Paradise Awaits: Your Guide to Getting to and Around Playa del Carmen
Everybody is drawn to Playa del Carmen by its clear blue water, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. But before you start packing your swimsuit and sunscreen, you need to figure out how to get there and navigate this charming coastal town. But don’t worry, that’s what we are here for. This guide will include everything you need to know about getting to Playa del Carmen and moving around like a local.
Airport Options
There are two main airports that are near Playa del Carmen: Cancun International Airport (CUN) the largest and most common one, (around 50 min drive) and the new Tulum International Airport. (Around 1.30 min drive)
From Airport to Casa Guapita: Ground transportation
Once you've arrived in paradise, here are your options for getting to Playa del Carmen:
Transfers: We can help you arrange private transportation that takes you directly to Casa Guapita. The payment is made in cash when they pick you up. When you arrive, someone will be waiting for you with your name on a sign. This is a convenient and hassle-free option, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area. We’ll just need your detailed flight information.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available at both airports. We strongly recommend you to only take official taxis from stands inside the airport. Do not leave the airport to get a better offer.
ADO Bus: The ADO bus is a budget-friendly and efficient way to get from any of the two airports to Playa del Carmen downtown. While not the fastest option, it's a safe and reliable choice.
Car rentals: Renting a car gives you the ultimate flexibility to explore Playa del Carmen and its surroundings at your own pace. You can see our car rental options here.
Playa del Carmen’s downtown: A Pedestrian's Paradise
Playa del Carmen’s downtown is a very walkable town. Most restaurants, shops, and attractions are located within a few blocks of each other, especially in the tourist area centered around Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida), a pedestrian street popular for both tourists and locals to walk, shop or eat a refreshing ice cream.
The town is laid out in a simple grid system. The avenues that run parallel to the beach are numbered in increments of five (5th av, 10th av, etc). The streets that run perpendicular to the beach are numbered in increments of 2 (2nd street, 4th street, etc). This makes navigating Playa del Carmen incredibly easy.
Playa del Carmen's downtown area is just a 10-minute drive from Casa Guapita. If you prefer to skip renting a car, taxis are readily available and can be easily booked through WhatsApp. Once downtown, you can take a taxi from most street corners. We recommend agreeing on a price beforehand!
Getting Around Playa del Carmen: Your Options
While walking is the easiest in Playa del Carmen, there are other ways to get around if you want to venture a little further:
Colectivos:These shared vans are a super affordable way to travel between Playa del Carmen and other towns in the Riviera Maya like Tulum or Akumal. Just flag one down on the street and hop in!
Bike rentals: Renting a bike is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Playa del Carmen at your own pace. However, there are fewer dedicated bike lanes compared to other cities. If you're comfortable riding in traffic, you'll find most drivers are accustomed to cyclists sharing the road. For less experienced riders, consider exploring the wider sidewalks or taxis as alternative options.
Taxis: Taxis are easy to find in Playa del Carmen! You'll spot them almost every corner. If you prefer to book in advance, you can download this taxi app that works similarly to Uber.
Safety First: Tips for Getting Around Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is generally a safe destination, but it's always wise to exercise caution:
Avoid sharing taxis: It's best to have your own cab, especially at night.
Agree on a fare upfront: Before getting into a taxi, always agree on a price with the driver to avoid any misunderstandings.
Use official taxi stands: Whenever possible, hail taxis from designated taxi stands to ensure you're getting a licensed driver.
Be mindful of your belongings: As in any tourist destination, keep an eye on your valuables, especially in crowded areas.
These tips as well as your common sense, will have you ready to explore Playa del Carmen safely!