Playa del Carmen

Along the Yucatán Peninsula, Playa del Carmen has carved out its own Euro-chic niche. Sophisticated ex-pats and vacationing Europeans relax at the beachside lounges, adding to this small enclave's growing reputation as the place to see and be seen in Quintana Roo. El Zócalo is the area's nerve center, and like in Mediterranean beachfront towns like Nice, the funky little public square is within walking distance of the beach.

La Quinta Avenida, which runs parallel to the beach and just off the square, has several blocks of delicious eateries and quirky shops. And, with its proximity to the ancient ruins of Tulum and an abundance of natural landscapes to explore (such as Rio Secreto, Xel-Há, and the underwater depths of the Caribbean Sea), Playa del Carmen appeals to both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. Of course, Playa's swaths of white sand and brilliantly turquoise water entice even the most discriminating beachgoers. Cancun is a bygone era of Mexican vacations; today's savvy beachgoers prefer the cosmopolitan "Playa".

The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is between April and May when the beach is less crowded. Temperatures during the day range between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, dropping slightly in the evenings. From October to March, the weather is generally dry and mild. Summer days and nights are characterized by high temperatures and humidity. Hurricane season lasts from June to September, so make sure to check weather forecasts and hurricane warnings before planning your trip.