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Mexico is known for its street vendors, and destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, like Playa del Carmen, also have them.
They can be found in the downtown area, on beaches, and at markets throughout the destination, but Playa del Carmen is cracking down on street vendors in one specific busy tourist area.
That area is the destination’s famous Fifth Avenue, where there is all kinds of fun to be had.
The Operation To Crack Down On Fifth Avenue Vendors
Just days ago, authorities launched a massive operation to remove street vendors from Playa del Carmen’s super-popular Fifth Avenue.
Several organizations and institutions were involved.
Among them were members of the Tourist Police, the National Guard, Public Services, and Zofemat, as well as higher-ups from several departments.
Why Playa Del Carmen Is Cracking Down On Vendors On Fifth Avenue
A while back, in the spring of 2023, Playa del Carmen officials began moving vendors off Fifth Avenue and directing them towards side streets instead.
Part of the reason for them doing so was because businesses along the popular avenue were complaining that they were losing business.
Now, officials are having to go back again to remove vendors who aren’t allowed to be there.
Location Of Playa Del Carmen’s Most Popular Street
Playa Del Carmen’s Fifth Avenue is just steps from its famous beaches, one block away from the nearest one, to be exact.
Fifth Avenue, also known as Quinta Avenida, extends for nearly three miles and covers about twenty blocks.
It runs parallel to Playa del Carmen’s gorgeous beaches.
Things To Do On Fifth Avenue
There is something for everyone along Fifth Avenue, whether you’re looking for excitement, a relaxing stroll, people-watching, filling your belly, or checking things off your shopping list.
There are authentic Mexican restaurants and food stalls, shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts, and clubs and bars for those looking to enjoy the nightlife scene.
There are even street performers that you can watch as you stroll along the avenue.
Fifth Avenue Hotels
While many travelers visiting Playa del Carmen seek out the best beachfront hotels, there are some great options on and around Fifth Avenue too.
Staying on Fifth Avenue gives you the best of both worlds, because the beach is just a short walk away, and the nightlife is just steps away too.
Some of the best hotels in the Fifth Avenue area, based on review ratings from Booking.com, with rates for December dates, include:
- Quinta Margarita – Boho Chic Hotel – $$76/Night
- Suites Cielo y Mar – $60/Night
- Hotel Riviera Del Sol – $56/Night
- Hotel Kinbe – $46/Night
- Posada Mariposa Boutique Hotel – 5th Avenue – $45/Night
Playa Del Carmen’s Popularity
The Mexican Caribbean has several popular destinations, Cancun being the most popular, but Playa del Carmen is among the most popular too.
Millions of travelers visit Playa del Carmen each year, many of which take advantage of the opportunity to visit the well-known and much-loved island of Cozumel too.
Playa Del Carmen, like several other Mexican Caribbean vacation destinations, continues to grow in popularity year after year.
How To Get To Playa Del Carmen
Up until last December, there were only two ways to get to Playa del Carmen, one of which, flying into Cozumel, is pretty pricey and has limited flights.
Now you can also fly into Tulum and then hire transportation to get to Playa del Carmen, but again there are limited flights and transportation is expensive.
This is why the best way still is to fly into Cancun, and then catch a bus, taxi, private transportation, or the Maya Train, which you can book here, to your destination.
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