Playa del Carmen

If you are looking for some unique things to do on your Mexican vacation and want to avoid the urban atmosphere of larger cities like Cancún, this is a great place to go.

The legendary house of worship

Playa del Carmen is said to be the fastest growing city in all of Mexico. Just 68 km (43 miles) south of Cancún, Playa del Carmen still maintains its town-like atmosphere. The picture perfect turquoise waters are something worth seeing, and the warm and sunny Playa del Carmen weather is definitely worth experiencing. The city is the perfect base for exploring many of the fascinating sites in the Cancún-Tulum corridor.

The city's original Mayan name was Xaman-Ha or "waters of the north." It comes from a local legend. During a hurricane, a wave reached up to a small church located by the beach, and swept away a portrait of la Virgen del Carmen (the Virgin of Carmen). Later, another wave returned the portrait to the church. This legendary house of worship still stands by the beach and is open to the public.

Playa del Carmen is known also as Playacar, and is also home to the well-known Playacar resort complex. It houses a number of large resorts that off many all inclusive vacation rental packages. Playa del Carmen also offers hostels, quaint villas, and a number of small hotel with rentals ranging from one star for the budget conscious to five star and Gran Tourism hotels for those who are looking for the experience of a lifetime.

Plan ahead for your Playa del Carmen vacation and use our on-line travel guide to the Yucatan Peninsula to discover lots of things to do while you are here. If you enjoy diving or snorkeling, visit our list of the best reefs in the area, and get more Playa del Carmen information for your travel needs.

Playa del Carmen Map
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