If your vacation horizon extends further than just Playa, you can visit various Mayan ruins including Tulum, Coba, Chichen Itza and Ek Balam. The islands of Cozumel, Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox are all nearby, each offering different and unique perspectives. In addition you will find an abundance of ecological parks, adventure parks, tours and a great selection of golf courses. If you have the energy you could have breakfast in Playa, visit the ruins of Tulum, snorkel in Half Moon Bay in Akumal, and enjoy lunch and swim with the dolphins in Puerto Aventuras, play a round of golf in Playa, have dinner on 5th Avenue and take in a current movie in English at one of Playa’s new and modern cinemas. No, I don’t know anyone who has done all of this in one day but you could be the first one.
If the wind is blowing and the beach is not a good option, one of the many cenotes in the area would be an excellent choice for spending a day. Entry fees are minimal and many of the venues offer extra services including meals made on site by the local Mayan communities.