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Playa del Carmen

The Heart of the Riviera Maya

Where turquoise waters meet vibrant culture

‍Playa del Carmen is one of Mexico’s most beloved coastal destinations, known for its relaxed Caribbean vibe, endless sunshine, and the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and style. Once a small fishing village, it has grown into a cosmopolitan hub that attracts visitors from all around the world who come to experience its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lively atmosphere. Just an hour south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen offers the ideal base to explore the Riviera May, from the cenotes and Mayan ruins to vibrant nightlife and world-class dining. With , you can experience it all at your own pace. A gives you the freedom to move beyond the main streets and uncover hidden spots that make this destination truly unforgettable.

What You Should Know About Playa del Carmen

Location

Located about 68 km south of Cancun International Airport, Playa del Carmen sits in the heart of the Riviera Maya along Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

Weather

Warm and tropical year-round, with average temperatures around 27°C (80°F). The dry season (November-April) is the most popular time to visit.

Getting Around

The best way to explore Playa del Carmen and nearby attractions is by Car Rental in Cancun. Taxis and local buses are also available for short trips.

Local Vibe

A laid-back beach town with a cosmopolitan feel, full of music, culture, and warm hospitality. Perfect for relaxing or adventure.

Best Attractions and Activities in Playa del Carmen

Exploring Playa del Carmen is easy and flexible when you travel with . With a Cancun car rental, you can visit stunning beaches, hidden cenotes, and eco-parks like Xcaret and Xplor at your own pace. Skip crowded tours and long transfers, when you, every attraction in the Riviera Maya is within reach.

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About Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen was once a quiet fishing village known as Xaman Há, an important port in the ancient Maya civilization and part of the trade routes that connected coastal settlements throughout the Caribbean. For centuries, this area remained a peaceful coastal community surrounded by dense jungle and turquoise waters.

In the 1980s, Playa del Carmen began to change as it caught the attention of backpackers heading to Cozumel. Its relaxed atmosphere, natural beauty, and ferry connection made it a hidden paradise for travelers looking for something more authentic. By the 1990s, tourism in the Riviera Maya was booming, and Playa del Carmen quickly evolved into one of Mexico’s most dynamic beach towns, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Despite its rapid growth, Playa del Carmen has preserved much of its original charm. Its streets still reflect a blend of Mexican warmth and international flair, where local artisans, musicians, and chefs share the same space with global travelers. Today, Playa del Carmen stands as a cultural melting pot and a symbol of how tradition and modernity can coexist along the shores of the Caribbean.

Playa del Carmen Hotels and Accomodation

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Playa del Carmen offers a wide variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy boutique hotels and apartments near the beach. Staying in town becomes even more convenient when you book with, giving you the freedom to move easily between your hotel, the beach, and nearby attractions. If you're driving from the airport with your Cancun rental car, the trip to Playa del Carmen takes less than an hour along the scenic Riviera Maya coast.

Hostels

For budget travelers and backpackers, hostels like Selina, Che Playa Hostel, and Sayab Hostel offer social vibes, great locations, and modern amenities just minutes from the beach.

Boutique Hotels & Apartments

Stay close to the action at stylish spots like Thompson Playa del Carmen and The Palm at Playa, where design meets convenience just steps from Fifth Avenue and the beach.

All-Inclusive Resorts

For a carefree vacation, resorts such as Paradisus Playa del Carmen and Hilton Playa del Carmen combine comfort, gourmet dining, and entertainment, ideal for families and couples seeking total relaxation.

Luxury Hotels

Playa del Carmen offers world-class stays like Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen, The Reef 28, and Mahekal Beach Resort, where oceanfront views, infinity pools, and personalized service create the perfect Caribbean escape.

Top 6 Restaurants in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen’s culinary scene is one of the best in the Riviera Maya, and having your own car makes it easy to explore it all. With , you can drive to the top restaurants, from beachfront fine dining to hidden local favorites downtown. Whether you start your trip with a or pick up your vehicle directly in Playa, Avant gives you the flexibility to discover every flavor at your own rhythm.

Oh Lala! Restaurant

A small, intimate fine-dining spot offering an ever-changing international menu made with fresh, local ingredients, one of Playa’s highest-rated culinary gems.

Trattoria del Centro

Authentic Italian flavors in the heart of Playa del Carmen. Enjoy handmade pasta, fine wine, and cozy outdoor seating steps from Fifth Avenue.

Harry’s Prime Steakhouse & Raw Bar

Elegant and sophisticated, Harry’s is known for premium cuts, seafood, and impeccable service, perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

Porfirio’s Playa del Carmen

Modern Mexican cuisine with a lively atmosphere and ocean views. Known for its creative presentation, music, and signature cocktails.

La Cueva del Chango

A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, this jungle-style restaurant serves fresh juices, seafood, and traditional Mexican dishes in a relaxed open-air setting.

Alux Restaurant

A one-of-a-kind dining experience inside a natural cave, offering gourmet Mexican cuisine surrounded by stalactites and candlelight, truly unforgettable.

Rent a Car in Cancun Today

Enjoy a hassle-free car rental in Cancun with Avant Rent a Car, offering complete transparency and no hidden fees. Explore the city at your own pace with our reliable vehicles and exceptional service, designed to provide you with comfort and peace of mind throughout your trip.

Need help choosing your car?

Contact us See our cars

Can I pay with cash?

Yes, you can pay the rental cost in cash (MXN/USD/EUROS). However, the hold (deposit) must be put on a card.

Do you accept debit cards?

Yes, we do accept debit cards. However, the hold (deposit) will increase about 20% more than using a credit card for the deposit. No worries,
the rental cost remains the same.

Can I buy extra insurance?

Yes. You can ask for more info directly at our counter or by email.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations notified 3 days in advance will have no penalty.

Cancellations notified 1 or 2 days in advance will have a one day rental charge penalty.
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Cancellations received on the same day or No Shows will have a 50% rental charge penalty.
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NOTE: When you cancel 3 days (or more) in advance, there will be a 10% charge from the pre payment. This is the cost for processing the refund, not a penalty.

What are the requirements for renting a car with AVANT?

Minimum age 25 years old.
Valid credit card, VISA, MasterCard and American Express.
Valid driver's license (Any country is OK, international driver's license is not required).

Will there be additional fees when I pick up the car?

No, the amount shown on your booking is the total to pay. No hidden fees or charges.

What is included in the insurance we sell?

Avant Rent a Car provides the most economical insurance you can contract in any other car rental company around the world.
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For a small fixed daily fee, our insurance has enormous advantages since it covers you, and excludes you from payments, in case of accidents and damages to the rented vehicle. It offers ZERO deductible (franchise) protection for the following coverages:

CDW: Collision Damage Waiver, covers any type of damages to the rented vehicle on accidents or collision while driving on paved roads, cities or highways.
LDW: Insurance against vehicle theft. 100% coverage in case of theft of the rented car
PLI/RC: Third-party damage insurance. It covers 100% of any damage caused to third parties (in their persons or property) caused by the rented vehicle.
ALI/RC: Additional Liability Insurance/Civil responsibility coverage, complying with the new coverage requirements issued by Highway Mexican Law, article 62 issued in 2004.
Legal Assistance for customers in case of an accident involving the violation of any law.

WHAT IS ALSO COVERED, BUT REQUIRES DEDUCTIBLE PAYMENT.
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Please note that the following are certain restrictions for the damage payment exemption (Zero deductible), which normally never occur:

‍Please note that the following are certain restrictions for the damage payment exemption (Zero deductible), which normally never occur:
In the event that they occur, your insurance still provides coverage. However, in these particular cases, the lessor will be responsible to cover the cost of repairing any type of damage caused to the rented vehicle up to a cost that does not exceed the deductible amount which is a 10% of the average value of the rented vehicl. This 10% deductible amount will be stated on your rental agreement
1. When the vehicle suffers damage when parking and the driver hits the vehicle with a fixed object such as a fence, tree, door, or any other obstacle.

2. When the vehicle suffers damage caused by another vehicle that flees, while parked or driving and there is no evidence of it such as a photograph, license plate, or video of someone to hold responsible.

3. Damage caused by driving the vehicle on unpaved roads.

4. Damage caused to wheels and/or tires.

In these cases, as stated above, the lessor will be obliged to cover the amount of damages up to an amount that does NOT exceed the 10% deductible

VERY IMPORTANT
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All this above coverage will ONLY BE VALID by meeting these 3 requirements:

The driver is registered in the rental agreement as an authorized driver.
The driver is not under the influence of alcohol or any kind of drugs; or medication contraindicated in machinery operations, while driving.
The damage, or accident, must be reported immediately at the time it occurs and at the scene. Vehicle must not be moved until the insurance agent arrives or if the police indicates to do so.

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

Traffic tickets.
Damage to tires (rubber) and/ or wheels (metal or aluminum).
Loss and/or damage of the hubcaps, keys, license plates and other accessories such as baby car seats, etc.
Smoking odor.
Damage or stains to upholstery and / or any interior parts of the vehicle.
Damage to the vehicle caused by driving through floods, or to the chassis and/or body frame of the vehicle due to driving on unpaved roads.

It is important to understand that all these coverages are contracted between the renter (You) and AVANT RENT A CAR by means of the rental agreement. By sign it, you are accepting, and are subject to, these benefits and their restrictions. It has nothing to do with the policy contracted by us with other insurance companies that we use, which only cover damage to third parties.

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What's the amount of the deposit (hold) on my credit card?

The amount of the deposit will vary according to the category of the vehicle. It goes from $350.00 USD ($7,000.00 MXN) up to $1,500.00 USD ($30,000.00 MXN).

Will you charge my card in MXN Pesos or US Dollars?

All charges on a card will be in MXN Pesos. We are not able to charge in US Dils via credit or debit cards ,so a slight difference in your US DIl bills may appear due to the exchange rate daily fluctuation. You can avoid this paying your rental in US Dils cash if you preffer. We provide quotes in USD as this is the currency most known worldwide.

Do you have an office inside the airport?

No, our office is just a mile from the airport. We have a free shuttle that will transfer you from/to the airport.

How will I find the Avant agent at the airport?

When you place your booking, we will send you the indications to follow in order to meet with our agent at the airport. Its VERY IMPORTANT to follow our indications due to a lot of transport piracy and dishonest "information personal" that will lie to you in order to sell you something else.

Can I pick up/drop off someplace else other than the airport?

In bookings of 7 days or more this is possible, terms and conditions apply. Please contact us via email for more information, avant@avantrentacar.com

I need to make changes to my booking, how do I proceed?

Please contact us via email by clicking reply to the email where you received your booking confirmation and mention the changes. If aplicable, we will provide a new quote and mention the new terms of the booking for your approval.

My flight arrives/departs very early/late, can I pick up/drop off the car at that time?

Not a problem. We attend confirmed bookings 24/7. However, is important that you notify us at the moment of any changes via phone call, mail or whatts app with 48 hours of anticipation. Less than 48 hours you must give us a phone call in order to confirm your schedule changes.

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