Playa del Carmen is a beach town on the Riviera Maya, approximately 65 km south of the airport.

About Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen (locally just \'Playa\') has grown from a quiet fishing village and Cozumel ferry stop into the Riviera Maya\'s liveliest town. Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue) is a pedestrian promenade stretching over 20 blocks parallel to the beach, lined with restaurants, bars, shops, and street performers. The town has a more cosmopolitan, European feel compared to Cancún\'s resort strip, attracting expats, digital nomads, and travelers seeking a walkable beach destination.

Playa\'s beaches range from the lively central stretch to quieter spots near Playacar, a gated resort community to the south with a Mayan ruins site. The town is the perfect base for exploring cenotes (natural sinkholes perfect for swimming and diving), Xcaret and Xel-Há eco-parks, and the Mayan ruins of Tulum (45 minutes south). The Cozumel ferry departs from Playa\'s main pier, offering world-class reef diving just 45 minutes away.

Nearby Landmarks

Quinta Avenida Cozumel Ferry Pier Playacar Ruins Fundadores Park Mamitas Beach

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost MXN 1,200-1,600 (USD 70-90)
Time 55-70 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Take ADO bus from outside Terminal 2 or 3 directly to Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue bus station. Comfortable air-conditioned buses.

Various private shuttle companies

Cost USD 25-40 per person
Time 55-70 minutes
Frequency Pre-booked, pickup at arrivals

Outside Arrivals

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi MXN 1,200-1,600 (USD 70-90) 55-70 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Bus/Shuttle USD 25-40 per person 55-70 minutes Cheapest option

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

ADO buses from Cancún Airport to Playa del Carmen run until about 11:30 PM (last bus varies—check schedule). After midnight, private taxis from the airport cost MXN 1,500–2,200 (USD 80–120). Pre-booked private transfers are recommended for late arrivals. Playa's Quinta Avenida stays lively until 2:00–3:00 AM on weekends.

Luggage Tips

ADO buses have large luggage compartments underneath—ideal for the hour-long ride. Airport shuttle vans also handle multiple bags well. Once in Playa del Carmen, most hotels are within walking distance of the bus station. Quinta Avenida is pedestrian-only, so you'll need to walk the last stretch with luggage.

Accessibility

Quinta Avenida is flat and paved, suitable for wheelchairs though it gets crowded in the evenings. The beach has soft sand that is difficult for wheelchairs—some hotels offer beach wheelchair service. ADO buses have limited accessibility. Private transfers in accessible vehicles can be arranged through specialized operators like Cancun Accessible.