Playa del Carmen, Mexico 5-Day Trip Itinerary
Playa del Carmen, Mexico Trip - Dec 26 to Dec 30
A 5-day family adventure in the Riviera Maya, exploring Mayan ruins, enjoying private cenote tours, sailing the Caribbean Sea, and relaxing at a luxury resort.
Arrival in Riviera Maya & Resort Relaxation
Friday, December 26Travel to Cancun & Transfer
Fly from Austin, Texas, to Cancun International Airport (CUN), then take a comfortable private transfer to your resort in Playa del Carmen.
Enjoy the scenic drive along the coast.
Private shuttle services are highly recommended for convenience and comfort for families, especially after a flight.
Hotel Check-in & Settle In
Check into the luxurious Hotel Xcaret Mexico.
Take some time to settle into your spacious accommodations and familiarize yourselves with the resort's amenities.
Hotel Xcaret is an 'All-Fun Inclusive' resort, meaning access to all Xcaret parks and tours is included.
Explore Resort Pools & Beach
Spend a relaxing afternoon exploring the stunning pools, rivers, and private beaches of Hotel Xcaret Mexico. Let the kids splash around while you unwind.
There are multiple pools and even coves carved into the natural landscape to discover.
Welcome Dinner at Resort
Enjoy a delightful welcome dinner at one of Hotel Xcaret's many excellent restaurants.
Options range from Mexican to international cuisine.
Reservations might be required for some of the specialty restaurants; check with the concierge upon arrival.
Tulum Ruins, Cenotes & Turtles
Saturday, December 27Tulum & Cenote Snorkeling Private Tour
Embark on the 'Bestseller!
Tulum Private Tour with Turtles and Cenote Snorkeling'. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum with a private guide, learning about their rich history. Afterwards, cool off by snorkeling in a breathtaking cenote and swimming with turtles in Akumal. This tour is perfect for a family seeking culture and nature.
Start early to avoid the crowds at Tulum and enjoy a more personal experience. Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen and swimwear.
Relax at Hotel Xcaret
After a morning of exploration, return to Hotel Xcaret Mexico for some leisurely time.
Enjoy the resort's facilities, perhaps a quiet dip in one of the coves or a snack by the pool.
Dinner in Playa del Carmen
Head into Playa del Carmen town for dinner.
Explore 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida) for a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of dining options, from casual to upscale.
Hotel Xcaret provides complimentary shuttle services to La Quinta Avenida in Playa del Carmen.
Cozumel Catamaran & Island Flavors
Sunday, December 28Ferry to Cozumel
Take an early morning ferry from Playa del Carmen to the island of Cozumel.
The ride offers beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.
Ferries run regularly between Playa del Carmen and Cozumel. Purchase round-trip tickets. Cost is approximately USD 20-30 per person round trip.
Private Catamaran to El Cielo
Experience the ultimate private charter on a 'Lagoon 39ft Private Catamaran 5hr - El Cielo Full Experience'.
Sail with a professional captain and crew, enjoying spacious accommodation, snorkeling, and relaxation at the famous 'El Cielo' sandbar, known for its starfish.
Tikinxic Barefoot Fish Cookout
Enjoy a unique 'Tikinxic Barefoot Fish Guided Cookout Experience'.
Learn to prepare and savor traditional Mayan fish cooked on the beach, Cozumel style. A wonderful way to taste authentic local flavors.
Return Ferry to Playa del Carmen
Catch the evening ferry back to Playa del Carmen after a full day of island adventure.
Private Cenote Exploration & Resort Fun
Monday, December 29VIP Private Cenotes Tour
Embark on a 'VIP Cenotes Private Tour' to explore the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya's underground rivers and sinkholes.
This private tour allows for a personalized adventure, away from crowds, with options to swim, snorkel, and relax in crystal-clear waters.
Your private guide will help you choose cenotes that best suit your family's preferences. Bring towels, swimwear, and a change of clothes.
Resort Fun & Activities
Return to Hotel Xcaret Mexico and take advantage of the resort's numerous activities.
Perhaps enjoy some non-motorized watersports, a cooking class, or a spa treatment for the adults while the kids enjoy supervised activities.
Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at one of the upscale dining establishments within Hotel Xcaret Mexico, savoring your last evening in paradise.
Consider dining at a restaurant offering traditional Mexican fine dining or a beautiful beachfront setting for a memorable last meal.
Departure Day
Tuesday, December 30Leisurely Breakfast
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast at your resort, reminiscing about your adventures in the Riviera Maya.
Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping
Take some time for any last-minute souvenir shopping at the resort's boutiques or a nearby market before heading to the airport.
Hotel Check-out
Complete your check-out procedures at Hotel Xcaret Mexico.
Transfer to Cancun Airport
Take a pre-arranged private transfer from Hotel Xcaret Mexico to Cancun International Airport (CUN) for your departure.
Ensure your transfer is booked in advance to align with your flight schedule.
Flight Departure to Austin
Depart from Cancun International Airport (CUN) back to Austin, Texas.
This 5-day itinerary for Playa del Carmen, Mexico can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.