Dive to enchanting coral reefs, explore ancient Mayan ruins or sip sunset cocktails from lively beach bars. It’s all possible in Playa del Carmen, Mexico’s fun-loving beach getaway.
You could be forgiven for thinking that Playa del Carmen was a place you dreamed up. With alabaster sands lapped by the azure Caribbean Sea, magical hidden cenotes (swimming holes) and stylish resorts, this city on the Riviera Maya is the definition of beach paradise. And like the colorful corals of the Mesoamerican Reef below, its richest treasures reveal themselves when you dive beneath the surface. Shop for artisan goods at local night markets, hunt down the best cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) or witness traditional Mayan dances in bustling squares. Discover every facet of this dazzling jewel on the Yucatan Peninsula.