Holidays to Playa del Carmen

Why Playa del Carmen?

Life is too short to keep visiting the same destinations. Move away from predictable European destinations and make for Playa del Carmen, part of Mexico's Riviera Maya.

A former fishing village, Playa del Carmen has blossomed into a boho-chic paradise where there is always a fiesta.

An hour south of Cancún, holidays in Playa del Carmen offer a winning combination of sunshine – the average daily temperature is a swoon-worthy 27 degrees – sea as turquoise as glass, and Insta-worthy white sand beaches. If all you want to do is drop and flop on a soft sandy beach in front of a fabulous hotel – and let’s face it, you deserve it after the last couple of years – then look no further.

Prefer to sample food while your companion samples the beach? You've come to the right place. Food is a bumper part of Playa del Carmen’s pleasures. Chow down on lip-smacking specialities such as arroz a la Mexicana (Mexican rice) tostadas, and tacos (mouthfuls of meat on corn bases), and tikin xic (taste bud tingling fish in spicy sauce) – all washed down with a tequila or two. Well, when in Rome...

Stomach lined, hit Playa del Carmen’s lively bar scene that rages on until dawn – indulgence is one of this cosmopolitan beach town’s USPs.

If it’s culture you’re after, Playa del Carmen holidays offer that too. There’s easy access to iconic temple ruins – take a bow the magnificent Tulum Ruins and the magical lost city of Chichen Itza – as well as some 6,000-plus cenotes (natural underwater pools) to explore.

Whatever you do and wherever you go, you won’t regret a holiday in Playa del Carmen. Trust us on this one.

Hotels in Playa del Carmen

Browse a cracking selection of the most popular hotels in Playa del Carmen

Things to Do

Whether you're looking for a beach getaway or city break, Playa del Carmen has something to offer every discerning traveller

Punta Esmeralda

The squeaking soda-white sand at Punta Esmeralda, a paradisiacal beach just off Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) will warm any holidaymaker’s heart. When Europe is chilling through winter, here it’s blue skies and balmy temperatures. Punta Esmeralda, also known as Playa Esmeralda, is a favourite with families thanks to its near-perfect swimming conditions.

Mamitas

It would be criminal to visit Playa del Carmen without spending at least one day topping up the tan at Mamitas – consistently hailed as one of Playa’s best beaches. Aside from sugary sand and turquoise waters, Mamitas boasts an eponymous beach club serving killer cocktails and electronic music for those who are looking for hip as well as hot.

Holiday Types in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has something to offer everyone from last minute breaks to family friendly holidays

Winter Sun In Playa del Carmen

Is the dreary weather at home getting you down? Our winter sun holidays to colourful and, crucially, sunny Playa del Carmen could be just the ticket! It’s time to escape the colder climates in favour of blissful beach days.

All Inclusive Playa del Carmen

Booking our all-inclusive holidays to Playa del Carmen offers you a stress-free break in the sunshine. With everything you need included in the price, you’ll be able to let your hair down and enjoy the fiesta!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time of year to visit Playa del Carmen?

The best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is balmy but there is less rain. Festival-goers won’t want to miss Mexico’s Day of the Dead celebrations which traditionally take place on 1 and 2 November. Hurricane season lasts from June to September; however, the high-risk period is typically from mid-August to early October.

Is Playa del Carmen a good place for a holiday?

It might be possible to have a bad time in Playa del Carmen but it’s hard to see how! This Mayan Riviera spot offers a stunning mix of sunshine, white sand beaches, turquoise water, fab food, and loud and proud Latin culture.

What is the currency in Playa del Carmen?

Mexico's currency is the Peso (M$) although in Playa del Carmen you will also see prices quoted in US Dollars.

What language is spoken in Playa del Carmen?

Mexico’s main language is Spanish, and learning at least a few words will be appreciated even if you can get away with English in the Riviera Maya.