, located in the sheltered harbor also known as the "hidden Isla Mujeres". Here, savor a delicious buffet lunch while taking in the stunning view of Cancun. Continue to Isla Mujeres downtown to spend two hours of free time to explore its colorful streets and experience the charming town, or take a guided walk to Playa Norte, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Playa del Carmen: Xplor Park All-Inclusive Entry Ticket

5. Playa del Carmen: Xplor Park All-Inclusive Entry Ticket

Discover a paradise for thrill seekers in the Riviera Maya. Near Cancun, in Playa del Carmen, book your all-inclusive ticket to Xplor Park and discover stunning rock formations. Take part in adrenaline-fueled activities like zip-lining, rafting, cave swimming, and driving through the jungle and caves. You can also enjoy a buffet lunch with unlimited drinks. Step into the heart of the jungle and live out your wildest Riviera Maya dreams. Make use of the latest safety equipment and receive instructions from the professional staff. Have access to 2 zip line circuits, 2 amphibious vehicle circuits, 2 unique river swims, and a river rafting experience. Drive for 10 kilometers aboard amphibious vehicles, admire panoramic views of nature as you glide along the zip lines, and see stunning stalagmite rock formations while swimming through the caves. Be treated to a delicious lunch buffet and unlimited drinks throughout the day.

From Riviera Maya: Mayan Ruins & Sian Kaan Reserve Tour

6. From Riviera Maya: Mayan Ruins & Sian Kaan Reserve Tour

Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Muyil and the Sian Kaan Nature Reserve on a half-day tour from Tulum. You will encounter a variety of birds, plants, and animals before wandering through the ruins to discover the incredible history of this ancient civilization. After being picked up from Tulum you will be transferred to the Sian Kaan Nature Reserve. Walk through this inspiring eco-preserve to the highest point in the reserve and gaze out at an unblemished jungle filled with hundreds of species of birds, plants, and animal life. Enjoy a small hike before a boat ride through the trading canals of the ancient Maya civilization and visit the Maya temple of Xlapak. You will see the detailed facades of these old ruins, located at the bottom of the river valley. Next, float and swim back down through the canals between mangroves and gently make your way back out into the crystal-clear waters around the peninsula. Onboard, enjoy an assortment of Mexican snacks and lunch as the sun sets over this beautiful landscape. Experience the very best of this region. The food, the culture, the nature, and a bit of relaxation in the water make this a perfect day trip.

Xcaret Park: Full-Day Ticket with Night Show

7. Xcaret Park: Full-Day Ticket with Night Show

Discover Xcaret Park, a wonderful paradise where you can enjoy more than 40 activities and attractions. Be a special guest at an ancient Mayan ball game, and join the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular celebration during your visit. Enjoy an experience with free access to showers, dressing rooms, bags for belongings, life vests and parking. Encounter colorful cultural performances including the nightly Xcaret Mexico Espectacular celebration. Take part in water activities including underground rivers, the Río del Paraíso journey, as well as time for lazing on the beach, inlet and natural pools. Explore the Coral Reef Aquarium, Marine Turtles Area, Manatee Lagoon, Bat Cave, Butterfly Pavilion, Deer Refuge, and Jaguar Island. See howler monkeys at Spider Monkey Island, and explore mushroom cultivation at the Mushroom Farm. Or visit the Living Museum of Orchids to discover Mayan orchids in full glory. Wander through the Tropical Jungle Trail, and visit the Regional Wildlife Breeding Farm. Take in the Rotating Scenic Tower for spectacular views. Experience cultural performances and see archaeological sites. Visit a Mayan Village. Discover colonial history at the St. Francis of Assisi Chapel and folk art at the Hacienda Henequenera. Watch the sky turn to a rainbow of colors at the Stained-Glass Plaza, and take nature and culture tours as part of your ticket.

Xcaret Park: Plus Full-Day Admission with Night Show & Lunch

8. Xcaret Park: Plus Full-Day Admission with Night Show & Lunch

Enjoy full-day admission to Xcaret Park, a paradise theme park on the Maya Riviera, where you can enjoy more than 40 activities and attractions. Your ticket includes access to all the facilities, including showers, dressing rooms, and snorkeling equipment for your convenience. Once inside the park, choose the activities that suit. Highlights include the Coral Reef Aquarium and Marine Turtles Area. Admire the manatees of the Manatee Lagoon, or be dazzled by colorful butterflies in the Butterfly Pavilion. See howler monkeys at Spider Monkey Island, or explore how mushrooms are cultivated at the Mushroom Farm. The Living Museum of Orchids displays Mexican orchids in all their glory. Wander a jungle trail to visit the Regional Wildlife Breeding Farm. Ascend the Rotating Scenic Tower for spectacular views, and watch cultural performances of Mayan and Mexican music and dance. You can even visit a Mayan Village! Colonial history is not neglected at the St. Francis of Assisi Chapel, while folk art is displayed at the Hacienda Henequenera. Watch the sky turn a rainbow of colors at the Stained-Glass Plaza, or discover a pre-Hispanic ball court to learn about the Maya sports events. Between October 30th and November 2nd, you'll be able to enjoy activities that are part of the Life and Death Festival.

Cancun/Playa del Carmen: Tickets to Rio Secreto and Lunch

9. Cancun/Playa del Carmen: Tickets to Rio Secreto and Lunch

Immerse yourself in an ancient world of stalactites and stalagmites with a visit to Rio Secret in Playa del Carmen. Roam the labyrinths of dramatic rock formations and tranquil waters in this hidden underground network of rivers and caves. Upon arriving at Rio Secreto, meet your guide and receive a wetsuit, wet shoes, a lamp, and a helmet to get ready for the adventure. Then enter the caves, where you have 1968 feet (600 meters) free to walk, swim, and enjoy the enchanting beauty of your surroundings.  After approximately 1.5 hours, you will be taken back to ground level and treated to a light lunch of delicious local food. Choose the green salsa if your taste buds like it hot. This is a chance for you to relax in the serene jungle habitat and reflect upon your experience in the caves. Next, you may wash and change before heading back to your hotel.

Riviera Maya: Cobá and Chichén Itzá Tour with Cenote & Lunch

10. Riviera Maya: Cobá and Chichén Itzá Tour with Cenote & Lunch

Embark on a day trip to Cobá and Chichén Itzá and explore the jungles of the Yucatan peninsula. Relax in a Cenote, soak up the views at Nohoch Mul, enjoy lunch, and beat the crowds with an early morning departure. Head to Cobá first, whose ruins date back to 100-300 B.C. Learn about the significance of the five nearby lakes, and appreciate the striking architecture of the vast stone structures. Visit Chichén Itzá, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Feel lost in time in the lovingly kept pyramids, and discover the genius of the city’s unique structures. Venture deeper into the jungle to relax at the mystical Cenote Chichi Kan, the perfect place for a swim and some dazzling photos. Savor a delicious buffet lunch during your adventure. Finish the tour with a quick panoramic visit to Valladolid.

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When you're done tanning at one of the hip beaches, head to a nearby jungle amusement park for thrills.

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What people are saying about Playa del Carmen

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 5,227 reviews

This trip definitely needs to be on your list of things to do! We were picked up & dropped off at our hotel & were contacted prior to the trip to advise where pick up would be from. Xcaret itself is an amazing place to go to with so many activities! We opted for the standard package which in my opinion for 2 of us was the best option - the only difference in the 2 packages was that we didn’t get a free locker (but could rent one for cheap) & didn’t have the buffet included (but the buffet is around $40 per person) we payed for 2 meals for lunch and dinner and spent less than $80. The evening show doesn’t start till 8pm which makes it a very long day but well worth staying and watching if you can last that long! Extra cost to factor in: 1) They have lots of activities you can pay extra for - we did the undersea trek 2) Photos: you can buy the photo package and scan your wristband at all photo stations where it collates your photos, worth the money if you take lots of photos!

Cenote & Mayan Village Tour, Getting from hotel to the activity, lesson in lots of waiting & capacity to accept or tolerate delay! driver tasked picking up at a few locations.. Buggy ride!! Fun with a great working machines, little beat up but did it expect it to be new!! Staff fun, accommodating, knowledgeable and very helpful!! Cenote, great location, easy to walk to and the water is fantastic to swim in!! Truly life changing activity! Mayan Village Tour was eye opening and great life lesson of an interesting culture and way of life. Cenote & Mayan Village Tour and Buggy experience feels very day by day, based on the buggy breakdowns, crew phone calls on pull-overs and the every changing environments we drove in. Believe staff has to change things up daily on the fly! Nothing seamed planned!!! What we experienced is nothing like the I read about!! Was the experience fun? Yes. just be ready for anything to happen and go with the flow!!

100% recommended. I took this tour which is mainly the transportation from / to hotel entrance and lunch… perfect to know the park on one day… plenty of time and remember the rodeo show at 5pm right at the entrance and from there walk to the night show , espectacular, goosebumps. Beautiful. It was my parents (79 & 89 years old) and my husband and I ( 54 & 56) .

I was solo and mr apolina was pretty cool chill tour was an experience i recommend it just wear sun lotion lolol just a little the sun was out Def an experience of a like time all the explaining about civilization and everything was pretty cool something they will never show you in school or anywhere else def an awesome tour guide experience

Fantastic experience for the whole family - amazing dolphins and extremely competent crew.