The Yucatán is an ideal destination for spending time as a couple. Between dream beaches, magnificent sunsets and towns full of life, everything comes together for a romantic getaway. Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular spots, because it makes it easy to explore the region while enjoying a pleasant setting. This guide brings together our addresses and our ideas for a stay for two.

Things to do as a couple in Playa del Carmen

Whether for a holiday for two or a honeymoon under the Caribbean sun, here is our selection of experiences to share.

1. Watch the sunrise on the beach

Starting the day by watching the sunrise is a magical moment. Head to any beach before dawn: arriving about twenty minutes early lets you see the first pink and orange hues light up the sky before the sun rises over the Caribbean Sea.

2. Soak up the buzz of the Quinta Avenida

The Quinta Avenida is the liveliest street in Playa del Carmen. Fully pedestrian, it is lined with restaurants, bars and shops. It is the perfect place for a stroll, for visiting an art gallery or for a break at Parque Fundadores to take a photo in front of the famous Maya Portal.

3. Take a photo in front of the LOVE letters

The famous LOVE letters are a romantic symbol of Playa del Carmen. They stand in front of the Quinta Alegría shopping centre and attract every couple who wants to immortalise their stay.

4. Relax on the finest beaches

For a festive atmosphere with bars and beach clubs, the beaches in the town centre are ideal. For more peace and quiet, the northern beaches such as Playa 72 and Punta Esmeralda are perfect, with their white sand and crystal clear water. We also have a selection of the best beach clubs.

5. Go snorkelling in Cozumel

Lying just opposite Playa del Carmen, the island of Cozumel is a 40 minute ferry ride away. It is home to part of the second largest coral reef in the world. A boat trip takes you to the Palancar and Columbia reefs, the turtle sanctuary and El Cielo, known for its starfish.

6. Watch the dolphins in the Sian Ka’an reserve

Sian Ka’an is an exceptional nature reserve where the animals live in complete freedom. This UNESCO listed site is one of the best places to watch dolphins, turtles, crocodiles and birds. Allow about two hours from Playa del Carmen.

7. Swim with the turtles in Akumal

Swimming with the turtles is a unique experience. Akumal bay is one of the best places to watch them in their natural habitat. Go early in the morning for the calm and the clear water. A guide is compulsory in order to respect the turtles’ environment.

8. Explore the jungle and an underground river

For adventure lovers, an outing into the jungle around Playa del Carmen is often combined with the visit of an underground river, with its caves full of stalactites and stalagmites.

9. Visit the Chichén Itzá archaeological site

Chichén Itzá is one of the Seven Wonders of the modern world. A Chichén Itzá tour can be combined with a swim in a cenote and a visit to the colonial town of Valladolid.

10. Explore the ruins of Tulum and Cobá

The Tulum ruins are perched on a cliff with a magnificent view over the turquoise sea. In Cobá, the Maya remains are hidden in the heart of the jungle. Two very different landscapes.

11. Set off on an adventure in the Punta Laguna reserve

Punta Laguna is a preserved natural area where howler monkeys and spider monkeys live. The reserve also has a lagoon where you can go canoeing. A Maya ceremony performed by a local shaman adds a spiritual touch to the experience.

12. Cool off in a cenote

Cenotes are natural freshwater pools found only in the Yucatán peninsula. Some are open to the sky, others hidden in caves. See our selection of the most beautiful cenotes.

13. Enjoy a cocktail on a rooftop

For a romantic evening with a view, the rooftops of Playa del Carmen are the perfect spot. Several of them offer passes giving access to their pools, bars and restaurants.

14. Unwind in a spa for two

Playa del Carmen has several places offering relaxing treatments and couples massages, from around 50 USD an hour in the most affordable addresses.

15. Head off on a romantic getaway nearby

Renting a car lets you explore the region at your own pace. Towns such as Tulum, Valladolid and Mérida offer a mix of beaches, historic sites and colourful villages.

The best hotels for a romantic getaway

A non exhaustive selection of the most romantic hotels in Playa del Carmen and the surrounding area.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba

A haven of peace with a private pool, a refined restaurant, a spa and a golf course, in an exceptional natural setting. Rates start at around 500 USD a night.

Fairmont Mayakoba

Surrounded by mangroves, rivers and beaches, it offers elegant villas and several pools. Prices start at around 300 USD a night.

Secrets Maroma Beach

An all inclusive for those who want to relax without organising anything: beach club, pool, spa and activities all day long. Allow at least 400 USD a night.

Magic Blue Spa Boutique Hotel

Ideally located in the centre of Playa del Carmen, this hotel is an oasis of calm with a pool and a jacuzzi. From around 150 USD a night, good value for money in town.

Mahekal Beach Resort

Private cabanas right on the sand, in the very heart of Playa del Carmen. Prices start at around 250 USD a night.

Where to dine as a couple

Mexican cuisine is inscribed on the UNESCO world heritage list. Playa del Carmen also offers a wide variety of cuisines for every taste.

Aldea Corazón

A stone’s throw from the Quinta Avenida, this restaurant offers a natural and romantic break with tasty dishes in a soothing setting. There is even a cenote inside.

Alux Restaurant

A cenote turned into a restaurant, for a spectacular and truly out of the ordinary dinner.

Oh lala! International Cuisine by George

A fine dining restaurant with refined cuisine, for a slightly more dressed up evening.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen as a couple?

From November to April, when the weather is drier and more pleasant.

How many days should you plan for?

Ideally between 5 and 7 days to explore the town and its surroundings.

What transport is available on site?

On foot, by bike, by taxi or in a rental car to explore the region.

Is Playa del Carmen safe for couples?

Yes, it is a safe tourist town, with the usual vigilance, especially at night.

Which romantic spots are nearby?

Tulum, Akumal, Bacalar and Holbox are perfect for a getaway for two.

Playa del Carmen for couples: the guide