November in Playa Del Carmen is a shoulder season, that makes a perfect time for your visit if you want to enjoy a combination of perfect weather and smaller crowds. Unlike busy winter months, November has lower prices on hotels and tours, and you can enjoy the best of this destination in Mexico’s Riviera Maya before the busy winter season kicks in.
November is also an excellent time for water activities in Playa del Carmen. The sea temperature is warm, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, or taking a boat tour to Cozumel, the largest island in Mexico’s Caribbean.
PLAYA DEL CARMEN NOVEMBER WEATHER
In November, the rainy season in Playa Del Carmen is gone, but the crowds are still nowhere to be seen. During this month, Playa del Carmen experiences warm and pleasant weather. The average high temperature ranges from 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F), while the average low-temperature hovers around 20°C to 22°C (68°F to 72°F).
It’s a great time to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities without extreme heat.
Does Playa Del Carmen have any rain in November?
November is considered part of the dry season in Playa del Carmen. While there may be occasional brief showers, rainfall is generally low during this time, allowing for more sunny days.
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Is Playa Del Carmen busy in November?
November falls within the shoulder season in Playa del Carmen, meaning it’s not as crowded as the peak months. You’ll likely find more affordable prices for accommodations and fewer tourists compared to the busy winter months.
THINGS TO DO IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN IN NOVEMBER
Playa del Carmen offers a variety of activities for visitors. You can spend time relaxing on the beautiful beaches, explore the vibrant Fifth Avenue with its shops, restaurants, and nightlife, or take day trips to nearby attractions like Tulum, Cozumel, or the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.
1. Explore the beaches
Playa del Carmen is known for its stunning beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the soft white sand, relax under a palapa, or swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters.
2. Visit the Mayan ruins
Take a day trip to the nearby ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum or Coba. These archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history and offer picturesque views.
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3. Go snorkeling or diving
The Caribbean waters around Playa del Carmen are home to beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Book a snorkeling or diving trip to explore the underwater world and swim alongside colorful fish, turtles, and even rays.
4. Visit Cozumel
Catch a ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel Island, a renowned destination for snorkeling and diving. The island also offers scenic beaches, shopping opportunities, and delicious seafood.
5. Check out Xcaret Park
Experience the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the Riviera Maya at Xcaret Park. Enjoy snorkeling in underground rivers, explore Mayan ruins, witness traditional dances, and encounter a variety of flora and fauna.
6. Go shopping on Quinta Avenida
Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) is Playa del Carmen’s main street lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. Spend an afternoon browsing through boutique stores, picking up souvenirs, or sampling local cuisine.
7. Visit cenotes near Playa Del Carmen
The Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear groundwater. Take a dip in these refreshing pools, go snorkeling or diving, or simply enjoy the stunning surroundings.
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Some of the most popular cenotes near Playa Del Carmen are Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristalino.
8. Do water sports
Playa del Carmen offers a range of water sports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Get your adrenaline pumping or enjoy a leisurely adventure on the Caribbean Sea.
9. Enjoy local cuisine
Indulge in the flavors of Mexico by trying traditional dishes like tacos, ceviche, and mole. Playa del Carmen is home to numerous restaurants and street food vendors where you can savor authentic Mexican cuisine.
EVENTS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN IN NOVEMBER
In November, you might have the chance to experience the annual Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, which showcases international jazz artists. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in Mexican culture by participating in the Day of the Dead festivities that take place on November 1st and 2nd.
1. Day of the Dead Celebrations (November 1-2)
Playa del Carmen embraces the Mexican tradition of the Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) with colorful altars, parades, music, and traditional food. You can witness the festivities at local cemeteries, parks, or cultural centers.
2. Riviera Maya Jazz Festival
The Rivera Maya Jazz Festiva is a free beach event held by Mamitas Beach Club featuring various professional jazz acts from many countries.
This internationally acclaimed jazz festival usually takes place in late November and features renowned jazz artists from around the world. Enjoy live performances on the beach, creating a unique atmosphere to appreciate the music.
3. BPM Festival
Historically held in January, the BPM Festival showcases electronic music, including house and techno. However, the festival has been known to change its dates, so it’s worth checking if it aligns with your visit.
4. International Food Festival
Playa del Carmen is known for its culinary scene, and in November, it often hosts an International Food Festival. This event allows visitors to sample a wide array of global flavors, with local and international chefs presenting their creations.
5. Wine and Food Festival
Another popular gastronomic event is the Wine and Food Festival, which usually takes place in November. Visitors can experience wine tastings, gourmet dinners, cooking classes, and presentations by renowned chefs.
6. Mexican Revolution Day (November 20)
Celebrate Mexican history on November 20 with parades, concerts, and cultural events commemorating the Mexican Revolution. This national holiday often includes traditional dances, costumes, and music.
WHAT’S THE WORST TIME TO GO TO PLAYA DEL CARMEN?
Playa Del Carmen is a paradisiacal destination year-round, however, there are certain times when it’s best to avoid this place including the hurricane season, spring break, and Mexican holidays when crowds tend to be the highest.
1. Hurricane Season
Playa del Carmen falls within the Atlantic hurricane belt, and the official hurricane season runs from June through October. During this time, there is an increased risk of tropical storms and hurricanes, which can lead to heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential disruptions to travel plans.
2. Spring Break
If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed vacation, it’s best to avoid visiting Playa del Carmen during the traditional Spring Break period. Typically occurring in March or early April, Spring Break attracts a large number of college students on vacation. The beaches and popular tourist spots can become crowded and lively during this time, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.
3. Mexican Holidays
Playa del Carmen experiences increased tourist activity during major Mexican holidays, such as Christmas, New Year’s, Easter (Holy Week), and Mexican Independence Day (September 16th).
These holidays attract both domestic and international tourists, resulting in higher accommodation prices and larger crowds. If you prefer a more peaceful and budget-friendly visit, it’s advisable to plan your trip outside these holiday periods.
PLAYA DEL CARMEN HURRICANE SEASON
Hurricane season in Playa del Carmen runs from June through late November, with the peak of activity occurring in August, September, and October. During this time, there is an increased risk of tropical storms and hurricanes affecting the region. Although November doesn’t see as many hurricanes as September and October, it’s not uncommon to experience some hurricanes during this time.
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Is Playa del Carmen busy in October?
Despite some rain, Playa del Carmen still sees a moderate number of tourists during October, especially during the first half of the month. If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, visiting Playa del Carmen in October can be a good choice.
Is October good for Playa del Carmen?
October falls within the rainy season in Playa del Carmen. While you can still expect warm temperatures, there may be occasional rain showers or storms. However, these rain showers are often short-lived and followed by clear skies.
October generally sees fewer tourists compared to the peak season (December to April). This means you can explore attractions, beaches, and restaurants with relatively fewer crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed and uncrowded experience, October can be a good time to visit.
As it’s not peak tourist season, you may find better deals on accommodations and activities in October.
Is October a rainy month in Mexico?
October is generally considered part of the rainy season in many parts of Mexico, including Playa del Carmen. But the amount of rainfall can vary depending on the specific region and local climate patterns. Here are some general aspects to consider regarding October’s rainfall in Mexico:
Playa Del Carmen experiences an increase in rainfall in October compared to the preceding months. The rainy season typically starts around May or June and continues through October or early November. During this time, you can expect intermittent rain showers, thunderstorms, and increased humidity.
October rain showers in Mexico are often characterized by short but intense bursts of rainfall. These showers can sometimes be followed by periods of clear skies and sunshine. While the rain can temporarily disrupt outdoor activities, it is typically not continuous throughout the entire day.
WHERE TO STAY IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN
- Meliora by Bunik – Located in the center of Playa Del Carmen, this cozy hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pooll airport shuttle and fast Wi-Fi. Staff is super friendly and welcoming.
- Aalada Playa del Carmen – A real home away from home. Aalada offers a great location a few steps away from La Quinta Avenida and a nice quiet atmopshere that’s perfect for relaxing. The hotel has an airport shuttle, private beach area and a swimming pool.
- Banyan Tree Mayakoba – A perfect escape from the busy streets of Playa Del Carmen, this resort has luxury villas, each with a private pool and landscaped garden. Restaurants and bars are available on site.
PLAYA DEL CARMEN IN NOVEMBER: FAQ’S
What is hurricane season in Playa del Carmen?
The hurricane season in Playa del Carmen runs from June through November. This period encompasses the months when the Atlantic Ocean experiences the highest likelihood of tropical storms and hurricanes.
The peak of hurricane activity in Playa del Carmen typically occurs from August through October. During these months, the warm ocean waters and atmospheric conditions can be conducive to the formation of tropical cyclones. While the risk of hurricanes is higher during this season, it doesn’t guarantee that a hurricane will occur or directly impact Playa del Carmen.
Is November a rainy month in Mexico?
November marks the transition period between the rainy season and the dry season in many parts of Mexico. The amount of rainfall in November can vary depending on the specific region and local climate patterns.
In several regions of Mexico, including popular tourist destinations, November experiences a decrease in rainfall compared to the preceding months. The rainy season typically starts around May or June and tapers off by October or November. As a result, November tends to be drier and less prone to heavy rainfall.
PLAYA DEL CARMEN IN NOVEMBER: FINAL WORD
Overall, Playa del Carmen in November is a great place to visit. The weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Just remember to check for any travel restrictions or requirements and plan accordingly.