Xaman Ha Mayan Ruins in Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo

I drug the kids out for a walk this morning. I swear sometimes it’s like pulling teeth! “Forced family fun” is what I call it now, I stole it from a friend. 

These Mayan ruins dating back to the 13th century are the only ones in the area you can visit for free. They are also the only ruins maintained in a residential community. And they happen to only be a 10 minute walk from where we are staying.

The community is known as Playacar and consists of about a 4 mile stretch of beach just south of Centro (downtown area) and 5th Ave.There are two phases. Phase 1 consists mainly of single-family homes, condos, and villas. Phase 2 includes a golf course, shopping area and most of Playa’s all inclusive type resorts. It is definitely a tourist area and there is security at all the entrances. It is easy to walk or bike in, but to drive your car in you need to show proof that you are staying there.

Here’s some interesting things I learned while reading up on the area (since there are no signs anywhere telling you about the ruins.)

Xaman Ha means “water to the North” and was a fishing community on the extensive Mayan trade route.

Much like today, it was defined by it’s closeness to Cozumel. The island was home to an important temple dedicated to Ixchel, goddess of love and childbirth.

Spanish conquistadors arrived in Cozumel and from their reached Xaman Ha in the mid 16th century. The area was probably abandoned by the Mayans around 1526.

If you are ever in Playa, definitly make time to check this out. If nothing else, it’s a great way to get some exercise and explore a new neighborhood in the city.