| Transcending the tourist blitz that conquered its | | | | thoroughfare. |
| Mayan Riviera counterpart, Playa del Carmen is a | | | | If you can pull yourself away from the refreshing |
| destination where the simple pleasures take | | | | waters, fine white sand, and excitement of Quinta |
| center stage and relaxation is always the order of | | | | Avenida, other towns along the coast offer some |
| the day. Beaches, historical attractions, and local | | | | must-see historical attractions that are sure to |
| comforts are served up in abundant quantities, | | | | leave you spellbound. The Coba and Tulum Ruins |
| and everything you need for a memorable | | | | are easily within striking distance and offer |
| seaside getaway is at your fingertips for a Playa | | | | stunning examples of Mayan settlements and |
| del Carmen getaway to remember. | | | | civilization. Although the Coba Ruins have not been |
| The central part of Playa del Carmen, or Playa as | | | | reconstructed or uncovered to the same degree |
| it is commonly called, offers a wide beach that | | | | as the Tulum Ruins, they are still worth the effort |
| gradually narrows as it winds it way past the | | | | for the striking pyramid and mysterious aura. The |
| various vendors, beach bars, and restaurants. | | | | Tulum Ruins, the most visited archaeological site in |
| While you will find a sparkling white sands and | | | | Mexico, feature a massive wall that surrounds the |
| gorgeous turquoise waters that are ripe for | | | | imposing civilization and is one of only a few in the |
| swimming, the beach can become narrow and | | | | Mayan culture. |
| rocky as the winds and current change. If this | | | | Two other sights that certainly should not be |
| happens during your sunbathing hours, it is a good | | | | missed are the nature parks Xcaret and Xel-Ha. |
| idea to move north and enjoy the gorgeous fine | | | | Xcaret, located just south of Playa del Carmen, is |
| sands of Playa Tukan. As one of the best | | | | a spectacular eco-park that features a gorgeous |
| beaches in the area, be sure to rent a canopy | | | | swimming beach, a butterfly pavilion, a museum |
| bed and stake out a prime sunning spot early so | | | | with models of ancient Maya cities, and numerous |
| you can experience this beautiful stretch of sand | | | | other outdoor pursuits. Xel-Ha is a natural |
| at your own leisure. | | | | wonderland where waterways and paths wind |
| While strolling along the sands and soaking up the | | | | their way through a tropical jungle and past |
| tropical breeze are ideal for forgetting your | | | | crystal-clear lagoons and coves. When you aren't |
| worries, more active pursuits are at your disposal | | | | soaking in the stunning scenery, snorkeling around |
| along the banks of this stunning paradise. Scuba | | | | schools of multicolored fish and swimming with |
| diving and snorkeling are available around reefs | | | | the dolphins are all popular in this area. |
| and caverns that can be accessed far offshore, | | | | Playa del Carmen is a land of endless |
| but a better option lies around the island of | | | | opportunities, where you can swim, play, and |
| Cozumel. Simply hop aboard the ferry and you | | | | explore to your heart's content in a shockingly |
| are on your way towards underwater adventures | | | | simple and diverse waterfront riviera. Always |
| beyond compare. If you are looking for boat and | | | | commanding attention for its stunning natural |
| deep-sea fishing charters, your best bet is to try | | | | beauty and its exciting attractions, you can |
| the nearby community of Puerto Aventuras. | | | | surround yourself with the best the Mayan Riviera |
| Impossible to miss since it is the starting point for | | | | has to offer in Playa del Carmen vacation rentals. |
| essentially every Playa del Carmen excursion, | | | | Resting along the sparkling white sands and within |
| Quinta Avenida (or 5th Avenue) is a 14-block | | | | sight of the clear Caribbean waters, the finest |
| extravaganza where pedestrians can stroll the | | | | pleasures of a seaside vacation are just a short |
| cobblestone-lined streets and soak up the distinct | | | | stroll away morning and night. Set our own |
| and lively atmosphere. Buzzing with bars, clubs, | | | | agenda or follow the pace of the town, whatever |
| restaurants, shops, and vendors, you can pick up | | | | you want out of your Mexico getaway, Playa del |
| a few souvenirs, enjoy some tasty cuisine, or | | | | Carmen rentals are always an accommodating |
| plan your seaworthy adventures along this bustling | | | | host. |