Fifth Avenue: The Vibrant Heart of Playa del Carmen

Fifth Avenue is much more than a street; it's the soul and the epicenter of social, tourist, and commercial life in Playa del Carmen, within the Riviera Maya. Its history dates back to the 1960s and 1970s, when the city began its tourism boom. Initially, it was a short stretch, but it has expanded to cover over 3 miles (approximately 4.8 kilometers). Today, it stretches from Zona Fundadores to Avenida CTM or even further north, offering an uninterrupted stroll just yards from the Caribbean Sea.

   

Why Visit Fifth Avenue?

Visiting Fifth Avenue is essential to experience the cosmopolitan essence of Playa del Carmen. It is the perfect place for:

• People-Watching: Its vibrant atmosphere mixes tourists from all over the world, locals, street artists, and vendors.
• Convenience: Its proximity to the beach (running parallel just one block away) allows you to combine shopping, dining, and a day of sun and sea.
• Diversity: It reflects the history and cultural diversity of the city, offering options for all budgets and tastes.
   

Shopping Malls and Shopping

Fifth Avenue is home to a mix of boutiques, brand stores, and large shopping malls where you can find everything:

   

Main Shopping Malls:

• Paseo del Carmen: Located at the beginning (near Parque Fundadores and the ferry to Cozumel dock). It is known for its international brand stores.
• Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall: Situated on the corner with Avenida Benito Juárez, it is one of the busiest, housing fashion retailers.
• Calle Corazón: Stands out for its modern design and hosts luxury and high-end fashion stores.
   

   

What to Buy?

• Mexican Handicrafts: Find textiles, silver jewelry, hammocks, and figurines.
• Souvenirs and Beachwear: There are countless stores selling swimwear and typical Caribbean souvenirs.
• Tequila and Mezcal: Look for specialty stores for tastings and to buy premium bottles.
   

Gastronomy: What to Eat?

The culinary offer on the Quinta is immense, from historic establishments to modern proposals:

• Pioneering Classics: You can still find historic restaurants like El Pez Vela and La Tarraya (founded in 1968), perfect for fresh seafood.
• Traditional Mexican Food: Tacos al pastor, enchiladas, Yucatecan cuisine (cochinita pibil), and dishes from the interior of the country.
• International Cuisine: High-quality Italian, Argentinian, Japanese, and vegan/vegetarian restaurants.

How to Get to Fifth Avenue?

   

Since Fifth Avenue is the central point of Playa del Carmen, getting there is very easy:

• From Cancun or Tulum: The most popular and economical way is to take an ADO Bus (first-class bus) or a local "Van" (collective transport) that will drop you off at the central terminal, just steps from the start of Fifth Avenue.
• By Taxi: Taxis from anywhere in the Riviera Maya will drop you off in its immediate vicinity.
• From Cozumel: The ferry will drop you off at the Playa del Carmen pier, right next to Parque Fundadores and the beginning of the Quinta.

Fifth Avenue is a living testament to the history, tradition, and cosmopolitan spirit that defines Playa del Carmen. Are you ready to stroll through the heart of the Riviera Maya?

Photos of Fifth Avenue