Just off the square and running parallel with the shore, La Quinta Avenida features 20 blocks worth of delicious eateries and quirky shops. Cancún is so 10 years ago -- today's savvy beachgoers choose the cosmopolitan "Playa."

Playa del Carmen Culture & Customs
Playa del Carmen is largely a beachy tourist destination as opposed to an authentic Mexican town, but there are certain sensibilities and customs that could make your stay there more pleasant.

Many tourist industry workers speak English, but we do encourage you to learn a few Spanish words. Saying hello (hola), goodbye (adios), please (por favor) and thank you (gracias) could go a long way in quality service at hotels and restaurants.

The dress code in Playa del Carmen is more lax and less conservative than other parts of Mexico. Typical beachwear is common on the beach and around the town, and "dressy casual" wear is typical for nightlife.

Playa del Carmen Dining
Writers say that Playa del Carmen has a wide range of restaurants, from simple local fare to sophisticated and expensive establishments. The town is also known for having a significant expatriate European population, evidenced by many European-style restaurants. Writers especially recommend Casa Mediterránea for northern Italian cuisine.

Things to Do in Playa del Carmen

Banyan Tree Mayakoba

AWARD-WINNING SPA RESORT IN THE RIVIERA MAYA
Banyan Tree Mayakoba brings heartfelt hospitality to the breezy Carribbean lifestyle. With careful attention to subtle details from the fragrance of flourishing flowers to the fine linens of the villas, this grand resort offers elegance, tranquility, and endless natural beauty. Lush villas with private swimming pools make for a romantic escape or a relaxing family getaway. Explore the magic of Mexico, unwind on the golf course, or simply bask in the stunning coastline views at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, where romance and relaxation come together ever so magnificently.

DINING
Banyan Tree Mayakoba affords dining outlets sure to please any palate with menus including authentic Thai to Mexican. From champagne breakfasts, boat ride bites, and candelit dinners under the stars, the resort creates an experience out of every meal.

ACTIVITIES
The Banyan Tree Mayakoba resort offers a wealth of activities, from swimming amid the glittering beaches to relaxing in the Thai-inspired Banyan Tree Spa to unwinding at the Greg Norman signature 18-hole El Camaleón golf course, home to the PGA Tour Mayakoba Classic.