Playa Del Carmen

The driving beat in the heart of the Riviera Maya belongs to Playa del Carmen, a sleepy beachside village that has evolved into a chic cosmopolitan city throughout the past 20 years. Uninterrupted stretches of white sand have attracted a worldly mix of citizens whom, in turn, have created Playa’s funky, international flavor. Featuring the longest shopping district around, visitors up and down the coast flock to the famous 5th Avenue (5ta Avenida) to find their designer outfit or unique vacation token.

The only thing more plentiful than the shops and boutiques adorning the streets of Playa is the multitude of excellent restaurants and cafes, creating a gastronomic must for any Riviera Maya vacation. As for after-hours entertainment, Playa really does have it all. Sophisticated martini bars and stylish lounges afford visitors the sought after intimate atmosphere, while beach clubs and discotheques provide the wild, dance-‘til-the-sun-comes-up spots for those needing to get a little crazy. All this and more can be yours with a visit to Playa del Carmen!

Since Playa is so large we recommend you also visit In The Roo and Playa.Info for more local news and information. And peruse our Contributing writer Michele Kinnon's articles and blog for up to date information on what is happening.

A few services can help make daily life more manageable

First two days of our 2014 tour

Where to Shop Throughout the Week

Local Riviera Maya Rotary chapters came together to donate 500 nearly indestructible soccer balls to local public schools.

at the Parque Fundadores in Playa del Carmen

Your role in this process is to make the transition as smooth as possible for your children. - by Michele Kinnon

How do you choose the right school for your family?

Numerous clubs range from trendy and chic to upscale luxury.

From the Mexico Report by way of Michele Kinnon's blog Life's a Beach.

A group of American and Canadian women dedicate their time to help children stay in school.

First in series to help select best school for your kids

VIP passes available online starting July 15

Playa del Carmen proud to host innovation

Karen Sutton tells how she became Zoe's mom.

Lots of helpful information for recycling

Playa del Carmen by Michele Kinnon

If at first you don't succeed ... by Trish Bennett

SOS el Arca Pet Rescue in Playa del Carmen, by Lisa Juliot

Lisa Juliot writes about one of Playa del Carmen's most colorful personalities.

No-kill Shelter in Playa Del Carmen

Lydia Linton Pontius writes about their visit in Playa del Carmen.

by Michele Kinnon

Playa Del Carmen

funding needed to sponsor a vet

January 2010

By Louis Pintkowski

For the savvy beach-go’er, slip your toes into the sands of Playa.

The first proven chocoholics where in fact the ancient Maya.

The ancient Maya revered this sacred spot and gave it a powerful name - Chaak Tun.

A new-concept luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of Playa del Carmen on the world-famous 5th Avenue.

Riviera Maya: Puerto Morelos—Tulum

A great location in Playa and very reasonable

What better way to teach kids about nature and community than the scouts!