Things are changing fast in this popular area.  The area has completely recovered from Hurricane Wilma (2005), with many improvements to local infrastructure (highways, electricity, telecommunications) along with new developments.  Happily, it is still possible to find peace and tranquility, and Playa del Secreto is the perfect place to relax while still having access to all the amenities desired for a perfect vacation.

Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos is 10 km north of Playa del Secreto. We love the casual ambiance of this small fishing village (population 2,000), which has a number of restaurants, shops and small resorts. There are a couple of small grocery stores, the largest being Super Casa Martin, offering a variety of groceries, wines, liquors, and sundries, as well as an ATM. In Puerto Morelos you will find pharmacies, internet cafés, travel agency, book store, dive shops, ATM/money exchange, and a PEMEX gas station. Be sure to stock up at the fruit and vegetable farmers market held every Wednesday morning beside the large church. Fresh seafood is sold at the fishermen's co-op each afternoon. Interested in diving? Drop in to Dive Puerto Morelos and meet Sonvya and Brett.

Playa del Carmen
This fast growing yet charming city is the hub of activity in the Mayan Riviera, with great restaurants and shops, plus full access to services and activities. You can stock up on groceries at the several large grocery stores, shop for local crafts or international goods on the famous Avenida Quinta (5th Avenue), dine at virtually any kind of restaurant, enjoy the nightlife or arrange tours and sightseeing trips. Playa del Carmen is 20 km south of Playa del Secreto.

Stocking up on supplies is easier than ever; new stores openned since 2006 include Walmart, MEGA, and Sorianos, all offering groceries, beer/wine/liquor, personal care/pharmacy, and clothing.  At the south end of town near Playacar is a Sam's Club, Chedraui (large Mexican supermarket, similar to Walmart). There are several other small groceries, bakeries, and specialty food stores throughout the city.

The passenger ferry for Cozumel departs regularly from the dock in downtown Playa del Carmen (40 minutes crossing)--perfect for day trips.

Cancun
In addition to great restuarants, fun nighlife, tours and souvenir shopping, there are a number of large American chain stores and shopping malls. The ferry to Isla Mujares departs from the Embarcadero at the north end of the Hotel Zona.  A city map is highly recommended to help you navigate.