By Alex Ruelas

Tranquil, lush, and welcoming, Playacar is possibly the best neighborhood in the Riviera Maya for a family holiday. This gated community located in the southern end of Playa del Carmen has long been the town’s most coveted borough. Sitting a stone’s throw away from the bustling Quinta Avenida, it retains the elegance and serene demeanor of a high-end residential area.

As soon as you walk start walking on its cobbled roads, you feel like submerging into a different world. Sheltered in the shade of tall trees, travelers seeking to spend time with their loved ones will find here not only a range of gorgeous holiday homes but also excellent food and some of the most striking beaches in the Mexican Caribbean. If you are thinking about traveling to Playa del Carmen, follow us to discover everything Playacar has on offer.

Playacar’s double identity

When construction started in the early nineties, there were already some houses hiding in the jungle. The first people who built their homes here knew it was only a matter of time for this natural place to become a flourishing community. Streets were traced, the golf course was designed, and soon others came to share this Caribbean nook. Today, Playacar is divided into two phases, each with a distinct personality and much to see and do.

Phase I

This chiefly residential area is one of the most exclusive in town. As soon as you drive past the gates, located by Paseo del Carmen shopping mall, you are welcomed to a sphere of privacy, sheltered from the excitement of the nearby Quinta Avenida by leafy jungle trees. Quiet roads and abundant greenery keep here a peaceful setting that makes residents and travelers alike feel close to nature.

Playacar Phase I has some of the most beautiful vacation homes in town. Take a brief detour on this guided trip and click here to see all the available villas.

Phase II

The second section of Playacar is much larger than the first. Set out as a circuit around the par 72 golf course, this upscale community combines stately homes, high-end hotels, shopping centers, and a breathtaking beachfront that make it an excellent neighborhood to stay and explore. If you want to make this seaside community you home for the holidays, follow this link to see every private villa in Playacar Phase II.

Now that you know both sides of Playacar, it’s time to get out there...

Golf

The main landmark of Playacar’s Phase II is its 18-hole golf course, recently renamed Hard Rock Golf Club Riviera Maya. It was designed by architect Robert Von Hagge, the creator of over 250 courses in more than 20 countries, and planned out to encompass the tropical landscape, archeological sites, and challenging features that make it the toughest course in the region. With a clubhouse, snack bar, practice range, and gear rental, it promises world-class sport for keen golfers and gives Playacar a sophisticated personality

Xaman-Ha Archeological Site

Long before golf was even a thing, the ancient Maya had already claimed this privileged spot, located directly across from Cozumel island. They called it Xaman-Ha, meaning “water of the north”, and established a prosperous settlement that sustained itself from fishing and agriculture.

Centuries later, the Spaniards commanded by Alonso Dávila founded their own village, Salamanca de Xamanha. Unluckily for them, tropical conditions were too rough, and they had to abandon the post in 1529.

Xaman-Ha is now a well-preserved archeological site open to anyone who wishes to learn more about ancient Maya history. Most of the structures that remain were built between 1200 and 1550 a.D., and some still have fragments of their original mural painting. So bring a hat, wear sunscreen and discover this historic place. The main structures are located close to the entrance to Playacar and just a short walk away from the public beach access.

Playacar Beach

Playacar is as close to the ocean as it could be. So, whether you’re staying at a beachfront property or in a beautiful villa surrounded by greenery, you will never be far from the sea. The gated community has one main public beach access – just a hundred meters or so from the gates to Phase I – and a couple more a few blocks south, all accessible through Arrecife Xaman-Ha road.

Once you’ve got your toes in the sand, you will be on a stylish part of the coast typically shared by locals and travelers from all over the world. And if you decide to stay in a villa by the sea, make sure to have an evening stroll. Nights of rolling waves and ocean breeze are truly something special.

Moreover, Playacar’s underwater seascape is amazing. A few meters under the surface, parallel to the white-sand coast, there is a barrier reef as vibrant as you have seen. Colorful fish populate walls of thriving corals that offer an unmissable experiences for amateur and experienced scubadivers alike.

The Xaman-Ha Aviary

This is your chance to get acquainted with the local wildlife in a family-friendly way. Xaman-Ha Aviary hosts over 45 bird species, all the way from flamingoes to macaws. Tourists are welcome to take as many pictures as they like and get close to these fascinating animals. Also, keep an eye out for other frequent visitors. Some of the regulars include charismatic coatis and iguanas.

The aviary is located on Paseo Xaman-Ha, the main road of Phase II, and is open daily from 9:00 until 17:00 hrs. One adult ticket costs 300 pesos, while children under 12 can visit free of charge.

Tennis

Fancy a game? Maya Luxe guests have access to tennis courts located in Phase I, very close to the main entrance. Here you can practice your grand slam-worthy backhand stroke for as long as you like, and after head straight to the beach, which is only a few steps away.

Hungry?

Let’s talk about food, shall we? And we can start with dessert because, you know, you’re on vacation.

If you’re craving gelato, there’s great news for you. On the corner of Paseo Xaman-Ha and Chichen Itzá street (Phase II), you'll find Bendito Pecado, an artisan gelato shop that will blow you away with their ice cream and other desserts. Don't forget to try their affogato – vanilla ice cream and espresso – and their terrific capelina – a combination of ice cream, cookies, and toppings.

Just across the road, you’ll find Labrioche, a French patisserie and boulangerie, where you’ll find some of the best bread in Playa del Carmen. Ask any local, and they’ll tell you: if you’re after a good chocolatine, a croque-madame, or even salmon tartar, this charming little spot is the place to go.

Now, make your way to Calle 7 Sur. Although it is just outside of Playacar, there are two restaurants you won’t want to miss. First, Lara y Luca, a beautifully designed restaurant that serves a world-class breakfast and brunch. Their menu routinely has excellent vegetarian options and is constantly updated by the chef to incorporate new top-notch ingredients. Just a few meters from it, you’ll find Casa Sofía, an Italian restaurant where the pizza, pasta, and grill will make you more than happy. Go in the evening, and you might even get some live music with your meal.

Shopping

It’s always good to know where to get simple stuff. When in Playacar, that place is Plaza Playacar. In this quaint little mall, you’ll find practical things, such as a drug store and deli, money exchange, car rentals, and tour services. You can also shop for beautiful Mexican craftwork, swimwear, eyewear, and even braid your hair if you’re feeling adventurous.

Plaza Playacar is on Paseo Xaman-Ha, on the east side of the golf course, across the street from hotel Riu Playacar. But if you feel like going on a real shopping spree, the place to go is just outside of Playacar. Located by the entrance to Phase I, Paseo del Carmen is a world-class open-air mall, where you can find anything from a new swimsuit to the latest iPhone.

Playacar truly has something for everyone. Nature-lovers, tranquillity seekers, and children eager to build sandcastles will all find an ideal destination here. Rest and find much-needed peace in a neighborhood that is ready to welcome you and your family.