New & Hidden Spots on 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen: What’s Open in 2025

Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue) in Playa del Carmen is an iconic pedestrian thoroughfare — known for its energy, shopping, dining, and nightlife. But beyond the tourist hotspots, new gems and hidden corners are emerging, offering more local flavor, art, and unexpected experiences. In 2025, here are some of the best lesser-known or recently revitalized spots to check out along or just off 5th.

🔍 Hidden & New Gems to Discover on or Near 5th Avenue

1. Calle Corazón

What it is: A chic, modern plaza that intersects 5th Avenue (between 12th and 14th Streets), recently renovated with international brands, upscale boutiques, and a refined ambiance.
Why it’s special: It’s quieter than the main stretch, making for a more relaxed shopping or strolling experience. You’ll find stores like H&M and Sephora, plus stylish cafés and restaurants.
When to go: Evening is ideal — the lights and street energy make it feel intimate and upscale.
Address: 5ta Avenida, between Calle 12 Nte & Calle 14 Nte, Centro, Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Mapa: Google Maps – Calle Corazón

2. Rosalia Mercado

What it is: A large artisan-style market on 5th Avenue (between 12th and 14th Streets), focusing on local and indigenous Mexican textiles and handicrafts.
Why it’s special: More authentic and less “tourist trinket shop” than many of the souvernir stalls. You can browse quality Mayan textiles and handwoven goods.
Insider tip: Ask about the makers — many of the textiles come from women’s cooperatives and artisan workshops.
Address: 5th Avenue, between Calle 12 & Calle 14, Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Mapa: Google Maps – Rosalia Mercado

3. Calle Corazón Art & Boutique Corridor

What it is: More than shopping — this street is a hub of art and boutique energy, including galleries, local designers, and concept shops.
Hidden highlight: There’s a Librería Gandhi (bookstore) tucked into this stretch, offering a peaceful reading corner away from the crowds.
Why go: Great place to pick up design pieces, art prints, books — and enjoy a slower pace than the busiest parts of 5th.
Address: 5th Avenue, between Calle 12 & Calle 14, Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Mapa: Google Maps – Calle Corazón

4. Sol Jaguar

What it is: A spacious store on 5th Avenue (between 38th and 40th Streets) that sells high-quality Mexican handicrafts—pottery, woodwork, textiles, and more.
Why it feels hidden: Though it’s on 5th, its scale and focus on artisan goods make it feel more like a gallery-workshop than a tourist shop.
Why it’s worth a stop: Perfect for meaningful souvenirs — pieces that are beautifully handcrafted and not mass-produced.
Address: Avenida 5 Norte, between Calle 38 & Calle 40, Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Mapa: Google Maps – Sol Jaguar

5. Small Mural Spots & Quiet Murals

What it is: While murals are common, there are new, more subtle street art pieces flanking 5th Avenue that many visitors miss.
Where to look: Around Calle 24 to Calle 32, per guides, artists sometimes set up for street art nights.
Why it’s special: These spots make for quiet photo ops and a way to appreciate local creativity without the typical tourist hustle.
Address: 5th Avenue around Calle 24 and Calle 32
Mapa: 5th Avenue around Calle 24 and Calle 32

6. Café Kaawa (on Quinta) — the North End Gem

What it is: A more local café way up 5th Avenue (in the less touristy north stretch), known for roasting its own beans and offering barista classes, according to visitor discussions.
Why it’s hidden: Most people stick to the mid or south sections of Quinta, so this café is slightly off the typical tourist radar.
Why visit: Great stop if you’re walking the full length of 5th: relax, try local coffee blends, and grab a bag of beans to take home.
Address: Av. 5a Bis Norte Mza. 55, Lote 16, Col. Nicte Ha, 77710, Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Mapa: Google Maps – Café Kaawa

7. Aldea Corazón

What it is: A restaurant tucked just off 5th Avenue, known for its unusually lush décor — it references Mayan aesthetics, with greenery, water features, and even a small cenote-like feel.
Why it’s new/hidden: While somewhat known, many visitors skip it thinking “just another tourist restaurant.” But its design and ambiance make it feel like a peaceful retreat.
What to try: Their Mexican classics and cocktails; a romantic dinner under the lights makes this place a standout.
Address: 5ta Avenida, between Calle 14 and Calle 14 Bis, Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Mapa: Google Maps – Aldea Corazón

💡 Tips for Exploring the Hidden Side of 5th

Walk the full length: Don’t just stick to the southern stretch — walking north (or back) reveals more local, less touristy places.
Go in the evening: That’s when Calle Corazón sparkles, and street art or live performers often appear.
Talk to shop owners: Many of the boutique and artisan shops are owner-run — ask about the creators and materials.
Bring cash: Some smaller boutiques or workshop-style stores may prefer it — and bargaining is more acceptable when you’re engaging with real makers.

🌟 Bottom Line

In 2025, 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen is more than just a tourist shopping strip. It’s evolving — with hidden cafés, local artisan shops, boutique galleries, and art corners that reward those who take time to explore. If you’re willing to stray off the beaten path (even just a little), Quinta Avenida offers unexpected treasures that make your visit feel more authentic, creative, and uniquely Playa.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Matt from Nasplaya, your go-to guide for living, investing, and thriving in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. In 2008 my husband and I quit our jobs in Boston, Massachusetts, sold everything we owned and drove to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to start North American Standards (Nasplaya), our property management, vacation rental and real estate company. Now 17+ years later, I am sharing our experience helping expats and property owners navigate the local market. I share honest insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge to make your move—or your investment—a success.

From finding the best schools and maximizing rental income to understanding local regulations and uncovering hidden gems, my goal is to give you clear, actionable advice you can trust. When I’m not exploring the beaches or scouting the newest rental opportunities, I’m sharing stories, guides, and strategies that help you make the most of life in paradise.

Follow along for expert tips, local updates, and everything you need to live, invest, and enjoy the Riviera Maya to the fullest.

North American Standards (NAS Playa)
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📍 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
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