2024 Digital Nomad Guide to Playa Del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is one of the easiest and fun destinations to start your digital nomad journey. If you’re looking for a place with low difficulty to arrive to, community events, great places to work from, and an easily accessible beaches, this is your spot.
Playa has easily become one of the top digital nomad hubs in the world, and is probably the second largest nomad hub in Mexico after Mexico City.
Below are top tips for making your nomadic trip to Playa Del Carmen a memorable one.
Getting There
Playa del Carmen is conveniently located along the Yucatán Peninsula, making it easily accessible. The most popular airport is Cancun International Airport (CUN), about an hour's drive away. From Cancun airport, you have several options to get to Playa del Carmen:
ADO Bus**: The most economical option, costing around $10 USD, and it drops you off right in the city center.
Private Shuttle**: Ideal if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a direct ride. Several companies offer this service for about $60-$100 USD.
Taxi’s will be plentiful when you exit, but you’ll have to negotiate a price.
Other airports close by include Cozumel Airport & the recently opened Tulum Airport, however international flights at both are less frequent.
2. Neighborhoods to Stay
Playa del Carmen offers a wide range of neighborhoods to suit preferences:
Centro: Stay in the heart of the action with easy access to restaurants, cafes, and nightlife.
Playacar: A gated community with luxurious resorts and quiet residential areas, perfect for those seeking tranquility.
Colosio**: A rapidly developing area that's becoming popular among expats, offering more affordable housing options.
There are plenty of options for hotels & airbnb’s at nearly all price ranges.
3. Activities
Top activities in playa include:
Explore Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)**: The city's main pedestrian street, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.
Beach Clubs*: Relax at Playa Mamitas, a popular beach with vibrant beach clubs, or head to quieter spots like Punta Esmeralda.
Diving and Snorkeling**: Discover the rich marine life and coral reefs at nearby Cozumel Island or in cenotes.
Visiting the Frida Kahlo Museum or catch a performance at Teatro de la Ciudad.
4. Places to work remotely from in Playa Del Carmen - Book Day Passes on Adventurely
Playa del Carmen offers a wide range of places to work remotely from. Aside from traditional cowork offices like Bunker & Nest in Playa, a growing number of cafes & hotels welcome remote workers.
5. Where to Eat
Playa del Carmen's culinary scene is diverse and exciting. Top picks include
El Fogón**: A local favorite for authentic Mexican tacos and other traditional dishes.
La Cueva del Chango**: A unique jungle-themed restaurant offering fresh, organic food.
La Perla Pixan Cuisine & Mezcal Store**: A great spot to try Oaxacan specialties and a variety of mezcals.
6. Day Trips
Playa del Carmen is an accessible base for exploring key points of interest in the Riviera May a Mexico. Consider these day trips from Playa:
Tulum: Visit the stunning beachfront Mayan ruins and explore the bohemian town, about an hour's drive south.
Cozumel: Take a ferry to this island paradise known for its incredible diving and snorkeling spots.
Cenote Hopping: Discover the natural beauty of cenotes like Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote, perfect for swimming and diving.
Chichen Itza**: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city is a must-visit, about 2.5 hours away.
7. Safety
Staying healthy and safe is paramount for any digital nomad. Here are some tips:
Safety: While Playa is generally safe, it's wise to stay vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings.
Travel Insurance offers an additional way to stay safe on the road.