Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Festivals/Sights
Check out the town square, El Zócalo, for free entertainment, and shop the bustling 20-block La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue). It’s especially magical after dark when the lights come up and the temperature moderates enough to be enjoyable.
Here, you can indulge in shopping, art galleries, jewelry, spas, clubbing (you’ll hear all about CoCo Bongo) and a wide variety of delicious cuisines.
Where’s the Bathroom?
True to our website, this is a place where it’s wise to ask “Where’s the bathroom?” (or “Donde esta el bano?”) Bathroom facilities along the main shopping row are few and far between. We advise using the bus station (upstairs) for 50 pesos. Note that exact change IS required.
Beyond that, even if you don’t have to go when you dine at one of the many fine restaurants, go anyway! The proprietors watch carefully, and you can’t just come in off the street and use their restroom. You’ll have to buy at least one drink to be allowed to use the facilities.
Explore Playa del Carmen
This activity is free, with tired feet at no extra charge. The town boasts a large sandy beach for swimming and being seen in that fabulous new bathing suit. Be sure to check out the great bird sanctuary in town – Xaman Ha. It’s well worth dusting off your camera for some spectacular bird pix. See a few of my photos from the sanctuary.
Food Travel Guide
We love the outdoor cafe “100% Natural” for their great salads and fresh juices. It is a small Mexican chain restaurant. I was surprised and delighted to see the Playa del Carmen location featured on an episode of Rick Bayless’ PBS series “Mexico: One Plate at a Time”.
Their fresh fruit and vegetable waterfall keeps the patio cool, comfortable and scrumptious. Be sure to order and sip Jamaica, a cold drink made from dried hibiscus flowers and various exotic flavorings. Very refreshing on a hot day! 100% Natural serves vegan, vegetarian, and carnivorous sandwiches and entrees. All delicious.
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