Day Trips from Tulum: Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen has a different vibe than Tulum, yet many people make the trip. Some go for the amenities of a larger city, like shopping malls, others combine it with a visit to Cozumel, or simply want to experience the different atmosphere and nightlife. It’s located about 60 km (40 miles) north of Tulum and is easy to reach by car, colectivo, or ADO bus.

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Bring Cash Bring cash, especially for colectivos and smaller vendors.

How to Get to Playa del Carmen from Tulum

By Car

The drive from Tulum to Playa del Carmen takes about 1 hour via Highway 307.
Parking in Playa del Carmen can be tricky in the city center, but several paid parking lots are available.

By Colectivo (Shared Van)

The most affordable option, colectivos run frequently between Tulum and Playa del Carmen.
You can catch one from the main highway in Tulum; the trip costs about 60 MN (3 USD) per person.
While they technically depart when full, that usually means roughly every 15 minutes.
Colectivos are not very comfortable—they’re often filled to capacity, lack seat belts, and drivers may speed, making this one of the less safe transportation options.

By ADO Bus

ADO buses offer a pretty comfortable and reliable way to travel between Tulum and Playa del Carmen.
Departures occur approximately every 1–2 hours throughout the day, from around 6:30 AM to 7 or 8 PM.
The journey takes about 1 hour.
Ticket prices typically range from 80 to 160 MXN (4 to 8 USD).
Buses depart from the ADO Bus Terminal in Tulum and arrive at the Terminal ADO Turística in Playa del Carmen, right on 5th Avenue which is the most popular street.
For the most accurate schedule, check the ADO website or visit the local station.

By Private Transfer

A more comfortable and convenient option, with door-to-door service.
The drive takes about 1 hour.
Prices typically start at 1.400 – 2.000 MXN (70 – 100 USD) per vehicle.
Ideal for families, groups, or travelers seeking a safe and hassle-free experience without waiting.

Private Driver

Make your daytrip to Playa del Carmen smooth and stress-free by hiring a private driver. Enjoy comfort, flexible timing, and the freedom to explore the city’s beaches, shops, and restaurants at your own pace—no taxis or buses needed.

Book a Private Driver

Top Things to Do in Playa del Carmen on a Day Trip

Explore Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue)

Playa del Carmen’s main pedestrian street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s the perfect place for:

Shopping: Local crafts, souvenirs, and boutique stores.
Dining: A range of options from casual tacos to fine dining.
Street performances: A lively atmosphere with musicians and entertainers.

Comfortable Shoes Wear comfortable shoes, as Quinta Avenida is best explored on foot.

Relax at Playa Mamitas or Playa Punta Esmeralda

Enjoy beach clubs with lounge chairs, drinks, and music at Playa Mamitas, or visit the quieter Playa Punta Esmeralda with a natural cenote by the beach.

Visit Parque Los Fundadores

This beachfront park features the Portal Maya sculpture and traditional Danza de los Voladores (Flying Men) performances.

Xcaret

Planning a daytrip from Tulum to Playa del Carmen? Make it unforgettable with a visit to Xcare. Just outside Playa, Xcaret offers a full day of adventure—snorkel in underground rivers, explore lush jungle trails, and experience vibrant cultural shows.

Take a Ferry to Cozumel

Hop on a 40-minute ferry to one of the world’s top snorkeling and diving spots.

Ferry Schedule Check ferry schedules in advance if heading to Cozumel.

Explore Rio Secreto

Discover an underground cave system with crystal-clear rivers, stalactites, and stalagmites just outside Playa del Carmen.

Visit Cenote Chaak Tun

Swim in cool, clear underground waters just a short drive from the city center.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Head to 12th Street for vibrant beach clubs and bars like Coco Bongo and La Vaquita.

Is a Day Trip to Playa del Carmen Worth It?

Playa del Carmen combines urban energy, beaches, and city-style amenities. If you’re in the mood to shop or explore, a day trip there can be a great addition to any Tulum itinerary.