Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen, Mexico: 6 Areas & Hotels

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

Planning a trip to Playa del Carmen? You’re in the right place!

Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico’s most exciting beach towns. It blends beautiful Caribbean beaches with a buzzing nightlife scene. What many visitors don’t realize, though, is that Playa del Carmen is made up of several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality and appeal. Choosing the right one can make all the difference in how your trip feels!

After exploring this city inside and out, we’ve rounded up the 6 best areas to stay in Playa del Carmen, with hotel picks for every budget to help you decide. Whether you want nightlife, tranquility, or something in between, there’s a spot here for you, so let’s find it. 

Where to Stay in Playa Del Carmen Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Playa del Carmen

Wondering where to stay in Playa del Carmen? Well, we’ve got good news: finding the right neighborhood doesn’t have to be overwhelming. I’ve been traveling here since I was little, and we’ve taken lots of trips as a couple, too, so we’re here to make it simple for you.

Playa del Carmen is compact and easy to navigate, so staying in one area doesn’t shut you off from exploring everything this beachside city has to offer. You can walk around much of the city, especially during the day, and there are always lots of taxis readily available. It’s worth downloading the Radio Taxi PDC app, which is a local ride-hailing service.

Each area offers something unique, so we’ve provided a quick overview below for you to read before we do our deep dives. 

• Centro / Downtown – The beating heart of Playa del Carmen, centered on Quinta Avenida’s endless restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Pelicano Inn Playa del Carmen is a relaxed, beachy hotel right in the heart of it all. 

• Playacar – A peaceful, gated community that’s just south of downtown with wide, quiet beaches and a safe, resort-style vibe. Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen offers a comfortable and affordable stay with easy access to the beach.

• Gonzalo Guerrero – This boutique neighborhood sits between Centro and Colosio and is filled with yoga studios, smoothie bars, and beach clubs. Posada Mariposa Boutique Hotel is a cute guesthouse with an authentic vibe.

• Zazil-Ha – A trendy yet relaxed enclave with a laid-back atmosphere and low-rise hotels, just north of Gonzalo Guerrero. Singular Dream Beach Residences offers beautiful suites overlooking the ocean.

• Luis Donaldo Colosio – This developing northern district has a raw, local feel, affordable stays, and wide open beaches. Terrasse Hotel is a smart hotel with a rooftop pool and a lovely spa.

• North Playa and Mayakoba – A more remote, tranquil area that offers upscale resorts and pristine beaches. Petit Lafitte Beach Front Hotel & Bungalows offers a rustic, beachy stay right on the sand.

Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Centro

Centro is the beating heart of Playa del Carmen. It’s anchored by the famous Quinta Avenida, aka 5th Avenue. It’s a pedestrian street that runs parallel to the beach, and it’s lined with endless restaurants, bars, shops, and street performers. If you’re a foodie, be sure to check out our guide to the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen here to help narrow down the best spots along this busy stretch.

We like Centro because it sums up everything that’s great about Playa. It offers easy access to the beach as well as the party scene, plus the Cozumel ferry. If it’s your first visit to Playa and you want to get the quintessential experience, this is the place to be! Staying here means you’ll never run out of things to do, and you’ll always be just steps from both the beach and nightlife.

And not only is there plenty to do in Centro, but most tours offer pickup from this area. Whether you want to head to Tulum, the ruins in Coba, or one of the many adventure parks around, staying in Centro makes it super easy to explore. If Tulum is on your list, be sure to check out our blog on the best Tulum Tours from Playa del Carmen here.

Of course, Centro is bustling and can get crowded, especially in the high season. Noise comes with the territory, but for many visitors, that’s part of the charm. If you want convenience and energy, there’s no better base than Playa’s vibrant downtown.

Pros

• Walkable and full of restaurants, shops, and nightlife
• Right by the beach and ferry to Cozumel

Cons

• Can be crowded and noisy, especially late at night
• Hotels book up quickly in high season

Antera Hotel & Residences – $$$

Antera Hotel & Residences is one of the best mid-to-high-end stays in Centro. The modern rooms are bright, spacious, and perfect for travelers who want a stylish retreat in the middle of the action. We especially love the rooftop pool and bar, which overlooks the ocean and the city. It’s ideal for sunset cocktails after a day of exploring!

The hotel is located just a block from 5th Avenue, so you can easily reach the beach, restaurants, or taco stands, and of course, the epic nightlife within minutes. But despite the central location, the hotel manages to feel like a calm, private hideaway thanks to its contemporary design and soundproofed rooms.

Expect rates to run between $125 and $650 USD per night, depending on the dates and room category you choose.

Book your stay at Antera Hotel & Residences here!

Pelicano Inn Playa del Carmen – $$

If you want to stay right on the beach without blowing your budget, Pelicano Inn Playa del Carmen is a fantastic choice. The rooms are simple but very comfortable, and many have balconies that face the sea. But the real highlight here is the location because you’ll step out of your room and be on the sand in seconds!

This is a great pick for travelers who prioritize beach access above all else, but still want to be near the restaurants and nightlife of 5th Avenue. There’s an on-site beach club with loungers and umbrellas, so it’s ideal for those who like to spend entire days by the water and then go party at night. Rooms usually cost between $90 and $450 USD per night.

Find the best prices on Booking.com!

Kinbe Hotel Boutique – $

Kinbe Hotel Boutique is a charming budget-friendly option tucked into a leafy courtyard just steps from Quinta Avenida. The rooms are cozy, colorful, and stylish with unique design touches that give the place real character.

There’s even a small pool surrounded by tropical plants, so it feels like a secret garden escape in the middle of the city. The location is hard to beat. You’ll be within a short walk of the beach, restaurants, and ferry, but the hotel’s garden setting provides a surprising sense of calm.

This makes it perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want charm and atmosphere in the Centro area. Rooms typically range between $60 and $125 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Playacar

Playacar is Playa del Carmen’s upscale, gated community located just south of downtown. This neighborhood feels worlds away from the buzz of Quinta Avenida, even though it’s only about a 15-minute walk or short taxi ride from Centro. It’s a quieter, more residential area with tree-lined streets, golf courses, and a beautiful stretch of beach that’s less crowded than those in the city center.

We think that this is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a more relaxed vibe without being too far from the action! Families especially love Playacar for its safety, calm atmosphere, and resorts with all-inclusive options. 

Meanwhile, as a couple, we enjoyed the peaceful beaches and romantic feel. We were well catered for here as history lovers, too, as we found lots of small Mayan ruins tucked into the neighborhood. That’s pretty unique for a residential community!

If you’re planning day trips, staying in Playacar is a convenient choice because many tours and transfers include pickup from the area. You’ll also be close to the ferry to Cozumel and just a short ride from adventure parks like Xcaret. The only trade-off is that Playacar can feel a little too quiet for those who want constant nightlife, and walking to Centro every day isn’t for everyone.

Pros

• Peaceful, secure, and family-friendly
• Beautiful, less crowded beaches

Cons

• Farther from nightlife and restaurants
• Less of a “local” feel compared to Centro

Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen – $$

Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen is a solid option in Playacar. It offers modern, comfortable rooms at reasonable rates. The hotel has a large pool surrounded by palm trees, a fitness center, and a casual restaurant serving international dishes. It’s not directly on the beach, but the shoreline is just a short walk away.

What makes Wyndham Garden stand out is its balance between price and location. You’ll be in Playacar’s peaceful environment, but still close enough to walk or take a quick taxi into downtown Playa del Carmen.

It’s a practical choice for families and couples who want resort-style amenities without the big all-inclusive price tag. Rooms generally cost between $100 and $200 USD per night.

Check availability and book this stay here!

Residence Inn by Marriott – $

We think that Residence Inn by Marriott is perfect for travelers who want a “home away from home” feel. Each studio or suite comes with a full kitchen, making it an excellent choice for longer stays or anyone who prefers to cook some of their own meals. The rooms are spacious, modern, and designed with extended stays in mind.

The property also has a rooftop pool and lounge area, giving you a great spot to relax after a day at the beach or exploring. While it’s not right on the sand, you’re just a short ride away from both Playacar Beach and downtown. Studios and suites usually range between $80 and $300 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Eurostars Hacienda Vista Real – $

Eurostars Hacienda Vista Real is a charming budget-friendly hotel that feels tucked away in a tropical oasis. The property is set on a golf course in Playacar and has a colonial-style design with archways, courtyards, and lush gardens. There’s also a pool with sun loungers, perfect for a quiet afternoon.

The rooms here are spacious and simple. Although it’s not a beachfront property, you’ll enjoy the peaceful surroundings and excellent value. This is a great pick for travelers who want to stay in Playacar’s exclusive neighborhood without paying resort prices.

Connecting rooms are also available, which is ideal for families and groups! Rates typically run between $70 and $230 USD per night.

See all room categories and reserve your stay here!

Gonzalo Guerrero

Gonzalo Guerrero is a stylish, central neighborhood in Playa del Carmen. It blends beachside relaxation with a lively urban feel, and I would quite happily live here if I ever move to Mexico full-time! 

This area stretches from the beach up through and past Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue), and it’s known for its boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and hip rooftop bars. It’s less chaotic than the very center of Playa but still keeps you close to the action, with plenty of entertainment right on your doorstep.

This neighborhood is ideal for couples and friends who want a balance between nightlife and downtime. You’ll be close to Playa Mamitas, one of the most popular beach clubs in the city, and a short walk from the shopping and dining of 5th Avenue. Gonzalo Guerrero also has a slightly more upscale, cosmopolitan atmosphere compared to Centro, with chic hotels and beach clubs setting the tone.

If you love walking everywhere, Gonzalo Guerrero is perfect. You’ll have the beach, nightlife, and restaurants all within easy reach. It’s also a convenient spot if you want to take tours or excursions, since many pickup points are nearby.

Pros

• Central location near both the beach and 5th Avenue
• Trendy vibe with boutique hotels and rooftop bars

Cons

• Can be more expensive than other neighborhoods
• Mamitas Beach gets crowded and noisy

The Reef 28 Hotel & Spa – Luxury Adults Only – $$$

The Reef 28 Hotel & Spa is a luxury adults-only retreat in Gonzalo Guerrero. It features sleek, modern suites with private balconies, plus an incredible rooftop pool and bar overlooking the ocean. There’s also a full-service spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options on-site.

We love this property because it gives you the best of both worlds. You’re steps from Mamitas Beach and Quinta Avenida, but you can also escape the buzz in the rooftop pool or spa. It’s designed for adults who want a mix of relaxation, luxury, and nightlife all within walking distance.

Rates usually run between $150 and $800 USD per night, depending on the season, duration of your stay, and suite category.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Posada Mariposa Boutique Hotel – $$

Posada Mariposa is a charming boutique hotel set right on 5th Avenue in Gonzalo Guerrero. The rooms are colorful, cozy, and filled with Mexican design touches that give the hotel plenty of character. There’s a lush courtyard with greenery that creates a peaceful atmosphere, even though you’re right in the middle of Playa’s most famous street.

This hotel is ideal if you want to stay somewhere affordable but still stylish and central. You’ll have restaurants, bars, and shops right outside your door, and Mamitas Beach is only a short walk away. It’s a great pick for travelers who want comfort and convenience without a resort vibe. Rooms generally range between $50 and $400 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Suites Corazon – $

Suites Corazon is a great budget-friendly option in Gonzalo Guerrero that doesn’t skimp on comfort. The suites are spacious and modern, with kitchenettes included, which makes them a great choice for longer stays or travelers who like the option to cook. There’s also a rooftop terrace where you can relax after a day at the beach.

The location is excellent because you’ll be close to Mamitas Beach and Quinta Avenida. It’s a great value pick for budget-conscious travelers who still want to be in a central and more upscale area of Playa del Carmen. Rooms usually cost between $70 and $185 USD per night.

Find the best prices on Booking.com!

Zazil-Ha

We always love to uncover the more authentic, local side of a popular tourist destination. If you’re the same way inclined, then you’ll love Zahil-Ha! It’s trendy, relaxed, and just north of Gonzalo Guerrero, so it’s still close to the action without putting you right in the thick of it all. 

This artsy enclave is known for its boutique hotels, low-rise buildings, and leafy streets filled with cafés, smoothie bars, and small shops. It has great beach access too, as you can get to Playa Mamitas and Playa Punta Esmeralda in just a few minutes. Meanwhile, the residential vibe offers a nice change of pace from the more touristy energy of Centro.

While nightlife here is limited compared to Centro, you’re still within walking or biking distance of 5th Avenue for restaurants, bars, and shopping. The area itself is very walkable, and it’s convenient for day trips and excursions because tour operators usually offer pickup nearby. The only downside is that dining and entertainment options are fewer, which makes it less suited for travelers who want a party-heavy vacation.

Pros

• Quiet, artsy vibe with boutique hotels and cafés
• Easy walking access to the beach

Cons

• Limited nightlife and dining options
• Less convenient for travelers wanting the full downtown energy

Serenity Hotel Boutique – $$$

Serenity Hotel Boutique is an upscale, adults-only retreat in Zazil-Ha, offering privacy and luxury in a tranquil setting. The rooms are elegantly designed with modern décor and spacious layouts. Guests can relax by the serene pool or enjoy the tropical gardens surrounding the property.

This property is ideal for couples or honeymooners looking for a peaceful escape, yet still close to Playa’s beaches and 5th Avenue. The boutique design and attentive service make every stay feel special, whether you’re enjoying a quiet breakfast on the terrace or a sunset drink by the pool. Rates usually run between $140 and $500 USD per night.

Book your stay at Serenity Hotel Boutique here!

Singular Dream Beach Residences – $$

Singular Dream Beach Residences is a stylish option in Zazil-Ha, offering modern apartments just steps from the beach. Each unit comes with a small kitchenette, so it’s perfect for travelers who like to be able to self-cater. The property also features a gorgeous, super stylish infinity pool with vast ocean views.

This hotel is ideal for couples and small families who want comfort, privacy, and easy beach access while staying in a quieter area of Playa. It’s still close enough to 5th Avenue to grab dinner or drinks without being in the heart of the crowds, but far enough away that you can escape the hustle and bustle. Rooms and suites typically range between $120 and $450 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

IT Boutique Hotel & Restaurant – $

IT Boutique Hotel & Restaurant is an affordable but super stylish stay in Zazil-Ha with colorful, cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. We love the modern decor, which includes lots of geometric patterns and touches of gold. There’s a small but sleek rooftop pool and a cozy on-site restaurant serving fresh Mexican dishes.

This is a great pick for groups as quadruple rooms are available, but really it suits anyone who wants a calm, stylish base while being close to the beach and just a short ride from downtown Playa. The relaxed vibe and friendly staff really make it feel like a home away from home! Rooms usually cost between $70 and $150 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Looking to explore beyond the city? Check out our blog on the best day trips from Playa del Carmen here for can’t-miss adventures just a short drive away.

Luis Donaldo Colosio

Luis Donaldo Colosio is a developing northern district of Playa del Carmen with a distinctly local vibe. Unlike the bustling energy of Centro, this area feels more authentic and residential, with wide streets, colorful houses, and open stretches of beach. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience or budget-conscious visitors looking for affordable accommodations near the sea.

The beaches here are quieter and less crowded than those downtown, so if you want to stretch out and enjoy long walks along the shore, Luis Donaldo Colosio is ideal!

Amenities here are limited, but for those who like to see a more raw and remote side of a place, that’s part of the charm. We had a great time exploring the local markets and small eateries on our last visit to PDC, and I must say it made a nice break from the big touristy restaurants. 

Luis Donaldo Colosio feels pretty distant from the hustle and bustle of Centro, but it’s actually just a 12-minute taxi ride away, or a 15-minute cycle. So, although you won’t have nightlife and shops right on your doorstep, Avenida Quinta is not too far away. For travelers who want tranquility, open beaches, and an authentic local feel, Luis Donaldo Colosio is a hidden gem worth considering.

Pros

• Quiet, local atmosphere with affordable stays
• Wide, open beaches ideal for long walks and relaxation

Cons

• Limited dining, nightlife, and tourist amenities
• Some streets are unpaved or less developed

Terrasse Hotel – $$

Terrasse Hotel is a stylish option in Luis Donaldo Colosio, offering modern rooms in a relaxed setting. There’s a small but inviting rooftop pool surrounded by sunbeds and cabanas, as well as a nice spa on site where you can enjoy some TLC.

We also like the boho decor touches and the fact that there’s a great Italian restaurant just downstairs! This hotel is perfect for anyone who wants a quiet retreat away from the crowds but still close enough to explore Playa del Carmen.

The location provides easy access to local shops, small restaurants, and public beaches, giving guests an authentic feel of the neighborhood. Rooms normally cost between $90 and $120 USD per night.

See all the options and reserve your stay here!

Hotel 52 Playa del Carmen – $$

Hotel 52 Playa del Carmen is a friendly hotel with bright, contemporary rooms and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. We love the rooftop pool and terrace, which are both perfect for relaxing in the sun or enjoying a drink at sunset. 

The hotel has a rustic-chic vibe, and there’s a spa on site where you can enjoy massages when you need a break from the pool or the beach! There are big rooms and suites which are ideal for families and groups, and if you opt to include breakfast, you can enjoy yummy pancakes and fresh fruit every morning. Rooms typically range from $85 to $275 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Balkon Boutique Hotel – $

Balkon Boutique Hotel is a boho-chic gem that’s welcoming and wallet-friendly—what’s not to love? We love the rooftop pool and sun terrace, and the location is just ideal. It sits on the edge of Luis Donaldo Colosio, so you’re only a 25-minute walk from Avenida Quinta or 10 minutes from Zahil-Ha and its upscale bars and restaurants.

And of course, this is all accessible in 5-10 minutes via taxi! Meanwhile, the nearby local shops and eateries give guests a taste of authentic Playa del Carmen life. Rooms usually cost between $65 and $150 USD per night.

Book your stay at Balkon Boutique Hotel here!

Related Read: Planning more than just your hotel stay? Check out our guide on how to spend three days in Playa del Carmen here for a ready-to-go itinerary filled with beaches, food, and day trips.

North Playa and Mayakoba

North Playa del Carmen and Mayakoba are ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, tranquil escape. Its pristine beaches offer an upscale, exclusive vibe, so we highly recommend this area for couples and honeymooners, or anyone who wants a high-end vacation! 

Stretching from Mareazul’s romantic beachfront condos to Mayakoba’s eco-resorts, this area is less crowded than downtown and offers a more exclusive, upscale vibe. It’s perfect for couples on a romantic getaway, honeymooners, or anyone looking to unwind in a serene setting while still having easy access to Playa’s attractions.

Mayakoba is known for its lush lagoons, golf courses, and high-end resorts. Meanwhile, the beaches along North Playa are wide, soft, and mostly uncrowded. Nightlife is minimal here, but what the area does offer is private beach clubs, fine dining, and plenty of opportunities for water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sailing. We enjoyed watersports pretty much every day when we stayed here! 

This area is also well-connected to Tulum and Cenotes for day trips, but staying here is mainly about soaking in the peace and luxury. Keep in mind that venturing into downtown requires a taxi or rental car, which further adds to the cost of staying here, but it may be worth your while.

Pros

• Quiet, luxurious, and scenic beachfront location
• Perfect for couples, honeymooners, and upscale travelers

Cons

• Remote with limited nightlife
• Higher prices and fewer local dining options

Mareazul Beach Front Condos – $$$

Mareazul Beach Front Condos are modern, high-end apartments with sweeping ocean views and direct beach access. Each unit is spacious and elegantly furnished, making it ideal for couples, groups, or families who want privacy and style. The property also features a pool, sun loungers, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway.

We love Mareazul for its combination of luxury and convenience. You can enjoy the beach steps from your door, but still be a short drive from Playa del Carmen’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a self-contained retreat without sacrificing comfort or location.

Rates typically range from $300 to $850 USD per night, depending on the season and unit size, and there’s a two-night minimum stay.

Find the best prices on Booking.com!

Petit Lafitte Beach Front Hotel & Bungalows – $$

Petit Lafitte Beach Front Hotel & Bungalows offers modern, airy apartments, villas, and bungalows right on the beach. There’s a relaxed, tropical atmosphere, and the setting feels remote and tranquil, but at the same time, you’ve got a chic and contemporary place to stay! 

One thing we love is that some of the higher-end apartments have private swim-up pools right out front—how cool is that? Options range from two-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom villas, so groups and families are very well catered for here.

While this property feels peaceful and secluded, taxis and local transportation make downtown Playa del Carmen reachable in about 15 minutes, so you can enjoy the city without giving up your tranquil base. Rooms generally cost between $200 and $900 USD per night.

Check availability and book this peaceful stay here!

Heaven Hotel – $

Heaven Hotel is a simple but modern home-from-home about a mile from Playa del Carmen Beach. Everything here is new and sparkling clean, so we think it delivers amazing value for money. It has a small pool and garden for relaxing on site, but we think this place is best suited to travelers who plan on spending most of their time out and about exploring, but still want a clean and comfortable base.

The two-bed apartments are great for families and small groups. You can typically expect to pay between $70 and $230 USD per night, depending on the dates and number of occupants. We think that this is a steal.

Find the best prices and book your stay here!

Related Read: Planning an adventure on four wheels? Don’t miss our blog on things to know before booking an ATV tour in Playa del Carmen here—it’s packed with tips to help you choose the right tour.

Top Activities to do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

With your stay in Playa del Carmen sorted, it’s time to dive into everything this lively destination has to offer—and trust us, the options are endless! From ancient ruins to jungle adventures, sailing trips, and food tours that hit all the right spots, we found so many ways to experience the area beyond the basics. To help you plan, we’ve rounded up a few standout tours that made our trip truly unforgettable, and you can also check out our full blog on the best tours in Playa del Carmen here!

• Explore Chichén Itzá and swim in Ik Kil Cenote – This full-day tour is the ultimate mix of history and adventure. You’ll wander the ancient ruins of Chichén Itzá, cool off with a swim in the stunning Ik Kil Cenote, and top it all off with lunch and a stroll through colorful Valladolid. If you’re planning this trip, don’t miss our blog on the best Chichén Itzá tours from Playa del Carmen here to help you choose the one that’s right for you.

• Discover Tulum Ruins and snorkel with sea turtles – From the dramatic cliffside Tulum Ruins to swimming with sea turtles in the Caribbean and cooling off in a cenote, this combo tour packs the day with highlights. Our guide tied history, wildlife, and adventure together, making every stop feel unforgettable. If snorkeling is on your list, be sure to read our blog on what to know before going snorkeling in Playa del Carmen here.

• Sail to Isla Mujeres in luxury – This sailing tour feels like pure vacation bliss. Cruise across the Caribbean on a luxury catamaran, snorkel a coral reef, sip unlimited drinks, and enjoy a gourmet lunch before exploring laid-back Isla Mujeres. If you’re thinking about booking something similar, don’t miss our blog on what you need to know before booking a catamaran cruise in Playa del Carmen here. Sun, sea, and relaxation—it doesn’t get better than this.

• Eat your way through Playa del Carmen – From sizzling tacos to fresh juices, tangy street snacks, and a few surprise bites we never would’ve found alone, this walking food tour was bursting with flavor. Our guide blended local stories, hidden spots, and plenty of laughs into one delicious afternoon. If you love food experiences like this, check out our full blog on the best Playa del Carmen food tours here for more tasty inspiration.

• Ride jungle buggies and swim in a cenote – This jungle buggy tour is messy, bumpy, and ridiculously fun. You’ll roar through muddy forest trails, laugh the whole way, and then cool off with a swim in a hidden cenote—the perfect mix of adrenaline and chill.

Related Read: Want even more ideas? Don’t miss our detailed guide to the best things to do in Playa del Carmen here, packed with tips and local favorites.

Renting a Car in Mexico

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! 

Thanks for reading!

After a day of beach hopping, taco tasting, and dancing your way down Quinta Avenida, having the right place to recharge makes all the difference. Whether you’re staying in lively Centro or a quieter stretch of sand, Playa del Carmen offers something for every traveler. We hope this guide helps you plan a trip that’s equal parts fun, flavorful, and unforgettable.

Still piecing together your itinerary? Check out our other Mexico blogs here. They’re packed with insider neighborhood tips, hotel recommendations, and day trip ideas to help you make the most of your time here. Or, to keep the inspiration going, here are a few more guides we think you’ll love:

5 BEST Tours to Swim with Sea Turtles in Playa del Carmen

15 Things to Know BEFORE Going to Coco Bongo in Cancun

20 Things to KNOW Before Renting a Car in Playa del Carmen