48 Hours in Playa del Carmen: Where to Eat, Stay and Soak Up the Sun

Sun, Sound, and So Much Flavor—Here’s How We Did It

As the air back home started to cool and leaves began their slow fade into fall, I booked a quick escape—trading sweaters for swimsuits and trading a few gray skies for warm, sunny Mexican color.

Just 45 minutes south of Cancún International Airport sits Playa del Carmen, a vibrant coastal town where sun, culture, and flavor meet. It’s a place where locals and travelers blend into one community, and somehow, two days feel like a full, soul-refreshing getaway.

If you’re planning a quick coastal escape, here’s how we spent 48 hours in Playa del Carmen—where to eat, stay, explore, and soak it all in.

Where to Eat in Playa del Carmen
Flavorful Finds for Every Part of Your Day

If there’s one thing Playa del Carmen does right (besides sunshine), it’s food. Here's where we ate—and why these spots deserve a place on your must-try list.

1. Chez Céline & Madrez Café — For Breakfast Bliss
Tucked away in a leafy courtyard, these two charming cafés feel like morning rituals waiting to happen. Think chilaquiles with perfectly crispy tortillas, huevos rancheros topped with creamy avocado, and cold brew that hits just right.

Try: The molletes de huevos with chorizo, plus a side of freshly squeezed orange juice.

2. Ay Taco Playa — The Street Taco Upgrade
No trip to Mexico is complete without tacos, and Ay Taco Playa delivers. This elevated taquería offers bold flavors, rich salsas, and tortillas that taste like they were made five minutes ago (because they were).

Try: Tacos al pastor, shrimp tacos with habanero crema—or honestly, try everything. No regrets.

3. Patio 8 — Dinner with Vibe
This upscale yet approachable spot is where ambiance meets mixology. Patio 8 blends live music, inventive cocktails, and dishes that showcase modern Mexican cuisine.

Try: Grilled octopus, or the ribeye tacos, paired with a mezcal cocktail. Go for dinner, stay for the vibe.

Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen
Boutique Comfort with Heart and History

Hotel Lunata — Charming & Central
Nestled on Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue), Hotel Lunata feels like a hidden gem in plain sight. With traditional Mexican tiles, vibrant art, and a peaceful garden courtyard, it's romantic, cozy, and close to everything.

Why we loved it: Authentic charm, unbeatable location, and warm, welcoming hosts.

What to Do in Playa del Carmen (Besides the Beach)

While sunrise and sunset on the beach are reason enough to visit, Playa del Carmen has an artsy, cultural side that’s worth exploring. Here's how to round out your 48 hours with a bit of soul and spontaneity.

Gastón Charó Art Gallery (Among Others)
Located just off the main avenue, this intimate gallery showcases local and international artists. If you love bold, modern art with a soulful touch, make time for this stop—it’s inspiring and refreshingly un-touristy.

Nuestra Señora del Carmen Church
While strolling along Quinta Avenida, take a moment to visit Nuestra Señora del Carmen Church—even if you’re not religious. This sacred, historic building is undeniably beautiful.

Evening Performance at Parque Los Fundadores
As the sun goes down, head toward the beachfront park to catch traditional dance and fire performances. It’s free, cultural, and totally worth planning your evening around.

Island Day Trip: Cozumel by Scooter

If you’ve got a full day to spare, trade the mainland for the breezy island life of Cozumel. Just a 45-minute ferry ride away, this island is easy to explore by scooter—and doing so gives you access to quiet beaches, jungle roads, and authentic bites far from the tourist drag.

Tip: Grab the early ferry to make the most of your day, and don’t forget sunscreen (you’ll need it).

We rented scooters right after docking and cruised at our own pace—stopping for beach swims, roadside tacos, and sea views. Cozumel’s charm is in its slow pace and scenic detours.

Coffee with a View: Dulce Antojo Café
Back on the mainland, or waiting for your ferry? Dulce Antojo is the kind of casual, beach-adjacent café that makes you want to linger. It’s right across from the water and just a short walk from the ferry dock, making it a perfect post-excursion recharge.

Try: The churros with warm chocolate dip and an iced espresso.
Stay for: The sea breeze and prime people-watching.

Bonus Day Trip: Tulum
Staying longer than a weekend? Head an hour south to Tulum for a totally different vibe—think cliffside ruins, cenote swims, boho beach cafés, and a slower pace. It’s easily done by rental car or colectivo, and offers a fun contrast to Playa’s energy.

Is 48 hours in Playa del Carmen Enough?

Maybe not—but it’s a delicious taste. In two days, we wandered hidden courtyards, devoured tacos, sipped drinks by the sea, explored Cozumel, and browsed beautiful art. Playa del Carmen is small enough to feel intimate, but rich enough to leave you wanting more.

Whether you're escaping the chill or chasing sun on a spontaneous weekend trip, Playa del Carmen turns 48 hours into something unforgettable.

If you like this…
Don’t miss our other quick escapes like 48 Hours in Salem, Massachusetts and more two-day itineraries from coast to coast and beyond.

FAQs About Visiting Playa del Carmen for 48 Hours

Q: Is Playa del Carmen walkable?
A: Absolutely. Most restaurants, shops, and beaches are within walking distance, especially if you’re staying near Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue).

Q: Is 48 hours enough in Playa del Carmen?
A: It’s just enough to get a delicious taste. You’ll leave refreshed, but probably dreaming about a return trip.

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Playa del Carmen?
A: November to April is ideal—warm, sunny, and outside of hurricane season.

Q: Do I need to speak Spanish?
A: Not necessarily. Many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas. That said, learning a few Spanish basics can go a long way—and in general, Playa del Carmen has a warm, welcoming community.

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