Los Angeles, CA, USA to Playa del Carmen from $156: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$156 - Train to Tijuana, FlyBest price
4669 kmDistance
8h 8m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
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Traveling From Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen
The journey from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen takes you from a bustling urban environment filled with Hollywood glam to a serene beach destination known for its turquoise waters and vibrant culture.
Best Neighbourhoods in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.
Centro
• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs.
• Close to shopping and dining options.
Playacar
• Home to luxurious resorts and golf courses.
• Peaceful and safe with beautiful beachfront.
Aldea Zama
• Trendy area with boutique shops and cafes.
• Ideal for exploring art and local culture.
Best Times To Visit Playa del Carmen's Attractions
Planning your visits helps maximize your enjoyment of Playa del Carmen's highlights.
Fifth Avenue
Visit early morning or late evening to avoid foot traffic and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
Xcaret Park
Arrive right at opening to avoid long lines and experience nature at its best.
Cenotes
Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
Playa del Carmen Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Playa del Carmen enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an ideal escape for sun-seekers. The best times to visit are from November to April, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and beach relaxation.
Dining Recommendation in Playa del Carmen
Try cochinita pibil at El Fogón, a local eatery where slow-cooked pork is marinated in achiote and wrapped in banana leaves, offering a traditional taste distinct from Los Angeles cuisine. The lively atmosphere, local ingredients, and authentic flavors immerse you in Playa del Carmen's culinary heritage, which contrasts beautifully with LA’s diverse but often fusion-based dining scene.
Los Angeles - Playa del Carmen operators
Explore transport companies operating between Los Angeles and Playa del Carmen, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
aa.com
Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Cancun (CUN)
Average Duration
4h 25mEstimated price
$6401-4807Website
delta.com
Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Cancun (CUN)
Average Duration
4h 29mEstimated price
$4804-6400Website
united.com
Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Cancun (CUN)
Average Duration
4h 40mEstimated price
$1564-1565Website
southwest.com
Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Cancun (CUN)
Average Duration
7hEstimated price
$4804-4805Contact phone
(800) 371-LINK (5465)Website
metrolinktrains.com
Train from L. A. Union Station to Rancho Cucamonga
Average Duration
1h 16mEstimated price
$6408-6409Train from L. A. Union Station to Tustin
Average Duration
1hEstimated price
$6408-2165Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Los Angeles to San Diego
Average Duration
2h 54mEstimated price
$2167-2168Train from Los Angeles to San Diego Old Town Transportation Center
Average Duration
2h 40mEstimated price
$2167-2168Contact phone
+52 555 784 4652Website
ado.com.mx
Bus from Puebla to Playa del Carmen
Average Duration
23h 15mEstimated price
$5396-4804Contact phone
+1 213 368 1172Website
busesusatours.com
Bus from Los Angeles to Puebla
Average Duration
39hEstimated price
$4806-4803Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Tijuana
Average Duration
4h 55mEstimated price
$2166-21675Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821Website
greyhound.com.mx
Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Tijuana Central Bus Terminal
Average Duration
5h 40mEstimated price
$5399-21615Contact phone
+52 664 299 0487Website
sites.miticket.mx
Bus from Tijuana Buenavista to ACN Puebla
Average Duration
41h 40mEstimated price
$5398-4808Contact phone
+52 55 5526 2961Website
facebook.com
Bus from Mexico City Politécnico to Puebla Terminal CAPU
Average Duration
2hEstimated price
$5397-2162Contact phone
800 507 5500Website
autobuseselite.com.mx
Bus from Tijuana to Terminal Central de Autobuses del Norte
Average Duration
23h 35mEstimated price
$6406-2008Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Los Angeles and Playa del Carmen offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
🚗 Embark on an unforgettable road trip from the bustling city of Los Angeles to the tropical paradise of Playa del Carmen spanning a scenic 2901-mile journey.
💸 Budget-conscious travelers can expect to spend between $500 to $800 on gas, meals, and accommodation for this epic cross-country drive that typically takes around 2 days and 2 hours to complete.
Average price
$500 - $800
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen! This adventurous route spans 2,652 miles and includes 6 transfers, showcasing diverse landscapes along the way.
🏖️ Finally, after 2 days and 14 hours of travel, arrive in the beautiful Playa del Carmen on stunning beaches, indulge in delicious cuisine, and soak up the sun in this tropical paradise at the end of your unforgettable train journey.
🛫 Flying from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen involves taking a direct flight to Cancun Airport, which is around 4 hours and 25 minutes.
🏝️ Once you arrive at Cancun Airport, it's just a short 45-minute drive to reach the beautiful coastal town of Playa del Carmen.
💸 The cost of flights between Playa del Carmen and Los Angeles can range from $200 to $480, offering travelers various options to suit their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Cancun Airport
🚌 Traveling by bus from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen is an adventurous journey that takes approximately 2 days and 15 hours, with transfers along the way.
💸 Prices for the bus between Playa del Carmen and Los Angeles can vary from $311 to $522, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore Mexico from the US by land.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
Playa del Carmen station
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen.
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The cheapest way to travel from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen is by taking a combination of train, flight, and bus. This option typically costs between $140 to $290 and the journey takes approximately 12 hours and 15 minutes. Starting with a train from Los Angeles to the closest airport, followed by a flight to Cancun, and finally a bus ride to Playa del Carmen is a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers.
The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen is by taking a flight from Los Angeles International Airport to Cancun International Airport which takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. From Cancun, you can then take a bus to Playa del Carmen which will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Overall, the journey can be completed in approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes, depending on flight and bus schedules. It is recommended to check for the most up-to-date flight and bus options to ensure a smooth and timely journey.
The distance between Los Angeles and Playa del Carmen is approximately 2126 miles. If you decide to drive, the road distance is about 2901.2 miles. However, please note that driving might take longer due to border crossings and other factors.
The journey from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen takes approximately 8 hours and 26 minutes, including transfers. Travelers have various options to reach their destination. The most common route involves flying from Los Angeles to Cancun, and then taking a bus or shuttle service from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. Alternatively, some travelers choose to take a train to a major airport hub before flying to Cancun. It is advisable to check the specific travel schedules and options available at the time of planning.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Playa del Carmen. With over 1442+ hotels to choose from, you are sure to find a place that suits your preferences and budget. The prices for hotels in Playa del Carmen start at $105 per night. Whether you prefer staying in a luxury resort, a boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly hostel, there are plenty of options available for every traveler.
Yes, it is possible to drive from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen but it is a long journey of approximately 2901 miles. The drive usually takes around 2 days and 2 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. It is important to plan for rest stops, overnight stays, and ensure international driving permits and proper documentation are obtained for crossing the border.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen. However, you can take a bus from Los Angeles to Tepic, then transfer to another bus to Mexico City Norte, and finally take a third bus to Chetumal, where you can then catch another bus to Playa del Carmen. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 days and 10 hours. It is recommended to make sure to check schedules and book tickets in advance for a smooth journey.
To catch the bus from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen you will need to go to the Los Angeles station. This is where the bus services, operated by Buses USA Tours, depart from. Make sure to arrive at the station ahead of time and check the bus schedule to ensure a smooth journey.
The Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen bus service, operated by ADO, arrives at the Playa del Carmen bus station. The bus station is conveniently located in Playa del Carmen city center, making it easy to access nearby accommodations and attractions. From there, travelers can easily explore the beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife that Playa del Carmen has to offer.
To get to Playa del Carmen from the airport, you can take a taxi or a shared shuttle service. Taxis are readily available at the airport and can take you directly to your destination but can be more expensive. Shared shuttle services are a more affordable option and can be pre-booked online or at an airport information desk. You can also consider renting a car from the airport and driving to Playa del Carmen, as this gives you the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace.
Several airlines offer flights from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen. These include Delta, Alaska Airlines, Inc., JetBlue Airways, and four other airlines. The flights depart from Los Angeles Airport and arrive at Cancun Airport, which is the closest airport to Playa del Carmen. It is recommended to check with each airline for flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight from Los Angeles Airport to Cancun Airport takes approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes. Airlines such as Delta, Alaska Airlines, Inc., JetBlue Airways, and others provide flights from Los Angeles Airport to Cancun Airport.
The flight from Los Angeles to Cancun takes approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes. This is a direct flight without any layovers. However, it is important to note that the total travel time may be longer when considering factors such as airport check-in, security procedures, and any potential delays. Additionally, keep in mind that Playa del Carmen is located about 54 km south of Cancun and may require additional transportation to reach the final destination.
The cost of a bus ticket from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen can range from $318 to $546, depending on the bus company and the time of year. It is recommended to check with multiple bus companies to find the best prices and deals. The duration of the bus journey from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen is approximately 2 days, including travel and rest stops along the way.
The cost of driving from Los Angeles to Playa del Carmen can vary depending on factors such as gas prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency. On average, it can cost between $500 and $800 for the entire trip. It's important to consider additional expenses like accommodations, meals, and potential border crossing fees. It is also crucial to check driving requirements and ensure that your vehicle is properly insured for the journey.
Trips from Los Angeles
- Los Angeles to Irvine
- Los Angeles to Long Beach
- Los Angeles to Tijuana
- Los Angeles to Phoenix
- Los Angeles to Riverside
- Los Angeles to Mexico City
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Trips to Irvine
- Mexico City to Playa del Carmen
- San Diego to Playa del Carmen
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- Boston to Playa del Carmen
- Denver to Playa del Carmen
- Puerto Aventuras to Playa del Carmen
- Bacalar to Playa del Carmen
- Houston to Playa del Carmen
- Isla Mujeres to Playa del Carmen
- Campeche to Playa del Carmen
- San Francisco to Playa del Carmen
- Cabo San Lucas to Playa del Carmen
- Chicago to Playa del Carmen
- Tulum to Playa del Carmen
- Punta Cana to Playa del Carmen
- Dallas to Playa del Carmen
- Cancun to Playa del Carmen
- Puerto Morelos to Playa del Carmen
- New Orleans to Playa del Carmen
- Liverpool to Playa del Carmen
- Chichen Itza to Playa del Carmen
- Tijuana to Playa del Carmen
- Valladolid (Yucatan) to Playa del Carmen
- Chetumal to Playa del Carmen
- Guadalajara to Playa del Carmen
- Riviera Maya to Playa del Carmen
- Akumal to Playa del Carmen
- Las Vegas to Playa del Carmen
- Mérida to Playa del Carmen
- Cuernavaca to Playa del Carmen
- Puerto Vallarta to Playa del Carmen
- Toronto to Playa del Carmen
- San Antonio to Playa del Carmen
- San Ignacio to Playa del Carmen
- New York City to Playa del Carmen
- Rio de Janeiro to Playa del Carmen
- Detroit to Playa del Carmen
- San Salvador to Playa del Carmen
- Valladolid to Playa del Carmen
- Miami Beach to Playa del Carmen