Casita Océano

Playa del Carmen

Things to do

Reservations

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Things to do

During the day there is an entire coast to explore from the crystal clear waters of Xel-Ha (pronounced shell-ha) to the jungle ruins of Coba. You may need another holiday after experiencing all the things to see and do in and around Playa del Carmen!

The Beach: If you walk along the coast you can usually find part of the beach that you can have to yourself. However, if you prefer to relax on a sun-lounger or underneath the shade of a palapa, and have the security of lifeguards for when you want to cool off in the sea, then a Beach Club is the thing for you.

The nearest beach club is at the Blue Parrott, which is also on 12th Street. All you do is take a left out of the complex, follow for 3 small blocks, then go through the gate to the right. Other beach clubs, Mamitas and Playa Tukan, are located past 1st Ave around Calle 26 and 28. In fact most bars along the beach will allow you to use their seats and loungers if you buy food and drinks from them.

Eco-Parks and Nature Reserves: Xel-Ha and Xcaret and Sian Kaan Biosphere are located very close to Playa del Carmen.

Swim with Dolphins: You can choose a short dolphin program at both Xel-Ha and Xcaret, or visit the Dolphin Discovery centre at Puerto Aventuras.

Shopping: Playa del Carmen contains many shops and boutiques. The main shopping street is 5th Avenue, however if you stray from the beaten track you may be rewarded with a bargain! Cancun and the island of Cozumel are also great for shopping. Hop on a bus for Cancun or a ferry for Cozumel. If you enjoy reading, check out the Que Pequeno es el Mundo bookshop located on Calle 1 Sur between 20 and 25th Ave. Open 9am- 8pm, Mon – Sat, it contains a large section of used books in English. Proceeds from the sale of the used books go in part to purchase schoolbooks for Mayan children within poor backgrounds.

Cultural experience: There are many archaeological sites, cities and villages you can investigate from Playa del Carmen. You will find plenty of local tour companies offering guided tours.  As you wander around Playa del Carmen you may find evidence of ancient Mayan sites that are hidden away. Playa del Carmen is close to some of the important Mayan sites. If you are willing to venture further away, prepare to be captivated by the historical sites of Tulum, Coba and Chichen Itza. Or visit the Colonial Cities of Merida, Valladolid, Campeche and Izamal.

Organised tours: There are several tour companies located in town, but we recommend tours run by Playa.info and Alltournative.

Learn Spanish: There are a handful of language schools within Playa del Carmen where you can learn or improve your Spanish. Why not brush up on your language skills or learn some phrases to help you communicate with the natives!

Sport and Adventure Seekers:

Have a go at one of the following activities:

Golf:

There is a full 18-hole golf course located in Playacar, which is just outside the town centre. If you don’t want to walk there grab a taxi from one of the ranks in town.

Diving:

The second largest coral reef barrier in the world lays under the Caribbean Sea along the Yucatan's east coast. There are many dive shops around the town. We normally use The Abyss, located on 1st Ave. between 12th and 14th Street. They can provide both ocean and cavern diving.

Cenotes:

Explore the subterranean world of the Maya and discover why the Mayan’s believed the underworld was so magical. Underground rivers meander beneath the surface all over the Yucatan Peninsula, creating limestone caverns called ‘cenotes’. You can go swimming and snorkelling in the caverns to cool off from the heat of the day. Or admire the underwater formations with your own eyes by cavern diving (experienced divers only). For diving, enquire at any reputable dive shop.

Fishing:

You can charter fishing boats straight off the beach in Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras and Akumal.

Kayaking, Sailing, Kite Surfing, Para sailing and Jet skiing:

You will see many water sport outlets as you walk up and down the coast. Choose a reputable company and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for the activity.

Jungle treks and quad biking:

Spend a few hours of fun quad biking or flying down a zip line in the jungle.

Akumal:

Travel down the coast to the coastal resort of Akumal and investigate life underwater by diving or snorkelling in one of the bays.

 

Bars: There are many watering holes around town in which to socialise or watch sport.

Internet Cafes: We offer wireless internet, but if you don't have your own computer there are many Internet cafe’s around town. To find the closest one to Casita Océano:

1. Turn left out of the main entrance
2. At 10th Ave cross over the road.
3. Turn left. The Internet Café can be found a few doors down on the right-hand side.