Few people realize that one of Playa del Carmen’s most exclusive gated communities is built around Maya ruins. Xaman-Ha, meaning water of the north, was a Postclassic Maya settlement and one of the first Maya towns the Spanish saw in 1518.
What is there
Archaeologists have identified 19 groups of civic and religious buildings. Small temples sit among the jungle and the homes of Playacar Phase I, and the town served as a departure point for pilgrims crossing to Cozumel to honor the goddess Ixchel.
How to visit
Entry is free. Walk in from the Playacar entrance at the south end of 5th Avenue, near Calle Coral Negro, or from the first side street off Playacar beach. Some structures are fenced and viewed from the path.
Living in Playacar
Playacar Phase I sits on the beach, and Phase II surrounds the golf course. Read our Playacar Phase II guide and our guide to golf in Playa del Carmen.
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 Playacar ruins, 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.
Keep exploring
- Arts and culture in Playa del Carmen
- Playacar Maya ruins (Xaman-Ha)
- Maya ruins near Playa del Carmen
- Parks and nature in Playa del Carmen
- Things to do in Playa del Carmen
- Shopping in Playa del Carmen
- Nightlife and entertainment in Playa del Carmen
- Playa del Carmen neighborhood guide
- Restaurants we recommend in Playa del Carmen
- Centro and 5th Avenue neighborhood guide
- Coco Beach neighborhood guide
- Playacar Phase II neighborhood guide
- Selvamar neighborhood guide
- Playa del Carmen properties for sale
- Talk to a buyer’s agent
