What to see and do at Xaman-Ha, Mexico

Xaman-Ha in Mexico was a center for the worship of the Mayan goddess Ixchel, who was associated with fertility, childbirth, and weaving

The site was an important center of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization, and was occupied from approximately 600 AD to 1200 AD.  The city was a trading center and a hub for maritime commerce, with access to both the Caribbean Sea and inland waterways. 

In Playacar, there are two sets of Mayan ruins. The ruins of Xaman-Ha are located in a small park area directly beside the beach. A few blocks south of Xaman-Ha is the Groupo Eyf archeological ruins which contains about 5 small Mayan pyramids.

While walking form Playacar to downtown Playa del Carmen, we visited both the Xaman-Ha and the Groupo Eyf archeological ruins on 2/16/2021.

The name Xaman Ha means "waters of the north" in the Mayan language. In historical times, Xaman-Ha was a part of the Mayan principality of Ecab. From here,  Maya pilgrims departed by canoe to the sanctuaries of the goddess of fertility named Ixchel  in Cozumel.  

Today, visitors to Xaman-Ha can see the remains of the ancient city, including the foundations of buildings and a large plaza. The site is particularly well-known for its well-preserved ball court, which was used for the traditional Mesoamerican ballgame. The ballgame was a ritualistic sport played throughout ancient Mesoamerica, with religious and political significance.

In addition to the archaeological site, Xaman-Ha is also the name of a popular beach and resort area in Playa del Carmen, which is located nearby. This area offers visitors the chance to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a variety of water sports, as well as to explore the history and culture of the region.

Looking for things to do?  Viator offers numerous tours in the Playa del Carmen area. Click here for details.

Xaman-Ha archeological ruins 

Groupo Eyf archeological ruins