ELLE Escapes: Playa del Carmen

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Sometimes, you just need to get away. If white sand beaches, coral reefs, and clear, turquoise water sound enticing, then you might consider Playa del Carmen. Known as “Playa” to locals, the coastal city on the Caribbean Sea is one of Quintana Roo’s largest, but with a decidedly more laid-back feel than neighboring Cancun or Tulum. Whether it’s golf or tennis, open-air swimming in cenotes, a visit to the Mayan ruins, or a deep-tissue massage using local ingredients at the luxurious Muluk Spa inside Casa de la Playa, there’s something for everyone here. Not to mention it’s only a four-hour flight from New York City. Below, what to do in Playa del Carmen—besides brush up on your conversational Spanish.

What to See

Cenotes

A natural wonder of Mexico, the mystical cenotes, a.k.a. caves filled with fresh water, are a memorable day trip and a chance to explore a subterranean oasis. Historically, they served as the primary water source for the Mayan people and were considered a sacred passage to the underworld. You’ll want to pack a wetsuit—it can get cold down there.

Fifth Avenue

Much like its New York counterpart, Fifth Avenue is the cultural and retail hub of Playa del Carmen, lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and street vendors selling everything from churros to local art and tchotchkes. The three-mile pedestrian street runs parallel to the beach and is affectionately called “Quinta Avenida.”

Chichen Itza

Originally a Mayan city, the UNESCO World Heritage Site was named one of seven wonders of the world for its ancient manmade architecture, including the Warriors’ Temple, El Castillo, and El Caracol, which translates to “snail” in Spanish, for the spiral staircase inside the tower.

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Where to Eat

Teodoro

Complimentary for guests of Impression Moxché by Secrets, Teodoro is a fine-dining restaurant inspired by traditional Mexican flavors as well as global fare. The seven-course tasting menu changes nightly, with hand-selected local wines to accompany each dish. But the best part is arguably the sunset views.

Amate 38

For outdoor seating and a tropical vibe, make a reservation at Amate 38. The casual spot offers Yucatecan regional cuisine (think: charcoaled tuna steak, shrimps in red recado, and cochinita pibil). Located on 38th Street, hence the name, it’s a stone’s throw away from the beach and Fifth Avenue.

El Fogon

Don’t be fooled by the shabby exterior, this unassuming eatery in the center of town has the best al pastor tacos you’ll ever have in your life. Each one contains hand-carved marinated pork on a warm tortilla, topped with onions, cilantro, and pieces of pineapple for extra flavor.

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Where to Drink

Coralina Daylight Club

If you’ve transitioned to party mode, Coralina Daylight Club is a beachfront bar with live entertainment, an outdoor pool, and crowds of drunken revelers. Come for the Moët & Chandon champagne gun, stay for the scenic views of the Caribbean Sea.

Coco Bongo Playa del Carmen

Fans of the 1994 classic The Mask will enjoy an evening out at Coco Bongo. The nightlife destination boasts a range of shows, including one inspired by the cult Jim Carrey movie, and ever-flowing tequila cocktails.

La Bodeguita Del Medio

The cozy Cuban joint in the center of town commands a crowd most nights for its famous mojito, cigars, and live Cuban music that gets everybody dancing. Bring a pen or a Sharpie to scrawl your name on the wall with the rest of the enthusiastic patrons.

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Where to Stay

Impression Moxché By Secrets

A new addition to Hyatt’s all-inclusive offering, Impression Moxché By Secrets is the pinnacle of luxury at every turn. The adults-only resort is nestled within a gated community, and thanks to its palatial two-story oceanfront penthouse residences, three dedicated restaurants, spa, gym, beach club, and on-site theater, you’ll hardly ever want to leave. The level of service here is unparalleled: every guest is assigned a personal butler who is available to fulfill any request, from ordering breakfast to filling your hot tub (mine even decorated ours with rose petals for a romantic touch).

La Casa de la Playa

The boutique hotel designed by architect David Quintana prides itself on sustainability, with 63 oceanfront suites and spaces that embrace nature and culture, including an infinity pool that overlooks the sea and a candy shop helmed by chocolatier Mao Montiel that pays tribute to the Mayan’s beloved cacao bean.

Andaz Mayakoba Resort

Tucked away in a private, gated complex, the Andaz Mayacoba Resort is a beachfront sanctuary with spacious rooms, an 18-hole championship golf course, a village built to resemble a traditional Mexican town, a spa with treatments inspired by ancient Mayan rituals, two outdoor pools, and a hot tub.

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Beauty Picks

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Finally, a sunscreen that’s lightweight, absorbs into the skin quickly, and doesn’t feel greasy. The signature scent of coconut and banana is an added bonus.

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Waterproof mascara is a must for beach vacations where you’re constantly going in and out of the water. This one has a cult following for good reason—it thickens, lengthens, and curls to voluminous perfection.

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Avoid messy application with this handy face mist that’s ideal for touchups, even over makeup. No sand in your eyes here.

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