Playacar – a slice of Caribbean paradise
Perched on Mexico's sizzling Caribbean coast, less than an hour by car from Cancun Airport, Playacar is an alluringly upscale seafront community perched at the southern end of ravishing resort city Playa del Carmen. This vibrant slice of paradise is renowned for its palm-fringed, white sand beaches, turquoise waters, crumbling Mayan ruins and thrillingly cosmopolitan vibe. Playacar vacation rentals range from sleek apartments to sprawling oceanfront villas, and vacationers while away their evenings here sipping ice-cold cocktails, marveling at breath-taking sunsets and feasting on succulent fresh seafood.
Mayan ruins around Playacar
You'll find an eclectic array of attractions near to your Playacar vacation rental. The star draw for many is Chichen Itza, the mythical pre-Hispanic city which endures to this day as a jaw-dropping archaeological site abounding in ancient ruins. If you don't fancy the 2-hour drive to the site, you'll also find beautifully preserved Mayan monuments in and around Playacar. For an unforgettable family day out, head to Xcaret Park, a one-of-a-kind ecological and cultural amusement park. Here you can explore an immersive traditional Mayan village, or embark on a scenic river cruise.
Aquatic adventures and gourmet days
While the powder-soft sand and paddling in the blissfully warm sea will always be a draw, visitors of a more active disposition can try their hand at a host of adrenalin-pumping activities in Playacar. Ocean breezes offer ideal conditions for kite surfing and paddle boarding, whilst thrill-seekers can race the waves on jet skis, or propel themselves into the sky on flyboards. For break from the sun, join a cooking class and learn how to make mouth-watering Yucatán-style barbecue dishes. After a hard day's work in the kitchen, reward yourself with an evening of tequila and mezcal tasting.
Year-round tropical heat in Playacar
The region's enviable tropical climate ensures reliable heat throughout the year, but Playacar vacation rentals are in particularly high demand between March and May. These are the driest and sunniest months, offering unbeatable conditions for swimming and sun-worshipping. Visitors also flock to Playacar between December and February for a spot of winter sun, but overcast days and rainfall are more likely during this period. Between August and October is typically the wettest time, although the rain tends to fall in short, sharp bursts. There is also a risk of hurricanes and tropical storms at this time of year.
Playacar's marine life
Playacar's crystal-clear waters are positively teeming with marine life. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, don your snorkel or scuba gear and marvel at live coral reefs, schools of colorful tropical fish, stately sea turtles and sleek sharks. Those who prefer to stay on the surface of the water can get up close to one of the earth's cleverest and most playful species and head off to swim with the dolphins. Playa del Carmen is within easy reach of dense tropical rainforests, home to playful spider monkeys, multi-hued macaws and elusive jaguars.