Curated Itinerary: An Independent Playa Del Carmen Adventure

Ditch the all-inclusive buffets and fully immerse yourself into the vibrant soul of Playa Del Carmen with this handcrafted itinerary for an unforgettable week-long adventure!

Day 1: After an long day of traveling and a 45-minute private transfer (complete with beer and tequila!), you arrive at Residences El Faro, your beachfront condo – the perfect home base for days spent soaking up the sun and exploring. Just a block inland lies the magic of Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrian-only paradise pulsating with shops, delicious eats, ice cream stops, and a nightlife that will keep your toes tapping long into the balmy Mexican evenings. As the sun dips low, let your taste buds tango with the freshest ingredients at Zenzi Beach Club, just a few steps north on the beach. Savor a margarita, the perfect elixir for swaying the night away to the rhythm of salsa under the starlit Playa Del Carmen sky.

Day 2: Wake up to the turquoise Caribbean out your window, then start your day with the familiar comfort of a cup of joe and a tasty breakfast from the friendly Starbucks just around the corner. With your caffeine kick and a delicious bite in hand, you’ll be ready to dive into the vibrant energy and endless discoveries that await during your morning stroll down Quinta Avenida. Shop to your heart’s content (and don’t forget to buy extra sunscreen). Then stretch out on a comfy lounge chair at the El Faro pool, with the turquoise expanse of the Caribbean shimmering just beyond the infinity edge. After a full day of relaxation, treat yourself to a fiesta for the senses at Los Rancheros – the perfect blend of open-air Mexican dining and cozy charm on the rooftop. 

Day 3: After a quick breakfast at Tropical Playa Del Carmen, meet your tour guide to spend your morning swimming alongside gentle giants in Akumal, where playful sea turtles will leave you shell-shocked by their grace and beauty. Then dive into a cenote, a breathtaking cave-like pool where sunlight dances on crystal clear waters. Explore the Tulum ruins for a dose of Mayan history and stunning cliffside views. Head back to the condo for a snooze on a pool lounger. As twilight paints the sky, savor a taste of Italy at Il Baretto on Quinta Avenida, then salsa your way into Señor Frog’s for a fiesta fueled by tropical drinks and infectious energy.

Day 4: Fuel up for a full day of adventure with pancakes from Zenzi Beach Club. Then dive into a day of discovery at Xcaret Park! Snorkel through crystal-clear underground rivers, weaving past caverns and vibrant fish. Unearth the secrets of the ancient Maya at meticulously preserved ruins. Xcaret Park promises an unforgettable adventure that blends thrilling activities, cultural immersion, and awe-inspiring encounters with the natural world. Catch the cultural night show, complete with a seven-course dinner for a dazzling finale – Mexico’s history comes alive under the stars!

Day 5: After grabbing a delicious breakfast at Lido Beach Club, embark on an island adventure! Catch a ferry to Cozumel, where your guide awaits to whisk you through the lush jungle on an ATV. Afterward, dive into the crystal-clear waters of El Cielo, where a dazzling display of starfish awaits. Relax and refuel at Coco’s Beach Club before cruising back to Playa del Carmen. As the island sun sets, trade your swimsuit for dancing shoes and salsa the night away at the live music haven of Siesta Fiesta Bar on Quinta Avenida – memories to rival the Caribbean sunsets guaranteed!

Day 6: Transport yourself to another world for breakfast! Aldea Corazon, right on Quinta Avenida, isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a full-fledged jungle with yoga and spin classes, set inside a hidden cenote. Savor traditional Mexican dishes like Chilaquiles, along with a fresh squeezed mimosa, amidst lush greenery and the mystical allure of a natural cave – the perfect way to kick off your day! Now you can conquer your souvenir list with a final shopping spree on Quinta Avenida!  Snag those last must-haves or that show-stopping outfit you’ve been eyeing. For a late lunch that’ll tantalize your taste buds, don’t miss the legendary tacos at El Fogon. Later, unwind by the El Faro pool, soaking in the sunshine and the Caribbean breeze. As the day winds down, treat yourself to a pampering massage – the perfect way to melt away any travel stress before your evening adventure. Set sail on a romantic catamaran cruise, and savor a delicious dinner as the sky explodes with color, creating an unforgettable farewell to paradise.