Affordable Warm Winter Getaway: December Escape to Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Day 1: Arrival & Beach Walk

Playa del Carmen, Mexico on December 1, 2025

3:00pm

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive at Cancun International Airport and take a bus or shuttle to Playa del Carmen. Check into an affordable beachfront hotel or Airbnb that fits your budget.
MXN800 per night approx., 1h30m

5:00pm

Beach Walk on Quinta Avenida

Stroll along the iconic Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida), which is pedestrian-friendly and filled with shops, cafes, and vibrant street life right near the beach.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at El Fogon

Enjoy authentic Mexican tacos and grilled meats at El Fogon, a popular and affordable local restaurant open until 11pm.
MXN150-200 per person, 1h30m
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Day 2: Culture & Adventure

Playa del Carmen, Mexico on December 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bento Amor

Start your day with healthy and hearty breakfast options such as smoothie bowls and fresh juices at this cozy cafe open from 7am.
MXN120 per person, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Mayan Ruins of Tulum

Take a short trip south to explore the stunning seaside Mayan ruins of Tulum, open from 8am to 5pm, a must-see for history and culture lovers.
MXN85 entrance fee, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sale e Pepe

Dine comfortably with Italian and Mexican fusion dishes in this affordable, casual restaurant in Playa del Carmen.
MXN200 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Playa Mamitas Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at Playa Mamitas, one of the best beaches in Playa del Carmen with affordable lounge chair rentals.
MXN100 per chair, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at La Cueva del Chango

Experience a unique jungle-themed restaurant offering authentic Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients, open until 10pm.
MXN180-220 per person, 1h30m
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Day 3: Cenote & Night Out

Playa del Carmen, Mexico on December 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ah Cacao Chocolate Café

Fuel up with fresh coffee, pastries, and cacao-based treats in this local favorite open from 7am.
MXN100 per person, 45m

9:00am

Cenote Visit: Cenote Azul

Take a taxi or collectivo to Cenote Azul, a stunning natural swimming hole perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Open daily from 8am to 5pm.
MXN80 entrance fee, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at La Perla Pixan Cuisine & Mezcal Store

Taste traditional Mexican dishes paired with mezcal in a lively atmosphere, great for a midday meal.
MXN220 per person, 1h

3:00pm

Free time for Shopping or Relaxing

Explore local markets or relax by the hotel pool before heading out for dinner and nightlife.
Free, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Oh Lala! Restaurant

Enjoy an elegant yet affordable dining experience with international cuisine and cozy ambiance, reservations recommended.
MXN300 per person, 1h30m

9:30pm

Night out at Coco Bongo

Experience the famous Coco Bongo nightclub with spectacular shows, music, and dancing; open from 10pm to 3am.
MXN800 approx. for entrance, 3h
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Day 4: Departure

Playa del Carmen, Mexico on December 4, 2025

8:00am

Early Breakfast & Pack Up

Enjoy a quick breakfast at the hotel or nearby cafe and pack up before check-out.
Included in accommodation, 1h

10:00am

Travel to Cancun Airport

Take a shuttle or bus back to Cancun International Airport for your flight home.
MXN150 approx., 1h30m
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