Playa del Carmen Shopping

This international Cuban-cigar-selling chain is one of the most respected tobacco shops in Playa. They have the widest selection, best quality, and even serve Cognac to shoppers. While you can’t take a Cuban back to the U.S., you can smoke one here under the shade of a palm tree in the sand.

High-quality Mexican arts and crafts are the theme of this small shop run by California expat Melinda Burns. Many of the items – ranging from clothing to pottery to wind chimes – are handmade and one of a kind.

Shop for art and jewelry made from amber brought in from the Chiapas mines near Simojovel in southern Mexico. The golden-red resin of the amber – some of it containing “frozen” insects – is sold alongside precious stones like lapis lazuli, opals, and jade at this specialty boutique.

Even if you aren’t looking to pick up a new kite board or windsurfing sail, this low-key surf shop has loads of funky beach threads and accessories. Swimsuits, sandals, board shorts, t-shirts, Frisbees, and beach toys are all on hand.

Joe Natural is what happens when a Bohemian street jewelry vendor moves into a storefront, thus expanding his quality and selection. Leather and natural finds like seeds and stones are woven into a wide assortment of innovative and handmade beach-style jewelry.

Hand-woven huipiles (the traditional embroidered dresses of Mayan women) and other collectibles, such as carved wooden masks from remote indigenous groups, are what lure buyers here from around the Yucatan. Prices are not cheap, but the items are as authentic as they come.