Playa del Carmen, located in the state of Quintana Roo on the beautiful Caribbean Coast in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, has experienced a huge population growth in recent years. This seems mainly due to the discovery of the once quiet area by foreigners, mostly Europeans and closely followed by Americans. With its beautiful white Caribbean beaches, clear warm turquoise Caribbean waters, gentle waves and stunning coral reefs. Located 68km (42mi) south of Cancun, the warm sub-tropical temperature and sunny clear days throughout the year, make the lifestyle of Playa del Carmen one of relaxed beachside living. Annual temperatures range from 25 to 35 degrees.



Property in Quintana Roo, Playa del Carmen has the wonderful benefit of mixing traditional Mexican culture with a variety of European influences, that are evident in the shopping, restaurants, and general atmosphere of the town. Quinta Avendida, or 5 th Avenue, and Avenue Principal are the main streets where you will find everything from hotels of varying price ranges, shops, and basic amenities such as a medical centre, post office, police station and a variety of banks, ATM's and money exchanges. Quinta Avendida is the most popular area, where you can wander down the street, now made into a pedestrian walkway, and visit some quaint shops, see some boutique hotels, and experience some of the best dining in Mexico . Many of the shops, hotels and restaurants will accept American Dollars.

One of the things that draws tourists to Mexico Beachfront Real Estate, Playa del Carmen is the easy access to Cozumel Island, which is only a short boat ride. If you want to take the leisurely trip to Cozumel and take in the beautiful coastal sights along the way then sail to Cozumel via the Xel-H or Cozumelero, which is a 45min boat ride. For those keen to get into the stunning snorkelling and diving that Cozumel has to offer, then there is the fast waterjet, the WJ Mexico, which is only a 25min boat ride.

If you are a keen diver, then you will not want to miss the spectacular diving that is available along the Great Mayan Reef, which is the second largest coral reef system in the world. Dive tours are plentiful and easily booked in many areas in Playa del Carmen.

The most common beaches at Playa del Carmen are Playa Paamul and Playa Paraiso, where you will find an extensive array of water sports equipment for hire, making a day out as exciting or as relaxing as you would so desire.

But if you want a break from the beach, I would suggest to visit Playa's attractive faro, or lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for an impressive view over Playa del Carmen's wonderful scenery. Or venture further afield for a trip to Tulum or Chetumal to see the impressive ancient Mayan ruins, giving a wonderful insight into the ancient civilisation of the Mayan people.

Author: Jason Keiller