Freelancing by the beach: why Playa del Carmen is the perfect place for a working getaway

If you’re a freelancer or work remotely, you’re not tied to a desk—and that opens up a whole world of possibilities. One of them: changing your surroundings, even just for a few days. Playa del Carmen is the kind of place that lets you work and enjoy yourself at the same time, without guilt, without stress, and without falling behind.

Picture this: starting your day with a coffee by the ocean, taking a couple of Zoom calls from a sunny rooftop with strong Wi-Fi, and ending the afternoon with a swim in turquoise water. It’s not a fantasy. More and more people are doing exactly that—for a week, two, or even a long weekend. And the best part? You don’t have to hit pause on your work.

Playa del Carmen has everything you need to stay productive: reliable internet, cozy cafés, friendly coworking spaces, and warm weather almost year-round. The vibe is a mix of local culture and international energy—you’ll feel welcome without feeling like a tourist.

One of the biggest perks of freelancing is the freedom to set your schedule. Why not use that freedom to get inspired somewhere new? Mornings can be for work, and afternoons for cenotes, tacos, walks down Fifth Avenue, or a quick boat ride to Cozumel. No need to wait for a long vacation. Just pack your laptop and go.

Beyond the convenience and infrastructure, Playa offers something even more valuable: energy. That feeling of being alive, of being in a place that shifts your mindset, fills your notebook with fresh ideas, and reminds you to look up from the screen once in a while. Sometimes, that alone makes the trip worth it.

So if you’re looking for a working getaway that actually feels like a break, Playa del Carmen is calling. Bring your laptop, your headphones—and come back recharged, a little sun-kissed, and full of new ideas. Yes, you can work and enjoy life at the same time.

Three unique experiences to enjoy this spring in the Riviera Maya

May is a turning point in the tourist flow of the Riviera Maya. As the Spring Break and Easter vacation crowds fade away, this Caribbean region that includes Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel and part of Cancún enters a quieter phase that remains just as vibrant. This month is perfect for those seeking more authentic experiences without the overwhelming tourist traffic. Prices usually drop, service becomes more personal, and although heat and humidity start to rise, the weather still allows for enjoyable outdoor adventures. Nature is at its best, with lush greenery, occasional refreshing rains, and stunning scenery. Here are three experiences worth enjoying in May that reveal a more intimate and enriching side of the Riviera Maya:

1. Hidden cenotes in the jungle: a refreshing swim in Tulum With the rising temperatures, exploring cenotes becomes both a delight and a relief. These natural freshwater sinkholes are part of the world's largest underground river system, found only in this region of Mexico. Near Tulum, you'll find some of the most impressive ones. Gran Cenote offers crystal-clear waters and partially open caves, perfect for swimming or snorkeling while admiring fish and limestone formations. A few minutes away, Cenote Calavera provides a more rustic and adventurous experience, with a circular entrance that lets you jump right into the water. Between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, don't miss Cenote Azul, which is great for families and beginner swimmers, or Jardin del Edén, surrounded by dense vegetation and peaceful nature. In May, these places tend to be less crowded, giving you a more relaxed and personal experience.
2. Reefs full of life: snorkeling and diving in Cozumel Cozumel is a paradise for ocean lovers. Just 45 minutes by ferry from Playa del Carmen, this island is known as one of the world’s top destinations for diving. May brings ideal conditions with warm water, clear visibility, and a high level of marine activity. The Cozumel Reefs National Park is an underwater treasure. Whether you're snorkeling near the shore or diving deeper with a guide, you'll see sea turtles, eagle rays, colorful tropical fish, and vibrant coral reefs that feel like a different world. You don’t need to be an expert. There are options for all levels, from beginner-friendly tours to advanced dives. What matters is taking the plunge and discovering what lies beneath the surface.
3. Playa del Carmen at your own pace: culture, food and rest Without the rush of high season, Playa del Carmen becomes easier to enjoy. Fifth Avenue, its main pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, bars and markets, feels more relaxed. You can take your time, stop wherever you like, and soak in the atmosphere. As the day warms up, the beach offers the perfect escape. Punta Esmeralda is a favorite among locals, with a small freshwater lagoon. Playa Mamitas, more tourist-oriented, offers comfort and great views of the Caribbean Sea. Afternoons are perfect for a cold drink by the beach or a seafood dinner as the sun sets. May invites you to enjoy the region without pressure, at your rhythm, and with all the beauty that makes the Riviera Maya such a special place.

Eco-luxury tourism boom in Tulum

May is a transitional month in the Riviera Maya, that stunning stretch of Mexico’s Caribbean coastline known for its paradisiacal beaches, ancient ruins, and lush nature. It includes popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cozumel, and parts of Cancún. Often overlooked by travelers, May has unique characteristics that make it one of the best times to visit for those seeking a quieter and more authentic experience.

Tourist season: low, but with major advantages

In May, the region enters its low tourist season. The crowds from Spring Break and Easter are gone, which means quieter beaches, less traffic in town, and easier access to popular attractions. It’s a great time for those who prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle.

Hotels, especially all-inclusives and boutique resorts, usually offer great deals. Tour operators and excursion companies also lower their prices to attract visitors. This makes May a smart choice for travelers who want a high-quality experience without spending too much.

With fewer tourists, the atmosphere feels more relaxed and genuine. Strolling down Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen or visiting cenotes and archaeological sites like Cobá or Tulum becomes a more peaceful and personal adventure.

Weather season: heat, humidity, and early rains

Weather-wise, May marks the beginning of the shift toward the wet season. Temperatures climb to between 27°C and 32°C (80°F to 90°F), with higher humidity levels. The sun still dominates most of the day, making it perfect for beach time and outdoor activities.

However, early tropical showers begin to appear, usually in the late afternoon or at night. These rainfalls tend to be short and warm, so they don’t usually interfere with daytime plans. Although the rains begin, hurricane season officially starts in June, so May remains relatively safe and stable.

• Benefits of traveling to the Riviera Maya in May

• Lower prices on flights and accommodations

• Greater availability for tours, excursions, and restaurants

• A greener, more vibrant natural environment

• A more authentic, laid-back vibe

• Tips and things to keep in mind

To make the most of a May trip, pack light clothing, swimwear, a hat or cap, sunglasses, and eco-friendly sunscreen (many parks and cenotes require it). Insect repellent is also a must, especially when visiting jungle areas or cenotes.

Because of the occasional showers, it’s best to keep your plans flexible. A rainy afternoon can be the perfect excuse to visit a spa, explore local shops, or enjoy Mexican cuisine with an ocean view.

In summary, May in the Riviera Maya offers tranquility, better prices, and a closer connection to nature and local culture. If you're looking to avoid the crowds and travel at your own pace, this month could be your ideal time to explore this Caribbean paradise.

New boost for tourism and air connectivity

Mexican airlines are showing steady recovery in their operations with Airbus, a positive sign for the tourism sector, especially in key destinations such as Cancún, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta. The reactivation of flights with Airbus aircraft is essential to strengthen air connectivity and improve the mobility of tourists within Mexico. Moreover, the renewed confidence in the safety and efficiency of the Airbus 320neo and 321neo models supports the recovery of domestic tourism, a key segment for the industry after the pandemic.

This renewed confidence is for Mexico’s economic and tourism development for several reasons:

1. The Riviera Maya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico and Latin America. Most visitors arrive by air, especially from the United States, Canada, Europe, and South America. Strong air connectivity ensures:

A greater flow of international tourists

Increased hotel occupancy

Growth in tourism-related spending

2. Job creation and economic impact

Tourism is one of the main sources of employment in the region. Air connectivity directly contributes to:

Jobs in airports, hotels, restaurants, transportation, and tourism services

Income for small and medium-sized businesses

Attraction of foreign investment

3. Global competitiveness

Direct connectivity with key cities in the Americas and Europe allows the Riviera Maya to compete with top-tier destinations like Punta Cana, Miami, or the Bahamas.

Remote work is transforming tourism with a 68% increase in long stays

The rise of remote work is driving a new form of tourism in Europe and the United States, with the Riviera Maya emerging as a favorite destination for those looking to work from paradise. For travelers choosing Caribbean beaches this will be an ideal accommodation choice, perfect for combining work and relaxation while connecting with nature.

The Caribbean is not just a tourist destination—it’s a place where travelers can find inspiration, productivity, and well-being. It has become one of the top choices for European remote workers. The Riviera Maya is positioning itself as a global benchmark in this new tourism era, proving that working from paradise is no longer just a dream, but a reality within reach.

The Rise of Remote Work Fuels Innovative Travel Trends

According to a recent Eurofound study, around 18% of European workers regularly work remotely, a figure that rises to 23% in countries like Finland and the Netherlands. This lifestyle shift has given rise to the phenomenon of "digital nomads"—professionals relocating their offices to destinations that offer both comfort and inspiration. Additionally, a report highlights that long-stay bookings at international destinations grew by 68% between 2021 and 2023, driven by professionals seeking to blend work and leisure.

The ability to work from anywhere has positioned the Caribbean as one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads. With its warm climate, unparalleled natural beauty, and growing digital infrastructure—including high-speed internet—the region offers far more than just sun and sand.

In particular, the Riviera Maya is leading this trend by establishing itself as a strategic hub for remote work. Its privileged location serves as a bridge between the business markets of the U.S. and Europe, offering excellent air connectivity and direct access to other Caribbean and Latin American destinations.
Furthermore, services that support both life and work—such as coworking spaces within resorts, unique cultural experiences, and active communities of international professionals—make this region a global reference point in the new era of remote work.