Playa del Carmen, Mexico: 6 places to see, from cenotes to
Explore Playa Del Carmen's top attractions including the car-free 5th Street with local restaurants and street art, Punta Esmeralda beach for sunset views, and nearby Cenote Azul featuring crystal-clear waters and snorkeling opportunities within 20 minutes of town.
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Cenote Azul
- End
- El Cielo Beach
- Stops
- 6
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Cenote Azul — Large limestone sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters, rock jumping platform, and excellent snorkeling opportunities near Playa Del Carmen.
- Isla Cozumel — Island destination 30 minutes by ferry from Playa Del Carmen, famous for world-class snorkeling at El Cielo beach with rays and starfish.
- Parque Los Fundadores — Central public park on 5th Street hosting daily local activities, shows, and cultural events in downtown Playa Del Carmen.
- Cenote Cristalino — Natural cenote sinkhole within walking distance of Cenote Azul, offering swimming and exploration opportunities in the Riviera Maya.
- Cenote Eden — Natural limestone cenote near Cenote Azul, accessible within a full-day cenote-hopping excursion in the Playa Del Carmen region.
- El Cielo Beach
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Take a local colectivo or taxi to Cenote Azul, which takes about 20 minutes from Playa Del Carmen.
- Timing
- Walking the entire 5th street main area downtown takes about 45 minutes without stopping, so take your time to enjoy.
- Tip
- Cenote Azul is within walking distance of Cenote Cristalino and Cenote Eden, allowing you to visit multiple cenotes in one day.
- Tip
- 5th street is car-free on the main restaurant and activity strip, giving you complete freedom to walk safely without vehicle traffic.
- Transport
- Ferry to Isla Cozumel leaves from the dock located right next to Parque Los Fundadores and takes 30 minutes.
- Tip
- Purchase snorkeling tours to El Cielo at small booths on 5th street in Playa Del Carmen, or buy on Cozumel after arrival (may be harder to book).
- Timing
- Visit Punta Esmeralda at sunset—it's one of the only points in Playa Del Carmen where you can see the sun setting to the west.
- Tip
- Punta Esmeralda is accessible from the end of 5th street, is a public beach with no entry fee, and is quieter than beaches closer to town.
- Tip
- Daily activities and shows are put on by locals at Parque Los Fundadores on 5th street.
Video on this route
PLAYA DEL CARMEN, MEXICO | Things You MUST Do In Playa Del Carmen