My first time visiting Playa del Carmen, I wasn’t sure what activities and excursions I should book. There is so much to do in Playa del Carmen, and even more in the jungles beyond, so as a first time visitor, I was surprised to find that Playa del Carmen is not only full of great bars, restaurants, beaches, and nightlife, but there are countless tours and excursions to experience.

Playa del Carmen is just 45 miles away from Cancun, and it only takes a little over an hour to get from Cancun’s airport to the beaches of Quintana Roo. There is so much to do and see beyond Cancun, and many of the most popular spots are outside of the Hotel Zone and either in Playa del Carmen, or even further south in Tulum. If you’re looking to find what to include in your itinerary, here are the top 8 things to do in Playa del Carmen:

Which Activities and Excursions to Book in Playa del Carmen

While good food, beach, and nightlife can really make up the full trip, there are a couple things that I absolutely wouldn’t pass up, including experiences and tours centered around Mayan cultural experiences in Playa del Carmen.

1. Explore the Caves and Cenotes Near Playa del Carmen and Tulum

If you get the chance to book a tour to check out a cenote or the Maya Ruins, do not pass on the opportunity! The region surrounding Playa del Carmen is home to numerous cenotes literally waiting to be explored. Among the top choices for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience is Cenote Dos Ojos, famed for its crystalline waters which make it ideal for snorkeling and diving. For anyone interested in a more serene environment, Cenote Azul offers a peaceful setting surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a relaxing swim. Additionally, Cenote Chaak Tun stands out for its stunning rock formations and intricate underground caverns. Visiting a cenote is perfect for thrill-seekers looking to dive into underwater caves or even anyone just simply hoping to unwind in a natural oasis. These cenotes near Playa del Carmen promise an adventure like no other.

2. Visit Cheyumil and Snorkel in a Cenote

Snorkeling in Cheyumil with Aventuras Mayas was an experience we’ll never forget. Nearby Akumal, this incredibly beautiful location is a famous and popular cenote. Snorkeling in Cheyumil offers an unforgettable aquatic adventure for nature enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters showcase a vibrant world teeming with colorful coral reefs and an array of marine life. Glide through the warm waters of the cenote and marvel at schools of tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, or even a majestic manta ray. Whether you are a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, the opportunity to immerse yourself is a must-do experience for anyone seeking to connect with the Yucatan’s natural wonders.

3. Kayak and Zipline at Tankah

Nestled between Tulum and Akumal, Tankah offers a more serene and secluded atmosphere for travelers looking to escape the crowds. Tankah is an active Maya community that provides private access to secluded cenotes, as well as kayaking and zip lining activities. The area is known for its picturesque beaches, untouched cenotes, and lush jungle surroundings. Visitors to Tankah can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring the nearby archaeological sites of the Mayan civilization. You’ll need at least a few hours to thoroughly explore the park. Depending on what you’re looking to experience, you can book a guided tour to combine activities seeing the Mayan village as well as explore the park’s underground cenote system, or you can opt for an adrenaline rush through ziplining or kayaking. With its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance, Tankah is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the midst of Mexico's Riviera Maya.

4. Experience Xcaret Eco Theme Park

Xcaret is an ecotourism destination that offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. The theme park hosts a variety of activities including snorkeling in underground rivers, swimming with dolphins, exploring Mayan ruins, and gorgeously choreographed traditional Mexican performances. The park's commitment to environmental preservation is evident through its extensive conservation efforts and educational programs aimed at raising awareness about the importance of protecting the Yucatan’s natural ecosystems. Xcaret is a celebration of Mexican and Maya culture, the natural beauty of the Yucatan, and conservation in and of itself.

5. Visit the Mayan Ruins at Muyil

We scheduled a tour with Living Dreams Mexico to visit the Mayan ruins at Muyil and swim in the cenotes at Tankah near Tulum, and the experience was worth the trip itself. What stuck out most about this experience is that the tour company is LGBTQ+ owned and led. Our tour guide was so passionate about the history, and they told us so much about the gay history in Quintana Roo. I felt like the experience was so special and different in comparison to what I typically see people experience in the area. Towards the end of the day, we had this gorgeous crystal blue cenote to ourselves in Tankah. We took turns cliff jumping into the water, diving down to swim with the fish, and basking in the sun with the iguanas on the side. I had never felt so connected with nature than my day at Tankah.

6. Eat at the Top Restaurants in Playa del Carmen

You can’t travel to this area without trying a good ceviche or aguachiles. There’s so many great restaurants in the area, it is truly a shame that many travelers don’t venture outside their resort! Many restaurants will feature a mix of seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine. Here is a list of my favorite restaurants in Playa del Carmen:

• Plank

Plank combines an upscale dining experience with stunning ocean views. Step into a world where fresh seafood abounds, prepared with a creative twist that reflects the vibrant local flavors of the Riviera Maya. From lobster tail, refreshing Caribbean ceviche, each dish at Plank is crafted with precision and passion… or even passion fruit! Executive Chef Juan Diego Solombrino has been revolutionizing Playa del Carmen’s restaurant scene for years. The Guatemalan-born chef discovered the culinary technique called, “planking” which involves the use of planks of wood and blocks of Himalayan salt for curating his dishes. This hidden gem is where the delights of the sea meet the art of gastronomy.

• Axiote

Axiote restaurant offers a diverse menu full of the vibrant Mexican flavors. The popular restaurant adds a modern twist to traditional dishes like cochinita pibil and mole as well as experiments with innovative creations using local ingredients. It’s truly a culinary journey through Mexico's rich gastronomic heritage. The menu at Axiote is thoughtfully curated to satisfy both adventurous food enthusiasts and those seeking familiar comfort dishes. It’s a place where you can indulge in a plate of classic taco al pastor or try something a little more adventurous, like beef tongue or octopus!

• Patanegra

If you find yourself dining at Patanegra, there are a few standout dishes that you definitely shouldn't miss. Start your meal sampling Jamón Ibérico, a delicate and savory Spanish cured ham that melts in your mouth. For the main course, their Paella is a popular choice, combining perfectly cooked rice with an array of seafood or meats, delicately balanced with saffron. For a sweet note, try their Crema Catalana, a delicious Spanish dessert similar to crème brûlée but with a unique citrus twist. Patanegra is great for a date night, or to get your fix of Spanish and European flare within the Yucatan.

• La Perla Pixan Cuisine & Carboneria

La Perla Pixan prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients. The menu features an array of modern twists. Try their cochinita pibil tacos complete with succulent slow-roasted pork, tangy citrus, and a perfect balance of spices. Don’t forget to get a helping of esquites, a flavorful corn salad elevated with creamy cotija cheese and chili powder. For those craving a smoky indulgence, the mezcal-infused grilled octopus offers a delightful blend of tender textures and bold, charred notes. La Perla Pixan Cuisine & Carbonería is honestly a unique, surprising, and all around super fun experience.

• Tahini

We particularly loved Tahini because of the cute outdoor dining area lit by little lanterns beneath large jungle trees. It was one of the few restaurants we’ve tried anywhere that’s served incredible Lebanese food. The space felt very intimate. From traditional dishes like hummus drizzled with nutty olive oil, flavorful falafel served with a tangy tahini sauce, to perfectly charred lamb kebabs. From their sea menu, try the grilled octopus for a delightfully tender and smoky bite. Overall, the food is fantastic an the ambiance just adds to its allure.

7. See the Nightlife and Best Bars in Playa del Carmen

Central Playa del Carmen is often overlooked from a US tourism perspective, but the downtown area is actually very active and lively. Take a walk down 10 Avenida and you’ll find bar after bar packed with people having the time of their lives. Here are just a few of the top bars and clubs in Playa del Carmen:

• INTI Beach

Groove to international beats every day of the week. INTI Beach bar boasts a laid-back atmosphere where visitors can unwind with a refreshing cocktail in hand while basking in the sun-kissed views of the Caribbean Sea. This beachfront gem offers a perfect blend of relaxation and tropical vibes, making it an ideal spot to soak up the essence of the Riviera Maya. INTI Beach’s menu serves a mixture of Peruvian and Latin American inspired fare. You can unwind at their beach club with Caribbean Seaside views of Cozumel Island, or pamper yourself with their selection of massages to rejuvenate your spirit. All in all, INTI Beach serves as a haven for those seeking a tranquil, natural, and bohemian lifestyle.

• Chela de Playa

For beer lovers, Chela de Playa is a classic brewery with locally brewed beer straight out of the Yucatan! Their beers are crafted with fine ingredients and lots of love. They offer the freshest beer in the region along with excellent Mexican options; also for a bite, ask about their famous Wannabe sandwich. It’s all within a chill atmosphere with feel-good music. It’s a great venue for relaxing, meeting others, and just having a great time.

• The Reef 28

Visit the rooftop for fantastic cocktails. The Reef 28 boasts breathtaking views and daily beats curated by international DJs. It's the ideal spot to mingle, people-watch, or simply unwind in the cozy daybeds. The Reef 28 fosters a social and harmonious ambiance. For something sweet, try their El Sexy Coco — combining Malibu rum, dark rum, pina colada mix, spices and coffee liqueur.

As for Tulum, some of our favorite gay friendly bars include Todos Santos, Batey, Casa Jaguar and Gitano.

7. Take Photos at the Top Instagrammable Spots in Playa del Carmen

One of the best things you can do is to spend a day exploring the ancient Maya ruins. The archaeological sites of Coba and Muyil are two of the most impressive in the region. Of course many head to the inland Chichen Itza for their instagram photo, but the closer Coba and Muyil in Quintana Roo are not only impressive, but also far less crowded. Though touristy, Xcaret Park also provides tons of photo opportunities. As an eco-adventure park celebrating Maya culture, you can explore the jungle, the beach, the ruins, and honestly see a little bit of everything that makes Quintana Roo so beautiful. To show off some tropical vacation vibes, take a beach selfie at the C-Grill, located beachfront at the Thompson Hotel Beach House. Visit Cenote Azul, or the cenotes at Tankah and Cheyumil for an epic shot amongst bright turquoise water.

8. Stay at an All Inclusive or Beachfront in Playa del Carmen

There are a ton of amazing hotels and resorts in Playa del Carmen. Along the entire Quintana Roo coastline from Cancun down to Tulum, there are nearly countless options of resorts to choose from. For an all inclusive experience, Unico Riviera Maya and the Hard Rock Hotel are our favorites. For a beachfront experience in central Playa del Carmen, we love The Thompson Hotel and Beach House.

• Unico Riviera Maya

Unico Riviera Maya is a luxurious resort located along the stunning beaches of the Riviera Maya in Mexico. Known for its upscale accommodations and top-notch service, Unico Riviera Maya offers a unique all-inclusive experience for its guests. The resort boasts elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities and stylish decor, providing a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. Guests can indulge in the various dining options available, ranging from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, all serving delicious cuisine prepared by talented chefs. Unico Riviera Maya also provides a range of activities and excursions for guests to enjoy, ensuring a memorable stay in this beautiful tropical paradise.

• The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya

The Hard Rock Hotel has an adults-only area, and some of the club events in the evening are actually quite well put together. The hotel caters to both families and adults, with separate areas dedicated to each to ensure that all guests have a fantastic stay. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring the nearby Mayan ruins or simply relaxing on the Hard Rock Hotel’s pristine beach. There are numerous restaurant options on property that actually serves pretty incredible food for a resort.

• The Thompson Playa del Carmen

For something more central and well-integrated into one of the coastal cities, stay at The Thompson Playa del Carmen. The rooms were beautiful, spacious, and super close to the beach. The Thompson has two sites just blocks away from each other, one off the main shopping street and the other right on the beach. If you’re staying off the main shopping street, just be aware that at night the parties go long and hard, and the noise does travel!

No matter what you do in Playa del Carmen, you’re bound to have a great time. The city and Quintana Roo region has so much to explore and experience. From beautiful cenotes, ancient Mayan ruins, incredible restaurants and lively bars, to adventurous activities like kayaking, snorkeling or even zip lining. Stay at an all inclusive resort, or opt for a hotel beachside or in the city, in Playa del Carmen, you can choose your own adventure!