About SPEAKEASY
Speakeasy is a trendy electronic music club on Playa del Carmen’s Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) . It combines a 1920s-style speakeasy vibe with modern dance culture. In local listings it’s described as “un club electrónico” with top national and international DJs in a “climatizado y exclusivo” environment . One travel site even characterizes it as “a social club that is hidden from the public, opening only late at night” , highlighting its secretive, late-hour appeal. The venue is fully air-conditioned and features a powerful sound setup (a special “boiler-room” style DJ booth) for an immersive musical experience . While its exact opening date isn’t widely publicized, Speakeasy has become a core part of Playa’s nightlife after dark.
Events and Programming
Speakeasy’s calendar centers on late-night dance parties. You’ll find house, techno and progressive music most weekends, along with occasional themed nights. In 2021 the club hosted international house/techno stars – for example, the Italian DJ Kolombo played a sold-out night there in May 2021 www.ticketfairy.com . Likewise, in May 2024 Argentine producer Kamilo Sanclemente headlined the rooftop, supported by local DJs Babayaga and Nuwanda www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . Venezuelan DJ Ezequiel Arias played a special set in April 2024 alongside Babayaga and Nuwanda www.ticketfairy.com . The club even ran a regular “Saturdays at Speakeasy” series in late 2021 www.ticketfairy.com . Shows often start around 10–11 pm and can run past dawn. Events vary from all-ages parties to 18+ club nights, so check specific listings. Ticket prices depend on the lineup: small local events may have minimal cover, whereas big-name DJs often command higher covers or two-drink minimums. (Note: popular parties can sell out, as indicated by event pages marked “Sales for this event are closed” www.ticketfairy.com .)
Tickets and Booking
Speakeasy does not have a public box office or official website . The best way to book is through promoters or official event partners. Follow Speakeasy’s social media and local event listings (e.g. local nightlife guides) for announcements. When a show is announced, tickets typically go on sale via reputable sellers or the event promoter (often online or through mobile apps). For major DJs, it’s wise to buy in advance since popular events often sell out.
Stay informed on Speakeasy’s Instagram or Facebook (one listing notes “no official website” for the club ).
Watch third-party event pages (Ticket Fairy, Resident Advisor, etc.) for ticket links and added fees.
Consider hotel concierge or tour desks; some local agencies sell party passes.
At the door, paid admission is usually accepted (cash or cards). Latecomers risk sold-out shows.
Seating and Layout
The venue is primarily one open space. The main “Luna Zone” is an indoor dance floor with a live DJ booth (often the spotlight area) www.ticketfairy.com . There’s also an outdoor rooftop lounge used for major shows. The DJ booth is raised and situated near the front, with speaker stacks around the floor – giving a 360° disco experience. A dedicated smoking section is separated at the side . Seating is very limited: mostly high-top cocktail tables along the edges and perhaps a small VIP area. Most guests stand on the dance floor. For the best view and sound, aim for the center near the DJ booth; behind the bar areas offers a slightly quieter vantage. (There are no balconies or assigned seats – it’s general admission.)
Dance Floor & DJ Booth: Large, open-floor with high-power club speakers. The “boiler-room” style booth ensures top sound quality .
Adjacent Areas: Scattered high tables and a VIP zone along walls. Rooftop patio opens to sky for special events.
Camera/Film: Phones and small cameras are allowed, and the venue even records its DJ sets. Avoid blocking others’ view. Flash photography is discouraged.
Smoke Zone: A ventilated smokers’ area is provided on the side , keeping smoke away from the dance floor.
Getting There and Parking
Speakeasy’s address is 5ta Avenida entre Calle 4 Norte y 6 in the Centro district (postal code 77710) . It’s mid-block on Playa’s main tourist strip. Public transit options on 5th Avenue are limited (it’s pedestrian-only for most of the night), so most visitors arrive by taxi or shared van. Local colectivos (mini-buses) run along adjacent streets (10th and 15th Avenues); you would then walk a block.
Taxi/Rideshare: Tell drivers “Quinta Between Calle 4 y 6, Speakeasy”. Drop-offs on 5th Ave at Calle 6 or near Sandos Playacar are common.Parking: Street parking on 5th is scarce. Paid lots are available a few blocks away (for example, east on Calle 10). Expect to walk 5–10 minutes from parking. Many locals avoid driving by using Uber/taxis instead.From Bus Station: Playa’s ADO bus terminal is north of downtown. A taxi from there to 5th Ave Centro takes ~5 min. (No direct metro or train service in town.)Walking: If you’re staying nearby, walking down 5th Avenue is the easiest approach. Speakeasy will be on your right as you walk south between Calle 4 and 6.
Inside the Venue
Expect a nightclub experience. Security at the door will likely check IDs (18+ or older) and tickets. Inside, the ambiance is dark and electric – colorful LEDs and lasers cut through haze as a pounding DJ set plays. You’ll find a full bar serving cocktails, local tequila and mezcal drinks, beer and mixers. Small snacks (like pretzels or peanuts) may be available, but there’s no full kitchen. Drink prices tend to be on par with Playa nightlife (often 100–150 MXN for a cocktail or beer).
Entry: Bring a photo ID – passport or driver’s license. The club enforces age rules. Doors often open around 10–11 pm, with the party peaking after midnight.Atmosphere: High energy. Loud bass-heavy music with professional light show. The air conditioning keeps it cool even when crowded.Bars: There’s a main bar and possibly a side bar (sometimes at the rooftop or back). Bartenders mix classic and house cocktails. Bar service can be fast, but tip around 10-15%.Relax spots: A few lounge seats or couches may be in dim corners, but most people stand or dance.Facilities: Restrooms are available near the main floor. A coat/bag check (small fee) may be offered upon request, though many leave jackets hanging in bar areas.
Nearby Amenities
Since Speakeasy is on Fifth Avenue, you’re in the heart of tourist amenities. Pre-show dining and post-party options are abundant:
Restaurants: Fifth Avenue has anything from quick tacos to upscale Mexican. Popular nearby spots include Los Aguachiles and Los Hijos de la Tostada (Calle 6) for Mexican seafood, and Pizza e Birra (near 6th). Plan to eat at least a couple of blocks away to avoid arriving hungry and missing the show.Bars & Clubs: La Santa and Mandala are within two blocks north if you want to bar-hop later. For a calmer vibe before a show, beach clubs like Coralina (a few blocks south) aren’t far away.Hotels: The adults-only Lunata 5th Avenue Hotel (Admission Only) is literally adjacent on Calle 6, and many guests book there for easy access. Other nearby hotels include The Reef 28 (at Calle 6) and Hotel Marlo (next block north).Travel Tips: Aim to arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime to avoid long queues. Taxis are easier to catch a couple of blocks from 5th Avenue if there’s a line. After the club, taxis or Ubers run until the early morning, but clarify pickup points since 5th Ave can be crowded.
What Makes This Venue Special
Speakeasy stands out in Playa’s nightlife for its blend of underground clubbing and Fifth Avenue location. Unlike larger beachfront clubs, it offers an “underground” feel right in the city center. Its signature features include recording live DJ sets (guests can find their sets online later) and hosting top-tier electronic artists in a compact, high-intensity space. The venue’s design – from the cozy speakeasy vibe to the high-tech lighting and sound – earns praise for energy and quality . In short, artists and fans love Speakeasy for an immersive dance experience that feels exclusive and authentic, while locals appreciate it for drawing international talent directly to the heart of Playa del Carmen.
Visitor Tips and Information
Entering Speakeasy is straightforward but there are a few things to keep in mind. Wear smart-casual nightclub attire – no swimwear or flip-flops – and bring a valid ID for age verification. Speakeasy enforces a bag check, so avoid carrying large backpacks. Outside food and drinks are not allowed, but you can take photos or videos with a phone (flash off). The club has a designated smoking section , but otherwise indoor areas are no-smoking. It’s wise to arrive close to door-opening time (around 10pm) if you want to beat any line. Most nights are 18+, but some themed parties may be all-ages, so double-check if you plan to bring guests under 18. Lastly, accessibility is limited – there may be stairs to reach the rooftop lounge – so contact the venue in advance if you need special accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is SPEAKEASY located?
Speakeasy’s address is Fifth Avenue between Calle 4 Norte and Calle 6 in downtown Playa del Carmen . It is roughly midway along the pedestrian Fifth Avenue strip. Look for a blue neon sign on the street façade. It’s on a mid-block section, so you may have to walk a bit off the busiest area of 5th to find its entrance.
How do I get to SPEAKEASY by public transit or taxi?
There is no subway or direct bus stop on Fifth Avenue. Local colectivos (minivans) run along nearby 10th and 15th Avenues, but the easiest way is by taxi or rideshare. Tell the driver “Quinta Avenida between 4 and 6, SPEAKEASY”. From the ADO bus terminal or downtown, a taxi is about a 5-minute ride. Many locals also walk if they are staying on or near Quinta Avenida.
Is there parking available at or near the venue?
Speakeasy has no dedicated parking lot. Street parking on Fifth Avenue is very limited and usually full at night. There are paid parking lots (estacionamientos) within a block – for example, on Calle 10 between 4th and 5th. Many guests find it easier to take a taxi/Uber or walk instead of trying to park. If you drive, be prepared to pay for nearby lot parking and walk a few minutes each way.
Where can I buy tickets and how much do they cost?
Tickets are usually sold through the event promoters or ticketing platforms when shows are announced. SPEAKEASY itself has no box office or official website , so the best bet is to buy from authorized sellers or at the door. Prices vary by event: smaller local nights may charge a modest cover (often a few hundred pesos), while shows with international DJs often cost higher (for example, 500+ MXN). Always check the event details on social media or ticket pages; some events note if they’re already sold out www.ticketfairy.com .
What is the age limit to enter Speakeasy?
Speakeasy generally enforces an 18+ age policy for its nighttime events. Some special shows may be all-ages, but by default you should plan on 18 and over. Always bring a valid photo ID, as it will be checked at the door. Proof of age is required to buy or consume alcohol, and Mexican law prohibits minors from entering clubs late at night.
What kind of music and events does Speakeasy host?
Speakeasy is known for dance music — mostly electronic genres like house, techno, EDM, and progressive. The programming features DJ sets rather than live bands. Events include local and international DJs spinning club mixes. You’ll often see underground house/techno parties, special guest DJs, and themed dance nights. The atmosphere is pure nightclub, so expect DJs playing continuous dance tracks late into the night www.ticketfairy.com .
Is there seating or VIP tables at Speakeasy?
Speakeasy is primarily a standing-room club. There is a small VIP section and some tall tables along the sides, but no fixed seats. For VIP or table service, you usually reserve in advance (often through the club’s WhatsApp number) which grants a roped-off area. Otherwise, it’s general admission on the dance floor. Expect to stand or move around rather than sit.
What is the dress code at the club?
Dress code is typical upscale-casual nightclub style. Wear closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops) and a shirt – no beachwear or surf shorts. Many patrons wear fashions ranging from trendy clubwear to smart street style. Formal attire isn’t required, but the club atmosphere is in line with Playa’s nightlife scene, so people often dress to impress. If in doubt, lean toward neat casual rather than beach casual.
Is photography or video allowed inside the venue?
Smartphones and small cameras are generally allowed. Guests often take photos to capture the lights and music. The club’s own policy is not widely published, but enthusiastic video recording from the crowd is normally tolerated. However, avoid using flash or large camera equipment. Be mindful of others around you; if the DJ requests no recording (some do), respect that. Speakeasy itself often records the DJ sets for online streaming .
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility is limited. Speakeasy is in an older building with steps at its entrance and between floors. The main floor is at street level, but the rooftop lounge requires climbing stairs. If wheelchair access is required, contact the venue in advance; there is no public information on ADA features. Unfortunately, Playa’s older clubs are often not fully accessible.
