Our most recommended things to do in Playa del Carmen

From Playa del Carmen: Tulum, Coba, and Cenotes Day Trip

1. From Playa del Carmen: Tulum, Coba, and Cenotes Day Trip

The first stop is Tulum, the ancient Maya city perched on a cliff overlooking the Mexican Caribbean sea. Your expert bilingual guide will share fascinating information about the archaeological site, its importance in history, and the day-to-day life of its inhabitants at its peak. Hear all about the past cultures and the theories of their demise. Next up is a visit to Cenote Kuxtal for a swim. Cenotes are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula, natural sinkholes in limestone caves that were sacred to the ancient Maya people. You will then savor an authentic regional lunch buffet to recharge for the last stop of the day. The last part of this incredible journey is a guided tour of the Coba Mayan ruins. Still mostly hidden beneath the jungle foliage, Coba is the site of the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan, climb to the top for out of this world views. Hear from your guide about the discovery of this site. Admire the boundaries between nature and man-made structures and the jungle bonds with the ruins.

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

2. 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.

Playa del Carmen: Riviera Maya Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim

3. Playa del Carmen: Riviera Maya Buggy Tour with Cenote Swim

Get a friendly welcome from your guide on arrival, and gear up with all the necessary equipment and goggles to protect you from the dust. Drive into the heart of the jungle at the wheel of one of the amazing 4WD vehicles. Feel the breeze on your face as you zip along 18 miles (29 kilometers) of pristine jungle trails in the rugged terrain of the beautiful Riviera Maya. Take a moment to admire the stunning surroundings with a stop at a traditional ranch. Then, cool down with a refreshing swim at one of the sacred sinkholes of the Maya people. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of an underground cenote and marvel at the rock formations of a buried river in the middle of the jungle.

Playa del Carmen: Xplor Park All-Inclusive Entry Ticket

4. 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: Tulum and Akumal Swim with Turtles Express

5. From Riviera: Tulum and Akumal Swim with Turtles Express

Discover the captivating allure of Tulum, the fabled walled city, and immerse yourself in an unforgettable exploration of its rich history and breathtaking natural wonders. Embark on a journey that transcends time, as you delve into the heart of Mayan culture and soak in the mesmerizing beauty of the Caribbean coastline. This exclusive tour promises an enchanting fusion of archaeological marvels and serene aquatic encounters. Prepare for an awe-inspiring encounter with nature's gentle giants. Experience the thrill of swimming alongside magnificent sea turtles in their natural habitat. The crystal-clear waters of Akumal offer a captivating glimpse into the underwater world, where you'll share a magical moment with these graceful creatures.

Playa del Carmen: Coco Bongo Nightclub Experience

6. Playa del Carmen: Coco Bongo Nightclub Experience

Immerse yourself in a night of non-stop action at Coco Bongo with this entry ticket. Experience flying acrobats, live music, and an unforgettable party atmosphere. Be amazed by confetti and light shows, as you sip on delicious cocktails at this Playa del Carmen spectacular. Head for the dazzling doors of Coco Bongo, a club just one block from the majestic Caribbean Sea, and prepare to have one of the most shocking and memorable nights of your life. Once inside, be amazed by flying acrobats, impressive musical tributes, and the continuous party atmosphere that has made Coco Bongo world famous. Hit the dance floor under falling glittering confetti or savor a delicious cocktail while tribute acts bring the best of Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Beyoncé. Choose from entry tickets including Drink Pack, Regular, Gold Member, Double Gold, and Front Row options. Depending on the option selected, enjoy different benefits throughout the night, such as national drinks, premium drinks, snacks, and much more. Take advantage of complimentary access to the Beach Club, whichever option you pick.

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

7. 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. 

Riviera Maya: Xel-Há Park All-Inclusive 1-Day Pass

8. Riviera Maya: Xel-Há Park All-Inclusive 1-Day Pass

Explore Xel-Há Park with a full-day all-inclusive ticket. Enjoy a variety of land and water activities for the whole family. Discover a universe dedicated to ecology and the preservation of flora and fauna, it offers constantly developing environmental programs to protect and conserve the environment. Benefit from access to all the attractions and enjoy delicious Mexican and international cuisine with unlimited drinks and an open bar throughout the day. Dive into the waters of Xel-Há, the world's most beautiful natural aquarium, and snorkel next to a variety of plants and hundreds of tropical fish in the warm Caribbean waters. Slide down the Salpichanga and fly with a vine to drop yourself in the cool waters of a “cenote” or underground river. Test your balance on the Trepachanga and walk over the river between two loose strings. Hammock Island is an ideal place to relax and indulge with the whims of the Caribbean Sea. Fabulous cocktails are served just a few steps away, and you can enjoy them with all the tranquility of the world as your company. Discover historical vestiges of the Mayan culture while enjoying a mysterious landscape in the forest. Walk along the paths of the natural reserve, where you will find a selection of phrases and thoughts printed along the route. Be amazed by the Ixchel Grotto. Carved by underground rivers for thousands of years, it crosses a small, narrowed canyon until it emerges on the opposite side. See how the light is refracted beneath the waters of the Grotto El Dorado, and renew your spirit enjoying these historic and natural formations. Take your kids to the children’s playground to enjoy the magnificent amusement park, with swings, rails, wheels and slides for the kids to keep active and have fun at the same time. Admire the mangrove forest from the footpaths of the river, taking a small diversion that leads to a platform totally surrounded by the wonderful vegetation. Breathe in the harmonious atmosphere of the paradise park, filled with typical trees of the region.

Riviera Maya: Maya Adrenaline Park Tour

9. Riviera Maya: Maya Adrenaline Park Tour

Discover the Mayan Adrenaline park in Tulum. Enjoy a day of fun outdoor activities. Start with pickup from pick you up and take you to this immense park where you can have the most fun. Explore the Mayan jungle riding an ATV through rugged off-road trails. Then get equipped for a rappel down a rock face. Fly along 4 zip lines, one of them the longest in Riviera Maya. Take part in a short traditional Mayan ceremony and take a guided tour of the LanbnaHa cenote. Finally tuck into a delicious Mexican lunch, before returning to the meeting point.

Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Cenote & Valladolid Tour

10. 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.

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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 are the best day trips and excursions from Playa del Carmen?

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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.