Playa del Carmen feels like a small beach town with big energy. Warm sun most days. Sea breeze at night. The food is loud and fresh. Street music mixes with reggae and electronic beats. I remember a tiny taco stand near Quinta Avenida that kept me coming back for weeks.
For digital nomads it hits a lot of boxes. Internet is solid in most cafes and many places have fiber. Coworking spaces are easy to find. Community is real. There are weekly meetups, yoga on the beach, and a Sunday volleyball group I kept running into. Cost of living is cheaper than the US in many ways but some beachfront spots can get pricey. For some this will be perfect. For others the crowds and tourists might be tiring.
There is always something to do. Cenotes, quick trips to Tulum or Cozumel, night markets, and salsa nights. Most travellers enjoy the mix of work and beach here. It feels alive.