Playa del Carmen
Caribbean beach town combining cosmopolitan energy with laid-back Mexican beach life
Quintana RooTropical Caribbean climate—hot and humid year-round. Hurricane season June-November. Winter months (December-April) offer perfect beach weather.
Overview
Playa del Carmen has grown from a ferry stop to Cozumel into the Riviera Maya's most dynamic town. The pedestrian Quinta Avenida offers miles of shopping, dining, and nightlife, while beaches line the Caribbean coast. The town attracts a younger, more international crowd than Cancun, with European and South American influences alongside North American expats. Infrastructure is well-developed with good healthcare, abundant coworking, and reliable internet.
Highlights
- Walkable Quinta Avenida with excellent restaurants and nightlife
- Caribbean beaches without Cancun's high-rise intensity
- International, cosmopolitan atmosphere
- Gateway to cenotes, ruins, and Cozumel
- Abundant expat infrastructure and services
Best For
Digital NomadsYoung ProfessionalsRetireesFamiliesLgbtq