20 businesses in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen punches well above its size when it comes to extracurricular activities, with a particularly strong offering in dance, martial arts, and water sports. Salsa and bachata classes with instructors like Martin Cardozo and at Dance For Fun Studio attract serious students alongside beginners — the Caribbean location means local Mexican dance culture is genuine and accessible rather than performative. Gracie Barra Riviera Maya is a legitimate Brazilian jiu-jitsu gym affiliated with one of the world's most respected BJJ organizations, attracting practitioners of all levels. The broader activity landscape includes yoga studios, freediving courses, cenote snorkeling, and kitesurfing schools — most within a short distance of the town center. Prices for group classes typically run 150–300 MXN per session, with monthly memberships at most sports facilities in the 1,200–2,500 MXN range. The expat and international community actively participates in all of these — finding your activity niche is one of the fastest ways to build a social circle in Playa del Carmen, especially if you're not a big nightlife person.
Showing 1-20 of 20 businesses
Browse extra-curricular activities listings on ExpatsList to find stores in Playa del Carmen that carry imported and international products. Grocery stores, specialty shops, and markets catering to expats are all included.
ExpatsList covers extra-curricular activities businesses in Playa del Carmen from tour agencies and bars to community groups and hobby shops. It's a great way to find things to do and meet other expats when you're new to the city.
Many cities have thriving expat communities. Check our extra-curricular activities section for social clubs, sports groups, and community spaces in Playa del Carmen where you can connect with other internationals and locals alike.
Salsa and bachata are genuine social currencies in Playa del Carmen — knowing the basics opens doors at beach parties, rooftop events, and local fiestas that can feel closed off without them. Studios like Dance For Fun offer beginner group classes at low cost and no prior experience is needed.
Popular activity studios in Playa del Carmen often run reduced schedules or close temporarily during low season (June–October) when local enrollment drops. Confirm current class schedules directly with the studio before making plans, especially if you arrive outside peak tourist months.
Several fitness and activity studios in Playa del Carmen offer informal resident rates that are lower than the tourist day-pass price. It's worth asking directly — particularly at martial arts gyms and dance studios where building a consistent student base matters more than maximizing per-visit revenue.
Grito de Independencia at Plaza 28 de Julio
If you are in Playa tonight, do not stay in. The city holds El Grito in Plaza 28 de Julio, and it is the one night a year when the whole town turns out for the same thing. Things start at 9:00 PM. The Grito itself is the centre of it: the shout, the flag, and a plaza full of people yelling ¡Viva México! After that, Ximena Sariñana and Sin Bandera close the night. Sin Bandera playing to a crowd that knows every word is worth showing up for on its own. It is free, it is outdoors, and it is a family crowd rather than a club crowd, so bring whoever you are with. Get there before 9:00 if you want to be anywhere near the stage, because the plaza fills up fast. If you have never seen El Grito in person, this is the one to go to.
Riu Palace Mexico
The Riu Palace Mexico has completely transformed into an adults-only sanctuary with a new 'White Palace' aesthetic and enhanced all-inclusive offerings. This strict demographic shift eliminates the noise and chaos of family resorts, offering a tranquil, sophisticated Caribbean experience. The introduction of the Elite Club by RIU further elevates the experience with private pool access, exclusive dining, and premium spirits. For those seeking a refined, adults-only retreat, the Riu Palace Mexico is a must-visit. Starting September 19, 2026, the resort will operate as a strictly 18-and-over property, with all guestrooms and suites gutted and rebuilt to feature sleek, stark white facades and warm contemporary wood accents. The Elite Club provides private pool areas, exclusive dining, and top-shelf spirits, making it an unparalleled all-inclusive experience. The new restaurant and bar offerings ensure that gastronomic and beverage options are always available, regardless of the time of day.
SAKURA RAMEN - Authentic Japanese Ramen Place in Playa del Carmen
If you're in Playa del Carmen and craving real Japanese ramen, Sakura Ramen is the spot. I added a photo of tonkotsu. Great atmosphere.
