Dry season on both coasts: calm seas, clear skies, and peak prices.Dry season on both coasts.Where to go
Sargassum often builds on the Caribbean side from spring into late summer.Sargassum season on the Caribbean.Today's reading
Hurricane season runs to 30 November. Quieter beaches, lower prices; watch the forecast.Hurricane season, to 30 November.When to go
One of Mexico's most famous beaches, Playa del Carmen offers pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This vibrant beach town combines natural beauty with modern amenities, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
Caribe · 20.63° N · 87.07° W
What to know
Playa del Carmen has evolved from a small fishing village into one of Mexico's premier beach destinations. The beach stretches for miles along the Caribbean coast, offering consistently calm, warm waters perfect for swimming and water sports. The nearby Mesoamerican Reef System provides world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities just offshore.
About this listing
Compiled from Google Places and community tips. Ratings and review counts come from Google Places; beach conditions and facilities can change. Send a correction
The details
| Wave conditions | Calm to small waves |
|---|---|
| Amenities | Beach Clubs, Restaurants, Hotels, Water Sports, Shopping, Parking |
| Water sports | Swimming, Snorkeling |
| Getting there | 45 minutes from Cancún Airport |
| Nearest airport | Cancún (CUN), about 50 km as the crow flies |
From the ground
Before you go
December to April.
45 minutes from Cancún Airport
Playa del Carmen offers the following amenities: Beach Clubs, Restaurants, Hotels, Water Sports, Shopping, Parking.
Our listing data puts crowds at Playa del Carmen as high. A popular spot: come early for space.
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
20.6296° N, 87.0739° W
45 minutes from Cancún Airport
Hotel occupancy · Riviera Maya
DataTur hotel occupancy for Riviera Maya (Quintana Roo). DataTur reports by tourism destination: these are the figures for Riviera Maya as a whole, not for Playa del Carmen alone.
Occupancy averages about 82% in December. Book ahead.
Occupancy averages about 62% in September, so rooms are easier to find.
Source: Official hotel occupancy statistics from DataTur (SECTUR Mexico). Aggregated across registered lodging categories.
Where to stay
6.8 km away · All-Inclusive
8.4 km away · Boutique
8.5 km away · Resort & Spa
9.5 km away · All-Inclusive