exploring playa del carmen's thriving gay scene offers a delightful mix of energetic nightlife, welcoming accommodations, and beautiful coastal relaxation. this popular mexican destination, nestled along the riviera maya, has cultivated a distinct atmosphere catering to the lgbtq+ community, providing a variety of venues and experiences.
understanding playa del carmen's social hubs
while playa del carmen isn't defined by a single "gay district" in the traditional sense, its social hotspots are easily identifiable.
the primary areas of interest for gay travelers are concentrated along or just off the famous 5th avenue, a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare teeming with shops, restaurants, and bars.
club playa 69: a local favorite
formerly known as club 69, club playa 69, or playa 69 gay dance club, this establishment remains a cornerstone of the local gay nightlife.
finding up-to-date information can be a little tricky, but instagram location tags suggest its continued popularity. situated on 5th avenue, between 4th and 6th streets, its signage may have shifted, but the core experience remains. look for an alleyway entrance, as it's not immediately visible from the main street.
club playa 69: what to expect
club playa 69 primarily attracts a local crowd and truly comes alive on friday and saturday evenings, typically from midnight until the early morning hours.
while long drinks and cocktails can be a bit on the pricier side, the local preference for beer makes it a more budget-friendly option. the bar itself is intimate, with a significant portion of the indoor space dedicated to a prominent stage. this stage hosts captivating drag shows on friday and saturday nights, usually commencing around midnight and continuing throughout the evening.
when not showcasing performances, the stage transforms into the main dance floor.
beyond the indoor space, a more expansive outdoor courtyard area offers a relaxed setting for patrons to drink and socialize while enjoying the shows. the music selection is eclectic, blending pop hits, current chart music, and a strong infusion of latin rhythms, including reggaeton.
the djs are known to be accommodating, readily taking requests to ensure everyone has a fantastic experience.
provenza club: another nightlife option
provenza club is another venue worth noting in playa del carmen's gay nightlife landscape.
it's located on 32nd street, nestled between 5th avenue and 10th avenue. for the latest on events and happenings, keeping an eye on their facebook page is recommended.
the roof bar and its neighbors
adjacent to club playa 69, you'll find a bar that was previously known as santino bar.
it appears to have undergone a rebranding on google maps, now listed as the roof bar. this rebranding might be due to the presence of another nearby establishment called santino playa. while not exclusively a gay bar, the roof bar serves as a popular local hangout attracting a diverse clientele.
it often becomes the next destination for many when club playa 69 winds down for the night. the drinks here are generally reasonably priced, and the music selection is varied, catering to a broad range of tastes.
a historical perspective: the former santino bar
further into playa del carmen, on calle 2-norte colonia ejidal, between 40th and 45th avenue, there was once a gay bar that has since changed its status or is no longer operating as such.
this establishment catered mainly to a local clientele who gathered to socialize and enjoy the entertainment. a cover charge was typically applied from 11 pm onwards. its location, a bit further from the central tourist areas, often meant more affordable drink prices. the venue was known for its engaging performances, including strippers who offered full shows and private lap dances.
accommodation: staying in comfort and style
playa del carmen offers a range of accommodations, with several hotels proving particularly welcoming to gay travelers, either through dedicated offerings or a generally inclusive atmosphere.
hotel reina roja: a chic boutique experience
hotel reina roja stands out as a 4-star boutique hotel featuring 63 rooms.
its prime location provides easy access to the beach and the vibrant energy of 5th avenue. the hotel boasts a rooftop bar and pool, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the views, complemented by an onsite restaurant and sun terrace. hotel reina roja is an adults-only property and occasionally hosts gay-themed parties, adding to its appeal for the lgbtq+ community.
the palm hotel: friendly and accessible
the palm hotel is another well-situated option, located near the town center and within walking distance of the beach.
it's found on 8th street, between 5th and 10th avenues. previously an exclusively gay hotel under different management, it has maintained its reputation and continues to be a gay-friendly choice, largely due to its welcoming and supportive staff. the hotel's location on 5th avenue and 24th street places it close to numerous dining establishments and beach clubs.
hotel riviera caribe maya: a neighborly choice
consider hotel riviera caribe maya, also recognized as a gay-friendly hotel, situated conveniently near hotel reina roja.
its location provides excellent access to the gay nightlife, being just a two-minute walk from the quieter end of 5th avenue. guests frequently praise the hotel for its cleanliness and the exceptional attentiveness of its staff.
aventura mexicana: a historic gem
aventura mexicana, while now open to all guests, retains a strong legacy of being a gay-friendly hotel.
its position on 5th avenue and 24th street offers proximity to sought-after restaurants and beach clubs. intriguingly, one section of the hotel is designated as adults-only, complete with its own pool and garden area, providing a more tranquil experience for those seeking it.
beaches: sun, sand, and relaxation
playa del carmen's coastline offers beautiful stretches of sand, with one beach gaining a reputation as the most popular gay beach in the area.
mamitas beach club area: the primary gathering spot
the most recognized gay beach in playa del carmen is the stretch of sand situated in front of and to the left of mamitas beach club when facing the ocean.
this area provides a relaxed atmosphere for sunbathing and socializing.
a more secluded option: the northern stretch
for those seeking a quieter, more secluded experience, a beach located further north, accessible via 1st street, offers a different vibe.
this less crowded stretch, situated between two upscale hotel complexes, is known for its nude sunbathing and cruising activities. however, travelers should be aware of the frequent presence of beach patrols and security due to the proximity of expensive hotels.
discretion is advised if choosing to visit this particular spot, and many find it more convenient and enjoyable to stick to the more established area near mamitas beach club.
activities and events: beyond the bars and beaches
playa del carmen offers more than just nightlife and sunbathing; it's a hub for unique experiences and vibrant events.
pink flamingo gay tours: exploring the riviera maya
for those interested in guided exploration, pink flamingo gay tours provide both private and small group day trips and packages throughout the riviera maya region.
their instagram page is a good resource for insights into their offerings.
arena festival: a major circuit party
playa del carmen hosts significant events, with the arena festival being a standout. this large-scale circuit party typically takes place in late january or early february, spanning approximately a week and featuring numerous parties, including a notable jungle party set amidst cenotes.
attendees often describe the experience as incredibly enjoyable, leading to comprehensive guides being written about the festival.
playa pride: celebrating diversity
the annual pride celebrations in playa del carmen are a highlight for many.
the beach pride parade is a particularly popular event, winding its way along Avenida Juarez and culminating in a celebratory party in front of the City Hall. for detailed information on upcoming events and pride celebrations, consulting resources like playaPride.com is recommended.
exploring the natural wonders: cenotes and more
beyond the urban and social attractions, playa del carmen serves as an excellent base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the yucatán peninsula.
the magic of cenotes
the region is renowned for its cenotes, natural sinkholes formed in limestone bedrock, revealing fresh water pools and underground cave systems.
many cenotes are accessible for swimming, and some offer opportunities for cave diving for the more adventurous. cenote tajma ha, a short 30-minute drive away, is one of the closest options. longer day tours can also include visits to cenotes located further afield, such as the gran cenote near tulum.
other natural attractions
beyond cenotes, the riviera maya offers a wealth of natural wonders waiting to be discovered.
consider exploring:
- ancient Mayan ruins, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.
- lush jungle landscapes teeming with wildlife.
- stunning coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
whether you're drawn to the energetic nightlife, the welcoming atmosphere of gay-friendly accommodations, the relaxing beaches, or the breathtaking natural landscapes, playa del carmen provides a diverse and memorable experience for every gay traveler.