Playa del Carmen is about 40 miles (65 km) north of Tulum along the Riviera Maya of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. This region of Mexico was previously ruled by the Mayan Empire before Spanish colonization. The car trip from Tulum to Playa del Carmen is only about one hour. It’s an easy shuttle bus ride, or the perfect time to have a private driver take you to the Mayan Coba ruins and sacred cenotes you won’t be able to see from the resorts.
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.
About Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a coastal resort town located along the Caribbean Sea. It has grown rapidly from a small fishing village into a vibrant tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, bustling streets, and lively atmosphere. Your drive from Tulum to Playa runs along the stunning Riviera Maya. This region is important for ecotourism and the preservation of ancient Mayan culture.
Playa is not far from Coba, one of the main centers of agriculture, trade, and religious activity for the Mayan Empire. Playa was also an important launching point for Mayan canoes to reach Cozumel, where young Mayan women made pilgrimages to offer prayers to the fertility goddess.
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.
From Tulum to Playa del Carmen: Travel tips
Your quick day trip from Tulum to Playa will go off without a hitch if you remember these key travel tips!
Playa del Carmen often goes by a nickname
Playa del Carmen also goes by its nickname “Playa,” so don’t worry if someone tells you how to get to Playa instead of using its full name. Spanish speakers will also know that la playa means “the beach” in Spanish, so don’t mix up the town with the beach either!
### 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.
How to get from Tulum to Playa del Carmen
If you're looking at how to get from Tulum to Playa, the two town's popularity and proximity mean there's a robust transportation network available.
We break down your options below so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Tulum to Playa by bus
The public bus is the cheapest way to get from Tulum to Playa, with tickets costing around 100 MXP ($6). Buses depart from Terminal de Autobuses ADO Tulum about every 10 minutes and the travel time to Playa del Carmen is about an hour. Because they’re so affordable, the buses get extremely crowded and can sell out during peak season.
### 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.
Things to do when you get to Playa del Carmen
Playa is slightly larger than Tulum, with a few more excursion-type activities to do besides beachcombing and sunbathing when you get there. Check out these fun activities and see if you need to make online reservations for the parks and outdoor activities before making your drive from Tulum to Playa del Carmen.
Cozumel is a short ferry ride away
Cozumel is more than just a beautiful Caribbean island. It was also of religious significance for young Mayan women who journeyed there during puberty to offer sacrifices and prayers to Ixchel, the fertility goddess. Cozumel is small, but over forty archaeological sites have uncovered details about the Mayan Empire and their rituals. It is a short ferry ride away from Playa.
Cozumel is also a UNESCO biosphere reserve, with over 1,000 marine species. Its coast forms part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world's second-largest coral reef. Go diving and snorkeling to see this colorful hidden world yourself. Enjoy your time, but ensure you catch the final ferry back to the mainland!
### 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.
When is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen has a dry and rainy season, and they each have their pros and cons. Your ideal time to travel from Tulum to Playa del Carmen will depend on what you’d like to get out of your trip.
### 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.
Taxi fares from Tulum to Playa del Carmen should range from $40 to $60 USD. Prices change based on the time of year and the whims of the driver. You should definitely confirm the fare with the taxi driver before getting in the cab. Have cash in order to pay the driver, ideally in exact change. Or better yet, use a private car service where you can book in advance.
Tulum offers a more relaxed and bohemian atmosphere with stunning beaches and eco-friendly accommodations, while Playa del Carmen is livelier with a wide range of dining, shopping, and nightlife options. Have a bit of both for the full Mexican holiday experience.
Playa del Carmen is about 40 miles (65 km) from Tulum. Travel time by bus typically ranges from 1 to 1.5 hours. Buses leave several times per day and can accommodate a wide range of luggage needs. It is an ideal budget option for your vacation.
Safety at Playa del Carmen is a top priority in order to protect the tourism economy. You’ll see a lot of security officers and police in busy areas, but don’t let it replace your own vigilance over your belongings. If you keep your valuables close by, avoid going out alone at night, and don’t participate in illegal activities, you should have a safe and pleasant stay at Playa.
沿途参观这些景点
科巴
The largest network of Mayan highways radiates out from the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan located in the heart of this ancient city. The High Road
双眼泉
These pools of impossibly clear water are the gateway to one of the world’s longest underwater cave systems. A Diver's Delight
阿克图恩·陈
This eco-park offers one of the best cave walks in the world, a subterranean swimming hole, and jungle ziplines. Earth, Wind, and Water
奇金哈
Three beautiful cenotes allow visitors to swim in and under the lush tropical forest, and partake in a Mayan ritual. Tres Treats
查克吞泉
Sunlight and trees pour into a small hole in the heart of this stunning underground cenote ornamented by beautiful cave formations. Light in the Dark
"The day before our trip, I got information about a demonstration going on in Tulum during the time we were supposed to get picked up. I contacted our driver. He advised we avoid this demonstration because the road we would need to take would be closed. We returned our rental car early and changed our pickup location, and thank goodness!!! Our driver saved my husband, himself and me massive headaches. We are very thankful that he was responsive and helped us come up with a new plan."
Mary P.
United States
2024年12月26日
"The ride was really good. Nothing to complain about. The driver was on time and we had a smooth ride to Playa del Carmen. "
Marjaana V.
Sweden
2024年12月16日
"I’m just writing to you to give a 5 star review to Felix G who was our driver today.
He drove us from Tulum to Playa del Carmen and the experience was amazing. He cleaned the car for us and helped us with all our luggage. He even gave us extra time at the cenotes we visited and went above and beyond to make sure we had an amazing time, even staying back late after the given arrival time. I could not recommend him as a driver more. "
Theresa T.
Australia
2024年12月9日
"Felix gets 5 stars for his time driving us. He was on time and polite and courteous the whole time. We would use him again without question."
David C.
United Kingdom
2024年11月13日
" I’m happy to share that our trip with Abimael from Tulum to Playa del Carmen was fantastic. Not only was the journey smooth, but Abimael made some excellent recommendations for our time in Playa that really enhanced our experience."
Christopher V.
Canada
2024年9月20日
"Our trip was excellent, the communication prior to our trip was perfect. On the day we received a text from the Rainer advising us he was on his way, arrived on time and was very helpful.
I will certainly be using Day Trip in the future and will be recommending it to family and friends."
Brenda H.
United Kingdom
2024年9月7日
"It was great! Oscar was well experienced in the areas we went and gave us good tips about playa del Carmen. We enjoyed having a transfer and the ease of adding in a stop at the cenote to make use of the day with an activity too! Thank you.
"
Allie G.
Australia
2024年8月7日
"Hector was fantastic! He arrived on time, smiling and polite, safe and careful driver. We had a great journey with him and definitely recommended him.
"
Natalie C.
United Kingdom
2024年7月29日
"I was very pleased with our driver, Isaac. He communicated well, arrived on time, drove safely, and was very pleasant! Thanks! John "
John T.
United States
2024年7月23日
"The trip itself was straightforward and without incident. Oscar was friendly and an excellent driver. He gave us some helpful tips regarding the visit to the cenotes.
"
Rob H.
New Zealand
2024年5月30日
"Our driver was awesome! He was on time, and the van upgrade made all the difference. We had our planned stop and our driver even had cold drinks ready for us.
This trip was our first trip to use DayTrip and we had a great experience. Will definitely use again on my next travel.
"
Enrique P.
United States
2024年5月30日
"hi! i didn’t get a chance to tell you all but Julio is such a sweet guys and you offer such impeccable service! will use again when i’m traveling"
Ashrika S.
Trinidad and Tobago
2024年5月20日
"Hello there,
I had the pleasure of having Julio as my day trip driver on May 19, 2024, from Tulum to Playa del Carmen. Julio arrived early, which was a great start to the day for our last minute trip. He also held engaging and enjoyable conversations throughout the trip, and I was impressed by his ability to speak multiple languages fluently. Julio also recommended some fantastic places to visit and ensured that we got inside safely at each stop. I highly recommend Julio for his professionalism, friendliness, and excellent service. Thank you, for assigning me Julio, for making our trip so enjoyable!"
Mubarak A.
Canada
2024年5月8日
""Issac R. was our assigned driver and was early waiting in our hotel lobby. He was very helpful ""
James K.
United States
2024年4月24日
"Our driver was stellar. We had to stop for snacks be ause my girlfriend's blood sugar was getting low and he happily obliged and let me ship around the convenience store without rushing us. He was extremely friendly and a stellar driver. "
SPENCER T.
United States
2024年4月23日
"So happy we decided to use Daytrip! It made our trip much easier especially with the speed bumps we were running into trying to tour the hotels. Víctor was awesome, Sergio also tried to help out! We felt safe, everyone was accommodating, reliable, and went above and beyond!
"
Lauren P.
United States
2024年3月8日
"The whole process was smooth and easy. The drivers have been polite and efficient and on time. I’ve loved working with for company."
April C.
United States
2024年2月19日
"everything went great! Roberto was nice, spoke excellent English and was even early to pick us up in case we wanted to get an early start."
Chris B.
Austria
2024年2月8日
"Hello,
my day trip experience was wonderful!! My driver was super sweet, helpful and super flexible by letting me take my time and enjoy myself instead of rushing and worrying about the timing of everything. Super smooth trip and I would absolutely recommend this company to family or friends travelling in the area :)"
Kylie P.
Canada
2024年1月28日
" Our driver Julio was so kind to us, and an amazing story teller as well! Made our hour trip fly by."
