The local reef diving isn't spectacular but it's decent. The main advantage of Playa del Carmen is the variety! That's what I was trying to point out.
Outside of diving, Playa del Carmen is also a fun tourist destination. 5th Avenue is extremely touristy: lots of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, shopping. But if you get away from there, things get a lot quieter. You can have food and nightlife but also peace and quiet.
And there are plenty of activities to do besides diving: several Mayan ruins, snorkeling, beaches, dolphin swims, cenotes, Xcaret, Xel-ha - all kinds of ways a tourist can be separated from his/her money. If you have a non-diving spouse or kids, Playa is a good option.
Cozumel by comparison is a small island that seemed a lot quieter with not nearly as much to do. That's fine if all you want to do is dive.
If you are flexible, you can spend a little bit of time in the different areas. They are close and the transportation services between them are good. Theoretically you could stay in Cozumel, Playa, and Tulum (and even Isla Mujeres) in one trip. I stayed a week in Playa, did a day trip to Cozumel, and spent a few days in Tulum. It was a great trip!
Outside of diving, Playa del Carmen is also a fun tourist destination. 5th Avenue is extremely touristy: lots of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, shopping. But if you get away from there, things get a lot quieter. You can have food and nightlife but also peace and quiet.
And there are plenty of activities to do besides diving: several Mayan ruins, snorkeling, beaches, dolphin swims, cenotes, Xcaret, Xel-ha - all kinds of ways a tourist can be separated from his/her money. If you have a non-diving spouse or kids, Playa is a good option.
Cozumel by comparison is a small island that seemed a lot quieter with not nearly as much to do. That's fine if all you want to do is dive.
If you are flexible, you can spend a little bit of time in the different areas. They are close and the transportation services between them are good. Theoretically you could stay in Cozumel, Playa, and Tulum (and even Isla Mujeres) in one trip. I stayed a week in Playa, did a day trip to Cozumel, and spent a few days in Tulum. It was a great trip!
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