10 Things to avoid in Playa del Carmen as a new visitor

Playa del Carmen is a lively town on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, with tropical beaches, a great atmosphere and plenty of natural attractions nearby.

However, Playa has gained a reputation as a tourist trap in recent years, and many travellers now loathe it because it can sometimes lack authenticity.

This guide looks at how to keep your experience in Playa del Carmen authentic while also helping you avoid overpaying for things or falling victim to scams.

10 Things to avoid in Playa del Carmen

I must say, Playa del Carmen can feel overtouristy at times, but these tips will help you save time and money while making your experience more hassle-free.

From common tourist traps and overpriced experiences to scams and places that aren’t worth your time, here are 10 things to avoid in Playa del Carmen.

See my Playa del Carmen itinerary for more ideas on what to see and do.

1. Carry cash for the cheapest food

The great thing about Playa is that you can also find inexpensive places to eat, such as taco stands in plazas as well as some low-key restaurants. However, these places usually only accept cash, so make sure to bring enough out with you.

2. Avoid getting too drunk

Of course you’re here to enjoy yourself, and partying is a popular thing to do here in Playa. However, be cautious on how far you go – since tourists have previously been robbed or assaulted when they drank too much.

3. Use local colectivos instead of taxis

Playa del Carmen is strategically located on a highway which connects the town to many awesome attractions. Using colectivos to get between them is safe, and also much cheaper than traditional taxis. Also, I recommend checking the different ways of getting to Playa del Carmen from the airport to save cash.

4. Be careful with street food

I highly recommend trying the street food here because it’s authentic and gives you a real opportunity to try local foods from the region prepared by locals.

However, you’ll want to only eat at places that are busy and also those that you are recommended to visit to avoid getting an unsettled stomach (for example, you can ask your accommodation for some good options).

5. Visit other nearby beaches

If you simply want sand and sun, then the main beach in Playa will do just fine. However, if you’re after fewer crowds and more beautiful waters, then consider venturing out to beaches like Puerto Aventuras and Xpu-Ha which are close by.

6. Avoid paying full price for souvenirs

Along the 5th Avenue there are many great souvenir shops. Locals have a knack of raising prices for foreigners, so always remember that you can barter for a better price. It’s a bonus if you can speak basic Spanish, but it’s not necessary here.

7. Peak season is from December to April

Whilst renowned for the best weather (clear blue skies and little rain), everyone else also has the same idea, which will drive up crowds and overall prices. If you’re looking to save, then I recommend visiting Playa del Carmen in the shoulder months of late April and November (which still have good weather).

8. Avoid staying too far away from 5th Avenue

The safest area in Playa del Carmen is the beach and adjacent Quinta Avenida. Anything further inland until Avenida 35 is fine; however, the intersecting streets after can get quite unsafe and aren’t recommended for tourists to stay in (especially after the motorway bridge).

9. Leaving your phone or wallet in your back pocket

Although police presence is good here, pickpocketing still remains an issue, and especially so in more crowded areas such as along the Quinta Avenida. It’s best to keep personal items such as a wallet in your front pockets or crossbody bag and avoid carrying important documents like your passport out with you.

10. Avoid using normal sunscreen and use biodegradable sunscreen instead

Playa can get really hot, so it’s important to stay lathered up to avoid getting burnt. Even better is to use an environmentally friendly sunscreen to avoid damaging your natural surroundings while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.