Playa del Carmen Pictures

Beautiful Playa del Carmen beach features white sand set against the teal water of the Caribbean Sea. Pola Diamonte Getty Images

Pick out a chair and simply relax on the beach. Tracie Cimaglio / EyeEm Getty Images

Try a banana boat ride for a fun way to get your heart pumping in the turquoise water. tifonimages Getty Images

There are so many caves and reefs for scuba divers to explore in Playa del Carmen. Luis Javier Sandoval Getty Images

This large outdoor eco-park has an aviary, a dolphin aquarium, a turtle sanctuary and a beach. g01xm Getty Images

Soar above the jungle while zip lining at Xplor. Courtesy Experiencias Xcaret

Diving and snorkeling are popular at Playa del Carmen, but many travelers like to get active above sea level as well by parasailing. Andrew F Kazmierski Getty Images

Lounging along the beach and relaxing with a cocktail or a good book is one of the best ways to spend your time in Playa del Carmen. Glow Images Getty Images

This beach town's sunsets are pretty remarkable. Be sure to catch at least one during your visit. Mikel Flickr

This aquarium is centered on a natural inlet and lagoon that visitors can swim and snorkel through, accompanied by hoards of tropical fish, dolphins and turtles. LisaStrachan Getty Images

You may see sea turtles and colorful fish while you're snorkeling in Playa. Medioimages/Photodisc Getty Images

Many top resorts along this beach allow you to rent water sports equipment (sometimes for free). Glow Images Getty Images

Golfing is a popular activity in Playa del Carmen. Many of the town's courses feature views of the Caribbean Sea. Grand Velas Riviera Maya Flickr

Make sure to try some tacos al pastor or shrimp tacos when you're in Playa del Carmen Marianna Massey Getty Images

Strolling along La Quinta Avenida of Playa del Carmen is popular when the sun goes down. Mark Lewis Getty Images

Playa del Carmen's beach is the highlight of most vacationers' time in the area, and makes for a delightful way to spend your afternoons. Patrick Tappe / EyeEm Getty Images

Tulum is a quick 45-minute drive down the coast from Playa del Carmen – and a great daytrip, according to past visitors. Antonio Salinas L Getty Images

To learn more about Mexico's famous liquor, sign up for a tasting with Tequila Acadmey. Past visitors said the hosts were knowledgeable and friendly and that the views from the rooftop pool were incredible. Michael Dlle / EyeEm Getty Images

If you have time, consider making a daytrip to Chichen Itza. Steven dosRemedios Getty Images

Swimming with dolphins is a popular activity at Xcaret. Siempreverde22 Getty Images

There are three underground rivers to choose from at Xcaret. sergey02 Getty Images

La Quinta Avenida is considered the tourist hub of Playa del Carmen. Come here for souvenirs, a cerveza or two, and prime people-watching. YinYang Getty Images

Whether you're new to snorkeling or an old pro, you'll find a variety of different tour companies in Playa to cater to your skill level. James R.D. Scott Getty Images

Recent travelers were impressed with Xel-Ha, describing it as "amazing" and "beautiful"  Jonah_Photos Getty Images

If you need to take a break from all the activity at Xel-Ha, you'll find plenty of ways to relax. Fouque Getty Images

Keep your eyes peeled for exotic birds at Xcaret, such as these white pelicans. David Santiago Garcia / Aurora Photos Getty Images

Cozumel sits less than an hour from Playa del Carmen via ferry. Philippe TURPIN Getty Images

A trip to Xplor could include zip lining, swimming, rafting and riding around in amphibious vehicles. Courtesy Experiencias Xcaret

This resort town features ample hotels with amenities like pools, spas, golf courses and more.  paul Flickr

At Xplor, visitors have the opportunity to swim in an underground river surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites. Courtesy Experiencias Xcaret