20 Best Things to Do in Playa del Carmen with Kids – From a Resident

If you’re looking for some amazing things to do in Playa del Carmen with kids, then you’ve come to the right place!

I lived in Playa del Carmen with my family for a year and we had a blast!

Located on the Caribbean coast of Quintana Roo, Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore with kids of all ages.

From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to playing and swimming on the white sandy beaches, there are plenty of family friendly activities in Playa del Carmen.

So let’s dive in! 💦

Fun Things to Do in Playa del Carmen with Kids

There are so many cool things to do in Playa del Carmen with kids! These are the top activities that we most recommend.

1. Relax on the Beach

There’s nothing better than spending a day at the beach with your little ones. Playa del Carmen has some beautiful white sandy beaches and calm, crystal-clear waters.

Pack a picnic and some beach toys, and your kids will have a blast splashing in the waves and building sand castles.

The more popular beaches tend to be dotted with beach clubs. While these aren’t for everyone, I have to say we really enjoy them from time to time.

Some of the beach clubs in Playa del Carmen even have swimming pools for when kiddos get tired of the sand.

2. Family Photo Shoot

What better way to capture your Playa del Carmen memories than with a family photo shoot? There are plenty of professional photographers in Playa del Carmen who specialize in family shoots, but this one gets excellent reviews.

Whether you opt for fun beach photos or something more formal, you’re sure to have some stunning pics to treasure forever!

The best part of having a professional photographer take your photos in a different city or place is that they know the best spots and times of day to take awesome photos.

3. Helicopter Tour

👉 A helicopter ride is a great option for families wanting to get to know Playa del Carmen in a unique way!

On this private helicopter ride just for your family, You’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the Mexican Caribbean.

You’ll fly over the beautiful Playa del Carmen and marvel at the turquoise-blue waters from above.

The best part? It’s really easy to get there because the tour leaves from Playa del Carmen’s airport next to Playacar.

4. Visit an Eco Park

The Xcaret, Xel-ha, Xenses, and Xplor eco-parks offer an array of Playa del Carmen activities for families that are perfect for having a fun and memorable experience.

👉 Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park that offers something for everyone.

It has a wide variety of attractions such as underground rivers, a butterfly pavilion, a coral reef aquarium, and much more.

There are also cultural performances throughout the day that showcase traditional Mexican music and dance.

👉 Xel-ha is an all-inclusive park located in the Riviera Maya.

It features activities such as snorkeling, swimming in natural lagoons, zip-lining, and more. The park is also all-inclusive with a variety of buffet restaurants and bars.

👉 Xenses is another great option for families visiting Playa del Carmen with kids.

This park offers unique experiences that will awaken your senses like never before. You can enjoy a variety of interactive optical illusions as well as a lazy river through a cave.

Xenses is a half-day park so you can get an early start and head home by lunchtime! This makes it great for families with kiddos that take afternoon naps.

👉 Xplor is an adventure park with thrilling activities!

You can explore underground rivers, ride on amphibious vehicles through mud trails, or even fly over the jungle canopy on zip lines!

There’s also a night version of this park where you can explore the same attractions but under the stars!

👉 If you stay at Hotel Xcaret, you get free access to all four of these parks included in your stay!

5. Mayan Ruins

What makes Playa del Carmen especially unique is that it’s home to some of the most incredible Mayan ruins in Mexico. My family and I have visited all of the Mayan ruins in Playa del Carmen, and we’ve had a great time at each one.

👉 Coba is located about two hours from Playa del Carmen.

It’s a great place to explore with Playa del Carmen kids because there are so many trails and ancient structures to explore.

Little Man loved the bikes and trikes that take you all over the ruins because they’re so massive!

👉 We also visited Chichen Itza – twice!

They’re one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has a lot of history and it was really fascinating to learn about it with our son.

👉 Another great ruin is Tulum, which is only 40 minutes south of Playa del Carmen.

This site has some beautiful views overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Kids love exploring all the different structures, iguana-spotting, and learning about Mayan naval history.

You can also visit Playacar Mayan Ruinas, which is located within a private resort called Fraccionamiento Playacar. This site isn’t as big as some of the other ruins but it still offers plenty of interesting things to explore with your family.

Note: Although the Playacar ruins are in the gated community of Playacar, anyone can visit the ruins.

Overall, if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience with your family while visiting Playa del Carmen, then make sure you visit these incredible Mayan ruins!

My personal favorites were Coba and Chichen Itza but all four sites are definitely worth checking out!

6. Swim in Cenotes

There are literally hundreds of cenotes in Riviera Maya. You could never visit all of them in a one-week vacation. In our year living there, we still didn’t manage to visit them all!

Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.

The most popular cenotes near Playa del Carmen include Cenote Azul, Cenote Jardin del Eden, Cenote Cristalino, Cenote Chac Mool, Rio Secreto, Cenote Tajma Ha, and Cenote Verde Lucero.

Cenote Azul is a great choice for families as it has several different pools with varying depths and temperatures. It’s also known for its beautiful blue-green waters and lush vegetation.

Other family-friendly cenotes include Cenote Jardin del Eden which features an underground river with plenty of fish to observe; Cenote Cristalino which offers stunning views of the jungle; and Cenote Chac Mool which has a shallow pool perfect for young children.

No matter what type of experience you’re looking for there’s sure to be a cenote near Playa del Carmen that will fit your needs!

7. 3D Museum of Wonders

👉 The 3D Museum of Wonders in Playa del Carmen is an interactive museum that showcases the amazing artwork of some of the world’s leading illustrators.

It’s a great place to visit with Playa del Carmen children because it offers an immersive experience that allows them to explore and interact with the 3D illusional artwork created by masters such as DaVinci and Michelangelo.

The museum is open daily from 9 am to 10 pm, and admission tickets give visitors access to all rooms for as long as they want. Plus, there are plenty of family friendly Playa del Carmen activities available throughout the day.

The 3D Museum of Wonders is a unique and exciting way for kids to learn about art and history in a fun and engaging environment. They can explore the exhibits at their own pace, discovering new things along the way.

With its interactive displays, educational activities, and stunning visuals, it’s no wonder why this museum has become one of Playa del Carmen’s top attractions for families.

8. Swim with Sea Turtles

👉 Swimming with sea turtles in Akumal is a great experience for families visiting Playa del Carmen with kids.

Akumal Bay is home to a variety of marine life, including green and loggerhead turtles, rays, spotted eagle rays, colorful fish, nurse sharks, barracudas, lobsters, and corals.

The bay is also known for its shallow waters and calm waves which make it an ideal spot for swimming with the turtles. The turtles are used to the presence of humans so visitors can get close to them while still respecting their space.

It’s important to remember that both species of sea turtles that nest in Akumal are endangered so it’s important to follow the rules when swimming with them. This includes not touching or harassing the turtles in any way.

The experience of swimming with these majestic wild creatures will stay with your family forever.

Not only will you have the opportunity to observe these incredible animals up close but you’ll also be helping to support conservation efforts in Akumal Bay.

9. Rio Secreto

👉 If you’re looking for an unforgettable family experience, then a visit to Rio Secreto is a perfect choice!

Kids as young as 4 years old can join the tours here, but they must be accompanied by an adult at all times. It’s also important to note that children under 8 years old may not be allowed to participate in certain activities due to safety reasons.

Since you’ll be spending most of your time in water, it’s important to wear comfortable clothing that won’t restrict movement (e.g., swimsuits or shorts). You’ll also need closed-toe shoes with good grip for walking on slippery surfaces.

This underground river and cave system is full of natural wonders that will leave your kids in awe. The safety of your family is paramount when visiting Rio Secreto.

All visitors must wear life jackets and helmets while exploring the caves, and all guides are certified by the Mexican government.

10. Cirque du Soleil

Did you know that there’s a Cirque du Soleil show in Riviera Maya?

👉 JOYÀ is performed at the Vidanta Riviera Maya resort just north of Playa del Carmen.

JOYÀ is an intimate theatrical experience that tells the story of a rebellious teenage girl and her grandfather on a quest to uncover the secrets of life.

This show will mesmerize your family with its creative and artistic performances, transporting you into another world.

You can also enjoy tablecloth dining while watching the show, which adds to the magical atmosphere. The lush jungle and the Caribbean Sea provide a stunning backdrop for this unforgettable performance.

JOYÀ is sure to be an unforgettable experience for your family as you watch these talented performers bring this story to life. It’s a really amazing show to see when visiting Playa del Carmen for kids!

11. Go Paddleboarding

👉 Paddleboarding at sunrise in Playa del Carmen is a unique and fun activity for kids!

It provides an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Caribbean Sea while learning a new skill.

With the help of experienced instructors, children 10+ can learn how to stand up paddleboard and enjoy the stunning views of the sunrise over the ocean.

The experience is made even more enjoyable with photos and instruction included, making it easy for kids to get started. Plus, since paddleboarding is a low-impact activity, it’s perfect for families to enjoy together.

With its crystal clear waters and breathtaking scenery, Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico’s most popular destinations for water sports. Paddleboarding at sunrise offers an unforgettable experience that your whole family will enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful morning on the water or an exciting adventure with friends, paddleboarding at sunrise in Playa del Carmen has something for everyone!

12. Cozumel Day Trip

Located just off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel offers a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to please everyone in the family. This is one of our favorite day trips from Playa del Carmen.

From snorkeling and diving in clear turquoise waters to exploring ancient Mayan ruins, there is something for everyone on this idyllic island.

For those looking to relax, Cozumel has plenty of beautiful beaches where you can soak up the sun or take a dip in the Caribbean Sea.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent an ATV or Jeep and explore the island’s rugged terrain or take a boat tour to spot some of its unique wildlife.

No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone on this stunning island paradise.

Families can also enjoy a variety of cultural experiences while visiting Cozumel, too. We loved learning about Mayan chocolate and the little-known stingless Mayan bees!

From visiting Punta Sur Eco Park to learn about local flora and fauna to exploring downtown Cozumel and experiencing its vibrant culture, there are plenty of opportunities for learning and discovery when visiting this beautiful destination.

No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, Cozumel is sure to provide it!

With its stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich culture, it’s no wonder why so many families choose this destination as their day trip from Playa del Carmen each year.

13. Attend a Temzcal Ceremony

A Temazcal ceremony is an ancient ritual that dates back to pre-Hispanic times. It combines elements of Native American and Mesoamerican rituals to bring cleansing to the mind, body, and soul.

The ceremony takes place in a sweat lodge (typically an igloo-shaped hut) constructed from volcanic stone, wood or cement.

Inside the lodge, participants will experience intense heat and steam as they are guided through prayers and chants by a shaman, or temazcalero.

This type of ceremony is perfect for families visiting Playa del Carmen with kids because it offers a unique cultural experience that can be enjoyed together.

It is also a great way to bond with each other while learning about the history and traditions of Mexico.

Plus, the intense heat of the sweat lodge helps to release toxins from your body, leaving you feeling refreshed and energized afterward!

14. Relax at Your Resort

If you’re paying for a wonderful hotel, especially an all-inclusive resort, you should spend at least a little time on-site enjoying it, right?

Especially if you book a resort with a kids club, multiple swimming pools, water slides, splash pads, and on-site cenotes and rivers to explore.

I’m a little biased on this one because we found a wonderful all-inclusive eco-resort that’s great for families. Their kid’s club is even open a few evenings a week so adults can enjoy date night!

Regardless of where you stay, use some of your time in Playa del Carmen to relax and enjoy the amenities that are already included in your lodging.

Swimming pools, hot tubs, spas, and barbeque grills are just a few of the common extras available at most resorts.

Plus, it’s always nice to have a few lazy days on vacation – especially when traveling with kids! It will help ensure everyone stays well-rested and refreshed for all the other activities you’re going to do during your trip.

15. Stroll Avenida Quinta

Also known as 5th Avenue, Avenida Quinta is the main shopping and dining district in Playa del Carmen.

Here, you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving a variety of international cuisine as well as souvenir shops filled with Mexican crafts and artwork.

It’s also one of the best places to go for people watching. You can sit along the boardwalk and observe the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Playa del Carmen.

If you’re traveling with kids, it’s worth taking a stroll down Avenida Quinta. Not only will they get to experience the vibrant culture of Mexico but there are also plenty of stores where they can buy souvenirs for themselves and friends back home.

Plus, the street performers and musicians will provide plenty of entertainment!

16. Parque Fundadores

Parque Fundadores, or Founders Park, is a popular destination in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Located at the end of Quinta Av and sandwiched between the Nuestra Senora del Carmen whitewashed Church and PDC beach, it’s a great spot to spend the day with family and friends.

The park offers plenty of activities for kids of all ages. Kids can enjoy a variety of playground equipment such as swings and slides, as well as climb on the Playa del Carmen sign.

At night, Parque Fundadores comes alive with food carts selling sweet Mexican treats like churros and marquesitas. You can also find traditional food vendors serving delicious dishes like tacos and tamales.

Another highlight of Parque Fundadores is the Danza de los Voladores (Dance of the Flyers) or Palo Volador (Pole Flying).

This ancient ritual is performed every hour by six men dressed in traditional costumes who climb up a 30-meter pole before leaping off into the air with colorful streamers attached to their bodies. It’s an amazing sight to behold!

17. Xaman Ha Aviary

Xaman Ha Aviary is a beautiful aviary and a great destination for families looking to explore the natural beauty of the area and observe some of its unique wildlife.

The aviary is situated in Playacar, about a 10-minute walk away from the main strip on Quinta Avenida.

The aviary is home to all kinds of birds, including toucans and flamingos. Families can take a leisurely stroll along the trails and observe these birds in their natural habitat.

There are also plenty of other activities available for visitors to enjoy, such as bird watching, photography, and learning about conservation efforts in the area.

Xaman Ha Aviary is an ideal destination for families looking for an educational and fun experience. With its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, it’s sure to be a memorable visit!

18. Chanolandia

Chanolandia Water Park in Playa del Carmen is a one-of-a-kind water park experience. Located just 10 minutes from the center of town, it’s the perfect way to spend a day with your family.

With a variety of attractions, including slides, pools, and even replica Mayan ruins, there’s something for everyone at Chanolandia.

Families will enjoy Chanolandia because it provides all the amenities and entertainment you’d expect from a water park, plus games and activities that are unique to the area.

It’s also a true local experience – you’ll likely be the only non-Mexican family there! So if you’re looking for an unforgettable day out with your family, Chanolandia is the place to go.

19. Parque La Ceiba

Parque la Ceiba in the Ejidal neighborhood of Playa del Carmen is a great place for families to visit. We lived two blocks away from here and spent a lot of afternoons enjoying its shaded trails and kid-friendly fun.

Located just minutes away from the beach, the park offers plenty of activities and amenities to keep everyone entertained.

The large, shaded playground is perfect for kids to run around and explore while parents can relax on nearby benches or take a stroll along the walking trails.

On weekends, there are usually scheduled activities for kids from silks classes to upcycling art projects.

20. Go to the Movies

Going to the movies is a great activity for kids in Playa del Carmen! Cineopolis at Plaza las Americas mall offers limited English movie showings, so it’s perfect for families with young children who don’t speak Spanish.

But if you’re looking for something a little more special, El Cine Club offers outdoor movies at night in Parque La Ceiba.

It’s a great way to enjoy the warm summer nights and watch some of your favorite films under the stars. Plus, the feature films are free!

It’s an excellent way to engage the community towards the seventh art through the exhibition of art films and documentaries.

El Cine Club also teams up with Blue Parrot beach club for “Noches de Cine Frente al Mar” (Movie Nights by the Ocean). So grab a blanket and some snacks, and head out to one of these unique events!

Getting Around Playa del Carmen

Getting around Playa del Carmen is easy and convenient. The downtown area, known as “Centro”, is completely walkable where you can explore the shops, restaurants, and attractions.

For those who prefer to bike, there are plenty of rental options available throughout the city. Note that the publicly available bikes don’t have child seats on the back. So this may not be a great choice for families with babies or toddlers.

Taxis are also abundant in the Mayan Riviera and fairly inexpensive. You can find taxi stands throughout Playa del Carmen. We found those to be very overpriced though. We were often quoted 200 pesos for what we knew should be 50 pesos.

You can also a reputable taxi with the RadioTaxiPDC app which allows you to call a taxi to pick you up at your hotel or vacation rental.

Personally, I recommend the latter because every time we get a taxi on the street we are overcharged.

Note: The Radio Taxi PDC app is just for scheduling reputable taxis for pickup. You still have to pay cash in pesos when you arrive at your destination.

Additionally, there are colectivos (city buses) that run regularly from Playa del Carmen back to many of the surrounding resorts for only 30-40 pesos ($1.50-$2 USD).

For longer trips, you can take ADO buses which offer comfortable rides between cities throughout the Yucatan. They’re a good choice for families on a tight budget.

Personally, we prefer private shuttle services that will operate on our timetable.

👉 I recommend GetTransfers for booking transfer shuttles.

Packing List for Playa del Carmen with Kids

Are you planning a vacation to Playa del Carmen with your kids? If so, you’ll want to make sure that you have all the items necessary for a fun and stress-free trip.

From beach gear to snacks, there are certain must-have items that you shouldn’t forget to pack.

Here is a list of things you may not have thought of that you should definitely bring along for your vacation in Playa del Carmen with kids:

• Sunscreen – Make sure to pack enough sunscreen for everyone in your party and reapply often.
• Beach towels – Don’t forget to bring beach towels for drying off after swimming or playing in the sand.
• Insect repellent – Mosquitoes can be pesky in some areas, so don’t forget insect repellent!
• Swimwear – Pack swimsuits for everyone in the family so they can enjoy the water activities available at Xcaret Park or Xel-Ha Park.

• Water shoes – Bring water shoes if you plan on exploring any cenotes or other bodies of water near Playa del Carmen as they provide protection from sharp rocks and other debris on the ground.
• Snacks – Packing snacks will help keep everyone happy during long days out and about exploring Playa del Carmen with kids!
• First aid kit – It’s always a good idea to bring along a first aid kit just in case someone gets injured while having fun!

• Camera/phone charger – Don’t forget to pack an extra phone charger or camera battery so that you can capture all those special moments with your family!
• Hat/sunglasses – Hats and sunglasses are essential when spending time outdoors in sunny Playa del Carmen!
• Waterproof phone pouch – With all the water activities you’ll be doing, you’ll want to be able to take photos!
• Waterproof waist pouch – Have a secure place to store your keys, money, credit cards, and an emergency granola bar for a hangry kid. I love my waist pouch and it’s still going strong after 2 years of regular use!

Playa del Carmen with Kids Family Travel Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make your family trip to Playa del Carmen enjoyable for everyone.

First, bring a baby carrier instead of a stroller. The sidewalks in Playa del Carmen can be quite uneven and it’s easier to navigate with a baby carrier.

Second, consider getting a sim card or eSim for your phone before you leave home. This will ensure that you have access to data when you’re away from hotel wifi.

Third, plan Playa del Carmen kid-friendly activities that everyone will enjoy. Playa del Carmen offers plenty of options such as playing at the park, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, and visiting nearby cenotes (underground pools).

Fourth, if you’re planning on going out at night, make sure to book transportation ahead of time so that you don’t have to worry about finding a taxi when it’s dark outside.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Playa del Carmen

This dynamic destination offers families an abundance of enjoyable activities, as well as mouthwatering cuisine.

Here are some amazing restaurants that your family will really enjoy on your next visit to Playa del Carmen.

☑️ Nativo – Their food is good but their smoothies are absolutely amazing! We found it because all the colectivo drivers would go there before starting their daily shifts. For 40-60 pesos, you get a full liter of fresh-made juice!

☑️ Chez Waffle – Hidden away on Avenida 1, this spot has cute pink decor and a lovely outdoor garden. From Oreo waffles to waffles smothered in bechamel sauce with ham and mushrooms, you’ll need to come here a few times to try everything.

☑️ Don Sirloin – This restaurant is renowned for its steak, but they also offer an array of other dishes to satisfy meat abstainers such as burgers, sandwiches and salads. Plus, the menu has treats like kid-sized ice cream sundaes and milkshakes!

☑️ El Fogon – This restaurant offers traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist. The menu has something for everyone, including vegan options and kids’ meals. Their margaritas are also really tasty!

☑️ Carboncitos – This restaurant is the perfect spot for families to enjoy a delicious meal of tacos and other Mexican cuisines in an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. Kids will be delighted with the bright colors and fun decorations that adorn this eatery.

☑️ IHOP – Yeah, there’s an International House of Pancakes on Avenida Quinta. When your kid is tired of ‘weird food’ and local delights, this spot is exactly the same as your local IHOP at home.

☑️ El Ranchito – Situated on 10th Avenue, this family-run restaurant has a comprehensive menu to suit everyone’s tastes, including an array of child-friendly items such as burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, fries and more!

☑️ Antojo Chilango – We stumbled in here on our first day in Playa del Carmen because I insisted on a restaurant with AC. Best accident ever! They have the absolute best chilaquiles in all of Riviera Maya. And I don’t say that lightly.

☑️ Que Huevos – We walked here a couple of times a month for breakfast. It’s ideal for breakfast or brunch. They serve a variety of breakfast items, not just eggs. Get there early for the espresso horchata because they often run out.

☑️ El Gran Taco – If you want a truly local experience in Playa del Carmen, head over to El Gran Taco. This is where you can find the best tacos in town, topped off with fresh guacamole.

No matter what type of food your family enjoys there is something for everyone at these kid-friendly restaurants in Playa del Carmen! So come hungry & enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer!

Playa del Carmen with Kids: FAQs

Do you still have questions about visiting Playa del Carmen with kids? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

👉 While we have global health insurance for our day-to-day lives, we also elect travel insurance with SafetyWing for our spurts of fast travel adventure!

Conclusion: Playa del Carmen with Kids

Playa del Carmen is a great destination for families, with plenty of fun activities and beautiful beaches. From snorkeling in the nearby cenotes to exploring nature at Xaman Ha Aviary and City Center Park, there’s something for everyone.

And let’s not forget the restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. It’s the perfect place to sample the flavors of Mexico.

If Playa del Carmen with kids wasn’t a great idea, I wouldn’t have spent a year living there with my family!

With a little planning and some common sense, all families can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Playa del Carmen!

So book your trip and have a blast! 🌴