Gay bars in playa del carmen mexico
Gay Playa Del Carmen consistently captivates us, prompting multiple visits and a genuine affection for this beautiful, LGBTQ+-welcoming coastal haven. Among Mexico's gay destinations, it ranks among our favorites.
Initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive. Stunning beaches, the expected Caribbean crystal-clear waters, a plethora of restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene along bustling 5th Avenue quickly won us over. We instantly knew this was a fabulous vacation.
But what about gay Playa del Carmen? With its broad appeal to tourists, did Playa del Carmen hold any specific attractions for LGBTQ+ travelers in Mexico?
Our research into 'gay Playa del Carmen' revealed a seeming absence of explicit LGBTQ+ specific venues…
However, we soon discovered that Playa del Carmen's welcoming attitude toward all tourists, seamlessly integrates LGBTQ+ experiences into the local culture. Consequently, bars and beaches alike embrace the inclusive spirit.
Just like in Cancun (refer to our Cancun Gay Guide), gay travelers are warmly received in all establishments. Gay tourists mingle comfortably along the coast with their straight counterparts.
Nevertheless, our nearly two-week stay in Playa del Carmen uncovered a considerably more extensive spectrum of choices beyond just a single club.
Thus, we compiled this comprehensive guide to 'Gay Playa del Carmen'. We trust it will prove useful for your visit!
Is Playa Del Carmen Safe for Gay Travellers?
In short, yes!
Playa Del Carmen hosts significant LGBTQ+ events (see details below), boasts a lively gay scene, and is a popular tourist destination. This combination made us feel supremely safe and at ease as a gay couple.
However, as with many destinations, maintaining caution when venturing beyond the tourist hubs is advisable.
Gay Bars Playa Del Carmen
Currently, a single official gay bar is available in Playa del Carmen; locating this establishment online can be somewhat challenging. Beyond this specific bar, a more nuanced gay scene exists in Playa del Carmen.
Club Playa 69 (formerly Club 69)
During our visit, it was known as Club 69, now called Club Playa 69, Playa 69 Gay Dance Club, or just Playa 69. Precise details online remain somewhat elusive (we are uncertain as to why). However, based on Instagram location tags, the bar appears to be continuing to thrive.
Currently, this establishment constitutes the sole gay bar in Playa del Carmen.
Club Playa 69 is situated along 5th Avenue, between 4th and 6th Street.
The most effective way to locate the bar (it's somewhat hidden) is to locate a 7/11 store, then follow the alleyway to the end.
Signage may have changed since our last visit; however, the logo is likely similar. It's often difficult to spot from the main street, so keep your eyes peeled and heed the alleyway directions.
Club Playa 69 primarily caters to locals, and experiences peak activity on Friday and Saturday nights, running from approximately midnight to 3-4 am.
A cover charge typically ranges from $4 to $6.
Premium beverages, such as cocktails and long drinks, carry a premium price; locally-favored beer offers a more economical alternative.
The bar's interior is relatively compact, with the majority of the space dedicated to a considerable stage area. Here, Fridays and Saturdays feature engaging drag performances during the night.
Typically beginning around midnight, the performances continue through the night. When not hosting a show, the stage serves as the primary dance floor.
Supplementary stages or areas provide space for occasional stripper and go-go dancer performances.
An expansive outdoor courtyard area serves as a gathering spot for locals who enjoy socialising and savoring their drinks during the performances.
Music ranges from current popular music to Spanish, Latin, and reggaeton hits. The DJ was responsive to audience requests, happily playing Ariana Grande for our enjoyment.
At the rear of the club, a small darkroom and a cruising area are available.
Provenza PDC
This represents Playa del Carmen's latest LGBTQ+ club.
Expect drag shows and go-go dancers, similar to the experience at Club 69. Find Provenza on 32nd Street, between 5th Avenue and 10th Avenue.
Stay informed about events by checking their Facebook page.
The Roof Bar (was known as Santino Bar)
Adjacent to Club Playa 69, the establishment once known as Santino Bar is now listed as The Roof Bar on Google Maps. (Possible name change due to a nearby establishment called Santino Playa).
While not exclusively a gay bar, it attracts a mixed crowd, often acting as a transition point for patrons after the closure of Club Playa 69.
Drink prices are comparatively reasonable, and the music selection encompasses diverse genres.
La Cueva del MAYA-T – Now Closed
This formerly existing gay bar in Playa Del Carmen was centrally located on Calle 1 Sur, between 40th and 45th Avenue.
Its style leaned toward a 'gay stripper bar,' rather than a dance-music oriented spot.
Mostly frequented by locals, the environment fostered informal gathering and live entertainment, typically accompanied by a cover charge of 50 MXN starting at 11 PM. Located outside the central area, drinks were usually more affordable.
Strippers offered full-fledged performances, including the option of private lap dances.
Reina Roja Hotel
Although a hotel, Reina Roja boasts a robust LGBTQ+ following. Their marketing emphasizes a 'gay-friendly' atmosphere.
They periodically host gay parties, such as the 'Glory' spring break event and regular pool parties.
In the past, their 'Apecar Gay Party' was a weekly Friday night event, featuring DJs, performances, and appealing drink deals. Though this event may have been temporarily suspended, the rooftop bar remains a favored social hub for both locals and hotel guests.
Check their Facebook/Instagram for upcoming gatherings. Reina Roja is conveniently located just off 5th Avenue on 20th Street.
Coco Bongos
Also noteworthy is Coco Bongos.
This is one of the premier nightlife options in Playa del Carmen, blending a lively dance club experience with an extravagant, Las Vegas-inspired show lasting well over four hours.
While enjoying the energetic atmosphere, guests can observe aerial acrobatics, videos projected throughout the space, engage with foam bubbles, and enjoy tributes to iconic artists like Michael Jackson, Queen, and Madonna.
A highly recommended experience for gay tourists, with its distinctive campy flair.
Coco Bongos operates a ticket system, usually including unlimited drinks.
Is there a Gay Sauna in Playa Del Carmen?
The Playa del Carmen gay sauna, (or formerly Spa Club X-Mahan-Nah), is currently unclear as to its operational status. Located approximately five minutes from the centre of Playa del Carmen, the address is Av. 55 Poniente esq. Calle 2-Norte colonia Ejidal, 77712, Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
Past reviews indicate a comparatively small local gay sauna.
Gay Friendly Hotels Playa Del Carmen
Given its compact resort nature, Playa del Carmen lacks dedicated 'gay' hotels.
However, several establishments stand out as exceptionally LGBTQ+-friendly: Reina Roja, The Palm Hotel, and Aventura Mexicana Hotel.
1. Hotel Reina Roja
Hotel Reina Roja is a four-star boutique hotel with 63 rooms.
Besides its convenient location near the beach, it features a rooftop bar, rooftop pool, on-site restaurant, and sun terrace. Reina Roja is exclusively for adults and often hosts gay-themed events.
Book here
2. The Palm at Playa Hotel
The Palm Hotel, located close to the town centre and the beach on 8th Street between 5th and 10th Avenue, is a more modern option.
In the past, the hotel's rooftop pool has hosted gay pool parties, notably during the Arena Festival (usually late January/early February).
The Palm features 69 rooms and boasts an on-site gym and spa.
Book here
3. Aventura Mexicana
Aventura Mexicana, while now open to all guests, was once exclusively a gay hotel under its previous management.
However, the hotel has maintained a gay-friendly reputation, mostly due to its inclusive staff.
Conveniently located on 5th Avenue and 24th Street, close to restaurants and beach clubs, this property is ideal for exploration.
While family-friendly, the hotel does maintain an adults-only section with a dedicated adult pool and garden area.
Book here
4. Hotel Riviera Caribe Maya
This hotel, situated near Reina Roja, is noted for its gay-friendly atmosphere and conducive location to gay nightlife venues.
Within two minutes' walk of the quieter stretch of 5th Avenue, this establishment is clean and boasts remarkably attentive staff.
A small pool and garden area complement the hotel's amenities.
Book here
Gay Beach Playa Del Carmen
While Playa del Carmen lacks an exclusively gay beach, certain areas cater to both LGBTQ+ locals and visitors.
Mamitas Beach
Mamitas Beach, specifically in front of and to the left of (facing the ocean) Mamitas Beach Club, is one of Playa del Carmen's most frequented LGBTQ+ beaches.
Popular with all, not just the LGBTQ+ community, this spot frequently attracts LGBTQ+ guests for its lively ambiance.
Likely due to the appealing music and the lively ambiance of Mamitas Beach Club, without the associated costs.
The ‘Official’ Gay Beach in Playa Del Carmen (Playacar)
In addition to Mamitas, a quieter stretch of beachfront near hotel complexes, accessible from 112th Street, is frequently considered the 'gay beach' of Playa del Carmen.
Its remote location, nestled between two expensive hotel properties, makes it a secluded spot. Public access is available.
Often attracting fewer tourists due to its isolation, this beach is known for nude sunbathing and discreet encounters.
Given the heightened security presence due to its location within exclusive hotel property, exercising discretion is advised.
Gay Tours of Playa Del Carmen
Though an uncommon feature in a smaller beach town, gay tours are readily available in Playa del Carmen.
Pink Flamingo gay tours provide private and small-group day trips within the Riviera Maya area, encompassing destinations such as the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, Chichen Itza, and Holbox.
A key highlight includes the inclusion of an inflatable pink flamingo for memorable social media documentation.
Stay up-to-date by following their Instagram page.
Gay Events Playa Del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a hub for exceptional events; during our visit, we were fortunate enough to experience a circuit party nestled within the jungle, complete with stunning cenotes and a captivating atmosphere.
Arena Festival
Arena Festival, a Playa del Carmen circuit party event, typically occurs in late January and early February, extending over a considerable timeframe and offering a wide array of themed parties.
We were particularly enthralled with the experience, so we detailed the experience and developed a comprehensive guide to the event.
Gay Pride Playa Del Carmen
Playa del Carmen proudly hosts an annual gay pride celebration.
Although perhaps smaller than the events in Mexico City, it is nonetheless a significant event that spans a week each year during June, and is viewed as one of the major international celebrations.
The annual Pride parade culminates with a festival.
More details on the festivities can be found on www.PlayaPride.com.mx.
Things to do for Gay Travellers in Playa del Carmen
Given its beautiful beach scene, visitors to Playa del Carmen often choose to spend time relaxing on the beaches, or by the hotel pool. Beyond relaxation, there are numerous worthwhile tours and destinations nearby, including:
Sian Ka’an Tour
Sian Ka'an, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning biosphere offering diverse attractions, including breathtaking Caribbean Sea vistas, lagoons, jungle explorations, coral reefs, vibrant fish, birds, dolphins, and large turtles.
Located along the coast towards Tulum (refer to our Tulum Gay Guide), the varied landscape of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve makes it a tour well worth considering.
Visit the nearby Cenotes
Mexico's limestone formations frequently collapse, creating unique fresh-water cave systems. Many of these cenotes are now open to the public for swimming.
Cenote Tajma Ha, situated about a thirty-minute drive (taxi or car) from Playa del Carmen, represents a convenient choice.
Full-day tours are also available, providing access to more distant cenotes, such as the Gran Cenote near Tulum.
Scuba Diving or Snorkelling
Scuba diving and snorkelling in the Riviera Maya region offers exceptional opportunities to explore diverse underwater environments, including coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Cave diving within cenotes represents an additional adventurous alternative.
Review Tripadvisor for recommended service providers.
Xcaret
Xcaret, a water, theme, amusement, eco-archaeological park, is ranked as the top attraction in Playa del Carmen on Tripadvisor.
Nestled amidst the jungle, underground rivers, cenotes, and the Caribbean Sea, Xcaret boasts spectacular views and various enriching activities.
Two locations are available; one near Cancun and the other near Play Del Carmen.
Visit the Xcaret site for more information.
Places to eat in Playa del Carmen
We consistently return to these establishments during our visits.
Roma Spaghetti – An unassuming, house-connected restaurant delivering exceptional pasta dishes and accolades.
Mae Thai Restaurant – This coast-adjacent, more sophisticated restaurant is highly recommended for its pineapple fried rice.
Salade – For a healthful and flavorful lunch, Salades offers a wide array of salads, paninis, and bagels.
Chez Celine – This spot is noted for exceptionally delicious brunch options, pastries, and sweet treats.
Other Useful Information
Getting from Cancun to Playa del Carmen
Most international flights arrive at Cancun International Airport, approximately a thirty to forty-minute drive from Playa del Carmen.
A private taxi or ADO bus are the two most common transport options.
A taxi ride is generally estimated at $50, although negotiation is a possibility.
An ADO bus departs directly from the arrivals terminal, offering a reasonably priced forty-minute alternative to taxis.
What is the Currency in Playa Del Carmen?
The primary currency in Playa del Carmen (and all of Mexico) is the Mexican Peso. US dollars are widely accepted, and prices are often quoted in US dollars.
The current exchange rate is roughly 18 Mexican Pesos per US dollar.
Weather and the best time to visit Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen experiences a warm, temperate climate throughout the year, punctuated by a wet and dry season, similar to other Caribbean locations.
The optimal travel period is the cooler dry season, typically November to March, featuring temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (75-86°F).
We have enjoyed our visits to Playa del Carmen and are planning a potential return trip in 2020 to participate in the upcoming Arena Festival.
We strongly advocate Playa del Carmen as a gay-friendly, welcoming beach destination, frequently challenging to find within the Caribbean region. We hope your visit proves as fulfilling as ours!
Explore the broader region of the Riviera Maya with our other articles!
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