13 Things to Do in Playa Del Carmen When it Rains
It’s raining, it’s pouring… and in Playa Del Carmen you’re probably snoring – at least you’ll be if you don’t know what to do when the rain comes down!
Although the sunshine is definitely unbeatable on any Mexican beach day, the good news is that there are still plenty of things to do in Playa Del Carmen when it rains.
Got your umbrella? Here we go! Explore our list of the best things to do in Playa Del Carmen when it rains.
1. Go Shopping
When it rains in Playa del Carmen, there is no need to fret. The best way to avoid the rain is to go shopping!
Luckily, this beachside town has plenty of options; you could stay downtown and explore some of the smaller shops.
Of course, if it’s serious shopping you’re after, take a taxi or the ADO bus up to Plaza de Las Americas or Puerto Cancun for bigger, better stores.
These shopping centers will have everything your credit card desires on hand.
So don’t worry – rainy days don’t have to be boring. There’s plenty of shopping fun to be had in Playa Del Carmen!
2. Taco & Liquor Tour
When it rains in Playa del Carmen, don’t let the clouds put a damper on your holiday plans – join a Taco & Liquor Tour instead!
Spanning five different restaurants and stops along 5th Avenue, this culinary journey leaves no beer or taco unturned.
Feast on Mexican delicacies paired with ice-cold brews while listening to stories of the region’s past.
And if that didn’t leave you satisfied, stow away a few extra beers in the tour van for your ride back – cheers!
3. 3D Museum Of Wonders
A rainy day in Playa del Carmen doesn’t mean you have to stay cooped up in the hotel. The 3D Museum of Wonders offers plenty of creative and interactive activities as well as insta-worthy photo ops.
With its amazing optical illusions, it’s like stepping into a surreal world where paintings come to life and jump off the walls.
So open your mind (and camera) and explore the wonders of this one-of-a-kind 3D museum!
4. Jungle Buggy
Get ready to take a drive of a lifetime! Explore the mysterious world of Riviera Maya on this jungle buggy tour.
Guiding you through the 18 miles of lush forest and diverse wildlife is an adventure like no other – this is your chance to ditch the umbrella and get back to nature!
To escape from the heat, you’ll also be making a stop at a ranch for a refreshing dip in a cenote.
5. Join a Food Tour
This one’s for the foodies – and no, we’re not talking about going to some fancy restaurant.
Join your guide, who is an expert on the ins and outs of hidden Mexican culinary gems, and go explore five of the very best places this city has to offer – all off the tourist track!
On your journey, you’ll taste dishes steeped in Maya and Spanish influences. Local finds will have you enjoying flavors like never before, even if it’s raining cats and dogs outside.
Or if street food is more up your alley, make sure you check out this food tour.
6. Underground Cave Cenote
There’s no need to let the rain put a damper on your vacation – the Riviera Maya offers a unique opportunity to make a splash, even when it’s pouring.
For those who dare venture into the Mayan underworld, you’ll find yourself immersed in an age-old world of subterranean rivers and limestone rock formations.
Afterwards, have your breath taken away at Yal Ku Lagoon, which has an irresistible mix of freshwater and seawater.
7. Cirque de Soleil JOYÀ
Looking for something special to do when it’s raining? Abra-Cirque-daabra, JOYÀ at the Vidanta Resort is the answer!
With a whimsical story and aerial feats that’ll have you holding your breath, this show will conjure up a larger-than-life experience.
You can even add a delectable dinner to your evening – after all, what could top a delicious feast while watching daredevil acrobats take flight?
8. Party at Coco Bongo
Rain or shine, Playa Del Carmen comes alive when you step inside Coco Bongo.
Feel the thrill as you watch exciting moments come alive on stage with electrifying acrobatics worthy of Las Vegas and Cirque du Soleil.
Don’t forget to belt out your favorite tunes as dedicated Michael Jackson, Queen and Christina Aguilera tributes have spectators singing along every night.
For a truly special evening out, go for gold class and enjoy preferred seating and the premium open bar.
9. Rio Secreto
Rainy days don’t have to be dull and dreary in Playa del Carmen. Book a tour at Río Secreto Nature Reserve and join an adventurous group of eco-tourists underground.
Glide through the mysterious semi-sunken cave system wearing a wetsuit, helmet and headlamp, while soaking up views of its remarkable rock formations and exotic vegetation.
Take a dip in the limestone tunnels and hunt for tiny creatures along the way; imagine being Indiana Jones but with a twist!
When your subterranean expedition is complete, surface for a refreshing traditional Maya lunch in the jungle.
10. Tequila Tasting
When the skies open up in Playa Del Carmen, there’s no better place to take shelter than at Stop Estacion Tequila.
Located right on 5th Avenue, it’ll keep you dry while you explore a variety of tequila and mezcal straight from Oaxaca.
The knowledgeable staff isn’t shy with their knowledge and will more than happily give you the rundown complete with fascinating details about the distillation process. Plus, tastings are free of charge!
So if it rains buckets in paradise, don’t just duck for cover; head here for a unique journey through some of Mexico’s finest agave-based spirits.
11. Have a Taco Feast
Satisfy your craving for the best tacos in Playa del Carmen at any (or all) of the eateries that line the downtown sidewalks.
Choose between roadside stalls to upscale restaurants with all the trimmings – and don’t forget to wash it down with a cold beer!
If you’re in a rush, El Ñero, El Fogon, and Don Sirloin are your go-to places. But if you want to take things up a notch, head on over to La Perla Pixan.
So vamanos amigos – let’s get our taco fix on!
12. Join a Snorkel Tour
If you’re willing to get wet anyway don’t let a little downpour stop you from getting closer to marine life.
Jump on board with one of the many tour operators, from cave tours to deep-sea dives and everything in between.
Check out our guide on where to go for the best snorkeling in Playa del Carmen.
13. Relax at a Spa
In Playa del Carmen, you can turn a rainy day into an indulgent one by treating yourself to some spa therapy.
You’ll be spoilt for choice, from luxurious 5-star spas to local spot salons offering every feel-good treatment imaginable.
Traditional massages and facials to dynamic mud baths and seaweed wraps…all at prices to fit your budget.
