About an hour south of Cancun is Playa del Carmen, a tranquil Mexican oasis that boasts white sand beaches, turquoise waters and a relaxed boho vibe that’s palpable. Here, history, culture, nature, art, food and hospitality combine, transforming what was once a fishing village into one of the top destinations in Mexico. It’s little surprise, then, that meeting and event planners will find something for everyone in Playa del Carmen. 

Why Playa del Carmen 

• Temperate weather year-round, with daytime temperatures ranging between 70°F and 90°F. 

• About 35 miles south of Cancún International Airport (CUN), with nearly 40 direct flights from the U.S. 

• A Euro-chic vibe on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. 

What’s New in Playa del Carmen 

• The final route of the Mayan Train (Tren Maya) was completed in December 2024. All told, the 960-plus miles of railway connect five states in the southeastern region of Mexico: Campeche, Tabasco, Quinta Roo (and Playa del Carmen), Chiapas and Yucatán. 

• Playa del Carmen has installed 4,800 new streetlights to improve public lighting. 

• La Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue) was recently widened, making it even more pedestrian friendly, filled with shops, restaurants, nightlife and more. 

There are plenty of options when it comes to things to see and do in Playa del Carmen, as well as places to grab a bite to eat, or host a power lunch or dinner. Here are a few spots in Playa del Carman to pique your interest. 

SEE

Cenote Jardín del Eden 

The Yucatán Peninsula is home to more than 7,000 cenotes, or deep sinkholes in limestone with pools at the bottom, which mean there are plenty to explore. One to consider is Cenote Jardín del Eden (Garden of Eden), considered one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Riviera Maya, about 15 miles from Playa del Carmen. The large pool with crystal clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and even SCUBA diving with an approved outfitter, with plenty of benches to sit and relax between dips. 

3D Museum of Wonders 

Change things up on your Mexican getaway with a visit to the 3D Museum of Wonders. Inside you’ll find two-dimensional pieces of art that appear to transform into 3D works when you take their picture. For example, “shake hands” with a sculpture, become the “topper” on a wedding cake, or “grab onto the legs” of a running zebra. The creativity and ingenuity found throughout the museum are sure to inspire your group. 

Ruinas Mayas Tulum 

About 40 miles from Playa del Carmen is the Tulum Archaeological site, one of the last cities inhabited by the Mayan people that dates back hundreds of years. Not only are the ruins impressive, but so is their location on a rocky coastline. Take some time to wander the grounds, reading the interpretive signs to learn more about the people who lived here, and keep your eyes peeled for iguanas you’ll find soaking up the warm sunshine. 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services and Connect DMC, a Hosts Global Member. 

DO 

Rio Secreto 

Go subterranean with a visit to Río Secreto, or the Secret River. The natural underground river and its caves are accessible only by guided tour, during which you will hike and swim in clear, turquoise water surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites. You’ll see impressive mineral formations and have plenty of photo opps to document your time in this otherworldly landscape. 

Parque Los Fundadores  

Known by the locals as El Zócalo, Parque Los Fundadores, comes to life at night with fire dancers and Mayan-inspired performances. Considered one of the most beautiful areas of downtown Playa del Carmen, the park is within proximity to shopping for souvenirs, and cafes and food carts for a bite to eat. 

Go Snorkeling 

It’s only a matter of time before the inviting waters off the coast of Playa del Carmen entice you to get in and make a splash, so why not go for a snorkel? In fact, this part of Mexico boasts some of the best SCUBA diving in the Western Hemisphere – the Meso-American Barrier Reef, the second-longest coral reef in the world, is just off the coast. Join a local outfitter for a guided snorkeling tour to take a peek at the undersea world and spot colorful fish and maybe even some sea turtles.  

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services and Connect DMC, a Hosts Global Member. 

EAT 

Alux 

For a truly unique dining experience, make dinner reservations at Alux Restaurante & Lounge. Surprise your guests upon arrival when they descend into a cavern that’s history spans a millennium, the tables of which are tucked into natural formations. It’s not only the surrounds that are impressive, but the menu, too, filled with delectable dishes like Passion Fruit and Pineapple Aguachile with shrimp and Hamachi; Duck & Castacán Taco layered with anchoïade and chiltomate; and Roasted Bone Marrow with Chili Glaze and Chapulines to start. Vegan dishes are also available.  

Harry’s Playa del Carmen 

If you’re looking for a classic steak house in the heart of Riviera Maya, look no further than Harry’s Playa del Carmen. Here you’ll find the best cuts of steak and freshest seafood, all served within a sophisticated yet comfortable setting. In addition to appetizers like Beef Tartare and Slow Braised Short Rib, you’ll find Empanadas and Prime Beef Filet Tacos to start. Before settling into entrées like Caribbean lobster tail, New Zealand Lamb Rack, filet mignon and porterhouse steaks, indulge in selections from the Raw Bar like caviar, Hamachi sashimi and oysters. 

Cervecería Tulum Brewery Restaurant 

Whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Cervecería Tulum Brewery Restaurant serves it all, inspired by local produce, fresh farm-to-table ingredients and sustainable fishing. For breakfast, try a spin on avocado toast with Malt Avocado Toast served with truffle; or opt for Motuleños Eggs, served with crisp corn tortilla, black beans, bola cheese and a tomato-habanero sauce. For lunch and dinner, the Signature Tasting Menu includes 9 dishes of the chef’s selection and four complimentary drinks.  
 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services and Connect DMC, a Hosts Global Member. 

STAY 

ALHI Member Banyan Tree Mayakoba is ready to welcome you and your guests for some fun in the Mexican sun in Playa del Carmen.  

Banyan Tree Mayakoba 

Local Mexican traditions and hospitality meet Asian culture at Banyan Tree Mayakoba in the heart of the Riviera Maya. The Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond resort effortlessly blends luxury and nature through its 160 private pool villas and suites, 12 dining options, expansive spa and memorable experiences. The resort’s versatile meeting and events venues can accommodate up to 600 guests, some of which are in exotic settings.  

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services and Connect DMC, a Hosts Global Member.