The Yucatan Peninsula is unique for its many Mayan ruins, which are scattered all over the region. There are actually Mayan ruins in the town of Playa del Carmen - one can be found on Quinta Avenida, between Calles 12 and 14, another one inside the gates of the budget hostel/camping ground La Ruina on Calle 2 by the beach.
These small coastal outposts are hints of the grand scale of the prolific and ancient Maya world. Many of the most amazing sites are near Playa, including Chichén Itzá, Cobá and Tulum, where the ancient ruins look out onto the luminescent blue ocean.
Strolling along 5th Avenue, La Quinta, is a popular pastime for vacationers and locals alike. Most of the time the street is pedestrian only, with a casual esplanade feeling and home to Playa's cutest shops and boutiques, offering souvenirs, clothes, handicraft and silver.
The aviary Xaman-Ha has many interesting and rare species of birds from the Yucatán Peninsula. It's well worth a visit and provides a chance to see tucans and pink flamingos. There is a large 'cageless' habitat where the birds can be observed as if they were in their natural setting. It's a great little outing for the whole family that is close by, easy, and self-paced. Mornings and afternoons are best for bird watching.
Shopping
Shopping hours are generally 10am to 9 or 10pm, and shoppers will find stores selling folk art, jewelry, crafts and gifts as well as many souvenirs.
For exquisite and intricate amber jewelry, head to the Amber Museum Shop. The owner, and designer, of this gallery has the amber shipped in from Chiapas.
Telart has clothing and textiles from all over Mexico, as does Manas Huellas, which also carries art and handicrafts from Oaxaca and Chiapas.
La Calaca carries a large collection of carvings and wooden masks, such as angels and devils, from local and other artists.
Sports and Exercise
Golf: Near the Continental Plaza Playacar is an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Von Hagge. Green fees are US$100 but can be reduced if you are staying in a hotel that is a member of the club.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Reef, cave, caverns, and cenote diving can be arranged through several dive companies. Rates may include equipment, lunch, and drinks.
Bars and Nightclubs
If you prefer a quiet evening strolling along the beaches, wandering the streets, and sipping a drink at an open-air cafe is a pleasant was to spend it.
There are several bars, nightclubs, and lobby bars. Captain Tutiz, designed like a pirate ship has nightly live entertainment, bar area, and a large dance floor. If you’re into partying and the rowdy scene head to Senior Frog’s where there’s loud pulsing music, Jell-O shots, and limitless drinks.
The Yucatan Peninsula is unique for its many Mayan ruins, which are scattered all over the region. There are actually Mayan ruins in the town of Playa del Carmen - one can be found on Quinta Avenida, between Calles 12 and 14, another one inside the gates of the budget hostel/camping ground La Ruina on Calle 2 by the beach.
