Coba is an ancient Mayan city located in the state of Quintana Roo and a short distance from both Tulum and Playa. Its well-preserved pyramids are among the tallest Mayan structures in the region. The site is slightly more inland into the lush jungle than Tulum or Playa.

Cenotes are limestone caverns that formed from collapsing cave systems. These ancient natural wonders have a mysterious ambiance. They aren’t too far from Playa and a day trip is the perfect way to see them.

15 million people visit Playa annually- including you- but it hasn’t always been like this. The Yucatan peninsula had a small population with untouched jungles and the coast was dotted with remote fishing villages for hundreds of years. In the 1960s, Cancun, Playa, Tulum, and the surrounding areas were targets of an economic revitalization effort by the Mexican government to boost tourism. Resort towns were built up and it is now a major vacation hotspot for visitors from around the world.

Playa is larger than Tulum but not as large as Cancun. Accommodation options in Playa del Carmen span boutique hotels, local apartments, and budget hostels. You won’t find as many major hotel and restaurant chains as in Cancun, but it does have a more commercialized atmosphere than Tulum.

Stock up on Pesos Before Your Trip

Some businesses will accept USD, but you will get an extremely unfavorable exchange rate. Have local currency (Mexican pesos) on hand for any vendors that don't accept credit cards. When paying by credit or debit card, be sure to press “Pay in Mexican Pesos” when prompted by the card reader to get a slightly better exchange rate.

Some sunscreens are banned in Playa del Carmen

This region of Mexico only allows biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellants in order to protect its sensitive ecosystems. Most conventional sunscreens endanger coral reefs and other wildlife when it comes in contact with the water. The sunscreen sits on top of the water and chokes out the coral reefs, so only buy certified reef-safe products. If you are not sure if your products qualify, wait until you get to Mexico to buy them, since all local shops will have the compliant products.

Tulum to Playa by shuttle bus

Our shuttle buses hold 5-7 passengers and are a budget-conscious transportation option without compromising on safety. With regular departures from Tulum to Playa del Carmen, a shuttle bus offers a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel.

Shuttle buses have regular pick-up and drop-off points, but for an added fee we can do pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

Tulum to Playa by private car with Daytrip

For a more customized experience, hire one of our private drivers. Enjoy seamless door-to-door convenience, ideal for busy families looking to make the most out of their vacation time. With a private driver, you have the flexibility to arrange the trip according to your schedule and tailor it to your specific interests. It is the better option for those who want all the freedom of renting a car without the hassle of having to drive on foreign roads or worry about rental returns.

Tailor your experience by adding tours to visit Mayan sites like Coba and the Cenotes.

Cenotes have a sacred place in Mayan religion as portals to the underworld and places of sacrifice to the gods. These beautiful natural wonders are underground caverns carved out by underground rivers and springs. Daytrip can get you right to the location of these tours, but note that you will have to book with the touring company separately.

Tulum to Playa by taxi

While you can take a taxi from Tulum to Playa, it's generally not advised. Taxis are known to prey on visitors, charging exorbitant fees for even short trips. You're also not guaranteed that your driver will speak English or help with your bags. Better to take a private car service like Daytrip where you book online in advance with upfront pricing. Every driver is vetted, so you always get stellar service - often for less than what a taxi would charge.

Get up close and personal with nature

Thanks to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, you can get a closer look at Mexico’s diverse ecosystem of mangrove swamps, wetlands, and coral reefs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vast protected area with one section open for guided ecotourism. Its name means "the entrance to the sky" in Mayan, and you’ll see how well the name fits!

Prepare for a full-day excursion led by a guide. You’ll walk through the lush jungle, witness the lasting legacy of the Mayan ruins of Muyil, and take a boat ride through the wetlands. It is a full-day excursion, so be sure you're equipped with water, comfortable attire, a swimsuit, and dry clothes.

Visit the ecoparks

Experience the untamed beauty of the Riviera Maya firsthand! Observe and interact with Central America's exotic and endangered wildlife at ecoparks like Xcaret and Xel-Ha. They provide an array of activities suitable for all ages, from swimming in natural cenotes to snorkeling among tropical fish. For the more adventurous, go zip-lining and do a cave tour in the jungle landscape.

Playa’s Dry Season

Playa del Carmen’s most busy season is from November to April when the weather is reliably sunny and dry, with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C). This period is perfect for outdoor pursuits like beachcombing and snorkeling. However, prices may be more expensive and activities may be more crowded.

Playa’s Rainy Season

From May to October, Playa del Carmen enters its rainy season. The occasional showers are usually short-lived and followed by clear skies. This is the season to visit if you prefer surfing on larger waves or avoiding crowds.