Playa Del Carmen isn’t just about stunning beaches and lively nightlife; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch that combines great food with unique experiences. Whether you’re craving a quick cultural fix at the iconic Chichen Itza, a day full of adventure at Xplor Park, or a luxurious sail around Cozumel, the city offers options that go beyond just tacos and ceviche. For example, the Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling trip offers a relaxed, upscale vibe with onboard cocktails and fresh seafood, making it perfect for those who want a combination of sightseeing and indulgence. Meanwhile, the Small Group Chichen Itza Tour combines history with comfort and includes a hassle-free lunch stop, ideal for travelers eager to explore without feeling rushed.
For food lovers, Playa del Carmen’s lunch experiences aren’t limited to just local eats. Some tours, like the Private Tour with 3 Cenotes + Zip-lines + Mayan Lunch, blend adventure with authentic Mexican cuisine, giving you a taste of Mayan traditions paired with adrenaline. Whatever your travel style, you’ll find options that promise tasty meals and lasting memories.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of tours that include cultural explorations like visiting Chichen Itza or Valladolid, adventure-packed days at Xplor Park or ziplining in the jungle, and luxury experiences aboard boats exploring Cozumel. There are private tours for those seeking exclusivity, small-group adventures for a more intimate vibe, and all-inclusive options with meals and drinks built in. To help you choose, check out the detailed descriptions below — each offers something different, but all promise a satisfying meal and a memorable outing.
1. Chichen Itza by Van: Small Group, Tour Guide, Fast Trip and Lunch
At number 1, this full-day tour makes visiting Chichen Itza straightforward and efficient. For around $119, you get round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and a lunch — all in just about 3 hours of exploring the Mayan wonder. The tour is perfect if you want to skip the hassle of planning and enjoy a small group experience with personalized insights. Tours focus on the must-see sights like the Kukulcan pyramid and the Great Ball Court, with plenty of time for photos and questions. The reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Omar and Nestor, making the trip as educational as it is enjoyable. The included lunch offers a convenient way to refuel after walking among ancient ruins.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers short on time who want a hassle-free, guided experience with a tasty included meal.
2. Xplor Park Admission with Lunch and Drinks
Number 2 on our list is the adventure-filled day at Xplor Park. For $153.84, you get all-day access to zip lines, underground rivers, caves, and amphibious vehicles, with lunch included. The park’s highlight is the 14 zip lines and swimming through cenotes, making it perfect if you love active fun. The buffet lunch and smoothies keep you energized to try everything, and reviews note how well-organized the park is, with ample lockers and safety measures. It’s a great choice for families or adrenaline junkies alike. The fact that you can explore at your own pace, plus the included lunch, makes it a good value for a full day of adventure.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a high-energy, all-inclusive adventure and delicious food, this is your pick.
3. Cozumel Luxury Sailing & Snorkeling with Lunch and Open Bar Onboard
For around $139, the Cozumel luxury sailing trip offers a premium experience. Aboard a sleek catamaran, you’ll snorkel among vibrant reefs or paddleboard in crystal waters, all while enjoying a light lunch and free cocktails. The professional crew ensures safety and comfort, and reviews praise the organized process and friendly staff. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine relaxation with snorkeling in a beautiful setting, without sacrificing comfort. The hotel pickup adds convenience, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a more upscale and intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a laid-back day on the water with quality snorkeling, great food, and drinks.
4. Private Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Tour with Lunch
Number 4 is a private tour that offers flexibility and personalized service. For $290, your party will explore Chichen Itza, swim in a cenote, and stroll through the colonial streets of Valladolid, all with your own guide. The all-inclusive price covers entry fees, lunch, and drinks, ensuring a seamless experience. Guests rave about guides like Jordi and Leo, who make the history come alive. The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, ideal for travelers who want an intimate, flexible experience. The cenote swim and time in Valladolid provide authentic touches that larger groups can’t match.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a luxurious, private experience with tailored visits and a personal touch.
5. Tickets to Rio Secreto and Lunch
At number 5, this Rio Secreto tour combines underground river exploration with a light local lunch for just $76. Perfect for those wanting a mix of adventure and relaxation, you’ll get to wander through labyrinthine caves and stalactites. The included lunch is simple but satisfying, and reviews note how well-organized the experience is. Since it’s a shorter 3-hour tour, it’s ideal if you want to fit a cave adventure into a busy day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a short, impactful underground adventure combined with local flavors.
6. Ek Balam, Chichen Itza, Cenote & Buffet Lunch Tour
Number 6 offers a full-day exploration of some of the most important Mayan sites. For $57.50, you visit Ek Balam early, then Chichen Itza, and end with a swim in a cenote plus a buffet lunch. The tour is praised for its early access to Ek Balam, meaning fewer crowds. Guests enjoy the comprehensive itinerary packed into 12 hours. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides, and the value for money is excellent, considering the number of sites visited. It’s best for travelers who want an immersive, well-rounded day of Mayan culture.
Bottom Line: An affordable, full-day option ideal for history buffs and those eager to explore multiple sites.
7. Private Tour with 3 Cenotes + 5 Zip-lines + Mayan Lunch
Number 7 is a private adventure package. For $213, you’ll snorkel in Puerto Morelos, zipline through the jungle, and swim in three different cenotes, all with lunch included. Guests rave about guide Hisael, who personalizes the experience and makes every activity smooth. The all-inclusive nature means no surprises, and the private setting is perfect for families or groups of friends. The combination of snorkeling, ziplining, and cenote swimming guarantees a day packed with diverse activities.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want a personalized, multi-activity day with authentic Mexican cuisine.
8. Dos Ojos Cenote VIP Private Tour – Snorkeling & Mayan Lunch
This VIP private tour at Dos Ojos costs about $152.10 per person. It includes snorkeling in two cenotes, guided by a personal instructor, and lunch at a nearby restaurant. The experience is tailored, with door-to-door transfers and personalized attention. Reviewers mention how Joshua’s guides make the experience extra special, even capturing photos. It’s perfect for those who want an exclusive, relaxed snorkeling adventure without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for snorkelers seeking a private, guided experience with excellent service.
9. Playa del Carmen Jungle Tour: Tulum, Cenote Snorkeling, Ziplining and Lunch
Number 9 combines cultural visits with adventure activities. For $148.90, you explore Tulum’s ruins, zipline through the jungle, and swim in a cenote, ending with a buffet lunch. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and historical insights, making this a well-rounded, active day. The hotel pickup and all equipment make it convenient. Reviewers like that it offers a mix of history and fun without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want a full day of exploration and adventure in a scenic setting.
10. Holbox Island Full Day Trip with Lunch
Our number 10, the Holbox Island trip, costs about $120.44 and includes boat excursions, wildlife spotting, and lunch. The fishing village and beach relaxation are highlights. Reviewers mention how helpful guides make the long day enjoyable and note the beautiful scenery. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a laid-back, scenic escape with a tasty meal and some wildlife watching.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a relaxing day on an island with local food and nature.
11. Private 2-Cenote Snorkeling Tour with Authentic Mayan Lunch
Number 11 features a personalized cenote experience. For $154, you snorkel at Cenote Jaguar and Cenote Taak Bi Ha, then enjoy lunch at a Mayan restaurant. Guests praise the expert guides and timing that avoids crowds. The private tour ensures flexibility and individual attention, making it popular for families or friends.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for those wanting a private, immersive snorkeling experience with authentic food.
12. Private Tour: Chichen Itza, Cenote Oxman and Lunch in Valladolid
This private 9-hour tour includes Chichen Itza, Cenote Oxman, and a visit to Valladolid. For $430, it offers full customization and exclusive attention. Reviewers appreciate the early access and personalized service, making for a seamless day. The lunch and cenote swim are highlights, especially for travelers who want a luxurious, tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive, private adventure with all comforts.
13. Cancun: Tulum & Coba with Cenote, Cave Exploration and Lunch
Number 13 offers a full-day cultural and adventure trip. For $45, you visit Tulum and Coba, swim in a cenote, and enjoy a buffet lunch. The guided tours are well-reviewed, and the long hours suit those eager for an active day. It’s an economical way to see multiple archaeological sites with some swimming and local food.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a budget-friendly, action-packed day exploring Maya ruins and cenotes.
14. Coba and Tulum, cenote swim and buffet lunch
This 12-hour tour for $89 takes you to Coba and Tulum plus a cenote swim and lunch. Reviews praise the expert guides and balanced itinerary. It suits travelers who want a full, educational day with cultural and natural highlights.
Bottom Line: Good value for those wanting a full experience of Maya sites and cenotes in one day.
15. Private Full-Day Guided Chichen Itza Tour with Lunch
Number 15 is a private tour with full attention. For $249, you explore Chichen Itza, Cenote X’Keken, and Valladolid. Reviewers find it informative and flexible, with ample time for photos and questions. The lunch and all fees included make it a stress-free choice.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a personalized, in-depth cultural experience with convenience.
16. From Riviera Maya: Ek Balam & Cenote Tour w/ Lunch & Pickup
Finally, number 16 combines Ek Balam’s pyramids with a cenote swim and Uayma’s beautiful church. For $68, it offers a full day of exploration with lunch included. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sites visited, making it ideal for those interested in archaeology and local culture.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a mix of history, nature, and culture on a budget.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Playa Del Carmen
Picking the best tour depends largely on your interests, budget, and pace. Want a quick visit to Chichen Itza? The small group tour (link) offers a concise, guided experience with included lunch. For adventure enthusiasts, Xplor Park (link) combines adrenaline and great food, perfect if you prefer active outings. If a luxury day on the water appeals, the Cozumel sailing trip (link) is an elegant choice with onboard drinks and a fresh lunch.
Private tours like the Chichen Itza, Cenote & Valladolid (link) or Ek Balam & Cenote (link) suit travelers seeking customized itineraries and personal attention. Budget travelers will find value in tours like the Coba & Tulum (link), which pack a lot into a reasonable price.
Booking early is advised during peak season, especially for private or small-group experiences. Consider the type of experience you value most—whether that’s culture, adventure, or luxury relaxation—to pick the tour that makes your Playa del Carmen trip truly memorable.
In summary, Playa Del Carmen offers an impressive array of lunch experiences that go beyond the simple meal. Whether you prefer exploring ancient ruins, zipping through the jungle, or sailing on the Caribbean, there’s a perfect option waiting for you. A little planning ahead will ensure you get the most out of your time in this lively, beautiful part of Mexico.