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12 Things to KNOW Before Booking a Catamaran Cruise in Playa del Carmen

12 Things to KNOW Before Booking a Catamaran Cruise in Playa del Carmen

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The Riviera Maya is a stretch of Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It’s home to some of the best places to visit in all of Mexico, one of my favorite being Playa del Carmen!

There are some epic day trips out of Playa del Carmen that let you get outside to explore the Riviera Maya’s natural beauty. But while there are a lot of different types of excursions you can take, I always love catamaran cruises.

These double-hulled boats are perfect for a relaxing afternoon sailing on the blue Caribbean Sea. Plus, these tours include fun activities like snorkeling, exploring Isla Mujeres, or catching a world-class sunset. Jumping on a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen was easily one of the best tours we’ve ever taken in Mexico! 

As you’re planning your next Playa del Carmen vacation, consider adding a catamaran cruise to the agenda! I’ll fill you in on everything you need to know about these tours. We’ve also narrowed it down to the best catamaran cruises in Playa del Carmen to choose from.

By the end of this blog, you’ll be packing your swimsuit and sunscreen, ready to set sail!

Don’t have time to read the full article? Catamaran cruises are an awesome way to explore the sea in a relaxing and enjoyable environment. You’ll be sure to get your needs met on this catamaran tour since all the details are handled for you – you just have to show up and indulge.

1. What is a Playa del Carmen catamaran cruise?

Daniel and Bailey pose for a photo on the end of the catamaran in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
There’s no better place to catamaran!
Bailey sits ont he side rail of the Catamaran soaking up the views and sun on a tour from Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Living our best life!

Catamaran boats are our favorite types of cruises to take! If this is your first time on a catamaran, be prepared for an afternoon of relaxing luxury. Something about this type of boat just feels swanky!

A catamaran is basically a sailboat that has two hulls connected by a deck. This build makes the boat more stable than your average sailboat or yacht, so if you struggle with seasickness as Bailey does, it shouldn’t be an issue on this type of boat. 

The tours we picked out for this blog will vary in boat size, tour size, and what is included on the boat and in the tour. If you have a private group, the boat will be smaller to accommodate just your group, but if you book a large group tour, you might get a 3-story catamaran with a slide and other fun activities! Typically catamaran’s are large enough that you can find your own spot to relax and enjoy the ride. 

There are also a variety of things you can see on a catamaran cruise. Some of these cruises take you to Isla Mujeres, which is a great way to get over there and experience this fun island. Others simply explore the gorgeous Caribbean with opportunities to go snorkeling or paddleboarding amongst the second-largest coral reef in the world. We also have a suggestion for a sunset cruise for a nice romantic evening on a catamaran! 

Honestly, catamaran cruises make for some of the best tours in Playa del Carmen. And with all these options, you really can choose the ideal one for you and your group. I mean, why not enjoy a day at sea on a catamaran cruise?!

2. When is the best time to go on a Playa del Carmen catamaran cruise?

A catamaran in the beautiful waters off the coast of Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Our afternoon sail!

The best time of year to take a catamaran cruise is also the best time to visit Playa del Carmen! The dry season runs from December to May, which brings the best weather and calmest waters – perfect for a day at sea. Plus, the hot weather will make jumping into the turquoise waters even more enticing. 

I prefer to take morning cruises, as you will beat the crowds and the intense heat of the day. Although afternoon cruises often perfectly time your return journey so you can catch the sunset. Which, if you haven’t taken a sunset cruise before, I highly recommend taking one while on the Riviera Maya – it’s simply stunning!

While there are plenty of activities in Playa del Carmen if you’re visiting during the rainy season, you might want to reconsider a catamaran cruise. July to November is hurricane season in the Caribbean, which doesn’t mix well with a boat tour. The heavy winds and dangerous ocean conditions not only make it less enjoyable but a higher risk as well. Even clear days can bring rough waters, and honestly, the snorkeling isn’t great this time of year.

Related Read: Still figuring out your method of transportation in Playa del Carmen? We got you covered! Renting a car in Mexico is a safe and convenient option, or you can simply book a shuttle from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen.

3. How much does a Playa del Carmen catamaran cruise cost?

Daniel and Bailey take a selfie on a catamaran tour from Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Cheers!

The price for a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen really depends on which tour you take. Luckily, there are so many options that you will find one that fits your budget and gives you what you want out of the experience! Taking a catamaran cruise is one of the most popular activities in the Riviera Maya, so you should have no problem finding a good one. 

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that offers a fun day of activities, this catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres is only $55 USD. This cruise includes lunch, an open bar, snorkeling equipment, and time exploring Isla Mujeres. This price doesn’t include transportation or the docking fee of $20 USD, and it can have up to 75 people on the tour. There is also this other tour to Isla Mujeres which includes literally everything, you don’t need to bring an extra cent with you, and it is $140 USD. 

You can also take catamaran tours that are focused on a specific activity. This snorkeling and paddleboarding tour gives you ample time in the water and explores different areas of the Riviera Maya for $139 USD. Or you can take a sunset cruise, which includes dinner and an open bar for $99 USD. 

And if you’re looking for a very luxurious experience, you can take this private tour to Isla Mujeres for $570 USD. While this seems like the most expensive option, if you get a group of nine people, this ends up being one of the cheapest options and you get the whole boat to yourself! 

When booking a cruise, check to see if the $20 USD dock fee is included in the price and if they charge more for transportation from Playa del Carmen. Oftentimes, the “budget” tour options don’t include these, and it ends up driving up the price, so just keep that in mind!

4. What to expect on a typical Playa del Carmen catamaran cruise?

Bailey with a life jacket on a catamaran cruise in CPlaya del Carmen, Mexico before they go snorkeling
Ready to go snorkeling!
Bailey on a swing at Kin Há Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres!

A catamaran cruise is one of the best day trips out of Playa del Carmen, so there is a high demand for tours and a lot of options out there. Each tour is a little different, depending on what it offers, so I’ll break them down as best as possible. 

Many catamaran cruises go to Isla Mujeres, which is 13 kilometers (8 miles) off the shore of Cancun. These tours will typically include an open bar, stops for snorkeling, and a slow cruise to the island so you can really settle into the gorgeous catamaran. 

Once you get to Isla Mujeres, you’ll have a few hours to explore on your own, as there are a ton of fun activities on this quaint island. You can check out the cute shops, dine in some amazing restaurants, and relax at Playa Norte, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, in my opinion! When you’re done exploring the island you can enjoy drinks at the open bar and take in the views as the cruise slowly heads back to the mainland. 

Another type of tour you’ll see is a snorkeling-specific catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen. This part of Mexico is home to the Mesoamerican Reef, which is the second-largest great barrier reef in the world, only behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. It makes for some world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, and is a perfect addition to a catamaran tour! These snorkeling tours will include all equipment and help you spot stingrays, sea turtles, and tropical fish along the coral reefs. 

Bailey snorkeling in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Hey!

Snorkeling tours on a catamaran will also typically include lunch and an open bar, so you will have a nice mix of relaxation and adventure throughout your day. 

You will also get to choose from sunset tours! Whether it’s just a cruise on the Caribbean waters or out to Isla Mujeres, a sunset tour will be a beautiful experience. Sunset cruises will depart in the afternoon, giving you time to get settled into the boat, grab a drink, and enjoy the views. Many of them include dinner and music too, so the experience on the boat is quite lovely, just about as lovely as the sunset!

All of these tours vary in length of time, whether it’s a half-day or a full day. They all include transportation from Playa del Carmen (sometimes for an extra fee) so you don’t have to worry about driving a rental car after an open bar tour!

5. What are the best Playa del Carmen catamaran cruises?

1. All Inclusive Catamaran Tour to Isla Mujeres

Our guide on our catamaran tour Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Our guide on our catamaran tour in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa Norte on Island Mujeres
Playa Norte is our favorite beach on Isla Mujeres!

This catamaran cruise will take you to Isla Mujeres and includes fun activities along the way! This 8-hour experience will be a party from the get-go, starting off with the open bar and music as you set sail across the gorgeous blue water.

Before you reach Isla Mujeres, you will stop at a popular snorkel spot to explore the Mesoamerican Reef. There is a ton of variety of marine life, so you’re sure to spot something truly unique!

I really love this tour, not only because you get to explore Isla Mujeres, but it also includes entrance to a popular beach club on the island. This is a perfect spot to enjoy the white sand beaches, dance, swim, and indulge in a Mexican buffet and maybe another cocktail or two! This is also a great time to go check out Isla Mujeres, which is a super cute little town.

You will then head back to the mainland, but still have time to enjoy the luxurious catamaran along the way! This tour includes lunch, an open bar, access to the beach club, and snorkeling activities. It only includes transportation if you select the option (which raises the price) and does not include the $20 USD dock fee per person. 

I will note that while this tour calls itself “all-inclusive”, I think there are more inclusive options out there! This tour is $55 USD without transportation and $85 USD with transportation from Playa del Carmen. That price, included with the dock fee, will make this catamaran tour $105 USD, which is still cheaper than other tours of this kind. 

You can reserve this catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres in advance here!

2. Full Experience Isla Mujeres: Food aboard + Premium drinks + Snorkel + Free time

Blue water and a catamaran in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Arriving at Isla Mujeres!

Here we have another catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres that takes care of every detail for you! You don’t even have to worry about driving to a meet-up point, they will pick you up from your Playa del Carmen hotel, take you to the catamaran, and whisk you off into the ocean for a beautiful day of sailing.

I appreciate that this tour has varying departure times, so you can select the option that’s best for you. If you’re looking to beat the heat, I recommend booking the earliest tour option. But you can also time it so you can see the sunset on the way back, which is one of the most beautiful things you can do in Playa del Carmen.

This tour also only allows 32 people, so it has a nice relaxed vibe and doesn’t feel too crowded on the catamaran.

Once you set sail, you will have access to the premium open bar full of yummy cocktails as you make your way across the turquoise waters. After about 45 minutes, you will stop for snorkeling in the El Meco reef, and get to see the bright colors and tropical fish! 

Once you reach Isla Mujeres, you will have 2.5 hours of free time to explore the island on your own. It’s nice that they give you a few hours so your time isn’t rushed. The beaches here are amazing, so I think having a lazy beach day is a great use of time! Or head to Punta Sur to see the beautiful historic lighthouse, right on the tip of the peninsula. 

Daniel and Bailey sit in their rented golf cart on Isla Mujeres, Mexico
Exploring Isla Mujeres!

The tour will provide a box lunch on the boat, but you can also stop at one of the many restaurants on Isla Mujeres as you’re out exploring. This tour stands out because transportation from your hotel and all dock fees are included, so you will have no extra cost to your day. Plus, the smaller tour size and laid-back nature, including lunch and premium cocktails make this my favorite option to Isla Mujeres. 

This 5-hour catamaran tour is an ideal way to enjoy the gorgeous Caribbean waters and Isla Mujeres. It is $140 USD per person, or you can upgrade to the deluxe experience that includes access to a VIP beach club for $195 USD. You can check out the details and book this tour in advance online here!

Related Read: When in Mexico, you have to try all the food – and tours are a great way to do it! Read our list of the best food tours in Playa del Carmen.

3. Luxury Sunset Sailing Cruise in the Riviera Maya 

Bailey and Daniel cheers with wine at sunset on a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Cheers!
A catamaran from Isla Mujeres sails back to Cancun after the tour
Sailing back home!

I can’t think of a more memorable experience in Mexico than taking this sunset catamaran cruise out of Playa del Carmen!

This is great if you’re traveling as a couple and want a date night in paradise, or it can be a super fun activity with a group of friends. The Riviera Maya is simply gorgeous, and it somehow gets more beautiful at sunset! 

You will have about two hours on the catamaran, hanging out with the friendly crew, and enjoying the music, views, and open bar! The crew will take you all around the Riviera Maya while you sip on a cocktail and land in a small bay to watch the sunset.

This cruise’s timing is perfect, as you’ll start out during the golden hour (ideal for photos) and then see the sky turn pink and purple as the sun goes down. When we were on board, it was among the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen! 

They will provide fresh fruit snacks and a meat and cheese platter to go with the open bar. This tour will also pick you up from your Playa del Carmen hotel and drop you off at the end. The catamaran can hold up to 35 people, so it’s not a giant tour but still has enough people to make it a lively experience! 

If a sunset catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen is on your bucket list, I suggest you reserve this tour in advance! This is an unbelievably beautiful experience, so spots fill up quickly. You can book this tour for $99 USD per person.

4. Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour from Cancun with Open Bar

Epic views of the crystal clear waters from our Playa del Carmen, Mexico catamaran cruise
A private tour means no crowds!

Taking a group trip to Playa del Carmen is one of the most fun experiences you can have! And if you do have a larger group, it opens up some rad private tours, like this Private Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour!

The boat will depart from Cancun, but the tour will offer transportation from Playa del Carmen for an additional cost, just let them know you need it! After casting off from the docks, you’ll spend the next four hours lounging on a 10-meter (32-foot) catamaran equipped with an open bar, snorkel gear, and a fun crew. If that doesn’t scream vacation, I don’t know what does!

Because this tour is private, you have the freedom to decide where you want to go. The crew knows these waters like the back of their hand, so they can customize the tour to fit your needs, like finding the best snorkel spots or a beautiful secluded beach to explore – it’s up to you!

While the price tag is initially shocking at $570 USD, this actually breaks down to being one of the cheapest catamaran tours on this list. It accommodates up to nine people, so that is only $63 USD per person for a 4-hour private tour. You can even upgrade to a 7-hour tour for $980 USD.

The only drawback to this tour is that there are a few additional costs. If you want lunch included, you will have to specify and pay a little more. Each person on board also has to pay a $20 USD dock fee upon check-in. So keep this in mind as you’re booking the tour!

All in all, a private catamaran tour with your closest friends sounds like a pretty epic experience to me! Book this tour in advance online here.

5. Luxury Sailing and Snorkeling Experience from Riviera Maya

Bailey in a bikini on a catamaran cruise from Playa del Carmen, Mexico to Isla Mujeres, mexico
Welcome to paradise!
Bailey snorkeling on a tour in Isla Mujeres, Mexico
We had a blast!

While many catamaran cruises set sail with a destination in mind, this one is focused on the journey! This Sailing and Snorkeling Experience is a great catamaran tour for those who like to be a little active, as you’ll have plenty of time to snorkel and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) in some of the most beautiful waters out there. 

The tour will pick you up from your Playa del Carmen hotel and spend half the day out on the water! The catamaran will cruise along the gorgeous Riviera Maya coast, which is home to fascinating flora and fauna along with the giant Mesoamerican Reef. You will get to swim and snorkel with the colorful tropical fish and fantasy-like coral formations. We even saw sea turtles and stingrays while snorkeling here!

The boat also provides standup paddleboards, so you can easily mix up activities and enjoy the water in a multitude of ways. Onboard, the crew provides an open bar and a light gourmet lunch to keep you from getting hangry and having a good time as the drinks are flowing! 

I think this is a great tour option, as it’s relaxed and simply lets you enjoy the beauty of this area. It isn’t a huge tour, up to 30 people, which is preferable on a catamaran cruise! This tour includes roundtrip transportation from Playa del Carmen, all of your snorkeling and paddle board equipment, lunch, an open bar, and all extra fees. You can simply show up and enjoy the catamaran! 

This tour has two departure times, 8:30 am or 1 pm, and is $139 USD per person. You can reserve this luxury snorkeling experience online here!

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

6. Are Playa del Carmen catamaran cruises suitable for children?

Daniel and Bailey take a selfie on a Playa del Carmen, Mexico Catamaran cruise
Most are, just don’t book a party cruise with kids!

Certain catamaran cruises are suitable for children, but not all are, so you’ll have to do some research before you book. A lot of these catamaran cruises in Playa del Carmen have more of a party atmosphere with the open bar and the booze flowing. Not every tour is like that, but the majority of them are, which isn’t quite suitable for kiddos. 

A lot of these cruises also charge the same price for children as they do for adults (infants and toddlers are always free), even though children aren’t using the open bar. So cost-wise, it’s not the best family-friendly day trip from Playa del Carmen. Children also need to be strong swimmers to participate in snorkeling activities, and some tours don’t allow kids under 8 to join in on this activity.

Our recommendation for a family-friendly catamaran cruise is this day trip to Isla Mujeres. It has a buffet and stops at a beach club on Isla Mujeres, which gives private beach access, perfect for swimming and playing on shore! Without transport from Playa del Carmen, it is $55 USD for adults and $35 USD for kids. With transport, this tour is $85 USD for adults and $65 USD for kids, and children under 4 are always free!

However, I think that booking a private catamaran boat is the best family-friendly option. If you have a big group you’re traveling with, you can reserve this catamaran just for you and your family, so you really have control of the experience and what your kids are part of! It is $570 USD for the whole boat, which if you have nine people, comes out to $63 USD per person. It actually ends up being one of the cheapest overall options, and it’s your own private boat! 

If it fits your schedule and budget, taking a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen is a memorable family activity. Kids love being on the boats and will look back on this vacation for years to come!

7. Is snorkeling on a Playa del Carmen catamaran cruise good?

Group of white fish swim in Playa del Carmen, Mexico as seen while snorkeling
Cute fish!

While the coral reef and the Caribbean Sea make for some of the great snorkeling in Playa del Carmen, catamaran cruises are not my top choice for snorkeling experiences. Snorkeling usually isn’t the main event on catamaran cruises, so it often feels rushed and crowded, as you’ll only have about 30 minutes to snorkel with about 100 other people in the water. 

With so many other tours in the water, it can be hard to keep track of your boat and guide, so you can’t really fall into the experience this way. This is a big bummer because the coral and tropical reefs are amazing here! 

However, this catamaran cruise is focused solely on snorkeling, so you will head to more remote places and have a lot of time to explore. We thought it was the perfect balance of luxury catamaran cruising, and stopping at epic snorkel spots to explore for a while. It includes transportation from Playa del Carmen and is a small group tour with only 30 people, which is much smaller than other catamaran cruises! It can be reserved online for $139 USD per person.

Related Read: What sounds better than a lazy beach day? Cancun’s beaches are some of the absolute best beaches on the Yucatan and only a quick day trip from Playa del Carmen!

8. Can you get seasick on a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen?

View out the front of the catamaran on our tour from Playa del Carmen, Mexico to Isla Mujeres
View out the front of the catamaran on our tour from Playa del Carmen, Mexico to Isla Mujeres

One of the reasons we love catamaran cruises is because the boats are so stable that it makes seasickness almost impossible!

Bailey often gets seasick, but she’s been okay on any catamaran cruise we’ve taken. She still takes medication just to be on the safe side, but during the dry season the waters around Playa del Carmen are calm and the double hull really helps stabilize the catamaran.

If you are prone to motion sickness, I highly recommend taking medication before your tour. Dramamine is the most popular brand and Bonine is another great option, both usually last quite a few hours, but pack extra just in case. You can pick both of these up at any pharmacy in Playa del Carmen. 

Bring water, stay hydrated, and keep your eyes on the horizon if you start to get woozy!

9. What should you wear/bring on a Playa del Carmen catamaran cruise?

Daniel poses for a photo on a catamaran cruise from Playa del Carmen, Mexico
You don’t need much!

There isn’t a ton of space to store your belongings on a catamaran boat, so try not to overpack! I have brought a small backpack with a change of clothes, snacks, and sunscreen and found that to be enough.

You’ll be spending time in the water and on shore so you will need both a swimsuit and some regular clothes, especially if your tour goes to Isla Mujeres. You’ll need clothes and shoes to walk around the town. 

Layering is key on these boat tours. There is only one small bathroom on board, so I recommend wearing your swimsuit and bringing clothes to wear over it. Plus, if you’re taking a sunset cruise, it can get chilly at night so you might even want a light jacket!

Other essentials to pack for a catamaran cruise are a towel, hat, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and seasick medicine. I also recommend bringing a water bottle so you stay hydrated as you’re out in the hot sun all day.

10. What facilities will you find on a catamaran in Playa del Carmen?

Bailey poses for a photo on our Catamaran anchored off Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Take me back!

We keep calling catamaran cruises a luxury experience because they really have everything you need on board! Most importantly, there is a fully stocked open bar on all of these cruises … it’s 5 o’clock somewhere, right? The boats have a toilet on board and will have a little bit of storage for your bags.

The majority of these tours will include snorkel gear, and some will also come with paddleboards or kayaks. The big catamaran boats will be equipped with slides into the water and floaties to lounge on. 

11. Are Playa del Carmen catamaran tours safe?

Bailey poses for a photo on a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
The waters are calm and the crew look out for you!

Yes, you can book a catamaran tour with peace of mind that this is a safe and fun activity out of Playa del Carmen.

They take safety in Mexico very seriously, especially in these tourism-driven zones. The Mexican government sets strict regulations that each boat is fully licensed and equipped with proper safety equipment. The waters are patrolled by the Mexican coast guard and hundreds of boats set sail every day!

We have found that the captain and crew on these cruises are friendly and want to make sure you have an awesome time. Tourism is essential to Playa del Carmen’s livelihood, so they truly want tourists to have a safe and fun experience, so they will return again. The tour operators will do whatever is necessary to ensure your safety!

12. Is a Playa del Carmen catamaran cruise worth it?

Catamaran cruise at sunsets sails back to Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Yes!

Yes! We loved taking a catamaran cruise, it was one of the best tours on the Yucatan! Cruising across the gorgeous Caribbean Sea with the hot Mexican sun shining down on you was so relaxing. Plus, with an open bar, snorkeling, and a chance to explore the beautiful Isla Mujeres, we had a fantastic day. 

Catamaran cruises allow you to explore another part of the Riviera Maya and have an unforgettable day. The convenience of transportation from Playa del Carmen and the included activities, food, and drinks make your day hassle-free, which is exactly what you want on vacation.

A catamaran cruise makes your picture-perfect Mexico vacation that everyone dreams about a reality!

Related Read: If you’re looking for more underwater excitement, you’re in the right place! Take a day trip to Akumal Beach to swim with sea turtles or you can even swim with whale sharks right in Playa del Carmen!

Other Activities to do While You’re in Playa del Carmen

Scuba diving here is unreal!
Bailey poses for a photo on 5th avenue in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
5th Avenue is the famous walking street!

Going on a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen is just the tip of what this vibrant town has to offer. In fact, there are so many fun activities in Playa del Carmen, that it can be a little overwhelming! Here are a few more of my favorite things to do here which I think you’ll love:

  • Swim alongside whale sharks – Did you know that whale sharks aren’t actually sharks? In fact, they’re the largest fish in the world, and you can even swim with whale sharks in Playa del Carmen! You will need to head a little way offshore before you can though, which is why I recommend this full-day whale shark tour, which includes all transportation and lunch!
  • Go shopping – Fifth Avenue is a super popular pedestrian street full of shops, boutiques, and markets. If you’re looking for souvenirs or fancy treating yourself to a new holiday get-up, this is the place to be. The Playa del Carmen Flea Market is my top pick for budget gifts and handicrafts, and Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall is your one-stop shop for international brands.

Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen

Bailey relaxes at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico near Playa del Carmen
Me relaxing at just one of the resorts I have stayed in Playa del Carmen!

There are a TON of great places to stay in Playa del Carmen, so it can be a bit difficult knowing where to even begin! The hotels here cater to all kinds of budgets, age ranges, and more, so to help give you a good overview, I’ve included some of my favorites below:

Che Playa Hostel and Bar – $

Visiting Playa del Carmen doesn’t have to be super expensive! In fact, for those traveling on a budget, I’d highly recommend Che Playa Hostel and Bar, which is an adult-only hostel and one of the best in town!

It’s really well-located right in the heart of Playa del Carmen and even has its own rooftop pool and bar. While it’s nothing crazy, this gives it a really chilled-out social atmosphere and the clean facilities and helpful staff make the whole stay a blast.

Rates here are some of the best you’ll find in town, with a bed in a dorm starting from as low as $27 USD per night. You can check out the rates for yourself over on Hostelworld or Booking.com.

Soho Playa Hotel – $$

Whenever I’m visiting on a moderate budget and don’t fancy staying in a resort, my personal pick is the Soho Playa Hotel, which I’ve visited a couple of times now and is a real gem! It’s just a stone’s throw away from the beach, has its own pool, and all rates include free breakfast.

The rooms here are also super modern and are really clean – a one-night stay here starts at $94 USD per night and can be booked online here.

The Palm at Playa – $$

The Palm at Playa is a lot like the Soho Playa Hotel – it’s in a similar price range, but I’d say it’s a little bit more on the luxury end. It’s also located right near the beach and has its own on-site restaurant, which blends local flavors with a European twist – I really recommend the amazing fish tacos!

The rooftop palm garden is the perfect retreat when it’s super hot out, take it from me that this feels like a luxury hotel without the price tag. Rooms here start at $150 USD per night and for the best price, it’s best to book online in advance.

El Taj Oceanfront and Beachside Condo Hotel – $$$

If budget isn’t an issue for you, then the luxury world of hotels at Playa del Carmen is at your fingertips! When it comes to enjoying out-of-this-world hospitality and comfort, El Taj Oceanfront and Beachside Condo Hotel really can’t be topped. With its very own infinity pool and elegant suites, every corner of this hotel is Instagram-worthy!

El Taj’s ASI restaurant serves delicious gourmet food that dazzles the taste buds, and if you’re feeling ultra-relaxed in your room, you can request the chef to come to your suite and prepare your meals there! While I haven’t personally been here, you can bet that this is on my bucket list.

A one-night stay at El Taj starts at $185 USD, which I think is actually pretty good value considering all the luxuries that come with it! To snag the best rooms, I’d suggest checking your dates and booking your stay online here.

Renting a Car in Mexico

Bailey and Daniel take a selfie while driving around Mexico
A rental car means freedom to go to the beach whenever you want!

Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car. 

I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically. 

I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!

The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too. 

Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit. 

Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper! 

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.

SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.

Book your travel insurance with SafetyWing here!

Thanks for reading! 

Daniel and Bailey take a selfie on a catamaran cruise Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Thanks for reading!

Our catamaran cruise from Playa del Carmen was one of our favorite tours we’ve ever taken in Mexico! There was something so charming about the catamaran boat, and taking a few hours to simply chill out in the sun with the sea breeze swirling around was so relaxing. If you are looking for a memorable experience and an excuse to dive into Mexico’s beauty (quite literally, that water is incredibly blue and enticing!) I can’t recommend taking a catamaran cruise high enough!

I hope we’ve inspired you to book a catamaran cruise next time you’re visiting Playa del Carmen! There’s truly so much to explore in this country, and we are just beginning to scratch the surface. Be sure to check out our other Mexico blogs to see our favorite parts of the country, and start planning your trip!

10 Things to KNOW Before Booking an ATV Tour in Playa del Carmen

20 BEST Things to do in Valladolid, Mexico + COMPLETE Guide

21 FUN Cancun Day Trips that you’ll love!

22 Things to KNOW Before Visiting Chichén Itzá