Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen

The heart of Playa del Carmen and the main hub for digital nomads, Centro encompasses the famous 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida) and extends from Calle 8 Norte to Calle 40 Norte. This is where you'll find the best concentration of coworking spaces, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife. Walking distance to beaches, supermarkets, and the expat scene with fresh produce markets and specialty stores like DAC for imported goods. Areas around Calle 38 and Coco Beach are particularly popular with nomads. The main downside is noise from nightlife and tourist crowds, especially near 5th and 10th Avenues.

An upscale gated community south of Centro, Playacar is perfect for nomads seeking luxury, security, and tranquility. This sprawling residential complex features golf courses, shopping malls, Mayan ruins within the grounds, and access to some of the cleanest beaches in the area with less seaweed. Accommodations include high-end villas and resort-style condos with pools and amenities. The trade-off is higher prices and distance from Centro's action - you'll likely need transportation to access coworking spaces and the main social scene.

Located just north of Gonzalo Guerrero, Zazil-Ha offers the perfect balance between local neighborhood vibes and proximity to the beach. About a 10-minute walk to Coco Beach where expat meetups like weekend volleyball and yoga sessions happen regularly. The area has diverse accommodation options from studios to larger suites, many with rooftop pools. It's quieter than Centro while still being walkable to coworking spaces and amenities. Popular among winter nomads and those staying 2-3+ months who want community without the tourist chaos.

Once the sleepy northern edge of town, Colosio is now one of the fastest-growing neighborhoods in Playa del Carmen. This authentic Mexican neighborhood offers the most affordable rents and genuine local experiences with fewer tourists, local markets, and excellent street food. Beautiful ocean views and new construction make it attractive for budget nomads. The main caveat is distance from Centro - you'll want a bike or scooter as it's not as walkable to beaches and 5th Avenue. Some areas feel less safe, especially at night.