Terry’s Helpful Hints

Terry
Terry’s Helpful Hints

Relaxation

Places to enjoy and relax in Playa Del Carmen and the surrounding areas.
Discover a serene beach club nestled in a prime location on Coco Beach. Picture this: a tranquil escape by day, with the possibility of an exciting poolside party at any moment. Experience top-notch service, affordable and delightful food and drinks. What's more, it's just a short four-block stroll from our Ipana Condo.
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Martina Beach Club
Albatros
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Discover a serene beach club nestled in a prime location on Coco Beach. Picture this: a tranquil escape by day, with the possibility of an exciting poolside party at any moment. Experience top-notch service, affordable and delightful food and drinks. What's more, it's just a short four-block stroll from our Ipana Condo.
In Playa Del Carmen, it has been difficult to predict beach conditions due to seaweed. Buccanos is a great place to find a peaceful, clean beach club. They usually charge per person, but you get a refund equivalent to your fee if you make a purchase from the bar or restaurant. We like to rent a buggy and spend half the day exploring the island and the other half relaxing at the beach. (see tips on buggy rental)
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Buccanos
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In Playa Del Carmen, it has been difficult to predict beach conditions due to seaweed. Buccanos is a great place to find a peaceful, clean beach club. They usually charge per person, but you get a refund equivalent to your fee if you make a purchase from the bar or restaurant. We like to rent a buggy and spend half the day exploring the island and the other half relaxing at the beach. (see tips on buggy rental)

City/town information

Here are some nearby towns that you might want to visit. All are only a short drive or ferry away.
This is a great day trip. Leave early, as it's a full day. It takes about 2 hours to get to Holbox, as it's an island, and you will have to park and ferry over. The only island transportation is via Make the most of your day with this amazing day trip to Holbox. Leave bright and early to ensure you have a full day to enjoy. The journey to the island takes about 2 hours, involving parking and a ferry ride. Once on the island, hop on a golf cart to explore all it has to offer. Don't miss out on the beautiful beach – it's a must-see! And while you're there, be sure to try the famous lobster pizza. Look for a local restaurant in town for a lunch you won't forget.a golf cart, so grab one and explore the island. Make sure to leave time for the beach, as it's a must-see. They are also known for their lobster pizza, so for lunch, look for a local restaurant in town.
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Holbox
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This is a great day trip. Leave early, as it's a full day. It takes about 2 hours to get to Holbox, as it's an island, and you will have to park and ferry over. The only island transportation is via Make the most of your day with this amazing day trip to Holbox. Leave bright and early to ensure you have a full day to enjoy. The journey to the island takes about 2 hours, involving parking and a ferry ride. Once on the island, hop on a golf cart to explore all it has to offer. Don't miss out on the beautiful beach – it's a must-see! And while you're there, be sure to try the famous lobster pizza. Look for a local restaurant in town for a lunch you won't forget.a golf cart, so grab one and explore the island. Make sure to leave time for the beach, as it's a must-see. They are also known for their lobster pizza, so for lunch, look for a local restaurant in town.
Consider visiting Tulum for a fantastic day trip. You have various transportation options such as taking a bus, which is affordable but slow, or opting for the convenience of a taxi or renting a car to explore the exciting stops along the way. Renting a car allows you to make the most of your trip (see my advice on car rentals). Tulum is a charming town situated away from the beach. While the area boasts amazing beaches, accessing them can be challenging due to limited parking on the small streets. Some locations provide beach access, but it's recommended to find a small hotel that offers beach area and chairs for a fee, like a beach club.
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Tulum
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Consider visiting Tulum for a fantastic day trip. You have various transportation options such as taking a bus, which is affordable but slow, or opting for the convenience of a taxi or renting a car to explore the exciting stops along the way. Renting a car allows you to make the most of your trip (see my advice on car rentals). Tulum is a charming town situated away from the beach. While the area boasts amazing beaches, accessing them can be challenging due to limited parking on the small streets. Some locations provide beach access, but it's recommended to find a small hotel that offers beach area and chairs for a fee, like a beach club.
Cozumel is a fantastic option for a day trip. You can take a ferry, rent a buggy, and explore this beautiful island. If you're into snorkeling, there's a fantastic park where you can enjoy this activity. Additionally, if Playa del Carmen's beaches are affected by seaweed, Buccanos Beach Club offers pristine and clean beaches for your relaxation.
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San Miguel de Cozumel
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Cozumel is a fantastic option for a day trip. You can take a ferry, rent a buggy, and explore this beautiful island. If you're into snorkeling, there's a fantastic park where you can enjoy this activity. Additionally, if Playa del Carmen's beaches are affected by seaweed, Buccanos Beach Club offers pristine and clean beaches for your relaxation.
Discover the enchanting world of turtle viewing in Akumal. Immerse yourself in the wondrous underwater spectacle of these magnificent creatures. Depending on the season, witness the awe-inspiring sight of baby turtles hatching and embarking on their journey to the sea.
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Akumal
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Discover the enchanting world of turtle viewing in Akumal. Immerse yourself in the wondrous underwater spectacle of these magnificent creatures. Depending on the season, witness the awe-inspiring sight of baby turtles hatching and embarking on their journey to the sea.
Sure, I can help with that. Here's the revised text: Puerto Aventuras is located about halfway between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. It's a great place to stop for lunch and watch the dolphins. Unlike other Mexican towns, Puerto Aventuras is mostly made up of condos and homes. It's more of a resort town with a marina, but it also has a few great restaurants where you can grab lunch and a drink.
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Faro Puerto Aventuras
Carr. Tulum - Cancún
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Sure, I can help with that. Here's the revised text: Puerto Aventuras is located about halfway between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. It's a great place to stop for lunch and watch the dolphins. Unlike other Mexican towns, Puerto Aventuras is mostly made up of condos and homes. It's more of a resort town with a marina, but it also has a few great restaurants where you can grab lunch and a drink.
Discover the unique personality of Puerto Morelos, an authentic fishing village in the Mexican Caribbean. Feel the calm, bohemian, and relaxed atmosphere that lets you connect with the simplicity of its people. This adventure destination showcases wonderful natural attractions such as mangroves, cenotes, and an exuberant jungle.
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Puerto Morelos
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Discover the unique personality of Puerto Morelos, an authentic fishing village in the Mexican Caribbean. Feel the calm, bohemian, and relaxed atmosphere that lets you connect with the simplicity of its people. This adventure destination showcases wonderful natural attractions such as mangroves, cenotes, and an exuberant jungle.

Food scene

Alux is a unique restaurant experience located in a cave with incredible views not commonly seen in the States. While the food may not be exceptional, the atmosphere is very cool. It's situated a bit of a distance from 5th Ave., so taking a taxi is necessary. I would suggest making reservations, although it's never been too busy when we visited. The correct pronunciation is Aloosh.
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Alux Restaurant Bar and Lounge
Mz 217 Lt2 Av Benito Juárez
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Alux is a unique restaurant experience located in a cave with incredible views not commonly seen in the States. While the food may not be exceptional, the atmosphere is very cool. It's situated a bit of a distance from 5th Ave., so taking a taxi is necessary. I would suggest making reservations, although it's never been too busy when we visited. The correct pronunciation is Aloosh.
Indulge in a chic bakery offering a vibrant ambiance and a delectable selection of French bread, pastries, and classic breakfast fare. Chez Celine is our top choice for breakfast. While it's a popular spot, the wait is well worth it. Conveniently located near the condos on 5th Ave and 34th St.
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Chez Céline
Esquina Calle 34 Nte
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Indulge in a chic bakery offering a vibrant ambiance and a delectable selection of French bread, pastries, and classic breakfast fare. Chez Celine is our top choice for breakfast. While it's a popular spot, the wait is well worth it. Conveniently located near the condos on 5th Ave and 34th St.
One of our favorite Italian restaurants is located far from our condos, but the food is worth the trip. It has become a tradition for us, as we've been going there for a long time. The restaurant is small, tends to get hot, and there is usually a wait to get in. The address is Street 4 North 150, between 15 Avenue and 10 Avenue.
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Romeo Trattoria Pizzeria
150 Calle 4 Nte
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One of our favorite Italian restaurants is located far from our condos, but the food is worth the trip. It has become a tradition for us, as we've been going there for a long time. The restaurant is small, tends to get hot, and there is usually a wait to get in. The address is Street 4 North 150, between 15 Avenue and 10 Avenue.
If you are up for the walk this is our favorite "off the beating path" restaurant for street tacos and other local food. Great prices and every review is a glowing recommendation. Av. 20 entre Constituyentes y, C. 16 Nte. Bis, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
EL CHULETON (taqueria) RES, POLLO, CERDO, SOPAS & MAS
Calle 16 Norte Bis
If you are up for the walk this is our favorite "off the beating path" restaurant for street tacos and other local food. Great prices and every review is a glowing recommendation. Av. 20 entre Constituyentes y, C. 16 Nte. Bis, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
I haven't had the chance to visit this place yet, but both of my guests absolutely raved about it. According to them, you simply can't miss the mini tacos, the drinks are an experience brought to your table from a bar cart, and the customer service is truly top-notch. They also mentioned the fantastic music and the option for both indoor and outdoor seating.
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Porfirio's Playa del Carmen | Restaurante de comida mexicana
Calle 12 Norte
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I haven't had the chance to visit this place yet, but both of my guests absolutely raved about it. According to them, you simply can't miss the mini tacos, the drinks are an experience brought to your table from a bar cart, and the customer service is truly top-notch. They also mentioned the fantastic music and the option for both indoor and outdoor seating.
Great Meditteranean Restaurant at the base of the building. Easy to grab lunch. Dinner can be a little busy and you might have to wait for a table but worth a short wait.
Moshe Cube Kosher משה קובה
Great Meditteranean Restaurant at the base of the building. Easy to grab lunch. Dinner can be a little busy and you might have to wait for a table but worth a short wait.
If you are looking for great Italian food at reasonable prices away from the touristy 5th Avenue, then PapaCharly is the place to go. My wife loves the stuffed fish, while I can't get enough of their pasta dishes. Make sure to get there early if you want lasagna, as it tends to sell out quickly. While the wine selection is limited, you can bring your own bottle and pay a corking fee. If you need to pick up a bottle of wine, the Selecto Súper Chedraui grocery store at 10th Ave and 34th has a great selection. PapaCharly can be busy, so it's a good idea to call and make a reservation, especially if you have a larger group. Despite any wait, the short walk is definitely worth it.
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PapaCharly
Calle 30 Norte
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If you are looking for great Italian food at reasonable prices away from the touristy 5th Avenue, then PapaCharly is the place to go. My wife loves the stuffed fish, while I can't get enough of their pasta dishes. Make sure to get there early if you want lasagna, as it tends to sell out quickly. While the wine selection is limited, you can bring your own bottle and pay a corking fee. If you need to pick up a bottle of wine, the Selecto Súper Chedraui grocery store at 10th Ave and 34th has a great selection. PapaCharly can be busy, so it's a good idea to call and make a reservation, especially if you have a larger group. Despite any wait, the short walk is definitely worth it.
Close by eatery with great breakfast lunch and dinner. This a great place to start your day and it's right around the corner from Ipana. The staff is very friendly and the service is excellent.
La Orgánica Playa del Carmen
Close by eatery with great breakfast lunch and dinner. This a great place to start your day and it's right around the corner from Ipana. The staff is very friendly and the service is excellent.

Adventure

If you would like to experience swimming in a cenote this is might be the easiest. It is looked near Tulum so I suggest you plan on a few experiences while in the area. The water is cold so be prepared.
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Gran Cenote
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If you would like to experience swimming in a cenote this is might be the easiest. It is looked near Tulum so I suggest you plan on a few experiences while in the area. The water is cold so be prepared.
HTL Rentals in my opinion is the best place to rent a buggy on the island of Cozumel. (Cozumel only. see car rentals for PDC) To do so book directly through their website. You will see people who imitate representing them but they charge for their services. You can get to their office by a short walk from the ferry pier. www.htlrentals.com
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HTL
y Calle 4 Nte
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HTL Rentals in my opinion is the best place to rent a buggy on the island of Cozumel. (Cozumel only. see car rentals for PDC) To do so book directly through their website. You will see people who imitate representing them but they charge for their services. You can get to their office by a short walk from the ferry pier. www.htlrentals.com
The Yucatan has many adventuras places. Here we booked a tour that allowed us to zipline, repel, and drive ATVs. Look on Viator for what best fits your group.
Quintana Roo
The Yucatan has many adventuras places. Here we booked a tour that allowed us to zipline, repel, and drive ATVs. Look on Viator for what best fits your group.
Rio Secreto is a must-do adventure. Mexico reveals its newly-discovered underground river: Very few places in the world boast conditions that make it possible to witness the extraordinary beauty of an underground river. Rio Secreto is a fantastic journey into a unique system of underground rivers and ancient caverns that reveals both the astonishing interaction of time within the interior of our planet and the miraculous existence of our lives. Come and experience this magical journey with us on your next vacation in Mexico.
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Rio Secreto
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Rio Secreto is a must-do adventure. Mexico reveals its newly-discovered underground river: Very few places in the world boast conditions that make it possible to witness the extraordinary beauty of an underground river. Rio Secreto is a fantastic journey into a unique system of underground rivers and ancient caverns that reveals both the astonishing interaction of time within the interior of our planet and the miraculous existence of our lives. Come and experience this magical journey with us on your next vacation in Mexico.

Shows

JOYÀ, the first Cirque du Soleil resident show in Mexico, combines culinary and performing arts in an intimate theater setting to engage the audience's five senses. Drawing on Mexico's history and heritage, JOYÀ tells the story of an alchemist and his granddaughter embarking on a quest to uncover the secrets of life. Don't miss the opportunity to taste extraordinary dishes and live an unforgettable night exclusively at the Cirque du Soleil Theater at Vidanta Riviera Maya. JOYÀ, a thrilling, whimsical show in which joy, courage, and friendship conquer all
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Teatro Vidanta "Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ"
Km 48 Cancun - Chetumal
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JOYÀ, the first Cirque du Soleil resident show in Mexico, combines culinary and performing arts in an intimate theater setting to engage the audience's five senses. Drawing on Mexico's history and heritage, JOYÀ tells the story of an alchemist and his granddaughter embarking on a quest to uncover the secrets of life. Don't miss the opportunity to taste extraordinary dishes and live an unforgettable night exclusively at the Cirque du Soleil Theater at Vidanta Riviera Maya. JOYÀ, a thrilling, whimsical show in which joy, courage, and friendship conquer all
A well-known club with all-you-can-drinks and shows. This place does not get started until late. Buy your tickets online and go for VIP unless you like being in a mosh pit. Check it out online to learn more.
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Coco Bongo
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A well-known club with all-you-can-drinks and shows. This place does not get started until late. Buy your tickets online and go for VIP unless you like being in a mosh pit. Check it out online to learn more.

Grocery Store

Walmart is a great place to go if you're staying longer and need supplies. If you're up for the walk it's a little over a mile from our condos but I recommend grabbing a taxi back. It's about 70 pesos each way.
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沃爾瑪普拉亞德爾卡門
30 Avenida Norte
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Walmart is a great place to go if you're staying longer and need supplies. If you're up for the walk it's a little over a mile from our condos but I recommend grabbing a taxi back. It's about 70 pesos each way.
Another large everything stores much like Walmart and it's a little closer. Check it out online to get a feel for what they have. Best to use peso or credit card for purchases.
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MEGA Soriana
101 30 Avenida Nte.
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Another large everything stores much like Walmart and it's a little closer. Check it out online to get a feel for what they have. Best to use peso or credit card for purchases.
This is a new Grocery store that opened in November 2022. It should have everything you need, and best of all, it is just around the corner from Ipana Condos.. There is parking underground if you have a car.
Selecto Súper Chedraui 5a Avenida
This is a new Grocery store that opened in November 2022. It should have everything you need, and best of all, it is just around the corner from Ipana Condos.. There is parking underground if you have a car.

Sightseeing

If you decide to take a trip to Cozumel and rent a buggy make it a point to stop by the Rast Bar on the south end of the island. Here you will find a hole in the wall and a great place to see the waves crashing on the island and a better place to relax in a hammock and have a cold one.
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Rasta Bar
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If you decide to take a trip to Cozumel and rent a buggy make it a point to stop by the Rast Bar on the south end of the island. Here you will find a hole in the wall and a great place to see the waves crashing on the island and a better place to relax in a hammock and have a cold one.
No trip to Mexico is complete without a visit to one of the famous Mayan ruins. Different than the popular Chichen Itza or Tulum, the Coba ruins have a more authentic look, with trees and bushes growing from the pyramid stones. The remote location, the fewer tourists, and the access to the pyramid’s peak make Cobá one of the most beautiful Mayan sites of Yucatan. It is about an hour and a half away so it can be a full day. There are many combo tours that do Coba and Cenotes.
Coba archaeological site, 77793 Q.R., 墨西哥
No trip to Mexico is complete without a visit to one of the famous Mayan ruins. Different than the popular Chichen Itza or Tulum, the Coba ruins have a more authentic look, with trees and bushes growing from the pyramid stones. The remote location, the fewer tourists, and the access to the pyramid’s peak make Cobá one of the most beautiful Mayan sites of Yucatan. It is about an hour and a half away so it can be a full day. There are many combo tours that do Coba and Cenotes.