I always judge digital nomad destinations by their work-friendly cafes - and Playa del Carmen holds up well.
There's no doubt Playa del Carmen is one of the hottest destinations for digital nomads in Mexico. And while wifi is generally weak throughout Mexico, Playa del Carmen seems to be one of the better places for reliable wifi. Playa also has a ton of things to do which is another reason nomads flock to the beachy town.
In this post, you'll find my personal favorite cafes to work from in Playa del Carmen.
Best Cafes to Work from in Playa del Carmen
1. Choux Choux Cafe
Location: Av. 20, C. 24 Nte con, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen
Choux is definitely the most popular digital nomad cafe in Playa del Carmen.
I worked from Choux most days I was in Playa. The wifi was strong and rarely let me down. They also serve good coffee and have a few vegan options on their menu, which is a big plus for me.
The downside to Choux is it can get loud. Buskers often come in and perform for 10 minutes in exchange for small change from patrons. As you can imagine, this is not an ideal environment if you have to take a professional work call.
2. Bajo Cafe
Location: Calle 30 Nte LB, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen
Just a short walk from Choux Choux, Bajo Cafe is my personal favorite cafe to work from in Playa del Carmen.
The vibe is relaxed and it's a lot quieter to get some work done. The wifi holds up well, sometimes dropping slightly when the cafe gets busy.
There are lots of good food options too, including lots of vegan options.
If you can't find a spot with a power outlet, ask the staff (who are super helpful) and they will bring an extension to your table - lifesavers!
3. Fresco Habito
Location: Calle 1 Nte. S/N, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen
Fresco has one of the best vibes in Playa del Carmen and you can also get some work done here too.
It's located close to the main beach and 5th Avenue, so it's easily accessible if you're staying in the tourist hub.
The downside to Fresco is the business around lunch time. Unless you get there early, you might not find a table.
4. Bio Natural
Location: 10 Avenida Nte., Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen
I worked from Bio Natural once and didn't encounter any issues.
It's not the best cafe for comfort and there are limited power outlets to get you charged.
Most people are here to eat lunch, but if you want a change of scenery, Bio Natural will do the job. They also have some tasty vegan options for lunch too.
Other work-friendly cafes in Playa del Carmen
5. Bendito Cafe
Unfortunately, this cafe was closed when I visited Playa del Carmen, due to COVID.
However, this coworking cafe is praised by many digital nomads as their favorite coworking space.
Check their Facebook page for updates on reopening.
6. Marley Coffee
Marley Coffee is another digital nomad cafe located in the heart of Playa del Carmen's tourist area.
While I can't personally vouch for the cafe, I've heard good things from remote workers.
Coffee Chains with Free Wifi in Playa del Carmen
7. Ah Cacao
Locations: Multiple locations on 5th Avenue
You'll no doubt walk past Ah Cacao at some point as there are about four Ah Cacaos in Playa del Carmen.
They are popular among workers, however, I'm not sure why. In my experience the wifi was terrible and I worked mostly offline while there.
The wifi password is printed on your receipt once you order something.
8. Starbucks
Locations: Multiple on 5th Avenue
I haven't personally worked from a Starbucks in Playa del Carmen, but many people do.
If Starbucks is your thing, you won't have any issues finding one as there are a number scattered around the 5th Avenue area.
