A guide to things to do in Playacar

Playacar offers a delightful mixture of culture and history with modernity and fun. Activities range from exploring ancient ruins to scuba-diving in the translucent blue sea, or getting a little tipsy by the beach. At the large selection of bars and restaurants you can treat your taste buds by trying a different dish each night, including some of Mexico’s delicious, traditional cuisine. Whether you want to relax, explore, party hard, or do all three, Playacar is a fantastic location. Discover our top recommendations below, before taking a look at some of our cheapest trips to Mexico.

Excursions and day trips

Because Playacar is only a five-minute drive via taxi or bus from Playa del Carmen, there are many opportunities for day trips and excursions. From here you can experience Mexico’s most popular and beautiful locations. Travel through the Yucatan jungle to discovering Mexico’s most stunning cenotes and caves, or explore ancient Mayan ruins including the Tulum ruins, Coba ruins and the magnificent Chichen Itza.

Depending on which tour you choose, it takes no more than two and a half hours to travel from Playacar to Chichen Itza via bus or coach. So grab the sun cream and take your loved ones on a magnificent historical adventure. And don’t forget to pack your camera to take some brilliant snaps.

Located in the very centre of Chichen Itza, the Kukulkan Pyramid is possibly the most famous Mayan ruin in the world. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the extraordinary Pyramid is believed to be over 1000 years old, is 75 feet tall and has a whopping 365 steps.

At Chichen Itza you can discover the mysteries of Mexico’s historical past, and learn some amazing facts about the ancient Mayan ruin. Other wonders of this ancient city include the Ball Court, the Sacred Well, the Observatory and the infamous Platform of the Skulls.

Underwater adventures

You’ll find a wide variety of sea life to discover in Mexico. From exotic sea creatures to stunning coral reefs, it’s easy to explore the hidden beauties of the underwater world in Playacar. You can take a course or two to learn everything you need to know about scuba-diving and snorkelling. Courses are available at a number of watersport facilities including Phantom Divers, The Snorkel Shop, Scuba Libre, and Reef Quest Divers – all located in Playacar.

Whether you’re an advanced underwater diver or a beginner, these establishments offer a diverse range of diving courses. This amazing, hands on experience guarantees to boost your confidence in the open water and give you the skills you need to plunge into the exotic depths of the warm Caribbean Sea.

Observe beautiful tropical fish, swim alongside adorable sea turtles and experience underwater breathing in the translucent blue water of the Mexican coast. These underwater activities provide fun for the whole family – as long as you can all swim – and create wonderfully memorable experiences.

Thriving nightlife

If you are looking to party hard during your holiday to Mexico, there’s no better place to go than the Mandala Nightclub. Known to the locals as the best nightclub in town, Mandala has an open bar where you can drink as little or as much as you desire. Let the gorgeous Asian decor and mesmerising vibrant lights excite you as you make your way to the spacious dancefloor with light shows.