Playacar, Playa del Carmen drone shot by Paco en Riviera Maya

If you’ve been thinking about living in Playacar or you’re just curious about exploring, this guide is for you! This neighborhood is an exclusive, gated community that is synonymous with upscale coastal living in Playa del Carmen.

Playacar is a gated community, offering a tranquil, private lifestyle while still being close to the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Playa del Carmen. One of the standout features of Playacar is its stunning, pristine beaches with crystalline blue water. The beach here is often quieter and more exclusive than the more touristy areas, making it an ideal spot for those who value privacy and tranquility.

Playacar is split into two phases: Playacar Fase I, featuring beachfront luxury homes and villas, and Playacar Fase II, which boasts beautiful golf course residences and upscale condominiums. With its stunning scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and well-maintained infrastructure, it's no wonder Playacar is a favorite among retirees, families, and expats. Whether you're looking to make a permanent move or invest in a vacation property, Playacar is the perfect place to find a piece of paradise to call home.

Playacar Phase 1: Coastal Living at Its Finest

Playacar Phase 1 (also known as Playacar Fase 1 in Spanish) is a beachfront paradise known for its exclusivity and unparalleled ocean views. This gated community is home to some of the most luxurious properties in Playa del Carmen, ranging from stunning private villas to contemporary beachfront mansions.

Key Features of Playacar Phase 1:

Direct Beach Access: Residents and guests enjoy access to some of Playa del Carmen’s most beautiful and secluded beaches, with soft white sand and crystalline turquoise waters.
Historical Significance: Scattered throughout the area, you’ll find small Mayan ruins that add a unique cultural charm to this already captivating locale.
Privacy and Security: Phase 1 is highly sought after for its peaceful atmosphere and 24/7 security, making it a haven for those seeking tranquility.

Who Is Playacar Phase 1 Ideal For?

This phase is perfect for individuals and families who value direct beach access, breathtaking views, and the prestige of owning property in a truly exclusive location. It’s also a top choice for retirees and investors looking for high-end vacation rental opportunities.

Playacar Phase 2: A Blend of Comfort and Convenience

Playacar Phase 2 (also known as Playacar Fase 2 in Spanish), located just behind Phase 1, offers a slightly more dynamic lifestyle while still retaining the charm of a private community. It’s larger than Phase 1 and features an array of amenities, making it ideal for families, expats, and long-term residents.

Key Features of Playacar Phase 2:

Golf and Recreation: At the heart of Phase 2 lies a world-class golf course designed by Robert von Hagge, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the globe. Additionally, the area boasts tennis courts, biking trails, and lush parks.
Shopping and Dining: Phase 2 is home to Centro Maya, a small commercial area with boutique shops, cafes, and convenience stores, adding convenience to everyday life.
Diverse Real Estate Options: From spacious condominiums and modern townhomes to luxurious villas, Phase 2 offers a wide variety of properties for every lifestyle and budget.

Who Is Playacar Phase 2 Ideal For?

Playacar Phase 2 is perfect for those who want to be part of a vibrant yet private community. Families, young professionals, and retirees alike enjoy its balance of amenities, accessibility, and lush greenery while being walking distance from the beach.

Your Ultimate Guide to Playacar

Lifestyle and Vibe

Living in Playacar is your dream of living by the sea come true. The neighborhood offers a quiet and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility. The community is a mix of families, expats from all over the world, and seasonal residents who come to enjoy the beauty and warmth of the Caribbean.

playa del carmen neighborhood map — Map of Playa del Carmen with All Neighborhoods

Top Restaurants

Playacar is mostly residential, which means you’ll find most dining options and cafe’s in the surrounding area rather than directly in Playacar itself. With that said, here are a few must-try spots in Playacar:

Casa Sofia: Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, Casa Sofia serves delicious pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh seafood.
Lara&Luca: A breakfast and brunch spot offering creative twists on classic dishes in a beautiful garden setting.

For a more comprehensive list of options, checkout the dining options in Playa del Carmen Centro in this blog post:

Playa del Carmen Centro: Everything You Need to Know About Living There

Nightlife and Entertainment

While Playacar is known for its calm and peaceful vibe, there’s still plenty of entertainment to enjoy in neighboring parts of Playa:

Quinta Avenida: offers a wide variety of nightlife activities, or you can just enjoy a walk.
The Fives Rooftop: Enjoy a more sophisticated night out at this trendy rooftop bar that offers panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Sip on a signature cocktail while lounging by the pool or enjoy live DJ sets on the weekends.

Top Coffee Shops and Work-Friendly Spots

If you’re a digital nomad or just love a good cup of coffee, you’ll find several great spots just outside of Playacar in Playa del Carmen Centro:

Marley Coffee: In my opinion, Marley Coffee has hands down the best coffee in all of Playa del Carmen. Marley Coffee is a Caribbean-themed café inspired by the reggae legend Bob Marley and owned by the Marley family. With its mellow ambiance, soothing reggae tunes, and a solid coffee menu, Marley Coffee is ideal for those looking for a laid-back place to work or relax with reliable Wi-Fi and A/C.
Best For: A relaxed working environment or meeting up with friends.
Starbucks: For those who prefer a familiar setting, Starbucks has a location in the Paseo del Carmen mall. With reliable Wi-Fi and a comfortable environment, it's a convenient spot for remote work or a quick coffee run.
Best For: Remote work, meetings, familiarity.

GYMS AND WELLNESS CENTERS

Most people in Playacar go to either The Gym or Evolve Gym in neighboring parts of Playa. With that said, there are some fitness options to checkout within Playacar itself:

RODE PLAYACAR: Rode Playacar is a spin studio where you spin to the beat of the music. With dynamic classes and instructors, it’s an amazing place to go release some endorphins.
EVOLVE GYM (Plaza Xaman-Ha)

Outdoor Activities and Attractions

Playacar’s natural beauty and convenient location make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts:

Playacar Golf Club: An 18-hole golf course designed by Robert von Hagge, offering stunning views and a challenging game.
Xaman-Ha Aviary: A beautiful bird sanctuary where you can see local and exotic species in a natural environment.
Beaches: Playacar’s private beach areas are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Playacar offers an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert von Hagge

Shopping and Services

While Playacar is residential, it’s conveniently close to all essential services:

Paseo del Carmen Shopping Mall: ust a short walk from Playacar, this open-air mall offers a mix of local boutiques and international brands, perfect for shopping, dining, or simply strolling through. You'll find popular stores, cafes, and restaurants, as well as easy access to Fifth Avenue.
Chedraui: Located nearby, Chedraui is a large supermarket offering everything from groceries to household items, electronics, and clothing. It’s a go-to spot for residents of Playacar looking to stock up on essentials.
Walmart: Situated a short drive from Playacar, Walmart provides a wide range of products at affordable prices, from fresh produce to home goods, making it a convenient option for day-to-day shopping.

Schools and Education

Playacar is home to several top-rated educational institutions:

El Papalote: A local favorite for its innovative approach to early childhood education.

Health and Wellness

Playa del Carmen offers a variety of high-quality medical services, making it easy for residents and visitors to access healthcare when needed. The neighborhood is home to several reputable clinics, hospitals, and specialist centers that provide a range of medical treatments, from general practice to specialized care.

For those seeking comprehensive care, Hospiten and Centro Médico Playa del Carmen are two of the main hospitals in the area. Hospiten is an internationally recognized hospital known for its modern facilities and multilingual staff, catering to both local and international patients. It offers emergency services, diagnostic imaging, surgical procedures, and specialized consultations in cardiology, gynecology, pediatrics, and more. Centro Médico Playa del Carmen is another popular option, providing a full spectrum of medical services, including family medicine, minor surgeries, and emergency care.

An affordable and convenient healthcare option in Zazil-Ha is utilizing local pharmacies like Farmacia del Ahorro. These pharmacies often have an on-site consultorio, or doctor's office, where you can consult with a physician for a donation-based or low-cost fee. This was an option I appreciated when I first moved to Playa because it made healthcare more accessible and affordable. It's perfect for minor ailments or when you need quick medical advice without the expense of a hospital visit.

Sometimes, doctors may require additional testing, and you'll need to visit specialized medical labs like Laboratorio Médico del Chopo. Chopo offers a wide range of diagnostic services, including blood tests, imaging, and other laboratory analyses, all at reasonable prices. Their services are efficient, and results are often provided promptly, which is crucial when timely medical decisions are needed.

If you’re looking for specialized services, you can also find clinics dedicated to dentistry, dermatology, and holistic medicine throughout Playa del Carmen. Many of these medical providers are equipped with the latest technology and offer treatments at competitive prices, making the area an attractive destination for medical tourism.

One unique advantage of medical services in Playa del Carmen is the availability of home visit services. Many doctors, including general practitioners and specialists, offer home consultations for patients who prefer to receive care in the comfort of their own homes or accommodations. This service is particularly convenient for families, individuals with limited mobility, or those visiting for short stays.

For family medical care, I personally recommend Dra. Erika Gabriela Rodriguez Gonzalez. As a trusted family doctor, she provides compassionate and professional care, ensuring the health and well-being of her patients. Dra. Erika is known for her thoroughness, attention to detail, and personalized approach, making her a top choice for both residents and expats seeking a reliable family physician.

With these diverse medical services, Playa del Carmen ensures that you have access to quality healthcare options and personalized attention whenever you need it.

Transportation and Accessibility

Getting around Playacar and Playa del Carmen is easy and convenient:

Car or motorbike: Since you’ll need to leave Playacar to get groceries and other necessities, many people who live there opt to have a car or motorbike to get around.
Bike-Friendly: The entire neighborhood is bike-friendly.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available to take you around town.

Safety and Security

Safety is a top priority in Playacar. As a gated community, it offers 24/7 security and controlled access points. The crime rate in the area is low, and residents feel safe and secure within the community. Gated properties and private security are standard features, giving you peace of mind whether you live here year-round or seasonally.

Expat and Community Insights

Playacar is a popular choice among expats due to its serene environment and high quality of life. Many social groups and clubs cater to the expat community, offering everything from language exchange meetups to book clubs and fitness groups. The sense of community is strong, and it’s easy to make friends and connect with like-minded individuals.

Here you will find a list of all the major expat groups - CLICK HERE.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Gated community with excellent security.
Very residential.
Beautiful beaches and natural scenery.
Proximity to downtown Playa del Carmen.
Strong sense of community.

Cons:

Higher cost of living compared to other neighborhoods.
You’ll likely need some mode of transportation for your day-to-day.

Real Estate and Living in playacar

Playacar is mostly residential, filled with beachfront villas, homes, upscale condominiums, and a few boutique hotels. It’s also home to a golf course, parks, and easy access to nature.

Playacar’s real estate market is highly sought after, featuring a range of properties, from high-end condos and villas to charming family homes and pre-construction opportunities. You can find beautiful oceanfront villas with private pools, expansive terraces, and direct beach access in Playacar Phase I, while Playacar Phase II is known for its golf course views, lush landscapes, and tranquility.

The average price of properties in Playacar ranges from $300,000 USD for a condo to over $3 million USD for a beachfront villa. The market has shown a steady increase in property values, making it an attractive option for investors. Notable developments include the gated community of Macondo Playacar, the AWA Condos, and the new pre-construction project in The Leaf. With ongoing infrastructure projects and developments, Playacar’s appeal will only continue to grow in the coming years.

Average Prices and Trends in Playacar

The average price per square meter in Playacar is around $3,500 - $4,000 USD, depending on the property type and proximity to the beach. For those looking to invest in rental properties, AirDNA data shows that the average rental rate is around $200 - $250 USD per night for short-term vacation rentals, with an occupancy rate of approximately 65-70%, depending on the season.

If you're looking for a residential area with all the perks of beachside living, Playacar offers a combination of luxury, security, and beautiful surroundings that make it one of the top neighborhoods in Playa del Carmen.

Featured Listings

Macondo Playacar (View Listing)
The Leaf Playacar (View Listing)
Reach out to us if you are interested in seeing more options in this area - CLICK HERE.

Now You Know Playacar Like a Local

Whether you’re drawn to the beachfront serenity of Playacar Phase 1 or the bustling yet private charm of Phase 2, this exclusive community truly has something for everyone. From luxury properties and world-class amenities to historical touches and unbeatable location, Playacar offers a lifestyle unmatched in Playa del Carmen.

Ready to explore the possibilities of owning or renting property in Playacar? Whether you’re planning to invest or simply want to learn more, we’re here to help you find your piece of paradise in the Riviera Maya. Reach out today and let us show you the magic of Playacar.

Your Ultimate Guide to Living in Playacar, Playa del Carmen