Playa del Carmen was the perfect home base for exploring the Riviera Maya. We spent our days visiting Mayan ruins, cenotes, and enjoying the beach.

Where We Stayed

We stayed at Petit Lafitte Hotel, a boutique spot right on the beach south of the main strip. Waking up to the sound of waves with the Caribbean at our doorstep was pretty perfect. The hotel has its own private beach, which made it easy to relax without the crowds. The location was great—close enough to town but far enough away to feel peaceful.

Chichen Itza and Tulum

We booked a private tour through our hotel to Chichen Itza and Tulum, which allowed us to move at our own pace and ask as many questions as we liked.

Chichen Itza was impressive. Standing in front of El Castillo and learning about the Mayan calendar and astronomy really hit home how advanced this civilization was. Get there early to beat the crowds.

Tulum was different but equally stunning. The ruins sit on cliffs overlooking the turquoise Caribbean.

The Cenotes

Our tour included stops at cenotes, which were trip highlights. These natural sinkholes filled with fresh water are basically underground swimming holes. The Mayans considered them sacred, and you can see why.

Xcaret Park

We spent a full day at Xcaret, and there's so much packed into this eco-archaeological park—underground rivers, beaches, wildlife, and cultural shows.

We explored the butterfly pavilion, coral reef aquarium, jaguar island, and saw the flamingos. The evening Mexico Espectacular show was fantastic—a high-energy performance showcasing Mexican history and traditions from different regions.

Arrive when the park opens and stay for the evening show.

Around Town

Between excursions, we explored Playa del Carmen. Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) is the main pedestrian street with restaurants, shops, and street performers. We found great tacos, picked up souvenirs, and people-watched from outdoor cafes.

Playa del Carmen delivered the perfect mix of culture, ruins, cenotes, and beach time. Definitely worth a visit if you're looking for more than just a typical beach vacation.

Playa del Carmen vs. Cancun

If you're deciding between Playa del Carmen and Cancun, here's our take: Playa has a much more laid-back, authentic vibe. It's smaller and walkable, with a charming pedestrian street full of local restaurants and shops. Cancun feels more like a resort destination with big hotels and a party scene. Playa is also better positioned for day trips to the ruins and cenotes—everything's closer and easier to reach. We loved that Playa gave us the beach vacation feel while still feeling like a real Mexican town. If you want a more relaxed, cultural experience with easy access to attractions, Playa del Carmen is the way to go.

Exploring Mexico's Caribbean Coast: Playa del Carmen Trip