About We Playa
We Playa is a lively hostel and urban beach club located in the heart of Playa del Carmen in Quintana Roo. It’s not just accommodation – it’s a perpetual party with a “multicultural spirit” and a fun, free-spirited vibe . The official description emphasizes that We Playa “opens its doors to all artists, musicians, DJs, etc.” and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week . In other words, it functions around the clock as both a hotel and a nightlife venue. We Playa boasts two outdoor pools (one on the rooftop) overlooking downtown commerce, plus multiple bars and a restaurant open all night . As one Hotels.com review describes, guest can “immerse [themselves] in the vibrant energy… unwind by the poolside bar” with amenities like free Wi-Fi and a game room . In short, this casual 3-star party hostel is notable for blending budget lodging with a full-on nightclub experience in the same building.
Events and Programming
We Playa’s schedule is filled with DJ sets, dance parties and themed club nights rather than traditional concerts or plays. The underground disco routinely hosts live DJ lineups spanning electronic genres – from house and techno to trance – alongside Latin and world-music events. In recent years it even served as an official afterparty venue for larger festivals (for example, an April 2022 Zamna/BPM Festival after-party featured techno artists like Iconyc and Sebastian www.ticketfairy.com ). Residents and visitors mix at nightly parties that often run until dawn, reflecting the hostel’s “good taste for parties until dawn” atmosphere. Because We Playa supports emerging talent , many lineups include up-and-coming local DJs blended with occasional international acts. There are sometimes daytime pool parties or cultural events (film nights or acoustic sets) on the rooftop or lobby. Modest cover charges may apply on big nights (often pooled into drink minimums or wristbands), but many spontaneous hostel events are free – it’s safest to check We Playa’s social posts or ask the front desk. Ticket prices, when charged, are generally low (a few hundred pesos or less). No regular box office exists, so tickets are sold on-site or via local promoters. Nightly karaoke or salsa nights are uncommon; the focus is on DJ-driven music. The overall frequency of events is high – expect something happening almost every night in peak season (December–April) and most weekends year-round.
Tickets and Booking
Because We Playa is a combined hostel and club, there is no formal box office; tickets for events (when needed) are usually arranged through the venue’s promotions or at the hotel reception. Most in-house parties have open entry – guests staying at We Playa get free or prioritized access. For major DJ or theme nights, it’s wise to arrive early (often by 10–11pm) to secure entry as happy hours and early-bird specials can sell out. Occasionally, events will announce a small cover charge (e.g. 100–200 MXN) or wristband option; such tickets can be purchased from the front desk or a nearby hostel rep. There are no assigned seats – it’s general admission on the dance floor. If you plan to stay at We Playa as lodging, book your room as far ahead as possible during high season, since the hostel fills up quickly with party travelers. (Booking sites show everything from shared dorm beds to private suites.) For special group events or private parties, contact the venue staff directly – they occasionally rent out space or put on custom events, with arrangements handled 24/7 at the front desk.
Seating and Layout
We Playa’s layout is multi-level and informal. The main check-in lobby on Avenida 20 leads to a courtyard with one of the outdoor pools and a bar. A “secret door” near the lobby staircase leads downstairs to the underground disco , which is primarily floor space for dancing. The club itself has no fixed seating – guests stand or dance, with some slow-beer benches or bar stools at the perimeter. Around the pool deck and rooftop (second-floor area) there are sun loungers, couches and plastic chairs for chilling between swims. Rooftop parties often set lounge areas by the second pool under umbrellas. The disco’s interior is relatively compact (capacity is a few dozen people dancing at once), with a stage or raised DJ booth at one end. There is no balcony overlooking the dance floor, so good spots are right up front near the DJ or at the bar on the side. Acoustically, expect a throbbing club sound system with heavy bass – it’s designed for dancing, not speeches. If you prefer to sit out of the mosh, the terrace near the main pool or the rooftop is the best “seat” for people-watching. For better acoustics or quieter conversation, step outside to the street-level patio (the music is audible but set behind glass doors). In short: no reserved seats or VIP areas – it’s all general admission and party-mode.
Getting There and Parking
We Playa is located at Avenida 20 Norte, between Calle 12 and 14 Bis in the Colonia Centro neighborhood, just a few blocks from Playa’s famous Quinta Avenida and the main public beach . The nearest large bus terminal is the ADO station on 5th Avenue (about a 10-minute walk). Visitors arriving by air should take an ADO shuttle from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen; the Playa bus station is then just a short walk (one block west) to We Playa . From Cozumel, the ferry docks at paseos del Carmen, and from there it’s cab or a brief taxi ride to Avenida 20. Rideshare apps (Uber/Didi) operate in Playa though not officially legal – many travelers still use them. Regular city taxis (metered yellow cabs) and colectivo vans also run along Avenida 20. If driving, note that We Playa has no private parking lot. Street parking in downtown Playa is limited and often paid/covered; nearby commercial lots (usually around 100–200 MXN per night) can be used. It’s often easier to walk or take a short taxi from nearby hotels or the bus terminal. Public transit options include colectivos (small vans) along Highway 307 for trips to Cancun or Tulum (you can board those vans on 20th Ave) and ADO buses for airport shuttles. After midnight, safe transport is still generally available via taxi ranks (on 12th Street) or hotel-arranged shuttles. Playa del Carmen’s town center is small enough that the venue is often reachable on foot from many downtown hotels. In summary: taxi or bus to central Playa, then a short walk of a few blocks southwest to reach We Playa’s corner location on 20th Avenue.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests enter a brightly colored courtyard with a 24-hour restaurant/bar and first pool. Security at the disco door is relaxed but IDs are checked (18+ only for the club). The front desk lobby operates 24/7 , and staff can assist in English or Spanish (they also speak Italian, Japanese, Hebrew, etc ). Expect a casual hostel atmosphere: flip-flops, beachwear and party outfits are all common attire, but no swimsuits in the disco. Photo ID (passport or driver’s license) is required for alcohol. Smoking is generally allowed in open-air areas and on the roof, but the main club floor may prohibit smoking due to indoor restrictions. Outside food and drink are not permitted in the club; instead, take advantage of the on-site menus. There’s a full bar with Mexican beers (~50–70 MXN), cocktails (margaritas ~80–100 MXN), and non-alcoholic drinks; drinks are priced mid-range for Playa. The restaurant serves Mexican and international fare 24/7 – typical diner-style plates like tacos, burritos, pizza and breakfast eggs are available around the clock. Restrooms and showers are located by each pool and in the lobby area; the underground club has at least one men’s and one women’s washroom. During events, merchandise (like branded t-shirts or glow accessories) may be sold at a small counter by the entrance. A small coat/storage room is available (you can leave bags for free), but it fills quickly on busy nights. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel areas , although the basement disco is somewhat shielded (cell coverage is typically better on the rooftop). Additional amenities include an arcade-style game room with pool tables and video games (standard hostel hangout), a luggage storage area, laundry service , and charging stations. Overall, expect a vibrant, open-plan environment: neon lights, palm tree murals, and throbbing sound keep the energy high. Staff and regulars alike describe the mood as friendly and communal, so if you show up with a smile (and maybe a tip for the DJ), you’ll fit right in.
Nearby Amenities
In the surrounding neighborhood you’ll find everything for a great night out. Fifth Avenida (Quinta Avenida) is only a few blocks east, offering dozens of restaurants and bars for pre- or post-show revelry. Just down Avenida 20 are several casual eateries and taco stands – guests often grab quick street tacos on Calle 14 before heading out. A few worthwhile spots nearby include the Italian Osteria di Roma (just a block north) and the lively Señor Frog’s (at 5th and 12th) . For nightlife warm-ups, bars like Zenzi Beach Club and La Bodeguita del Medio are within walking distance on Fifth. Accommodations are plentiful: hostels and hotels of all budgets line the next two blocks (e.g. Hotel Los Itzaes, Santa Fe Suites). If you haven’t booked yet, finding a nearby room on the night of an event can be tough in high season; it’s best to arrive early or secure lodging in advance. Transportation at night is easy: taxis circulate continuously on main streets, and Uber/Didi can drop you right on Avenida 20. The colonia is well-lit and tourist-friendly, but as always keep an eye on belongings late at night. Other practical hints: the small OXXO convenience stores on 20th have beer and snacks, and an ATM about two blocks away provides pesos. All in all, consider arriving at least 30–60 minutes before an event so you can cash up, have dinner or cocktails nearby, and beat any ticket line. After last call, cabs are available on 12th Street or ride-shares can pick up along 20th – just watch for the flashing lights of the plaza. If you need accommodations, the onsite hostel rooms are a major convenience (so you don’t have to leave at all!), otherwise Downtown’s hotels like Playa and Tropical offer room-to-room shuttle service.
What Makes This Venue Special
We Playa stands out in Playa del Carmen’s scene because it’s essentially a mini party resort built into a hostel. Many say it’s the only place where you can stay in a dorm room, swim at two pools, and then dance in a nightclub – all without leaving the property. Its all-hours concept is almost unheard of; you can swim at sunrise, eat breakfast at 3am, and stomp by 7am all in the same building. Architecturally, its colorful Mexican courtyard style (palm trees, tiles, murals) fused with a hidden underground club creates a unique vibe. The “secret door” to a subterranean dance floor adds to the mystique. Culturally, this venue has become a hub for the Backpacker and expat community, hosting new electronic music talent and embracing an inclusive atmosphere – reviews note that the multilingual staff and international crowd make everyone feel at home . Locals also appreciate it as a casual gathering spot in town, since it’s more affordable than the big corporate resorts. Over the years, it has seen “legendary” guest DJs (from Europe and the Americas) and once-in-a-lifetime parties – BPM Festival after-parties here have been memorable for many travelers. Even outside of party time, its 24/7 bar and kitchen mean the place never really sleeps. In the context of Playa del Carmen, We Playa matters because it blends Mexican hospitality (staff treat guests “like family” ) with a youthful, artistic social calendar. You won’t find stiff formalities here – just a relaxed beach-party spirit that keeps people dancing under the stars and mingling at the pool. That unique combination of carefree nightlife, supportive local culture, and around-the-clock service is what makes We Playa special to both artists and audiences alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: We Playa is partially wheelchair accessible. The main floors have ramps and a ground-level entrance , but note that the disco itself is underground, so access to the basement may be via stairs. For specific mobility accommodations (e.g. elevator), it’s best to call ahead. What to Bring: Photo ID (passport or licencia) for entry, plus pesos in small bills. Bring swimwear if you want to use the pools earlier in the day – towels are provided by the hostel. Comfortable shoes and light clothing are recommended for dancing. Age and Dress Code: The club area is 18+ (Mexican legal drinking age). Dress is casual-beach: think shorts, sandals or sneakers, T-shirts or sundresses. Swimsuits are fine poolside, but in the club downstairs you’ll need to wear clothes and shoes. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume cards are accepted everywhere – keep some cash because cover charges or small vendors may be cash-only. Also avoid being too loud or disruptive in the quiet rooms if you plan to stay at the hostel before a late night out. If you don’t eat much Mexican food, remember that after-midnight food choices around here are mostly tacos or fast fare (the on-site kitchen helps!). Rules and Policies: Outside food/drinks and large bags are not allowed in the club. Cameras and normal photography are fine, but professional video equipment needs permission. Drugs are illegal – stay safe and stick to the party. Age Restrictions: Under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in common areas, but cannot enter the disco independently. Local Etiquette: Tipping is customary (15–20% at the restaurant, and a few pesos to bartenders or DJs if you’re enjoying the night). Spanish phrases like “¡Salud!” (cheers) and “Gracias” (thank you) go a long way to connecting with staff. Other Tips: We Playa is LGBTQ-friendly and has a truly LGBTQ-inclusive vibe (many guests report feeling very welcome). Evenings can be humid; pace yourself with water. If you get there early, check out the arcade room or shoot pool with new friends. Finally, take advantage of the nightly energy: this is a place where folks often dance until dawn, so rest up beforehand and stay hydrated. Follow We Playa’s official social media for last-minute news (they often post early on event days). With the right preparation, a night out (or a full week) at We Playa can be an endlessly fun Playa del Carmen experience.
What is We Playa and where is it located?
We Playa is a 3-star party hostel with an underground nightclub, located in downtown Playa del Carmen. Its address is Avenue 20 Norte between Calle 12 and 14 Bis, Colonia Centro, just a few blocks from the famous Fifth Avenue shopping street and the main beach .
How do I buy tickets for events at We Playa?
There is no formal box office. Most nights are open entry (especially for guests staying at the hostel). For special DJ nights or after-parties, tickets may be sold at the hostel reception or on the door. It’s best to check We Playa’s social media or call ahead. If a cover charge applies (typically a small fee of a few dozen pesos), you can pay at the entrance.
Is there reserved seating or VIP sections?
No. The discotheque is general admission standing-room only. There are no fixed seats or VIP tables on the dance floor. The best “seats” are usually bar stools or patios off to the side, or loungers by the pool area. For quieter space, head to the rooftop or outside patio.
How do I get to We Playa from Cancun Airport?
Take an ADO bus from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen’s central bus station (Grupo ADO operates nonstop shuttles). From the Playa station, it’s only a short walk of a few blocks to Avenida 20 Norte . Alternatively, private shuttles and airport taxis can take you directly to the hostel’s door.
What are the parking options near We Playa?
We Playa itself has no private parking lot. Street parking is limited. However, there are some public lots and garages nearby (often charging around MXN $100–150 for overnight). Most nightlife-goers prefer to take taxis or walk (the downtown blocks are small) to avoid parking hassles.
Is We Playa accessible by public transit or rideshare?
Yes. Local colectivos (shared vans) run through Playa, and many pass along Avenue 20. The ADO bus station on 5th Avenue is only ~500m away . Playa has taxi services roaming the streets (and Uber/Didi are commonly used even if unofficial). A taxi drop-off point is right on Avenida 20 outside the hostel.
Are there any age restrictions at We Playa?
Yes. To enter the nightclub or bars and purchase alcohol you must be at least 18 (Mexican law). Under-18s can be on the property (with a guardian) during the day, but the discotheque is strictly 18+. Valid ID is required for entry.
What is the dress code for We Playa’s club?
The dress code is very casual. Beachwear is fine for the pool and lounge areas. In the club downstairs, smart-casual attire is recommended (shorts and clean shirts for men, casual dresses or tops for women). No swimwear or bare feet on the dance floor. Some people like to wear bright colors or costumes for themed parties, but generally anything goes as long as it’s neat.
Is smoking allowed inside We Playa?
Smoking is generally not allowed inside enclosed areas, in line with public health rules. You may find smoking areas on the open-air rooftop or poolside terrace. Always check with staff to see where smoking is permitted during an event.
Are cameras and video allowed?
Casual photography with a phone or small camera is usually allowed on the premises. If an event is particularly big, the organizers may have official photographers – in such cases, they might ask to hold flashes or phone pics. Professional video equipment is not allowed without permission. In general, be respectful: people often want to enjoy the party without being filmed.
What are the restrooms like?
Restrooms are clean and sufficient for the hostel size. You’ll find one set by the main pool (ground level) and another downstairs by the club. They are free to use and well-stocked with soap and paper. Be aware that on peak nights there can be lines, so plan bathroom breaks between sets to avoid missing performances.
Is there Wi-Fi at the club or on site?
Yes. We Playa offers free Wi-Fi throughout its public areas . The signal is strongest in the lobby, bar, and pool deck. The underground disco is partially underground so the signal may be weaker; cell phone coverage in Playa del Carmen is generally reliable, however, so you can use mobile data if needed.
What are some nearby restaurants for pre-show dining?
You’re in a great spot for dining. Quinta Avenida is two blocks away, with many options. Close to We Playa you have Italian food (Osteria di Roma is very near) and lively places like Señor Frog’s on 5th Ave . For quick bites, there are taco stands along the side streets. Closer yet, We Playa’s own 24/7 kitchen serves decent tacos, burgers and breakfasts around the clock.
Are there grocery or cash machines nearby?
Yes. There are several convenience stores (OXXO) within a 2-3 minute walk where you can buy bottled water, snacks and beers. The nearest ATM is on Avenida 20, just a couple of blocks east – it dispenses pesos. Major banks and ATMs are also plentiful on nearby 5th Avenue if you need a different currency or larger cash withdrawals.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Partially. We Playa offers ground-floor access to the lobby, bar and pool area, making those parts wheelchair-friendly . However, since the disco is underground, it is reached by stairs. The staff recommends contacting them in advance if you need help or accommodations. Overall, most common areas and restrooms on the main level have ramps.
What are the typical door times for events?
For major events, doors usually open around 9:00–10:00 PM. On regular nights, the disco often starts filling up after 11:00 PM. The venue’s restaurant and pool bar are open 24/7, so patrons often gather there first before making their way downstairs to party. If you want to avoid lines, arrive early – by 10 PM on a weekend you’ll usually get in without waiting.
Does We Playa have a coat check or locker service?
Yes, there is a free luggage/coat check at the front desk. You can leave jackets, bags or non-valuable items there before going downstairs. However, space is limited on busy nights, so only small backpacks are recommended. The hostel also has lockers in some dorms if you’re staying overnight.
Can I just walk in or is a reservation required?
You can generally walk in, especially on weeknights or off-peak times when no big DJ is playing. For weekends or special events, arrive early. Reservations are not needed for entry. If an event is sold out or at capacity, the staff may limit door entry. If you’re staying at the hostel, you will have guaranteed entry to the on-site parties.
