Playa Del Carmen is a bustling city located in the heart of the Riviera Maya in Mexico. It’s famous for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters. While many people flock to Playa Del Carmen for its popular tourist attractions, there are several hidden gems that often go unnoticed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the hidden gems that Playa Del Carmen has to offer.
Cenote Azul
Cenotes are natural swimming holes that are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Cenote Azul is located just a few kilometers outside of Playa Del Carmen and is a must-see for those who want to experience the beauty of the area’s natural wonders. The cenote is surrounded by lush jungle foliage, and its clear, blue waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Visitors can also explore the cenote’s underwater cave system, which is home to a range of unique flora and fauna. The cenote is open to visitors from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily, and there are several tour operators in Playa Del Carmen that offer guided tours of the area.
Frida Kahlo Museum
Most people know Frida Kahlo as one of Mexico’s most famous artists, but few people know that there is a museum dedicated to her life and work in Playa Del Carmen. The Frida Kahlo Museum is located on 5th Avenue, the city’s main street, and is home to a range of exhibitions that showcase Kahlo’s paintings, photographs, and personal belongings.
The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and visitors can explore the museum on their own or take a guided tour. The museum is also home to a gift shop where visitors can purchase a range of souvenirs and memorabilia.
Ceviche To Go
Ceviche is a traditional dish in Mexico that consists of raw fish, shrimp, or scallops that are marinated in lime juice and served with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. While there are many restaurants in Playa Del Carmen that serve ceviche, few can compare to Ceviche To Go.
Located just off the main square, Ceviche To Go is a small, family-owned restaurant that specializes in fresh, flavorful ceviche. The restaurant offers a range of different ceviche dishes, from classic shrimp ceviche to more unusual offerings like octopus and mixed seafood ceviche. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
La Galeria
La Galeria is a small art gallery located on 5th Avenue that showcases the work of local and regional artists. The gallery features a range of different art styles, from traditional Mexican folk art to contemporary pieces.
Visitors can browse the gallery’s collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art, and even purchase a piece to take home as a souvenir. The gallery is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and there is no admission fee.
Playacar Ruins
While most people are familiar with the famous Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, few people know that there are ancient ruins located just outside of Playa Del Carmen. The Playacar Ruins are a small collection of ruins that date back to the Mayan civilization.
The ruins are located in the Playacar neighborhood, which is just a short walk from the center of Playa Del Carmen. Visitors can explore the ruins on their own or take a guided tour, and there is no admission fee.
El Hongo
El Hongo is a hidden gem for foodies in Playa Del Carmen. This unique restaurant is located in a quiet residential neighborhood, and is known for its creative and delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes. The restaurant has a cozy and rustic atmosphere, with an outdoor patio surrounded by lush vegetation.
The menu features a range of dishes made with locally sourced and organic ingredients, including vegan burgers, plantain nachos, and a variety of creative salads. El Hongo is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Secret Beach
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet, Secret Beach is the perfect spot. This secluded beach is located just a few kilometers outside of Playa Del Carmen and is only accessible by boat.
Visitors can take a boat tour from Playa Del Carmen to Secret Beach, which is located on a small, uninhabited island. The beach is surrounded by crystal-clear water and pristine white sand, and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun.
Rio Secreto
Rio Secreto is a unique natural wonder that is located just outside of Playa Del Carmen. This underground river system is home to a range of fascinating geological formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls.
Visitors can explore the river system on a guided tour, which includes a short hike through the jungle, as well as swimming and floating through the underground river. The tour also includes a traditional Mayan ceremony to honor the spirits of the underground world.
Conclusion
While Playa Del Carmen is famous for its popular tourist attractions, there are many hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. From natural wonders like cenotes and underground rivers to unique restaurants and art galleries, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking to explore the area’s natural beauty, immerse yourself in the local culture, or just escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet, Playa Del Carmen’s hidden gems are definitely worth checking out.
