Playacar is an exclusive, gated residential and resort community located at the southern end of Playa del Carmen. It sits about 70 km (40 miles) from Cancun, and the journey typically takes between 40 and 60 minutes.
If you’re heading to Playacar, getting there quickly and smoothly is key to starting your vacation right away. There are several transportation options available. Here are the best, fastest, and most cost-effective ways to get there
Are Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Playacar the same place?
Not at all.
To give you a clear picture, all three are located in the state of Quintana Roo, but they are very different from each other.
Cancun is the main tourist hub, known for its large resorts, beachfront hotels, and vibrant commercial and nightlife scene.
Just for you to picture it, it’s often referred to as the “Mexican Miami.”
Playa del Carmen is a smaller city located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) south of Cancun. While still lively, it feels more relaxed and less intense.
Fifth Avenue is the heart of the city, lined with shops, restaurants, and constant activity throughout the day.
Playacar is a gated community within Playa del Carmen. It’s known for its high-end all-inclusive resorts, luxury villas, a championship golf course, and a stunning Caribbean coastline. It offers a quieter, more upscale atmosphere, with white-sand beaches, lush surroundings, and easy access to Fifth Avenue.
Different ways to get from Cancun Airport to Playacar (Playa del Carmen)
These are the main ways to get from Cancun Airport to Playacar:
Option 1: Taxi
This is one of the easiest and fastest ways to get to Playacar from Cancun Airport. However, there’s no official taxi stand or fixed fares at the airport, so you’ll need to negotiate the price before getting in.
- Distance: 70 km (43 miles)
- Time: Around 1 hour
- Cost: $100–$150 USD per trip
- Where to take it: Drivers are available outside all terminals offering their services
Option 2: ADO Bus
Public transportation is a popular choice among travelers. ADO buses are frequent, comfortable, and reliable. However, they only stop at bus stops and stations, so you’ll need an additional transfer to reach Playacar or any other spot.
- Distance: 70 km (43 miles)
- Time: Around 1.5 hours
- Cost: $9–$15 USD per person
- Where to take it: Ticket counters are available inside each terminal, with clearly marked bus stops just outside.
Option 3: Maya Train
The Maya Train is a great option for traveling between major destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula. However, it currently operates only a few times per day, so planning ahead and buying the ticket in advance is essential.
Keep in mind that the station is located in Playa del Carmen, about 20 minutes from Playacar, so you’ll need to take extra private transportation which may increase prices and time.
- Distance: 70 km (43 miles)
- Time: Around 1 hour
- Cost: $20–$30 USD per person
- Where to take it: A free airport shuttle connects terminals 2, 3, and 4 with the Cancun Airport train station.
Option 4: Private Shuttle
This is the most convenient option if you’re traveling with luggage, with family/large groups, or simply want a smooth, hassle-free and door-to-door experience. You book in advance, pay a fixed price, and your driver will be waiting for you upon arrival.
- Distance: 70 km (43 miles)
- Time: Around 1 hour
- Cost: $50–$100 USD per trip
- Where to take it: Your driver will be waiting outside your terminal.
Option 5: Car Rental
Renting a car is a good option if you want full flexibility during your trip and plan to explore beyond Playacar and Playa del Carmen.
Keep in mind that driving in the area is generally easy, but there are some things to consider: traffic around Cancun and Playa del Carmen, speed bumps (“topes”), traffic regulations, and insurance requirements that can increase the total price.
- Distance: 60–70 km (37–43 miles)
- Time: Around 2 hours (you have to add shuttle time & office paperwork first)
- Cost: $30–$70+ USD per day (including insurance)
- Where to take it: Rental desks are available at the airport or nearby (some require a short shuttle transfer).
Which is the fastest way to get to Playacar from Cancun?
The fastest way is to take a taxi or a pre-booked private shuttle. Both offer direct, door-to-door service from Cancun Airport to Playacar and typically take around 50 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic.
Which is the most affordable way to go from Cancun to Playa del Carmen?
The cheapest option is the ADO bus, with fares ranging from $9 USD (from Cancun downtown) to $15 USD (from Cancun Airport).
Are you arriving at Cancun Airport soon?
While in general taking taxis or public transportation is safe, at Best Cancun Shuttle we can help you move around safely, comfortably, and with peace of mind to Playacar or whatever destination you need to go in the Riviera Maya.
You are only three simple steps away:
- You book your transfer in advance at a fixed, transparent, and competitive price.
- You share your flight details and contact information.
- We take care of the rest.
