This is our guide to enjoy and experience Playa del Carmen to it’s full potential. Each place shown here was specifically chosen for you to have a unique experience as a local. A few years ago, Playa del Carmen was a very small town, which became a unique destination rich in history and culture.
Brief History of Playa del Carmen
In it’s earliest days, Playa del Carmen was inhabited by the Mayan culture. It later spent time developing as a fishing area before growing to become the tourist destination we know today. Before the early 1900’s, Playa del Carmen started becoming more popular in the international community. In the midst of commercialization, Playa del Carmen’s local government has tried to keep the city’s reputation as a small, charming fishing area—making it perfect for travelers who want a comfortable and fun-filled vacation.
Our property, located in Calle 38, was once a remote area of Playa del Carmen; however, it is now in the middle of the trendiest part of town, next to the famous restaurant La Cueva de Chango, surrounded by cenotes, a Mayan ruin and jungle. Our neighborhood became a sanctuary for intellectuals, artists and other bohemian misfits and non-conformists from around the world.
Today it is considered, perhaps, the most charming neighborhood in Playa del Carmen, a vibrant blend of creative residents, lively bars, restaurants and unique small shops.
Restaurants
Los Aguachilies– A wide selection of Mexican sea food and Mexican-Caribbean taste. Calle 34 Nte, DOWNTOWN, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R
Almirante Pech– A Mexican restaurant with great atmosphere. A wonderful spot to have a fancy dinner with a loved one. 5ª Av Esq C/30 esquina Calle 30, Calle Quinta Avenida, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Il Baretto – A restaurant that serves Italian and Mediterranean food right at your table. Calle Quinta Avenida, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Cenacolo– A cozy Italian restaurant that serves Italian food and fresh, handmade pasta. Calle Quinta Avenida, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Kampai – This Japanese restaurant has some of the best sushi in town with a unique gourmet cuisine. Quinta Avenida LOC-3 Mz 71 Lt1, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Wok Playa – This is the perfect little spot if you are craving authentic noodles or curry freshly prepared.
Oh La La– A really wonderful little restaurant with very good food and personal service (reservation needed) Calle 14 Norte Bis #147, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
La Cocina (Hyatt)– Experience a Mexican and Caribbean style restaurant in a laid back environment.
Local Taste
El Fogon– Get a taste of Authentic Mexican tacos where every local eats from time to time. Av Constituyentes, DOWNTOWN, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
El Pirata– Restaurant/ Fish Market with fresh sea food prepared at the very moment. 40 Avenida Nte., Zazil-ha, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Art and Culture
Nuestra Señora Del Carmen Church– It is simple, plain but architecturally very beautiful, take your time to see a monumental building here in Playa. 15 Avenida esq. Calle 12 Norte s/n, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Art Gallery 5th Ave- Walk down on 5th Avenue to admire different artists who show their work and so many different styles of art (Thursday evenings). 20th Street between 5th Av. & 10th Av., Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico
Live Music Bars and Restaurants
Fusion– A unique restaurant with live music and different shows during the night. 6th street and the beach, Playa del Carmen 77710,Mexico
Fah Bar– Late night dinner with a round of drinks listening to classics and fun music. 5a avenida between calle 8 y 10 norte Col. Centro 77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo Mexico
Beaches
Playacar Beach- A beautiful beach where you can relax on your own to enjoy the sun and the ocean.
Kool and Mamitas Beach Club- If you’re looking for a beach to mingle and meet people from all over, these are the hot spot in anyone’s book.
Mahekal Resort- Enjoy a day in this beautiful beach resort just down the street from our home.
Canibal Royal- Enjoy yourself next to the ocean listening to music having lunch and a few drinks.
Zenzi- The atmosphere of good vibes and peace; a great lively place to make friends and enjoy the day.
Our Neighborhood
Gluay Maai Thai– A great, laidback restaurant that serves Thai food. Calle 38 Nte., Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
La Piola– An Italian restaurant right in front of our hotel. They are well-known for their wide selection of pizzas. Via Plaza 38, Avenida 38 Norte, Lote 2, Local-1, Playa del Carmen Centro, 77710 Q.R.
Cocotte Citta– A very small but good French restaurant (cash only). Calle 38 Nte., Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Regina– A Mexican fonda that serves great meals and seafood. Calle 38 Nte., Zazil-ha, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R
La Cueva Del Chango– One of the 1st restaurants in Playa del Carmen, very popular and unique. Av 38 Norte Mz. 4 Lote 3, Zazil-ha, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Alamo Sakahua- A great tree located just down the road. It is more than 18 meters high.
Milos– This restaurant provides authentic Greek cuisine prepared by their Greek Chef. Calle 38 Norte Mz 8 Lt 2, Centro, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Markets/ Shopping
El Campeon- This is our typical local market similar to the ones that you would find on every corner around Mexico.
DAC– All natural store, well-known for their wide organic selection. 30 Avenida Nte. LB, Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Troupe– One of the most well-known shops in Playa, with all 100% 1st quality and handmade items. L 2 B, Calle Quinta Avenida 101, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Jula Luma- Get an outfit and dress like a local, this boutique has a great section of Playa-style goods. MZA 152 LTE 2, Calle Quinta Avenida, Solidaridad, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Casa Ines – Find many treasures from all over Mexico from blown glass, paintings, to pottery.
Biuriful Boutique – Tropical and authentic wear, perfect to go along with a calm and relaxing vibe.
Night Clubs and Bars
Santanera– 3 floors with different types of music from a blue techno room to a lounge area with a view. Calle 10 Norte , Mz 29, Lote 1, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Diablito– A great bar right in the middle of all the clubs—a great place to start your night and meet people. Calle 12 S/N, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
(Looking for late night fun? Visit 12th street where most of the clubs and bars are located.)