NIGHTLIFE & FUN
PLAYA DEL CARMEN
Gay bars, roof tops, beaches and more
Playa del Carmen is one of the top gay destinations in Mexico, attracting thousands of LGBTQ+ travelers every year. Similar to Puerto Vallarta, this vibrant coastal city offers a lively and inclusive atmosphere where everyone is welcome.
Unlike other cities, Playa del Carmen does not have a dedicated “gayborhood.” Instead, the entire city is LGBTQ+ friendly, and you’ll find a diverse crowd enjoying the nightlife, beaches, and iconic 5th Avenue. Whether you’re here to dance the night away, relax on the beach, or enjoy a rooftop cocktail, Playa del Carmen has something for everyone.
Must-Visit Gay-Friendly Spots in Playa del Carmen
beaches
Playa del Carmen’s Iconic Gay-Friendly Beach Spot
Mamitas
Mamitas Beach has long been Playa del Carmen’s most famous beach club, offering a vibrant atmosphere with great music, cocktails, and top-notch amenities. But beyond the club itself, the surrounding beach has become a gay-friendly hotspot, attracting both locals and international visitors.
This lively stretch of sand, located between Mamitas Beach Club and Mahekal Resort, is where you’ll find a diverse crowd, from speedo-clad sunbathers to friendly travelers looking to connect. A good landmark? Look for the small catamaran from Dani Sailing Tours—that’s where the community gathers.
Sadly, Mamitas Beach Club is set to close soon, making way for a luxury condo development. But for now, this remains one of the best places in Playa del Carmen to relax, meet new people, and enjoy the stunning Caribbean vibes.
Playa del Carmen’s Hidden Gay Cruising Spot
Playa Punta Esmeralda
Looking for a more adventurous side of Playa del Carmen’s LGBTQ+ scene? Playa Punta Esmeralda is a well-known gay cruising spot, blending natural beauty with discreet encounters.
To find the action, take the main beach entrance, walk towards the left (north) along the shore, and pass an abandoned house—a spot rumored for spontaneous meetups. Keep going until you reach the coastal dune vegetation, where most of the activity happens.
While the beach itself is public and welcoming, the more secluded areas at the end attract guys looking to socialize, connect, or simply enjoy the stunning Caribbean waters. Whether you’re there to meet people or just soak in the scenery, Punta Esmeralda is a must-visit for those looking to explore Playa del Carmen’s local gay scene.
Secluded Nude Beach Near Playa del Carmen
Playa del Pecado
For those seeking a hidden, clothing-optional escape, Playa del Pecado is a secluded beach south of Playacar, offering crystal-clear waters and untouched Caribbean beauty. Unlike the busy beaches of Playa del Carmen, this spot remains quiet and peaceful, surrounded by lush coastal vegetation.
Getting there requires a long walk under the sun—about 1 km south of Playacar, followed by a rugged trail through rocks and bushes. The journey is challenging but worth it for those who appreciate tranquility and natural beauty.
⚠️ Important: Due to its isolation, there have been reports of robberies in the area. It’s highly recommended to visit with a friend, a group, or a local guide. For a safer experience, consider booking a Beach Day tour with Mérida Gay Tours, where you can enjoy this paradise worry-free.
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Gay Bars and parties
Best Gay Parties in Playa del Carmen
Marea
If you love circuit parties, keep an eye on Marea, which hosts exclusive events every two to three months. These intimate parties take place at stunning beach clubs and rooftop venues, featuring top Mexican circuit DJs like Erick Ibiza, Iván Vázquez, and Brian Solis.
Organized by León Likes to Party, with influences from Guadalajara’s legendary circuit scene, Marea’s events bring high-energy beats and a vibrant crowd to Playa del Carmen. Follow their Instagram and social media to stay updated on the next big party!
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Provenza
Located just a short walk from Quinta Avenida, Provenza has become one of the most popular LGBTQ+ bars in Playa del Carmen. With its intimate setting and lively entertainment, it attracts both locals and visitors looking for a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
The bar features two distinct areas. On the ground floor, guests can enjoy music, drinks, and interactive performances led by a charismatic drag queen host who keeps the crowd engaged with humor and lively entertainment. Later in the evening, the upper floor opens, offering a more energetic vibe with DJ sets, go-go dancers, and drag performances—creating the perfect space to dance and enjoy the night.
While the atmosphere is lively and the entertainment is fun, it’s always a good idea to double-check your bill before paying, as some visitors have reported discrepancies in pricing. For a worry-free experience, we recommend going with a local friend or booking a Nightlife Tour in Playa del Carmen with included drinks, so you can fully enjoy the night without concerns about unexpected charges.
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Sirenas
Located just outside Playa Mamitas, Sirenas is a laid-back beach bar perfect for starting your night or enjoying a casual drink as the sun sets. With a relaxed atmosphere, cute waiters, and lively drag queen performances, it’s an inviting spot for those looking to unwind before heading to the nightlife scene.
Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the beach or enjoying the fun performances, Sirenas is a great place to kick off your evening in Playa del Carmen.
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Book your gay adventure from Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum in Advance
Roof Terraces
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Alessia Roof Top
When The Thompson Hotel (now Hyatt Centric) first opened in Playa del Carmen, it quickly became a favorite among the LGBTQ+ community. Known for its sophisticated design, vibrant gay pride parties, and hosting top LGBTQ+ festivals, this iconic rooftop remains one of the best in town.
With breathtaking views, expertly crafted cocktails, gourmet cuisine, and world-class DJs, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the energy of Playa del Carmen.
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Bathouses
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Bananas Bath House
When The Thompson Hotel (now Hyatt Centric) first opened in Playa del Carmen, it quickly became a favorite among the LGBTQ+ community. Known for its sophisticated design, vibrant gay pride parties, and hosting top LGBTQ+ festivals, this iconic rooftop remains one of the best in town.
With breathtaking views, expertly crafted cocktails, gourmet cuisine, and world-class DJs, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the energy of Playa del Carmen.
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Festivals
