Water Activities in Playa del Carmen

Welcome to Playa del Carmen! This beautiful coastal town in Mexico’s Riviera Maya offers a plethora of water activities that cater to all ages and skill levels.

Beaches

Playa del Carmen boasts numerous stunning beaches, the most popular being Playa Mamitas and Playa Paraíso. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

One of the primary reasons tourists flock to Playa del Carmen is its proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef system in the world. You can explore this underwater paradise through snorkeling or scuba diving tours. The best spots for these activities include Cozumel Island and the Ahau Beach-Tankah Ha Cenote.

Swim with Whale Sharks

From mid-May to September, you have the opportunity to swim with the gentle giants of the sea - whale sharks! Tours depart from Playa del Carmen to Isla Holbox or Isla Mujeres for this unforgettable experience.

Fishing

Whether you’re an avid fisherman or a novice, Playa del Carmen offers deep-sea fishing tours that will take you to some of the best fishing spots in the Caribbean Sea.

Sailing and Catamaran Tours

Explore the crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean on a sailing or catamaran tour. These tours often include snorkeling stops, open bars, and lunch. Sunset sailing tours are particularly popular.

Water Sports

Adrenaline junkies will love the variety of water sports available in Playa del Carmen. Try your hand at jet-skiing, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, or flyboarding. Be sure to check safety regulations and hire reputable operators.

Please note: Some activities may require a certain level of swimming proficiency. Always follow the safety instructions provided by tour operators.

If you’re looking for water activities further north in Tulum, there are cenotes (natural sinkholes filled with groundwater) such as Cenote Calavera and Cenote Manatee that offer swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

No water: If you’re traveling to Playa del Carmen but prefer land-based activities, you can explore the Mayan ruins of Tulum and Coba, visit the Xcaret eco-archaeological park, or shop at La Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue).