8 Best Places to Go Shopping in Playa del Carmen

With its Mediterranean exterior, cobbled brick walkways, and collection of high-end retailers, it’s no wonder Paseo del Carmen is one of Playa’s most popular shopping malls. Situated just moments from 5th Avenue and the city’s gold sand beach, you can swing by the complex after a swim in the ocean, or when you’re passing through town on your way out to lunch.

Shop big-name fashion and accessory brands like Guess, Tommy Hilfiger, Tag Heuer, and Oakley before treating yourself to a triple-scoop cone at the Häagen-Dazs ice creamery. Japanese restaurant Sushi-itto serves a menu of mouthwatering classics including California rolls and chicken teppanyaki.

Quinta Alegria is a visually arresting shopping mall featuring bright white walkways that are festooned with palm trees, colorful ornaments suspended from the ceiling, and an Instagrammable cherry-red LOVE sign. When you’re not splashing your cash in trendy stores like Rip Curl, Levi’s, and Psycho Bunny, you can invest in a precious charm bracelet from Danish jeweler Pandora. 

In need of some retail respite? Stop by the mall’s popular Starbucks coffee shop, which boasts plenty of caffeinated drinks that aren’t available in North America. Or visit the Italia Racing driving simulation center that offers a realistic Formula One experience in an ultra-luxe, full-motion Ferrari F1 simulator. 

Boasting some of the best gastronomic, retail, and nightlife offerings in Playa del Carmen, Calle Corazon is situated on bustling Quinta Avenida (the city’s famed pedestrian walkway). The complex is home to luxury fashion brands like Steve Madden, Lacoste, and Victoria’s Secret, as well as clothing boutiques like Terramia.

Fancy a spot of lunch? Reserve a table at upscale Harry’s for exceptional cuts of meat, the finest regional seafood, and deluxe desserts like the 24-carat gold lemon pie. Alternatively, head to Ilios, a stylish Mediterranean restaurant with a focus on Greek food, for Santorini ceviche and beef fillet souvlaki.

Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) is the leading retail street in Playa del Carmen, located one block west of the town’s beautiful beach. Famed for its emerald-green palm trees and papel picado flags that are strung between rooftops, it’s the perfect place to go when you want to shop for gifts.

For luxury watches, swing by Ultrajewels, home to Playa’s most prestigious Rolex collection. Or grab yourself a colorful souvenir at Tequila Bazar, and a top-shelf bottle while you’re at it. Meanwhile, those with a bohemian spirit will love browsing Bedouin Life for its eco-friendly clothing and suede fedoras, before stopping by Clandestino Rooftop for a glamorous cocktail.

One of Playa’s most extensive malls, Plaza Las Americas woos shoppers with retail giants like Sears, regional department stores like Sanborns, and fast-food chains like McDonald’s, Subway, and Krispy Kreme. There’s also a giant cinema complex which is home to 12 state-of-the-art theaters that screen all the latest movies from Mexico and Hollywood.

Surprisingly, the mall also houses a popular casino called Winpot which features slot machines, bingo machines, sports betting, and video blackjack. If you fancy a sit-down meal, try La Casa de los Abuelos for its authentic array of Mexican dishes like cactus paddle quesadillas and shredded beef tostadas.

With its brightly painted interiors, Dia de Los Muertos displays, and green plastic palm trees, Centro Maya Mall instantly appeals to kids. Families come here for big-name stores like Pirma, for sporting goods and Soriano, for groceries, as well as smaller chains like Fullsand, selling surfing gear and swimwear.

The shopping center’s major department store, Del Sol, is a hit with bargain hunters who flock here for discount clothing, bargain electrical appliances, affordable back-to-school items, and plush soft toys. When you want to feed the family, swing by Taco City Café for freshly squeezed juices and Tex-Mex classics like chilaquiles and bacon with pancakes.

With its Mexican colonial style thatched and terracotta tiled roofs and brightly-colored facades, Plaza Playacar is unlike any retail complex in Playa del Carmen. Here, the Mexican spirit is imbued in a dazzling array of artisan goods, clothing, jewelry, and home accessories (like the colorfully painted sugar skulls associated with the Day of the Dead). 

Shop handicrafts like leather goods, silver bangles, and Catholic Milagro hearts before heading to the mall’s Aqua Marina Spa for a full-body massage or a rejuvenating facial. If you’re in need of refreshment, visit the on-site Starbucks for a frothy Frappuccino or a silky iced coffee. 

Every Sunday, local vendors set up shop in the avenues north of the bustling Centro district to hawk their wares at the eclectic Sunday Market. Here, you can find just about anything including food, hammocks, house plants, clothing, furniture, shoes, and Mexican handicrafts. 

Buy a giant ball of cotton candy and stroll the streets scouring for bargains, picking up quirky souvenirs and gifts, and discovering the odd antique or vintage treasure. When you’re feeling hungry, stop at a food stand for a homemade taco or deep-fried churros with chocolate sauce.