Top 10 Shopping Places in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen isn’t just about beaches and nightlife — it’s also a vibrant shopping destination. From handmade crafts and hammocks to upscale malls and glasswork, here are ten of the best places to shop in town.

1. Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue)

The iconic pedestrian street full of shops, boutiques, and street vendors.
Everything from silver jewelry and leather goods to beachwear, souvenirs, and designer brands.
Tip: Bargaining is common in the more artisanal stalls.
Map: Quinta Avenida on Google Maps

2. Paseo del Carmen Mall

A modern, open-air shopping mall at the southern end of 5th Avenue.
Brands include Zara, Pull&Bear, Bershka, and even a Harley-Davidson store.
A great place to shop for international fashion, relax in cafés, and escape the midday heat.
Map: Paseo del Carmen on Google Maps

3. Plaza Las Américas

One of Playa’s largest shopping centers, located away from the tourist core.
Features department stores (Sears), a cinema, a food court, and a mix of local and international shops.
More of a “local’s mall,” useful for mid-range shopping and everyday needs.
Map: Plaza Las Américas on Google Maps

4. Quinta Alegría Shopping Center

A modern, multi-level mall at the intersection of 5th Avenue and Constituyentes.
Stores include Forever 21, Victoria’s Secret, The Body Shop, Nike, and more.
Good mix of affordable fashion and tourist-friendly brands.
Map: Quinta Alegría on Google Maps

5. La Casa de las Hamacas

A dedicated hammock store where you can find hand‑woven hammocks made by local artisans.
Offers a wide range of styles — from nylon, cotton, to beautiful decorative hammocks.
Located off the tourist-heavy areas, making it a more authentic, local shopping experience.
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CasaDeLasHamacas/timeline/
Map: La Casa de las Hamacas on Google Maps

6. Hamacamarte

Another beautiful hammock and home-decor store steeped in local craftsmanship.
You’ll find hammocks, swings, and decorative pieces made with traditional techniques.
Owned and run by locals, supporting artisan traditions.
Website: Hamacamarte
Map: Hamacamarte on Google Maps

7. Fábrica de Vidrio Soplado Mexicano (Glass Blowing Factory)

A working glass workshop where you can watch artisans blow glass and buy pieces directly.
They make a wide variety of colorful, recycled glass items — from drinking glasses to elaborate chandeliers.
Because you’re buying straight from the source, prices are often cheaper and more authentic than tourist shops.
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Vidriosopladomex/
Map: Vidrio Soplado Mexicano on Google Maps

8. Local Artisan Markets

Kava Kasa Market: held on Tuesdays (10 AM–2 PM) on Calle 22 between 5th and 10th Avenue; features handmade goods, jewelry, and eco-friendly items.
Sábado de Tianguis: a community market at Parque La Ceiba (3rd Saturday of the month) selling crafts, organic products, plants, and more.
These markets are ideal for genuine souvenirs, local designs, and supporting small makers.
Map: Parque La Ceiba / Sábado de Tianguis on Google Maps

9. Art Galleries & Designer Boutiques

On the side streets off 5th Avenue, you’ll find Concept House PDC (designer fashion) and Arte MX Gallery (local art).
These shops offer a quieter, more curated experience away from the tourist crowds.
Great for finding unique jewelry, limited-edition clothing, and home décor pieces.
Map: Concept House PDC / side-street galleries on Google Maps

10. Fundadores Bazaar / Local Boutiques

Near Parque Los Fundadores there is a small bazaar with booths selling sustainable goods, handcrafted accessories, and home décor.
Many of the items are eco-friendly, handmade, and perfect for meaningful souvenirs.
Also nearby are boutique galleries showcasing regional artists and makers.
Map: Parque Los Fundadores Bazaar on Google Maps

💡 Shopping Tips for Playa del Carmen

Bring cash, especially for markets and artisan shops — smaller vendors often prefer pesos.
Be ready to negotiate (politely) in artisan markets; bargaining is part of the experience.
Check for quality: if buying glass items (especially from the blown-glass factory), bring bubble wrap or a secure way to pack fragile purchases.
Go off-peak: early morning or weekday afternoons are great times to shop Quinta Avenida without the crowds.
Support local artisans: stores like La Casa de las Hamacas and Hamacamarte are small businesses that directly support craft traditions.

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
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