Playacar Beach

This is one of the favorite of all the beaches in Playa del Carmen.
It’s part of a residential area, so it’s quiet, clean, there are no sneaky rocks under the waves, waiting to stub your feet.
As this stretch of brilliant white sand is wishing the protected confines of Playacar, it is generally better managed than some of the other public beaches in Playa.

Playacar beach is also dotted with cute little palm trees, that offer some much-needed shade throughout the day. But get there early, the locals know this little trick, and take full advantage of it. This is my personal favorite of all the beaches in Playa del Carmen.
It’s part of a residential area, so it’s quiet, clean, there are no sneaky rocks under the waves, waiting to stub your feet.

Calle 10 Beach

There isn’t really anything special about the sand or the sea in this area of Playa del Carmen, but it’s the bountiful beach clubs that make the beach here so special.ou’ll be absolutely spoilt for choice on Calle 10 beach.
Check out Lido, a hip, budget beach club, listen to live music in Zenzi, tuck into some delicious seafood at El Pirata, or simply lay out on the cool white sands and watch the world go by.
Because of the abundance of beach clubs on Calle 10, the actual public parts of the beach are usually fairly empty and quiet. So, why not pack up a lunch, grab your cooler, and enjoy your very own spacious beach club.
Calle 10 attracts both locals and tourists but maintains a very laid-back, tropical vibe throughout the day.

Parque Fundadores

This is probably the most iconic beach in Playa del Carmen. 
Simply walk down Juarez until you reach 5th Avenue, and you will see the gigantic ‘Playa del Carmen Arch’ right in front of you.
Here you’ll find a real mix of people, from tourists to local families.
As it’s so well known, this area can get pretty busy and a little noisy. However, as this beach is the widest in Playa del Carmen, it can fit all those extra beach towels and loungers, while still having nice quiet spaces to relax.
The extra room also makes space for a full-sized volleyball court, which anyone can rock up and use. Create your own game, or join in with some of the locals, it’s a great way to meet new people.
The most unusual thing about this stretch of beach is that there are no beach clubs, so you get a true community feel, with everyone spreading out onto the sand.
If you get a little bit peckish after an afternoon in the sun, there are plenty of bars and restaurants lining the Parque Fundadores for you to choose from.

Coco Reef

Is the only beach in Playa del Carmen that you can describe as secluded. There are no restaurants, no beach clubs, and no bars. Just the sound of the waves lapping against the shore, and the birds singing in the nearby jungle. Paradise.

Calle 2 Beach

This wide stretch of sand is home to one of the most loved beach clubs in Playa del Carmen. Access is super easy, and this beach is the perfect distance from the noisy ferry terminal and the somewhat smelly boat anchoring area.

Because of the ever popular Wah Wah beach club, this beach is usually more ‘westernised’, where you’ll meet lots expats and tourists from the States and Canada.

The vibe here is friendly and fun, there are daily games of horseshoes and racquetball, and you will be lulled into a state of full relaxation by live country music.

Anyone looking for a little taste of home comforts, while enjoying the full splendor of a fantastic Caribbean beach will love the one on Calle 2.

Mamitas Beach

The most famous of all the beaches in Playa del Carmen.
You may not want to head to Mamitas if you’re looking for a nice, tranquil beach experience, but if you’re looking for energy, alcohol and electronic music, then this is your mecca.