The Playa del Carmen nightlife is what vacations are all about in this coastal destination. Party or not, you will most likely want to enjoy the nightlife in Playa del Carmen sometime during your stay in this bustling Mexican beach town.
Where To Party In Playa del Carmen?
You’re probably considering where to go for some great nightlife in Playa del Carmen. Many bars and clubs are scattered all over the city, but most can be found around 8th and 12th avenue, apart from the bars along Quinta Avenida, the main walking street.
Playa Del Carmen Nightlife & Safety Tips
Although the Playa Del Carmen nightlife scene is generally secure, especially in the main tourist areas just like 12th avenue, still be wary of pickpockets and phone snatchers if you’re out late at night as you would do in any city – keeping away from sketchy situations.
Drinking on the streets is allowed in Playa Del Carmen, sometimes the cops will stop you, but they are only usually looking for drugs, and will allow you to continue drinking.
Smoking is no longer legal in any public place in Mexico, including the beaches, streets, and all bars and clubs, including patios.
The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18, thus it is advisable that you have some kind of identification with you in case you are requested to present it, but this is quite unlikely.
How Expensive Is It To Party In Playa del Carmen?
A 7-day vacation to Playa del Carmen costs an average of $1,316 for a single tourist, $2,364 for a couple, and $4,431 for a family of four.
Hotels in Playa del Carmen range in price from $38 to $363 per night, with an average of $71, while most vacation rentals range in price from $130 to $470 per night for the exclusive property.
There are no direct flights to Playa del Carmen, but you can fly to Cancun airport with costs ranging between $400 to $824 per person, while first-class flights cost between $3,367 and $7,711 per person and then ride another 31.13 mi (45min) to the coastal city on the ADO bus that costs around US$10.50.
The entry fee varies from club to club in Playa del Carmen, but most charge around 100-300 pesos ($5-$15) – 300. Cover tends to increase during peak seasons or special events.
However, groups of girls are usually always let in for free. Some more exclusive clubs may offer admission with an open bar (all you can drink) for a premium price.
The Best Bars In Playa del Carmen
Señor Frogs
With Caribbean Sea views from the loungers and a relaxing party vibe, this bar does its utmost to entice and keep you there until closing. Beer is plentiful, and there are several unique drinks on the menu, including the house favorite Señor Frog, which is made with Bacardi, Melon Liqueur, Pineapple, and Lime.
There are several locations along fifth avenue, as well as the beach club next to the ferry and Playacar beach.
Zenzi
Zenzi is Playa’s most popular spot for beach drinks, served all day and much of the night on loungers set on pure white sand.
Sip your drink while listening to Ibiza chill-out music on the terrace bar. Late evenings become more lively as local musicians perform salsa, rock, and reggae.
DJs take control when the sun goes down, and Zenzi transforms into a pulsing nightclub. Beers start at 55 pesos, drinks at around 120 pesos.
The Tequila Barrel
As of 2023 Tequila Barrel is permanently closed due to a shooting on the premises.
That soccer or baseball game on TV, ice-cold beers, bar cuisine, and an extensive selection of tequilas and mezcals. They may be found at Tequila Barrel, Playa’s most popular sports bar.
The channel selection is the greatest in town, with US and European sports shown in an air-conditioned lounge.
Happy hours feature discounted buckets of beer with nachos or similar munchies, bartenders do fantastic juggling and cocktail-mixing tricks, and there are dance shows and DJs after the games.
Bar Loco
One of the most popular bars and pre-drinking spots in Playa Del Carmen, Bar Loco is located on the second floor of an old building on 5th avenue just off of Avenida Constituyentes. The place is a meeting ground for expats, tourists and locals, with very cheap drinks starting at only 30 pesos.
There is balcony overlooking 5th avenue below, loud music, and people dancing the night away. It’s a must-visit if you’re looking for the best Playa Del Carmen nightlife to experience!
El Tigre
This boutique bar in the Fives hotel is closest to a Mexico City cantina in Playa, with brilliantly painted tiles, black-and-white portraits of Benito Juarez and Porfirio Diaz on the walls, and Mexican music.
Like any good cantina, there’s a beautiful selection of tequilas, mezcals, and botanas (appetizers), plus hipster options like agave and turmeric drinks. Guests may climb upstairs to the hotel’s roof bar with a sea view after hours.
The Best Clubs In Playa del Carmen
Santino
Santino is perhaps the hottest nightclub in the city, with two floors full of partiers dancing the night away. The first floor plays reggaeton and pop music, more popular with the Mexican crowd. The top floor “rooftop” usually plays house music and techno.
Beers are only 50 pesos and a liter of vodka nacional is only 130 pesos! Cover varies but is usually 100-300 pesos depending on the night. If you’re looking for the best Playa Del Carmen nightlife, you can’t miss out on this spot.
Clandestino
Another rooftop nightclub, Clandestino is probably the most expensive and sophisticated nightclub in Playa Del Carmen. Playing a variety of music depending on the DJ, the nightclub does focus around getting a bottle and table with friends, although you can just show up to the bar and order drinks from there.
Beers start at around 100 pesos and cocktails start at 180 pesos. Cover is usually 200-400 pesos depending on the night. Dress to impress.
La Vaquita
The Vaquita is a one-of-a-kind nightclub. Enjoy your favorite cocktails and have a fantastic time. The Vaquita is noted for its relaxed ambiance, where you can order as many “Litros” as you desire.
Its open space facilities and zany decor make it a one-of-a-kind and exciting venue that provides the best party every day of the week.
Abolengo Playa Del Carmen
Abolengo is the place to go if you want to spend the night out. Abolengo is a newly renovated corner bar on Playa Del Carmen’s bustling 12th Street, which is home to the majority of the clubs and bars. Abolengo Bartina was created by fusing a classic Mexican cantina with a stylish modern bar.
Aside from its distinctive décor, Abolengo Playa is known for its superb cocktails. They are wonderful and should not be missed. Abolengo Playa del Carmen is open every day and is the ideal place to start your unforgettable night.
Coco Bongo
Most people know Cancun’s Coco Bongo, one of the city’s most famous club nights. However, many people are unaware of one in Playa del Carmen. And, while Playa del Carmen’s Coco Bongo isn’t as well-known as Cancun’s, it’s just as chaotic.
Playa del Carmen Nightlife Summary
Nightlife in Playa del Carmen offers visitors high-end nightlife in the Riviera Maya. Its trendy, affluent clubs and restaurants provide the finest cuisine, beverages, entertainment, and electronic music. Plan your trip now, and get ready for a great time.
If you have more time in this area, be sure to check out the neighboring island of Cozumel, which also has a surprisingly good nightlife scene!
