Get important remote worker news, advice and updates in your inbox 👇

Where to stay in Playa del Carmen

Making it easy to choose the neighborhood that suits your needs the most.
5th Avenue
Central
The main tourist zone of Playa del Carmen. 5th Avenue is a 5-mile pedestrian-only street where the first 2 miles are considered the true center of the downtown area. Full of tourist shops, restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, pubs and nightclubs, along with more noise, bigger crowds and higher prices for rent and general goods. Ideally located only 5 minutes walk from the beach, this is the place to be for partying and socializing.
Playacar
Close to center
Located to the south of Playa del Carmen's center, this gated community is like its own quaint town. With mansions and 5-star resorts as well as quiet, affordable apartments and serene townhouses, it can all be found here among the winding, peaceful roads. Located on one of the best stretches of white sand beach, and with its own selection of shops, cafes and restaurants, this area offers a small community feel while being only a few minutes ride to everything Playa del Carmen has to offer.
El Centro
Central
Located in the midst of it all and walking distance from 5th Avenue, the beach, Playacar and all of the great neighborhoods to the north as well. It's home to endless cafes to work at, great local restaurants, unique bars, big supermarkets and no shortage of good apartments for rent. It's the center so its location is the main draw and as one of the most popular and diverse areas in town to live in, El Centro undergoes constant revitalization, bringing with it an upbeat, attractive vibe.
Colosio
Close to center
Offering a more local experience, Colosio is a large area to the north of the main tourist zone. While it's also undergoing a transformation and gentrification like much of the city has already gone through, its mostly peaceful residential streets, a scattering of small shops and eateries and access to a beautiful section of the beach. Located about 20 - 40 minutes walk from the heart of town, this is the place for cheaper rents as well.
Hollywood and Quintas del Carmen
Central
With its quiet, leafy streets and lack of tourist crowds, this area is perfectly located to take advantage of all that this city has to offer. The beach, 5th Avenue, supermarkets, excellent food (both western and local), friendly cafes, nightlife and even an outdoor sports complex are all within a short walk. A combination of older condominiums and newer apartment complexes ensures there's always a wide variety of good-priced options in this laid-back area.