Name: Playa Realtors
Price range: $$$

Maya Ruins near Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a natural base for exploring the Maya world. These are the archaeological sites within a day trip, starting with the one inside town.

Xaman-Ha in Playacar

Inside town, free to visit, among the homes of Playacar Phase I.

Tulum

About 1 hour south from Playa del Carmen. A walled Maya port city on a cliff above the Caribbean, known for El Castillo and the Temple of the Frescoes, reached through Parque del Jaguar. Open daily 8:00 to 17:00. Guided option.

Cobá

About 1.5 hours from Playa del Carmen. A large Maya city in the jungle between lagoons, linked by ancient raised roads. Its Nohoch Mul pyramid is about 42 meters tall; climbing has been closed since 2020. Rent a bike at the entrance.

Xel-Há archaeological zone

About 45 minutes south from Playa del Carmen. A small Maya city separate from the Xel-Há park, reopened by INAH after restoration. A quiet visit that pairs with Tulum or Akumal. Guided option.

Muyil

About 1.5 hours from Playa del Carmen. A jungle site inside the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, known for its 17-meter El Castillo and access to the Sian Ka’an canals. Reopened in February 2026.

Chichén Itzá

About 2.5 hours from Playa del Carmen. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders, best known for the Kukulcán pyramid. A full-day trip. Guided option.

Arrive early at any site to avoid heat and crowds. Mexican residents get free entry to INAH sites on Sundays with ID.

Living near it

Playa Realtors is a licensed boutique brokerage based in Playa del Carmen, with an office in Tulum, and we have represented buyers in Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and across Quintana Roo since 2008. We never represent developers. If you are thinking about owning a home close to the Maya sites of the Riviera Maya, we can show you the neighborhoods that fit how you want to live. Plan on closing costs of 7 to 10% of the purchase price.