Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases.
One of the best ways to experience the nightlife in Playa del Carmen is to hit a club or two!
I am a travel bloggerlives in playa del carmen, and I've spent some fun afternoons dancing in Playa del Carmen's fabulous open-air clubs.
There is so much energy on the dance floor that you can't help but join the crowd.
If you are visiting Playa del Carmen and want to experience the nightlife, read on to find out all about it.best clubs in playa del carmenYou won't want to miss it.
The best clubs in Playa del Carmen
Nightclubs in Playa del Carmen, Mexico are the heart of the city's nightlife, along with the more casual ones.Playa del Carmen-Bars.
The best nightclubs in Playa del Carmen are conveniently located at 12heStreet so you can jump from one place to another according to your mood.
The clubs and bars in Playa del Carmen offer different atmospheres, music and spaces, so there is something for everyone.
The best clubs in Playa del Carmen on Calle 12
These are the best nightclubs in Playa del Carmen on Calle 12:
1. Send her
The Mandala nightclub in Playa del Carmen is one of the busiest, all thanks to its sheer size. Touch the corner of 1calley 12heStreet, its open wall design means you can't miss it.
Red and pink light up the distinctly Asian-themed venue, which can accommodate up to 700 people!
Expect long lines at the bar, even with loud house and pop music. Mandala is known as the hippest nightclub in Playa del Carmen.
If you like to party early, Mandala is a good option. It opens every day at 9:30 p.m. and offers bottle service and a combo offer with admission and open bar.
I highly recommend this club if you are looking for a typical disco experience!
2. The cow
You can hear it before you see it, the loudest disco in Playa del Carmen.
Sitting at the end of 12heStreet, La Vaquita is the perfect place to end your club-hopping adventures. Just look for the big plastic cows and head straight inside.
Like Mandala, La Vaquita is outdoors to keep the dance floor cool. While the music selection is a bit random, it's geared towards dancers who love variety.
Whether you sit at one of the small round tables or join the 20 or so on the dance floor, you'll feel the energy that defines Playa del Carmen nightlife.
3. Ancestry
Located at the crossroads of the main nightclubs in Playa del Carmen, Abolengo is the perfect club to start or end the night.
The decoration in green and red gives it a more retro air and the wooden tables make it a good place to share a few drinks.
Start the night with a lounge atmosphere instead of a typical club. Abolengo's softer music selection makes it easy to chat over a drink.
Be sure to try one of their drink specials which are always amazing!
4. Santito Tun Tun
For a more relaxed evening, I recommend a round of drinks at Santito Tun Tun.
The laid-back bar has an upscale tropical vibe, slowly morphing into the bar scene as the street gets louder.
People soon flock to enjoy their 'exotic mixology' alongside live DJs spinning funk, house and disco music.
Of all the clubs and bars featured in this guide, this is probably the best place to start the night.
5. Coconut Bongo
The playful Coco Bongo sign above the entrance marks this legendary Playa del Carmen nightclub.
Conveniently located one block from the famous 5th Avenue, theCoco Bongo Playa del CarmenThe nightclub is a carnival experience that no clubber would want to miss.
Equipped with giant screens, acrobats, confetti explosions, celebrity impersonators and tribute singers, the massive hall can accommodate a whopping 1,800 spectators. I have never seen a more extravagant nightclub!
Coco Bongo tickets cost more than your regular Playa del Carmen clubs, but the tickets also include transportation from your hotel.unlimited open barAccess.
You'll be amazed at how much fun you'll have as you sing and dance the night away to classic and modern pop culture numbers, all while sipping on unlimited drinks!
Please note that transportation back to your hotel is not included, so bring some cash for a taxi.
👉 Book Coco Bongo Playa del Carmen tickets online atClick here!
The best rooftop clubs in Playa del Carmen
Personally, my favorite clubs in Playa are the rooftop clubs, as they are more modern, more spacious, and offer a chic outdoor setting where you can dance under the stars.
6. secret
My personal favourite, Clandestino is a stylish and lively rooftop club in Playa del Carmen. The mix of tourists and locals makes it a great opportunity to meet new people.
I am in love with the beautiful design of the room! It has two levels with different living rooms, small tables are lined up on balconies facing the center. The bar is located right next to the central pit and is easily accessible.
You can start your night here early as it opens at 7pm. Bottle service, live music, and dancers make it one of the best nightclubs in Playa.
7. Santino
Another unforgettable nightclub in Playa del Carmen is the Santino rooftop bar. The fast-paced, sultry music is considered the best "Latin bar" in the city and keeps the crowd dancing for days.
It is divided into a couple of floors, with the first and middle floors hosting the craziest dancers. Smoke guns and strobe lights are commonly used.
To avoid them, head upstairs where you'll hit the open-air rooftop, which usually plays house and EDM music.
And to commemorate your evening, don't forget to take a photo in front of the building's gigantic mural!
Safety tips for nightclubs in Playa del Carmen
As in any other city, clubbing in Playa del Carmen requires a certain level of vigilance.
Personally, I have not had a negative experience of clubbing in Playa del Carmen, but it is always good to be careful when going out at night.
I've heard of things being stolen or people being drugged, so it's important to be aware of the potential risks.
Follow these so that your clubbing experience in Playa is a good memorySafety Tips for Playa del Carmen:
- Do not accept drinks that you have not seen prepared: As a woman, I'm always wary of accepting drinks from strangers. If you do this, be sure to see it prepared by the server or staff.
- Drinks always in sight:Don't leave your drink unattended either, as anyone passing by can easily slip something inside.
- Use the buddy system: Whether it's going to the bathroom or having a drink at the bar, do it with a friend. An extra set of eyes (and hands) can go a long way in keeping you safe.
- Always carry your belongings with you: Ladies, you will definitely want to bring onecompact crossbody walletand always carry it with you. Crowded nightclubs and alcohol make it easy to steal things.
- No tome a taxi home alone: If you are in a strange place where you do not speak the language or are unfamiliar with the geography, avoid situations where you are isolated from the public. Take a taxi yourself. The night can be much riskier.
Clubs in Playa del Carmen: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about clubbing in Playa del Carmen:
What is the atmosphere like in the nightclubs of Playa del Carmen?
From relaxed to chaotic, the atmosphere in Playa del Carmen nightclubs varies from place to place. For the most part, you will find Playa del Carmen clubs to be extremely loud, energetic, and lively.
Because Playa del Carmen is such a popular vacation spot for young adults, it often features drunken parties.
What is the dress code in the nightclubs in Playa del Carmen?
The dress code in the Playa del Carmen clubs is relaxed attire for the holidays.
Usually dressed casually, tourists dress elegantly in afitted dress the mamelucoto visit a more modern club or put on nicer shorts and blouses. The locals dress up a bit, but tourists can usually get away with comfort over style.
As for the shoes, the girls usually wear pretty sandals, flats or heels. If you wear heels I would recommend wedges ormesetasandalenfor greater comfort and when walking on the rugged roads of Playa del Carmen.
The dress code tends to be stricter for men so I would avoid wearing baggy shorts and flip flops as some clubs may not let you in.
When do the clubs open in Playa del Carmen?
Nightclubs in Playa del Carmen usually open their doors around 10 p.m. m. and you can expect a party until 3 or 4 am. m.
What kind of music is played in the discos in Playa del Carmen?
The bigger clubs like Mandala and La Vaquita tend to have typical clubbing music: techno, EDM, pop, and live numbers.
Other venues book bands covering pop and rock sensations, while house and disco songs are also regularly found in dance clubs.
Of course, you can also expect Latin music like reggaeton, salsa, and bachata.
Is there Uber in Playa del Carmen?
No, Uber is not available in Playa del Carmen. If you live in the center (Centro) you can probably walk to the clubs.
But if you are staying at a resort in the Riviera Maya, you will have to take a taxi to get there. Just be careful when taking taxis at night and avoid taking a taxi alone.
How much do discos cost in Playa del Carmen?
The entrance fee varies from club to club in Playa del Carmen, but most charge around 100 pesos ($5).
Coverage tends to increase during peak seasons or special events. However, girl groups are usually always admitted for free.
Some of the more exclusive clubs may offer all you can drink with open bar at a premium price.
Travelista-Tip:Many clubs let you in for free before midnight, so get there early if you're trying to cut a budget.
Fazit: Guide to Playa del Carmen Nightclubs
I hope this Playa del Carmen nightlife guide has been helpful in planning some fun nights out in Playa del Carmen!
turn off onPlaya del Carmen-Barsand discos is one of the best ways to experience the nightlife in Playa del Carmen.
If I had to pick the best club in Playa del Carmen, it would probably be Clandestino, a trendy nightclub with a gorgeous rooftop terrace.
And if you're looking for an all-you-can-drink experience, dance the night away at Legendarycoco bongo- a very funny pop culture production!
Just remember to be careful by taking the proper safety precautions and you will surely have a fun time dancing the night away at the best clubs in Playa del Carmen!
Did you enjoy this guide to Playa del Carmen nightlife? Pin for later!
Are you going to travel to Mexico soon?
These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:
🏨Hotels: I always find the best deals on hotels and resorts in MexicoBooking.com. If you prefer a vacation rental, consultPASTUREas they are often cheaper than the additional AirBnB fees!
✈️flights: I recommend using itHimmels scannerfor the best flight deals to Mexico. Be sure to sign up for price alerts for your preferred travel dates.
🚗rental car: I like to use itdiscover carsBecause you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed rankings for overall value, ease of pickup, agent efficiency, car condition, and total time spent.
🚙Transportation to Cancun Airport: I recommend booking a private transfer withTransportation to Cancun Airportfor the fastest and least complicated option!
🤿Tours and activities:I always wearviatoroget your guideto book tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund and they have great customer service should you run into any issues.
🚨Travel insurance:After my dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend getting travel insurance before you travel for peace of mind! I recommendMaster in Travel Insurancefor short tripssecurity wingfor digital nomads.
☀️biodegradable sun protection: Don't forget to add biodegradable sunscreenPacking list Mexico! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so pack biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. I recommendProtector solar Sun Bum, which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
FAQs
The 7 best clubs in Playa del Carmen to visit in 2023? ›
Playa Del Carmen nightlife offers something for everyone, from cheap dive bars to fancy rooftop clubs. In our opinion, the nightlife here is superior to Cancun and even better in some aspects than Tulum's nightlife (unless you are loaded).
Does Playa del Carmen have a good nightlife? ›Playa Del Carmen nightlife offers something for everyone, from cheap dive bars to fancy rooftop clubs. In our opinion, the nightlife here is superior to Cancun and even better in some aspects than Tulum's nightlife (unless you are loaded).
What time do people go out in Playa del Carmen? ›Nightlife in the clubs normally starts late in Playa del Carmen (around 11PM), so you can have some predrinks on many of its bars along 5th Avenue and after go to one of its many Nightclubs . Travelers visiting Playa del Carmen can stay out until 4 or 5am. People from all over the world come here.
How much is Club in Playa del Carmen? ›Most clubs in Playa Del Carmen charge about 100 pesos entrance fee to get in. This goes up to about 200 pesos during holidays and special events. One big tip if you want to save some money is go out earlier. Many clubs will let you in for free before midnight.
Why is Playa del Carmen so expensive? ›It is more expensive than most other Mexican cities.
Playa Del Carmen is more expensive then most other places in Mexico because rents are high on 5th Avenue and prices have to be passed on. Many things are imported to Playa and this adds to the cost as well.
The best time to visit is between December and March when the weather is most settled. The hottest month of the year is May with an average daily maximum of 33 C and an average low of 23 C. The coolest month of the year is January with an average daily maximum of 27 C and an average low of 20 C.
What is the famous strip in Playa del Carmen? ›One of the most popular tourist attractions in Mexico, 5th Avenue Playa del Carmen – “La Quinta Avenida” to locals – is 22 blocks of high-end retailers, bars, restaurants, local shops, cafes, and much more. Yet, this street is so much more than its retail offering, it's about the experience.
What is the cheapest month to go to Playa del Carmen? ›Prices are generally at their lowest during the humid rainy season, with May to June and September to October usually seeing the lowest prices. However, late April and early December can also see reasonable prices, as well as drier, less humid weather, so be aware of offers around this time too.
How many days is good for Playa del Carmen? ›2 days in Playa del Carmen: If you're short on time, you can still experience some of the highlights of Playa del Carmen in just two days. We recommend spending one day exploring the town and the other day on a day trip to a nearby attraction like Tulum or Cozumel.
What is the hottest month in Playa del Carmen? ›May is the hottest month in Playa del Carmen with an average temperature of 28.35°C (83°F) and the coldest is January at 23.3°C (74°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 11 in May. The wettest month is September with an average of 173.1mm of rain.
How to meet singles in Playa del Carmen? ›
Your best bet for meeting people on the beach in Playa is to spend your days close to Mamitas Beach Club / Initi Beach Club / and the Grand Coral. Although you will find people here every day of the week the beach here quickly fills up over the weekend. There's music, dancing, beer, and lots of fun! Bliss!
What is the dress code for Coralina Daylight Club? ›DRESS CODE REQUIRED: Sophisticated and casual-chic beach attire. Mandatory swimming suit and beach sandals/shoes. // Jeans, sports, gym or cargo shorts, baggy clothing or jerseys are prohibited.
Is alcohol expensive in Playa del Carmen? ›If you are going out to one of the bars in Playa Del Carmen you can expect to pay about 40-60 pesos for a beer and 80-200 for cocktails. For clubs there is usually no cover early in the evening but later it can be about 100-150 pesos. You can expect drinks to cost about 100-150 pesos each and beer around 50 pesos.
What is the safest part of Playa del Carmen? ›It is also one of the safest resort towns in Mexico. The Best Places for First-Timers to Playa del Carmen are Downtown, North Playa, Mayakoba, North Riviera Maya, or South Riviera Maya.
Should I bring cash to Playa del Carmen? ›Although credit cards are accepted at more and more small businesses, Playa del Carmen still runs on cash, and you'll need small bills to enjoy its local taco joints, neighborhood bars and side-street shops. Avoid changing money before getting to Mexico, as you won't get the best rates.
Should I bring pesos to Playa del Carmen? ›1. Local Currency. The currency used in Playa del Carmen is the Mexican Peso, but US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and main tourist attractions. Buy pesos from your local bank before you come.
What is the rainiest season in Playa del Carmen? ›The months with the most rainfall are usually September and October with cooler temperatures becoming more noticeable particularly in the morning and evenings around that time.
Does Playa del Carmen get cold at night? ›The coldest months in Playa del Carmen are January and February – but like anywhere else, it is warmer during the day and colder at night. The warmest months are the summer months, July and August.
What time of year is seaweed bad in Playa del Carmen? ›The seaweed season in Playa del Carmen is usually during the summer months from April–August. During these months, the seaweed conditions are typically worse, however it can still show up at any time of year.
What is Playa del Carmen most known for? ›Playa del Carmen is mostly known for its beaches, parties and giant resorts. But there's the whole other side of the city. It's a great hub for independent travelers with many things to do in and around.
Where can I walk around in Playa del Carmen? ›
- El Manglar - Vidanta Riviera Maya. Easy• 4.8(6) ...
- Quinta Avenida. Easy• 3.7(21) ...
- Playa del Carmen. Easy• 3.9(6) ...
- Sendero Selva Grand Sirens. Easy• 4.7(6) ...
- 5ta Avenida - Palacio Municipal. ...
- Ciudad del Carmen. ...
- Playacar [PRIVATE PROPERTY] ...
- Playa del Carmen Pier - Playacar [PRIVATE PROPERTY]
The beaches, the water, the amenities, and the nightlife are just a few of the things that make Playa del Carmen a top Mexican Caribbean destination. With proximity to nearby Mayan cultural centers and offshore islands, there's a little something for everyone in “Playa”.
What are the least crowded beaches in Playa del Carmen? ›Punta Esmeralda Beach is known as the hidden local beach in Playa del Carmen. This undeveloped beach is perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds, relax and unwind.
What is low season in Playa del Carmen? ›In general, the best times to book a cheap flight to Playa del Carmen are late January-February, late April-early June and October. These are the low seasons in Playa and it's just before or after the various holiday events.
How much is an Uber from Cancun to Playa del Carmen? ›Uber in 2019 has started operating again in the Cancun area, and getting from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen will cost you around 400 MXN (approximately 17 USD) with UberX.
Can you walk around Playa del Carmen with alcohol? ›It is a beautiful sunny day and you want to stroll down the pedestrian street of 5th Avenue in Playa Del Carmen. You are also in Mexico, where the beer flows freely and also home to many liquors. However, don't take that drink to go and walk around with it. This is illegal to walk around town with an open drink.
How walkable is Playa del Carmen? ›Playa Del Carmen is known as a walkable town, but this is limited to more the center of town. The downtown of Playa Del Carmen is walkable but once you cross over the 307 Highway or get out of the center, it becomes more broken up areas that are not that walkable.
Can you swim in the ocean in Playa del Carmen? ›Playa del Carmen boasts an enviable collection of beaches, where you can enjoy typical Caribbean relaxation and swim in an unspoilt sea, perhaps coming across turtles while you do so.
How much is the taxi from Cancun to Playa del Carmen? ›Taking a Cancun Airport taxi is an easy door-to-door service, which will take 60 minutes and cost around $70 (MXN 1,400). Taking the ADO bus will take closer to 70 minutes to reach Playa del Carmen, but costs just $11 (MXN 230) per person.
Are mosquitoes bad in Playa del Carmen? ›I lived in Playa for 6 summers and the mosquitos are pretty bad there if you are not right on the beach. They are stealth, little ninjas that are hungry all the time. Not just dusk and dawn. They are smaller than mosquitos in Canada and I don't feel them when they are biting.
How to find girls at a resort? ›
If your resort has a bar or club, check it out and see what's going on. Just about any event will provide an opportunity to meet women, so you should take up any opportunity when it presents itself. Check out party events in the area. Parties entail a high-energy environment that's perfect for meeting single women.
Where do adults meet partners? ›- At school. Twenty-eight percent of couples say that they met in an educational setting. ...
- Online dating. Technology is the new wave by dating via an app. ...
- Through friends. The friend network still works! ...
- At work. ...
- A bar. ...
- 6. Facebook. ...
- Through family. ...
- Church.
Committed partners are more often found in places like conferences, religious organizations, or volunteer groups. In contrast, flings and hookups are more likely found at places like clubs, bars, or parties.
How much are drinks at Daylight Beach Club? ›What are Daylight Beach Club Drink prices? Mixed drinks and cocktails start around $15, Beers $10, Shots $12.
What do you wear to a beach club? ›The dress code for most beach clubs is all out glam, so we recommend a sequin bikini, a cut-out swimsuit or an embellished number.
Can you wear bright colors at club? ›Bright colors look great, but dark blues or blacks are best for functionality to avoid stains. A button-down or v-neck shirt are go-to tops for any clubbing outfit. A pair of skinny jeans or slim-fit slacks work for most occasions.
What time do they stop selling alcohol in Playa del Carmen? ›New alcohol law in effect.
According to the new law the sale of alcohol for wineries, liquor stores, sub-agencies, mini supers, self-service stores and convenience stores is only allowed from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday and on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tipping at Bars in Mexico
If you're at a beach club in Playa del Carmen or a sit-down place, gratuity will most likely be added to your bill, and there is no reason to add an additional tip. We always suggest tipping the first drink around 10 pesos and then seeing how the service is when you return.
We recommend not to drink faucet/tap water, the resort will provide filtered and bottled water at all time. Water and ice cubes served at all resort venues are always filtered and safe to drink.
How safe is Playa del Carmen 2023? ›As with all of Mexico, the vast majority of Playa del Carmen visitors are completely safe. There are isolated incidents of crime like any other place on Earth, but for the most part, it's one of the best places to visit in Mexico.
Is it safe to walk in Playa del Carmen at night? ›
The short answer is yes, it is safe to walk around Playa del Carmen. It is especially safe during the day and if you stick to the busy areas in the evening that are typically bustling with tourists and locals.
Should I convert dollars to pesos before going to Mexico? ›It's recommended that you buy pesos before you land in Mexico, just in case you need the cash. According to this USA Today article, the most economical way to do this is to buy pesos from your bank in the U.S. Most banks will do this for free, especially if you're not withdrawing a significant amount of money.
Is it better to bring pesos or usd to Mexico? ›What currency should you bring to Mexico? The best currency to bring to Mexico is a mix of pesos and US dollars. Use the dollars to pay for tours, entrance fees, accommodation, and travel. For everything else use pesos.
Is it better to pay in pesos or dollars? ›The short answer is use pesos! Most businesses will take U.S. dollars, but it's better to convert your currency to pesos. You'll get better deals and it is the currency of Mexico. Many people get pesos from their bank at home before travel.
How much is $100 dollars in pesos? ›| Conversion rates US Dollar / Mexican Peso | |
|---|---|
| 20 USD | 357.47800 MXN |
| 50 USD | 893.69500 MXN |
| 100 USD | 1787.39000 MXN |
| 250 USD | 4468.47500 MXN |
1 USD = 17.9883 MXN May 23, 2023 16:18 UTC
Check the currency rates against all the world currencies here. The currency converter below is easy to use and the currency rates are updated frequently.
| Conversion rates US Dollar / Mexican Peso | |
|---|---|
| 1 USD | 17.97780 MXN |
| 5 USD | 89.88900 MXN |
| 10 USD | 179.77800 MXN |
| 20 USD | 359.55600 MXN |
As compared to Cancun, Playa del Carmen has a much more laid-back vibe and while still touristy, feels less commercialized and more like a small beach town. It's best suited for travelers looking for walkability and easy access to restaurants, beaches, and nightlife.
Is Playa del Carmen lively? ›Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal town located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and bustling nightlife. Playa del Carmen offers something for everyone, from quiet beachfront lounging to lively nightclubs and bars.
How much is a cab from Playa del Carmen to Tulum? ›Taxis to Tulum from Playa del Carmen usually cost around 600 pesos (around 30 USD), but if you're traveling with a few other people the split cost isn't too terrible.
Where to avoid in Playa del Carmen? ›
Where To Avoid in Playa del Carmen. In general, most tourists choose to stay in the areas close to La Quinta (5th Avenue) and within a few blocks of Playa del Carmen's beach. The general advice you'll likely hear is to avoid going further from the beach than the highway.
Do celebrities go to Playa del Carmen? ›Other Celebs That Have Stayed At The Rosewood Mayakoba
Britney Spears is certainly not the first A-list celeb to stay at this hotel in Playa del Carmen. In fact, stars like Leonardo Di Caprio, and Kate Hudson have also vacationed at the Mayakoba resort.
Expect perfect weather in high season (December–April)
Playa's peak season brings balmy days and cool evenings – but also huge crowds and high prices. Beaches bulge at the seams and hotel rates spike around Christmas and spring break.
Playa del Carmen boasts an enviable collection of beaches, where you can enjoy typical Caribbean relaxation and swim in an unspoilt sea, perhaps coming across turtles while you do so.