Playa del Carmen Beach

Playa del Carmen is just remote enough that "The Beach" -- really the only one there is -- doesn't have a proper name. Still, it's the highlight of most vacationers' time in the area, and makes for a delightful way to spend an afternoon or two. Just keep in mind the tide on the south end can cover a lot of sand; sunbathing will be easier if you pick a spot on the northern stretch. And speaking of sunbathing: many women in Playa prefer to do so topless. You should still pack a full swimsuit before you hit the stretch -- nude sunbathing is technically against the law in Mexico. And busy La Quinta runs parallel to the sand, so you might want to walk over to the area's stores or restaurants.