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Playa Del Carmen Ramps Up Beach Safety Measures To Protect Tourists

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Much like Cancun, Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular Mexican Caribbean destinations for travelers.

The coastal resort town is expected to welcome a record amount of visitors this year as travel numbers continue to pick up.

Aerial view of a popular Playa del Carmen white-sand beach

With several recent travel warnings from U.S. officials, local authorities in Playa del Carmen have announced new safety measures during the busy spring period.

The goal, officials say, is to protect travelers and the Mexican Caribbean’s reputation as a leading travel hotspot. 

Playa del Carmen Steps Up Safety Measures For Travelers

Situated around 40 miles south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen has seen its popularity soar among travelers thanks to its beautiful beaches, bustling downtown area, and an array of luxury accommodations.

With travel numbers expected to grow even further, officials have decided to enhance safety measures over the coming weeks, deploying more troops to guard popular beaches and other touristy areas.

Beach Vendor and Municipal Police on a Beach in Isla Mujeres

Playa del Carmen hotels and resorts are nearly sold out during the Easter holidays, with the busiest period for travel starting on March 28.

The city has also welcomed thousands of young travelers for Spring Break, which began in early March.

Growing travel numbers have prompted U.S. authorities to publish a new travel warning for Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. The most recent one specifically highlights growing rates of alcohol spiking and petty crime.

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Colroful Playa del Carmen sign with surrounding palm trees

Although Cancun and the Riviera Maya have traditionally been among the safest destinations in Mexico, recent travel warnings have caused alarm among travelers.

Local officials have responded by reassuring tourists that the region remains a safe choice. 

This year, travelers can expect to see more law enforcement on popular beaches and other downtown areas, where most visitors flock for a taste of Caribbean paradise. According to the Quintana Roo Nautical Association, local officials are coordinating with state partners to implement more measures.

White-sand beach in Playa del Carmen with beach chairs

The Mexican Navy, the state police, as well as the tourist police are all expected to contribute to the fight against organized crime. It is not uncommon to see more troops on local beaches during busy travel periods, including summer and Easter.

“We will have units from the Mexican Navy on the beaches, and for that reason, we remain calm. Alongside busy summer months, the Easter period is when we see the highest number of patrols”, Francisco Fernández Millán, the head of the association, said in a statement. 

Small Police on Cancun Beach

Swimming safety has also been a hot topic in resort hotspots, including Playa del Carmen. With drownings on the rise, the local Red Cross, as well as the firefighters, will be more proactive than before in an effort to improve to prevent further drownings. 

According to civil protection officials, there are currently 17 lifeguards on Playa del Carmen’s main beaches, but that number is expected to rise significantly over the coming weeks. There are an additional 13 lifeguard watch towers, but officials are also planning to add several more.

Playa del Carmen sculpture with blue waters

Overall, more than 100,000 beachgoers are expected to flock to Playa del Carmen beaches this spring, but good weather and sargassum levels can impact the overall number. 

If you’re planning on visiting Playa del Carmen this spring, it’s important to follow some essential safety tips. First, choose your accommodation in a large, well-known resort. All-inclusives are a great choice, thanks to around-the-clock security. 

If you opt for a vacation rental, make sure to research the neighborhood before booking and avoid areas that are unlikely to have a strong police and law enforcement presence.

A stretch of coastline with sargassum seaweed

While Playa del Carmen is among the top party destinations in the Mexican Caribbean, it’s important to consume alcohol in moderation and avoid any sort of illegal substances.

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Myra

Tuesday 28th of March 2023

Im mexican don’t go to Mexican riviera Playa del Carmen is very unsafe i they stole me my bag in the 38 beach and I find the thief with my things I shout calling for the police and never get there and all the people around saw and do nothing.