Playa del Carmen’s nightlife is as diverse as its visitors — from chic rooftop lounges to laid-back expat spots and local dive bars. Here are 10 top bars worth checking out:
- Dirty Martini Lounge
- One of Playa’s most beloved cocktail bars, located on 1st Avenue between 10th and 12th Street.
- Famous for its martini menu, especially the “dirty martini,” and strong, expertly made drinks.
- Tuesday is a favorite night — they run a 2-for-1 martini special.
- Vibe: friendly, local + expat mix, with karaoke, live music, and a retro feel.
- Map: Dirty Martini Lounge on Google Maps
- Zenzi Beach Bar & Restaurant
- Iconic beach bar where you can sip cocktails with your feet in the sand. Zenzi Beach Club
- Often hosts live music and casual Caribbean nights.
- Map: Zenzi Beach Bar on Google Maps
- The Reef 28
- Stylish rooftop bar with amazing views over Playa del Carmen.
- Offers tapas-style bites and creative cocktails — great for sunsets.
- Map: The Reef 28 on Google Maps
- Peccato Exclusive Rooftop
- Upscale rooftop bar with gourmet food and high-end mixology.
- Elegant décor, good for date nights or classy evenings out.
- Map: Peccato Rooftop on Google Maps
- Clandestino by Soma
- A hidden speakeasy feel, rooftop bar with DJs, electronic music, and a cool, modern crowd.
- Perfect for dancing or starting a night out.
- Map: Clandestino / Soma on Google Maps
- La Santanera
- Club‑bar with vaulted palapa roofing and lively late-night energy.
- Great for dance music, party nights, and a more upscale club feel.
- Map: La Santanera on Google Maps
- Fah
- A rock‑bar that doubles as a restaurant — live music and hearty food.
- Relaxed but energetic — perfect as a mid-evening hangout.
- Map: Fah on Google Maps
- Kitxen
- Rock bar co-owned by Saúl Hernández of Caifanes, known for live bands and a local feel.
- Excellent margaritas and a laid-back but spirited vibe.
- Map: Kitxen on Google Maps
- Cantina Mexicana El Tigre
- Traditional Mexican cantina with tile floors, wood ceilings, and a warm, nostalgic ambiance.
- Wide selection of tequila, beer, and classic Mexican drinks.
- Map: Cantina El Tigre on Google Maps
- Tequilaria / Tequila Barrel
- A tequila-focused bar with a massive selection — ideal for tequila lovers.
- Vibrant, fun, and very Playa.
- Map: Tequila Barrel on Google Maps
💡 Tips for Enjoying Playa’s Bar Scene
- Visit Dirty Martini on Tuesday if you want to take advantage of their martini deals.
- For a more relaxed evening, start at a beach bar like Zenzi, then make your way to rooftops.
- Make sure to carry cash, especially for smaller or more old-school bars.
- Ask around for live music nights — bars like Fah and Dirty often have local bands or karaoke.
- Always double check opening hours, especially for rooftop bars, since they can vary seasonally.
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)
Property Management • Rentals • Real Estate
📍 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
🌐 www.nasplaya.com 🔑 Rentals: rentals@nasplaya.com
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