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All Mexico Playa del Carmen

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Playa Del Carmen

5 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Updated February 15, 2024

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Unusual Attractions in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Xaman-Há Ruins

Few of the many visitors to this resort town know of its hidden Maya ruins.
Polé (Xcaret Archaeological Site)

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Polé (Xcaret Archaeological Site)

One of Mexico's least-visited archaeological sites is tucked away inside a theme park.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Alux House at San Pedro Hotel

It might look like a doghouse, but this small structure was actually built to house a spirit from Maya mythology.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

La Ciudadela (The Citadel)

This now-abandoned shopping center in Playa del Carmen was built to resemble a medieval European castle.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Plazuela de la Paz (Little Plaza of Peace)

A small site dedicated to the memory of a local leader and the search for peace.
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The characteristic architectural feature known as the “Maya arch.”

Cozumel, Mexico

San Gervasio

The ruins of an important pilgrimage destination for worshippers of a Maya fertility goddess.
17 miles from Playa del Carmen
The two lighthouses of Puerto Morelos.

Puerto Morelos, Mexico

The Leaning Lighthouse

Still standing despite its considerable slant, this tilted lighthouse has become a local symbol of resilience.
19 miles from Playa del Carmen
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