Where to Buy Wine and Alcohol in Playa Del Carmen Guide - Everything Playa Del Carmen (2024)

Where to Buy Wine and Alcohol in Playa Del Carmen Guide - Everything Playa Del Carmen (1)

This is a very important topic to many coming to Playa Del Carmen! Here is your guide to where to buy alcohol in Playa Del Carmen. We also have tips on buying beer and wine in town.

At the bottom of this article is an interactive map. We included some OXXO convenience stores on the map but there are many more available, we just have the most popular one.

For the most part people buy wine, alcohol and beer in the large supermarkets. Mega and Walmart are the two most popular in the downtown area. Soriana and Chedraui are also decent for buying what you need, they are just more accessible with a car. Sams club also sells alcohol at the south end of town. If you had to choose between Mega or Walmart, Walmart tends to be cheaper for wine and some alcohol. Convenience stores like OXXOalso sell beer and limited amounts of alcohol although prices for alcohol are often more.

You will be happy to know that wine has increased in popularity in Mexico. We get a lot of Spanish, Chilean, and Argentinean wines imported and a good representation of Mexican wines. Prices are reasonable. Try to avoid buying wine at corner stores (very local ones with no air conditioning), not only are the prices more,wine isoften stored incorrectly with the heat and sometimes are in sunlight. Thiseffects the quality greatly and a decent bottle can become undrinkable.

Best liquor and wine stores in Playa Del Carmen

If you are looking for more selection or something more specific, there are several stores you should check out that are all in the downtown area.

  • La Europea hasa flagship store inQuinta Alegria Shopping Plaza on 5th Avenue and Constituyentes Avenue. This store carries a large selection of wine as well as other alcohols. If you want to try someMexican wines, they have a good selection here. This store is the best in Playa Del Carmen for looking around and buying alcohol and wine. La Europea has some other smaller locations which you can find on their store finder on their website.
  • Winery & Plusis a smaller store located on 10th Avenue and 28th St.
  • Cava del Duero is on the south west corner Constituyentes Avenue and the Carretera(Highway 307). Cava del Duerois not a huge storeand just offers a fewwines that other stores might now have.

Fun fact: Legal age for drinking is 18

Un-fun fact: No drinking allowed on the street, that means no walking on 5th Avenue with beer in hand.

Where to Buy Wine and Alcohol in Playa Del Carmen Guide - Everything Playa Del Carmen (2)Where to buy beer in Playa Del Carmen

If you are looking for beer, there are little “Cervifrio” stores all over Playa Del Carmen that specialize in just beer and snacks. They have ice usually as well. The store in the photo is located on 30th Avenue and 22th Street.

There is a wide selection of Mexican beers for you beer aficionados. Most everyone knows Corona, Tecate, Sol,and Dos Equis but there are many other Mexican beers to try. Indio, Pacifico, Victoria, Montejo, Leon, Bohemia, Modelo, and Superior are all beers that can be found in Playa. Beers can also be found in limited quantities in convenience stores and super markets.

If you want to try even more beers make sure you visit Club De Cerveza on 5th Avenue. This bar has the largest selection of beers to try and many Mexican craft beers. They also have a food menu to accompany the beers.

Where to Buy Wine and Alcohol in Playa Del Carmen Guide - Everything Playa Del Carmen (3)

Want someone else to shop for alcohol for you?

Here is a great service here in Playa Del Carmen. If you don’t have time or do not want to go shopping, they will do it for you. You can place your order and they deliver it to your door! How easy is that! Just click the link below to see how easy it is. Many of our readers really like this shopping service which also shops for alcohol.

Where to Buy Wine and Alcohol in Playa Del Carmen Guide - Everything Playa Del Carmen (4)

Mezcal in Playa Del Carmen

Don’t forget mezcal. Mezcal is the newtrendyalcohol made from themaguey plant, a form ofa*gave. Even though this product has been around for hundreds of years, it is gaining in popularity. It is related to tequila in the sensetequila is a form ormezcal. Mezcal for a long time has been considered the cheaper and lower liquor (country cousin of tequila if you will) but now hasemerged as aartisanspirit with cool labeling and many restaurants featuring them.In Mexico, mezcal isdrunk in shots and also co*cktails. The best Mezcal however is just sipped. Mezcal has a smoky flavor unlike tequila. A popular way to drink mezcalis in a shot accompanied with sliced oranges sprinkled with “sal de gusano“, literally worm salt, which is a mixture of ground fried larvae, ground chili peppers, and salt.

The best place to buy Mezcal is in La Europea in Quinta Alegria Mall on 5th Avenue. You can also find a nice artisanal store to buy some bottles in the La Memorable market on 1st Avenue and 26th Street. This is the market by the entrance to the Hyatt.

One great Mexican restaurant and bar to try mezcal in is La Perla Pixan Cuisine and Mezcal Store. This Mexican restaurant stays true to regional cuisine and prepares drinks with local liquors like mezcal.

Mayan liquor Xtabentun

Where to Buy Wine and Alcohol in Playa Del Carmen Guide - Everything Playa Del Carmen (5)Of course, if you are in the Mayan Riviera, you should try a local liquor called Xtabentún. Most tourist overlook this local liquor. It has an anise flavor to it and is made from honey and herbs. It originates right here in the Yucatan. The liquor is usually served cold or poured over ice. It has a yellowish hue and a fairly strong flavor. Some restaurants in the Yucatan add shots of Xtabentún to coffee. You will see this at tourist gift shops on 5th Avenue and prices are usually pretty good. A small bottle can be around 90 pesos and a large one 140 pesos. Besides 5th Avenue tourist shops, you can also find this in the grocery stores and La Europea.

Hours for alcohol sales in Playa Del Carmen

Remember hours for buying alcohol are different depending on the type of store or outlet. Stores on 5th Avenue will close up earlier then grocery stores. Convenience stores have longer hours than grocery stores. Cerifrios (beer distributors) are open most of the day and late at night. Sundays have shorter hours for liquor sales. And if you happened to want to buy liquor around an election, you are out of luck, sales are closed. So, in general buy between 10am-and 5pm and you will be safe. Stores will be open later but just make sure you get it when you want to, so you are not out at a bar when you want to be on your deck drinking.

The La Europea Store in Quinta Alegria is open Mon.-Sat. 11am-10pm Sun. 10am.-9pm. This store has the longest hours of any place that sells alcohol.

Where to Buy Wine and Alcohol in Playa Del Carmen Guide - Everything Playa Del Carmen (6)

Important note: Dehydration can change your tolerance for alcohol. The climate here is very different to some places you might be familiar with. The heat, sun, walking around, and change in diet and pattern of daily activity can have a big effect on you. Make sure you hydrate well. Also take care walking at night if you have had a little too much to drink. You can read more about this in our safety article.

Other reading for you

If you enjoy alcohol, you might be interested in reading our article about tequila tastings in Playa Del Carmen. These tastings can be public events or a private event at your condo.

Where do you like to buy alcohol in Playa Del Carmen? Do you have some tips or stories you would like to share with us? Let us know in the comments below, we would love to hear from you.

Where to Buy Wine and Alcohol in Playa Del Carmen Guide - Everything Playa Del Carmen (2024)

FAQs

What time can I buy alcohol in Playa del Carmen? ›

in Playa del Carmen, Tulum and the entire state of Quintan Roo. According to the new law the sale of alcohol for wineries, liquor stores, sub-agencies, mini supers, self-service stores and convenience stores is only allowed from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday and on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How much is alcohol in Playa del Carmen? ›

Prices in supermarkets in Playa del Carmen.
Milk (regular), (1 liter)20 MXN (18-25)
Water (1.5 liter bottle)14 MXN (10.00-20)
A bottle of wine (Mid-Range)120 MXN (70-200)
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle)28 MXN (15-49)
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)45 MXN (20-70)
22 more rows

Does Walmart sell liquor in Playa del Carmen? ›

Where to buy wine, beer and alcohol in Playa Del Carmen. For the most part people buy wine, alcohol and beer in the large supermarkets. Mega and Walmart are the two most popular in the downtown area.

Can you drink beer on the street in Playa del Carmen? ›

Drinking age: The minimum drinking age in Playa del Carmen is 18 years. Drinking alcohol in the street: Drinking alcohol in public streets is not allowed in the state of Quintana Roo. Yes, this means that walking along 5th Avenue with a beer in your hand is against the law.

Can you walk around Playa del Carmen with alcohol? ›

It is a beautiful sunny day and you want to stroll down the pedestrian street of 5th Avenue in Playa Del Carmen. You are also in Mexico, where the beer flows freely and also home to many liquors. However, don't take that drink to go and walk around with it. This is illegal to walk around town with an open drink.

Do you have to declare alcohol at Customs Mexico? ›

For Mexico's customs, the current limits for adults aged 18+ are three liters of liquor or beer and six liters of wine. If you have more than this quantity you must declare it and pay any duties.

What should you avoid in Playa del Carmen? ›

Most violent crime in Playa del Carmen comes from cartel and gang violence. However, while muggings are uncommon, they still happen, so avoid side streets and alleys, especially at night. Avoid walking anywhere at night. Just take a cab.

Is alcohol free at all-inclusive resorts? ›

What's Included at an All-Inclusive Resort? Though it varies from hotel to hotel, typically rates at all-inclusive resorts include the room, all meals and snacks, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits, coffee, juice, soda, and water), and non-motorized water sports if it's along the beach.

Can I bring liquor back from Mexico? ›

There is no federal limit on the amount of alcohol a traveler may import into the United States for personal use, however, large quantities might raise the suspicion that the importation is for commercial purposes, and an U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer could require that you comply with the ...

What is the most popular alcohol in Mexico? ›

Tequila. Of all the popular shots in Mexico, tequila is the most famous, and it's found behind bars all over the world. Made from fermented blue agave plants, the process of distilling tequila is strictly regulated, and only a few places in the country can produce it.

Do resorts in Mexico ID for alcohol? ›

Mexico requires that young adults show photo identification, either a passport or driver's license, as proof of age when buying alcohol. Be prepared to have your ID at most resorts, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, even though most are not strict in their practice of checking.

Does Mexico sell alcohol on Sundays? ›

Most Mexican states allow stores, restaurants, and bars to sell alcohol 24 hours a day.

Can you brush your teeth with water in Playa del Carmen? ›

You can use the tap water to brush your teeth, however, do not drink the tap water. Drink water and lots of it.

Does Walmart sell alcohol in Mexico? ›

Sure. Walmart in Mexico is the same as in the US or Canada.

Can you drink in a taxi in Mexico? ›

It is not against the law to travel with alcohol in a vehicle in Mexico.

Do I need cash in Playa del Carmen? ›

Although credit cards are accepted at more and more small businesses, Playa del Carmen still runs on cash, and you'll need small bills to enjoy its local taco joints, neighborhood bars and side-street shops. Avoid changing money before getting to Mexico, as you won't get the best rates.

How much do you tip in Playa del Carmen? ›

Local Restaurant

At these types of places, a 10% tip is customary. Avoid over-tipping to fit in. When we visit the best tacos in Playa del Carmen restaurant El Fogon, we usually tip closer to 20% because we love it there and have come to know the wait staff.

How much money should I bring to Playa del Carmen? ›

How much money will you need for your trip to Playa del Carmen? You should plan to spend around M$1,082 ($56) per day on your vacation in Playa del Carmen, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Can I take wine in my checked luggage to Mexico? ›

Yes. You can pack alcoholic beverages in checked baggage, as long as the amount does not exceed 5 liters.

What can't you bring back from Mexico? ›

Examples of restricted items include firearms, certain fruits and vegetables, animal products, animal by products, and some animals.

Can you carry alcohol in hand luggage? ›

The alcoholic beverages is also permitted in carry-on baggage when purchased from the Airport Security Hold Area and should be placed in a transparent re-sealable plastic bag of a maximum capacity not exceeding 1 Liter.

What is the best month to go to Playa del Carmen? ›

The best time to visit Playa del Carmen is between April and May, when there are fewer people along the shore. Day temperatures hover between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, dropping slightly in the evenings. From October to March, the climate is generally dry and slightly warm.

What is the main strip in Playa del Carmen? ›

Out on the Town

Parallel to the beach, you'll find Playa del Carmen's main strip, la Quinta Avenida (or “Fifth Avenue''). The five-mile-long pedestrian walkway is lined with hotels, shops, art galleries, restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a popular nightlife spot.

Is there a 6 drink limit on all-inclusive? ›

There is a maximum of six alcoholic drinks per person per day that can be served and these drinks will be provided only during lunch and dinner (three each).”

Do I tip at an all-inclusive resort? ›

Do I Need to Tip at an All-Inclusive Resort? While tipping is a discretionary and optional gesture, at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and others, it is certainly encouraged.

Where can you only have 6 drinks all-inclusive? ›

Six alcoholic drinks are only allowed if you're on an all inclusive holiday. This means you can have up to three at lunch, and three at dinner.
...
Where does the six drink rule apply in Spain?
  • Magalluf.
  • El Arenal.
  • Playa de Palma in Mallorca.
  • Sant Antoni in Ibiza.
12 May 2022

What happens if you don't declare alcohol at customs? ›

The primary penalty a person will face when failing to disclose any item through the United States Customs and Border Protection is the seizure and loss of the property. This generally starts when clearing customs when arriving in the country if no declaration is made.

Do I need to bring my prescription bottles when flying to Mexico? ›

The amount of medication you carry during the trip should not exceed the amount needed for your stay in Mexico. The medical prescription must be translated into Spanish. Medications must be placed in hand luggage, with their respective boxes and in transparent bags.

Can you bring alcohol from Mexico to us on a plane? ›

Yes, can bring alcohol back from Mexico on an airplane. In your carry-on bag, you're limited to bottles that are 3.4 ounces or less and they must be packed in a quart-sized clear plastic bag. In your checked baggage, alcohol that's under 24% ABV is allowed in any quantity.

What alcohol should I buy in Mexico? ›

What to drink in Mexico? 10 Most Popular Mexican Spirits and Liqueurs
  • Spirit. Joven tequila. MEXICO. 3.5. ...
  • Spirit. Sotol. Chihuahua. Mexico. ...
  • Spirit. Extra añejo tequila. MEXICO. ...
  • Spirit. Añejo. MEXICO. ...
  • Spirit. Blanco tequila. MEXICO. ...
  • Spirit. Reposado tequila. MEXICO. ...
  • Coffee Liqueur. Kahlúa. Veracruz. ...
  • Cream Liqueur. Rompope. Puebla de Zaragoza.
25 Jul 2022

What can you not drink in Mexico? ›

In Mexico don't drink: Tap or well water.
...
Other Health Concerns
  • Sealed bottled water.
  • Water that has been disinfected.
  • Ice made with bottled or disinfected water.
  • Carbonated drinks.
  • Hot coffee or tea.
  • Pasteurized milk.
  • In Latin American, coconut milk is deemed a panacea for every conceivable stomach ailment, and then some.
28 Jun 2018

What is the strongest liquor in Mexico? ›

The alcohol beverage, which has grown in popularity, must be sipped slowly and accompanied by sour orange and worm salt. In recent years, mezcal has reached beyond Mexico and become the go-to spirit for people throughout the world.

How does alcohol work at an all inclusive resort? ›

All-Inclusive Resort Shock #4 Unlimited Alcohol & Watered Down Drinks. In addition to as much food as you can eat, all-inclusive resorts typically include all the alcoholic drinks you can drink. You will be shocked that, yes, they will keep serving you booze as long as you want.

How can I bring alcohol home from Mexico? ›

There are no federal limits on how much alcohol you can carry in your suitcase for personal use. One case is considered a good rule of thumb. But you will be taxed if you bring more than a one-liter bottle of alcohol from Mexico. Usually, you can bring alcohol you purchase in duty-free with you on the plane.

Do real ids get you into Mexico? ›

Q: Can I use my REAL ID card to cross the border into Canada and Mexico and for international travel? No. REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico or other international travel.

At what time do they stop selling alcohol in Mexico? ›

The current guidelines state that restaurants in the region are going to be able to sell alcohol up until 1am of the next day. Venues that are registered under the designation of restaurant-bar however, they can operate until 3am like all nightlife venues.

Can you buy wine on Sunday in Mexico? ›

Grocery stores, mini-supermarkets and shops are permitted to sell alcohol from 9:00 am until 12:00 am Monday through Saturdays and on Sundays from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm.

How much alcohol can I take to Mexico? ›

One liter of alcohol and one case of beer may be imported per person every 30 days. No ID=no liquor. You must prove that you are 21 or older. If you show false or altered personal identification, the ID will be confiscated and you will be prosecuted.

Do you need bug spray in Playa del Carmen? ›

Make Sure to Pack Mosquito Spray

Having lived in Playa Del Carmen the last year with several day trips to Tulum, the number one tip I have is to bring plenty of mosquito spray.

Should you bring water shoes to Mexico? ›

Do pack a pair of water shoes, you will use them in most water activities. If you forget bring them, there are several places to buy them in Cancun.

Can you flush toilet paper Playa del Carmen? ›

You can't flush toilet paper.

The plumbing systems in Playa del Carmen are not equipped to flush toilet paper so you have to throw it away in a waste can next to the toilet. You will see signs in most public restrooms warning you not to flush toilet paper or sanitary items.

Can you drink in public Playa del Carmen? ›

Drinking age: The minimum drinking age in Playa del Carmen is 18 years. Drinking alcohol in the street: Drinking alcohol in public streets is not allowed in the state of Quintana Roo. Yes, this means that walking along 5th Avenue with a beer in your hand is against the law.

How much do you tip a taxi in Mexico? ›

Most Taxi drivers in Mexico do not expect a tip. However, if your driver helps you with your luggage it is courteous to tip around 10 pesos. This standard also goes for Airport Shuttle Operators. A 10 peso tip is typical If you are helped with your bags.

Should I tip my taxi driver in Mexico? ›

Cab drivers in Mexico don't expect a tip in most cases. If a driver helps with your luggage, though, it's polite to give 10 pesos per bag. That only amounts to about $0.50—and, after all, nobody likes a peso pincher.

Which resorts in Mexico had tainted alcohol? ›

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel interviewed and received documented accounts from tourists who were staying at about three dozen resorts including Iberostar Paraiso del Mar, Iberostar Paraiso Maya, Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso, Iberostar Cancun, Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya, Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Now Sapphire, ...

How early can you buy alcohol in Mexico? ›

The minimum legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old. Mexico requires that young adults show photo identification, either a passport or driver's license, as proof of age when buying alcohol.

What hours can you buy alcohol in Mexico? ›

In Mexico, the legal drinking age is 18 and it is relatively easy to purchase alcohol almost anywhere on a 24/7 basis.

What time can you start buying alcohol in Mexico? ›

Most Mexican states allow stores, restaurants, and bars to sell alcohol 24 hours a day.

What time can you buy alcohol in Mexico on Sunday? ›

What is this? On Sundays though, their selling hours have to be done at 11pm. Just like regular restaurants are mandated to do.

Can I bring a bottle of alcohol home from Mexico? ›

There is no federal limit on the amount of alcohol a traveler may import into the United States for personal use, however, large quantities might raise the suspicion that the importation is for commercial purposes, and an U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer could require that you comply with the ...

Can you bring alcohol in your checked bag? ›

Checked Bags: Yes

Alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol are limited in checked bags to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags.

Can you bring opened alcohol back from Mexico? ›

Alcohol. There are no federal limits on how much alcohol you can carry in your suitcase for personal use. One case is considered a good rule of thumb. But you will be taxed if you bring more than a one-liter bottle of alcohol from Mexico.

How much alcohol can I bring back from Mexico in a car? ›

A California resident or any other person crossing the international border via common carrier may bring in a reasonable quantity of alcoholic beverages (up to five cases or 60 liters) provided the beverages are for personal or household use.

Can you walk around with alcohol in Mexico? ›

Open alcohol containers in public are illegal in Mexico. You may face a fine or time in jail. 6. Drinking on public streets is prohibited.

Can I bring bottled water into Mexico? ›

If you don't want to purchase bottled water, ask for complimentary drinking water and you will get a glass of purified water. Alternatively, you can always bring your own bottle of water.

Can you buy wine on Sundays in Mexico? ›

Grocery stores, mini-supermarkets and shops are permitted to sell alcohol from 9:00 am until 12:00 am Monday through Saturdays and on Sundays from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm.

Are things open on Sunday in Mexico? ›

Shopping Hours in Mexico

Generally speaking, Mexican stores offer shoppers extended opening hours and many stores are open on Sundays, too.

Does Oxxo sell alcohol in Mexico? ›

On the other hand, OXXO is the largest convenience store chain in Mexico. Notably, OXXO stores have exclusively sold beer for Heineken N.V's HEINY Mexican subsidiary—Cervezas Cuauhtemoc Moctezuma, S.A. de C.V. (“HEINEKEN Mexico”)—under its 10-year commercial agreement that dates back to 2010.

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