For all passengers heading to the Cancun airport or further south to Tulum, the Playa Bus Station is where the buses arrive and depart. And here is also where we will start the tour of 5th Avenue

Benito Juarez, the main street and cross street of the bus station on 5th avenue splits Playa del Carmen into north and south. From the bus... More station, you want to continue to walk north up 5th Avenue, head north (or norte).

Also, if you are hungry when you arrive you can visit many of the local the vendors and pick up fruit or even a torta de cochinita pibil (slow roasted pork sandwich) Some people actually make this one of their stops every day in Playa.

Finally, if you didn’t take a bus from the airport, this is a great place to remember and potentially book transportation back to the airport. The ride is safe, comfortable and affordable at an equivalent of $10 USD.Less

On the stroll you will pass many stores filled with Mexican crafts, but one must is Pachamama. Translated to "Mother Earth," the shop sells high quality traditional Mexican handicraft from all over Mexico. It even highlights a few modern adaptations.

The owner, a resident of Playa for 20 years, works directly with artists at the source... More and finds the one-of-a-kind pieces to sell to the public.

For something native or unique from Mexico, this store is worth a browse.

Hours: late morning to evening dailyLess

A trip to Mexico is not complete without a taste of tequila. One place to get it is Casa Tequila. The building's imposing structure is easy to see on 5th avenue and its tequila selection is worth a review.

The official tequileria provides a place to sample Mexico's finest before you buy it. Ask questions and learn the difference betwee... Moren silver, repasado, and añejo while tasting some of the blue agave spirit.

Hours: late morning to evening dailyLess

Chocolate was invented in the Americas and a place like Ah Cacao proves it. The café with two locations in Playa del Carmen (the second is at 30th and 5th Avenue) is a must stop for chocolate lovers and even the casual fan. It provides an excellent break from the hustle and excitement of 5th Avenue and a chance to catch up with the world on its fre... Moree wifi.

Sample the Mayan "gift of the gods": Hot Chocolate or the brownie most patrons swear by.

Hours: 7:15am - 11:30pm daily
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Head here if you want to spend some quality time on the beach.

Part of the reason people stay in downtown Playa is for the social scene. At night, the party can be found on the streets (especially 12th Street), but during the day the social scene can be found at the beach and one of the many "beach clubs."

A "beach club"... More is a place on the beach where you pay an entrance fee and it provides services. The clubs are open each day and are a great way to get amenities on the beach if your hotel is not on the beach front.

Mamitas, possibly the most famous of the beach clubs, definitely lives up to the reputation of a good time. Although available for all ages, the typical tourists are adults on vacation.

For about the equivalent of $10 USD you can gain access to the club, get a lounge chair, umbrella and a cerveza (beer). Lunch is also available and the fish tacos are a popular choice.

Many visitors spend their afternoons here and it is widely known as the nicest section of the beach in Playa.

Hours: 8:30am to 6pm Daily.Less

If you didn't take the option stop at Mamita's Beach Club, still turn right and head to the water. Walk back along the sand and make your way down to Fusion. Enjoy the beach, the views and the stroll on the sand.

Also serving as a hotel, Fusion Bar and Grill is a perfect place to relax, take in a sunset and a sip a cerveza (or even so... Moremething stronger -- Fusion has one of the nicer cocktail lists on the beach). It also serves food for lunch or an afternoon appetizer.

Expect entertainment too, in the form of live music and performances that include a fire show. Additionally, (and especially during high season) performers will attempt to entertain you from the beach. The performers usually request "propina" (tips), so it is a good idea to hold on to a few of the ten-peso coins to give for appreciation.

(Note: the sun does not set directly on the water, but the sky will still offer splendid colors if you manage a visit at sunset.)

Hours: The Bar and Grill is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and closes around 10pm.Less

If it's sold in Playa, there is a great chance you can find it here. Open to 11pm, this store has everything a visitor might need to appease a souvenir checklist of the family and friends not on holiday with you.

And after this stop it's time to find one of the many available taxis back to your hotel. Remember always ask for fare first... More: "cuanto cuesta" for "x" hotel.

Hours: Mid-morning to 11pm dailyLess