Playa del Carmen Nightlife

Nightlife

Mexico’s beaches are known for their nightlife and Playa del Carmen is no exception. It’s far less Spring Break here than other places up the coast, so expect sophisticated and trendy nightspots and lounges that could rival Miami or LA, especially around La Quinta Avenida – the epicenter more of nighttime cool. Occasionally, along the same street, you’ll find mediocre expat hangouts imported straight from the US suburbs – it’s easy to spot them – they are the places that lack any sort of character. People start heading out to party around 11pm.

Smart Splurge    Great Value
La Bodeguita del Medio
This Cuban bar and restaurant is based on the eponymous original in Havana, Cuba – a place famous both for having invented the mojito (or so some claim) and for being a favorite hangout of Ernest Hemingway. With its sleek bar and modish hanging lamps it’s far trendier and less rustic than the first Bodequita del Medio, but it’s equally famous for its mojitos.
Ave. 10 #47; Playa del Carmen; 011-52-984-803-3950; www.labodeguitadelmedio.com.mx
Tags: international travel | trendy | bar
Tequila Barrel
You won’t miss a game at this sports bar and grill, where a multitude of 42-inch flat-screen TVs broadcast athletic entertainment from around the world. In true Mexican style, tequila is their specialty, with 85 varieties on offer. Get two for one at their happy hour, between 11am and 4pm, or dance on the bar for a free shot. They also have a large menu, with American pub standards like chicken wings.
Ave. Quinta (between Calles 10 and 12); Playa del Carmen; www.tequilabarrel.com
Tags: international travel | bar | pub
Om Lounge Bar
This outdoor sidewalk lounge with Buddha statues and hookah pipes is the center of the Playa chill-out scene. It’s a mish-mash of tropical themes, specialty drinks and tequilas, a laid-back vibe, and a seriously chic crowd.
Calle 12 North 195; Playa del Carmen; 011-52-984-879-4784; www.omplaya.com
Tags: international travel | trendy | bar
La Santanera
Playa’s most popular club shares some DNA with the clubs on L.A.'s Sunset Strip – expect long lines at the door, unwavering doormen, and high cover fees that can go up to $30 per person on some nights. The lure? All of the region’s hottest DJs, the prettiest faces, and the deck-side palapa.
Calle 12 (between Aves. Quinta and 10); Playa del Carmen; 011-52-984-803-4771; www.lasantanera.com
Tags: international travel | trendy | dancing | cover charge
Di Vino
The owners of the Glass Bar restaurant have another hit on their hands with Di Vino, which ranks among the most sophisticated nightspots in Playa. Tables spill out of the long, narrow wine bar and restaurant onto the Fifth Avenue sidewalk. Their astounding 26-page wine list is perhaps the most complete in the neighborhood.
Corner of Ave. Quinta and Calle 12; Playa del Carmen; 011-52-984-803-1270; www.divino.com.mx
Tags: international travel | bar | notable wine list
Blue Parrot Beach Club great value
The beachside bar that Newsweek called one of the ten best in the world in 1998 is still a Playa must. The 10:30pm fire show is a highlight for many, though the crowd doesn’t die down until the sun comes up. It's pretty casual, with a sandy floor and lounge chairs under the open sky surrounded by palms.
At the beach at Calle 12; Playa del Carmen; 011-52-984-206-3350; www.blueparrot.com
Tags: international travel | great value | bar | waterfront | editor pick
Compare Rates
  • Flights
  • Hotels
  • Packages
  • Cruises
  • Cars
Enter your trip details
 
 
 
Enter your trip details
Step 1
 
 
 
Enter your trip details
Step 1
 
 
 
Enter your trip details
Step 1
 
 
 
Enter your trip details
Step 1
 
 
   
 
Compare Rates
  • Flights
  • Hotels
  • Packages
  • Cruises
  • Cars
Travelers:
Travelers:
 

Deals