The BPM Festival 2013

After the new year there comes a lull in the club scene. The holidays are over and people are trudging back to work - except for the DJs. What would normally be a somewhat dead zone period for DJs has been turned into vacationland and paradise. Winter blues are chased away with the sandy beaches of Playa del Carmen as BPM Festival swoops in to gather the best of the underground electronic music scene in the world. Come one, come all! It seems that everyone who's anyone and their friends head on down to Mexico during the ten day period in January to kick up some sand and to lay down some beats.
The line up for this year's BPM already had the words "insane" and "jaw dropping" describing it at the first round of release, which left many to wonder how could there be more? This year's BPM may prove to be the biggest thus far, as the changing waters of the electronic music scene bring in the high tide.
Festival Line Up
Alex Picone, Alexi Delano, Andrew Grant, Antonio Piacquadio, Art Department, Behrouz, Ben Klock, Benoit & Sergio, Betoko, Bill Patrick, Black Light Smoke, Boris, Butch, Cajmere, Carl Cox, Carlo Lio Cassy, Catz 'n' Dogz, César Merveille, Chos + Ceballos, Climbers, Clockwork, Cozzy D, Crazy Larry, Damian Lazarus, Dan Ghenacia, Danny Daze, Danny Tenaglia, Darius Syrossian, David Herrero, Death on the Balcony, Detlef, Dixon, DJ Harvey, DJ T, DJ Tennis, Doc Martin, Droog, Dubfire, Dyed Soundorom, Eats Everything, Ellen Allien, Fairmont, Francesca Lombardo, Frank & Tony, Furk Coat, Gavin Herlihy, Guy Gerber, H-Foundation, Hector, Heidi, Henrik Schwartz, HNQO, Infinity Ink, J Phlip, Jamie Jones, Jesse Perez, John Acquaviva, John Digweed, Jojo Flores, Jori Hulkkonen, Josh Wink, Jozif, Julien Loreto, Justin Martin, Laura Jones, Lauren Lane, Lee Burridge, Lee Foss, Lee Jones, Livio & Roby, Loco Dice, Louie Fresco, Luca Bacchetti, Luca C, Luciano, Luke Fair, Maceo Plex, Mam, Mano Le Tough, Marc Antonia, Marco Carola, Mark Henning, Mark Knight, Marques Wyatt, Martin Buttrich, Masters at Work, Matador, Matt Tolfrey, Mayaan Nidam, Mendo, Miguel Campbell, Mike Shannon, MK, Mr. C, My Favorite Robot, Nathan Barato, Nic Fanciulli, Nick Curly, Nicolas Matar, Nicole Moudaber, Nitin, No Regular Play, Paco Osuna, Patrick M, Pillowtalk, Pirupa, Peter Bailey, Pleasurekraft, Puente & Rosch, Rhadoo (Arpiar), Richie Hawtin, Richie Santana, Richy Ahmed, Ricky Ryan, Robbie Akbal, Robert James, Robert Dietz, Rony Seikaly, Russ Yallop, Ryan Crosson, Saeed Younan, Sander Kleinenberg, Sander Van Doorn, Sasha, Sean Miller, Sean Roman, Sharam, Seth Troxler, Shaun Reeves, Shonky, Sid Le Rock, Simon Baker, Slam, Soul Clap, Stacey Pullen, Stevie Lawler, Subb-An, Sublevel (Live), Sunnery James & Ryan Marchiano, Sven Vath, System of Survival, Tale of Us, Tanner Ross, Tboy, The Junkies, The Martinez Brothers, The Mole, Third Party, Thomas Gold, Thugfucker, tINI, Tone of Arc, Victor Calderone, Wildkats, Willie Graff, Wolf + Lamb, and more!
- How do I get to and from Playa Del Carmen?
- What area is the festival in? How do I get around?
- What time does it start and end?
- Is reentry allowed?
- What are the prohibited items?
- What's the deal with food and beverages?
- What do I need to know about money?
- What will the weather be like?
- What should I wear?
- What should I bring?
- What are the ticket options?
- Anything else I need to know?
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How do I get to and from Playa Del Carmen?
The best way to get to Playa del Carmen is via the Cancun international Airport (CUN), located 52 km (32 miles) north of Playa del Carmen. Cancun is one of the Caribbean's busiest airports, averaging about 800,000 passengers per month during the high season. Three commercial terminals accommodate over 50 charter and commercial airlines (including all of the major US airlines) from all over Mexico and the world.
You have a couple of options to get to Playa del Carmen from Cancun:
Rental Car: Dollar, Hertz, Thrifty, Budget all operate out of the airport and offer a discount if you call the Cancun Airport call center.
From the U.S. and Canada you can call toll free +1 (888) 414-0017
From elsewhere in the world call +52 (998) 848-0335.
Airport Transportation Service: Booking your transport directly from the airport website is really your best, most cost efficient, and safest option. Since only authorized companies are allowed to pick you up from the airport (regular taxis are not), it is best to use the Transportation page to find a ride to Playa del Carmen. Their search engine makes recommendations based on your intended destination and the number of people in your party, and the results page provides pricing (taxes and fees included), hours of availability, and information about other amenities of the service. If you choose to book with them this way (and it is highly recommended for your personal safety), you will receive a discount on the total price between 14% to 42%. -
What area is the festival in? How do I get around?
Most parties are located near Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue) and 10 Avenida (10th Avenue), an area of Playa del Carmen that is close to the beach. Parties are at multiple venues within walking distance of each other, making it super convenient if you find you place close to stay.
That said, you still have a few options to get around the city.
Walking: Playa Del Carmen is small enough to wander on foot, and there are designated pedestrian walkways close to the shoreline lined with bars, restaurants, shops, galleries, and hotels. Almost any destination is within walking distance, especially if you're staying near the beach.
Taxi: Depending on your level of comfort, and particularly after dark, you may feel safer in a taxi, of which there are plenty that are relatively inexpensive. Fares are determined by zones, at 20 Mexican Pesos (MXN), or USD $1.50, within a single zone. Fares increase up to 25 MXN to go to an adjacent zone, and up to 45 MXN. Within Zone 5, or Playacar, fares range from 45 to 70 MXN. However, fares are generally negotiable, so don't hesitate to barter within reason. -
What time does it start and end?
Expect the party at BPM to last all day and night - for the entire 10 days. The parties and events take place at multiple venues around Playa Del Carmen, so start and end times vary; check each event for its specific start times.
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Is reentry allowed?
BPM doesn't take place in one designated festival site. You'll be able to travel freely between the different participating venues as long as you have a multi-day wristband. The only determining factor that may lead to refused entry is if a particular show has reached maximum capacity. Tickets can be purchased for individual shows, for those without a wristband. In this case, reentry policies vary from venue to venue, so make sure to check before leaving a show.
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What are the prohibited items?
Each BPM venue has its own policies on prohibited items, so use your common sense. If it's illegal, leave it at home. If it'll be disruptive or dangerous in a crowd of people, leave it at home. You know the drill.
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What's the deal with food and beverages?
All of the day venues for the BPM Festival serve food so you can still enjoy the music while you eat lunch. Some of the night venues will serve food as well, but be sure to check beforehand. There are also plenty of other options near each of the venues, so don't worry about going hungry.
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What do I need to know about money?
While there are ATMs located around Playa del Carmen, they are often unreliable and run out of money at peak times. The best thing to do is take out a larger amount of cash, or exchange currencies at the beginning of your trip, and stash your dough somewhere safe, such as an in-room safe at your hotel.
Most, if not all BPM venues take credit cards inside. However, if you are purchasing tickets for a single show at the door, you will have to pay in cash. -
What will the weather be like?
Although a winter month in Mexico, January still sees enough heat and sunshine to warrant a festival at the beach. The average temperature in January ranges from 82F (28°C) to 64°F (18°C), a range mimicked by the sea water. There'll be plenty of sun but (welcomed) cooler breezes once it sets for the night.
Click for weather forecast -
What should I wear?
Beach gear! Many of the events are outside, on the beach, or by a pool so swimsuits, coverups, flip flops, shorts, and dresses are ideal. If you want to explore the non-beach aspects of Playa Del Carmen, wear a pair of sneakers and maybe a sweater for night time - in case of a cold front. Don't forget to also wear your sunglasses; they'll both protect your eyes from the sun and hide your baggy eyes from lack of sleep.
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What should I bring?
Unless you already live in Mexico, you won't want to leave home without a passport or else your trip will be over before the first DJ even hits the deck. You should definitely also bring all your sun protection and beach goodies - sunscreen, hat, towel (unless your hotel will provide), etc.
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What are the ticket options?
BPM offers a variety of ticket options depending whether you are attending for an entire week, just for a weekend, or just for a single event.
All festival passes that are for multiple days and include multiple events are listed as VIP bands. You can purchase a 10 day VIP band (valid for January 4-13) for $700; a 7 day VIP band (valid for January 7-13) for $450; a 3 day VIP band *closing weekend* (valid for January 11-13) for $250; or a 3 day VIP band *opening weekend* (valid for January 4-6) for $250.
Tickets for individual events are also available and range from around $15-$40 depending on the show and venue. -
Anything else I need to know?
Don't drink the water unless it has been filtered via ice cubes. But on the off chance you're not in a restaurant, stick with bottled water at all times. Drinking tap water in Mexico will result in sickness and a ruined vacation. When in doubt, buy a bottle.
In case of emergency call 066 - it's the Mexican equivalent of 911. Write that down.
You must be 18+ to attend, which is probably music to Americans' ears. You may not be able to go to festivals at bars in the states, but you can in Mexico!
Friday, Jan 4, 2013
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Canibal Royal
My Favorite Robot Showcase Hosted by Picknik Electronik
Jori Hulkkonen, My Favorite Robot, Fairmont, Sid Le Rock, and Bastard Love.
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Mamita's
Varsity All Stars
Ben Klock, Mike Khoury and Dory. -

Kool Beach
Hosted by Provoke
Pleasurekraft & John Acquaviva, Fairy, and Mike Trix. -

Blue Parrot
Special Guest -

Santanera
Victor Calderone, Nicole Moudaber, Michelangelo, Julien Loreto, and Mar-C. -

Coco Maya
Viva Warriors Hosted by Maison
Steve Lawler, Livio & Roby, Darius Syrossian, and Detlef.
Saturday, Jan 5, 2013
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Kool Beach
Hosted by Sankeys Ibiza
Butch, Pirupa, Antonio Piacquadio, and The Midnight Perverts. -

Mamita's
Wolf + Lamb VS. Soul Clap, Tanner Ross, No Regular Play, Pillowtalk. -

Canibal Royal
Voodoo
Luca Bacchetti and Eduardo Castillo. -

Blue Parrot
Minus Showcase Hosted by Movement
Richie Hawtin and Paco Osuna. -

Santanera
Apollonia Showcase Hosted by Dog & Pony Show
Dan Ghenacia, Shonky, Dyed Soundorom, Maus, Mightykat, and Nymra & Sofisticated.
Sunday, Jan 6, 2013
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Kool Beach
Stacey Pullen, Josh Wink, Julien Loreto & Special Guest. -

Mamita's
No. 19 Social Experiment: Art Department 4 Hour Extended Set
Art Department, Martina Topley Bird, Ton of Arc, Nitin, Clayton Steele, and Brohn. -

Canibal Royal
Cielo 10 Year Anniversary
Nicholas Matar, Willie Graff, Jojo Flores. -

Blue Parrot
Carl Cox, Nic Fanciulli and Lauren Lane. -

Santanera
Behrouz Presents Sonus Hosted by Fact
Behrouz, Radhoo, Sean Miller, and Neno. -

Coco Maya
No. 19 After Party
Special guests
Monday, Jan 7, 2013
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Kool Beach
Saved Hosted by Gem Events
Nic Fanciulli B2B with Special Guest, Lauren Lane, Robert Dietz and more. -

Mamita's
City Fox Showcase Hosted by Listed
Lee Jones, Mark Henning, Atish, Hoj, Dory, and Mike Khoury. -

Canibal Royal
Mexa VS Outcross Showcase
Louie Fresco, MK, Russ Yallop, Miguel Campbell, Mam, Betoko, Tboy, Sean Roman, and Alex Rubio. -

Blue Parrot
Cocoon
Sven Väth and Cassy. -

Santanera (Downstairs)
Intimate & Underground Hosted by Bringthebeats (
Luke Fair, Ricky Ryan, and Cesar Caballero. -

Santanera (Upstairs)
Digital Delight Showcase
Puente & Rosch, Jesse Perez, Damian Uzabiaga, and DIego Moreno. -

Coco Maya
Circo Loco
Seth Troxler, The Martinez Brothers, Maceo Plex, Tale of Us, Andrew Grant, Ellen Allien, and System of Survival.
Tuesday, Jan 8, 2013
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Kool Beach
Stereo Productions Hosted by Stereo Montreal
Chus + Ceballos, Richie Santana, Peter Bailey, David Herrero, Patrick M, and Jonny Marciano. -

Mamita's
Hosted by Ibiza Sonica
Nick Curly, Simon Baker, Xavier Fux & Igor + Special Guest. -

Canibal Royal
Life and Death Hosted by Footlose
Tale of Us, Thugfucker, DJ Tennis, Clockwork, and Mano Le Tough. -

Blue Parrot
Sci Tech
Dubfire, Carlo Lio, Shaded (live) and The Junkies. -

Santanera
Hosted by Vessel
Guy Gerber, Bill Patrick, Lauren Lane, and Heidi. -

Coco Maya
Sander Van Doorn, Uppercut, Omar Labastida.
Wednesday, Jan 9, 2013
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Kool Beach
Hosted by Playhouse
Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano, Rony Seikaly, Brandon Rullan,and AlexSapir. -

Mamita's
Younan Music Showcase
Saeed Younan, Mendo, Pascal Daze and Addy. -

Canibal Royal
Dirtybyrds VS. Pets Recordings
Justin Martin, Eats Everything, Heidi, Catz 'N Dogz, J Phlip. -

Blue Parrot
Cadenza
Luciano and Special Guests. -

Santanera (Upstairs)
H Foundation vs Slam
Jojo Flores, and Marques Wyatt. -

Coco Maya
Hot Creations Presents Paradise
Jamie Jones, Lee Foss, Miguel Campbell, Cajmere, Benoit & Sergio, Richy Ahmed, Robert James, HNQO, Russ Yallop and Special Guest.
Thursday, Jan 10, 2013
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Kool Beach
Toolroom Hosted by Uniq Lifestyle
Mark Knight, Boris, and Endo. -

Mamita's
Dailtone Records
Antü Coimbra, German Wagener, Niko Glenn, and Lukas. -

Canibal Royal
tINI & The Gang. -

Blue Parrot
Desolat Hosted by Sound
Loco Dice, Martin Buttrich,and tINI. -

Santanera
DJ Harvey, Death on the Balcony, Shiny Objects, Galen. -

Alux Cave
The Junkies, Nathan Barato, and Special guests.
Friday, Jan 11, 2013
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Kool Beach
Never Say Never
Sasha & Cassy and Nero. -

Mamita's
Culprit VS Leftroom
Droog, Matt Tolfrey, Laura Jones, Gavin Herlihy, Jozif, Climbers. -

Canibal Royal
Haunt Records / Mutek Mexico
Mike Shannon, The Mole, Damian Romero and Steve Letigre. -

Blue Parrot
Hosted by Glow DC
Thomas Gold, Third Party, and Chris Garcia. -

Santanera
Modern Love Affair Hosted by Jazz J Spinder/Footwork
Luca C, Miguel Campbell, Richy Ahmed, Jeff Button, Baby Joel and Special Guests. -

Coco Maya
Innervisions Showcase
Dixon & Schwarz, Doc Martin Featuring Lillia, and Crazy Larry.
Saturday, Jan 12, 2013
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Kool Beach
Sharam, Sander Kleinenberg and Tini Tun. -

Mamita's
All Day I Dream
Lee Burridge and Christian Loffler. -

Canibal Royal
Akbal Music Showcase
DJ T, Special Case, Cozzy D, Robbie Akbal, Muan and WIldkats. -

Blue Parrot
Music on Presents:
Marco Carola all night. -

Santanera
Superfreq
Mr. C, Alexi Delano, Dave Scuba, Scissor & Thread, Frank & Tony, Black Light Smoke, Bob Moses. -

Blue Venado
Rebel Rave
Masters at Work, Damian Lazarus, Danny Tenaglia, Subb-an, Infinity Ink, Fur Coat, and Francesca Lombardo.
Sunday, Jan 13, 2013
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Kool Beach
John Digweed, Jozif, Rodrigo Madrid, and Mike Montano. -

Mamita's
This is the End
Guy Gerber, Shaun Reeves, Ryan Crosson, Danny Daze, Lauren Lane, and Bill Patrick. -

Canibal Royal
Music On
Marc Antona, Nathan Barato and Special Guest. -

Blue Parrot
BPM Closing Party
Danny Tenaglia and Special Guests.
Eat
Playa del Carmen has a lot to offer in the food department. From traditional Mexican and Mayan cuisine to French bakeries, this little town has it all.
12th street, or Calle 12 Norte, is known as the more touristy part of town, but there are still good options there for food. If you want to avoid other tourists and feel like something with some local flair, it only takes about 10 minutes to get out of the more populated area on foot. Most of the restaurants we recommend below are within walking distance from hotels and venues.
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Las Cazuelas
- Calle 26 Norte between 5th and 10th Avenidas
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Spain's culinary influence on Mexico is alive and well at this Spanish restaurant. Serving wonderfully authentic tapas and paella, both of which are not to be missed. Las Cazuelas is known for their seafood as well, but you won't find it on the everyday menu. Be sure to ask what is fresh for the day if you're craving one of the best fillets in la Playa.
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Food Carts at the Zocalo
- 5th Avenida and Calle 2 Norte by the park
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Food carts aren't usually known for exemplary food, but in Playa del Carmen they are not to be missed. Located in the Zocalo (main square) of la Playa, there are dozens of carts serving tortas and tacos with a variety of sauces. Vendors will leave when they sell out, usually by 11am, so get there early. If you feel like having tacos for breakfast, this is the place to do it!
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Yaxche
- 5th Avenida and Calle 22
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 873-3011
- www.mayacuisine.com
This gourmet Mayan restaurant has won numerous awards for its traditional cuisine. The region around Playa del Carmen is rich with Mayan history, however, the culinary aspect of the culture has faded. Yaxche aims to keep the food of the Mayans alive in a tasteful, upscale atmosphere. Be sure to peruse the unique beverage list, as well as the restaurants romantic garden.
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Asadero el Pollo Estilo Sinaloa
- 20 Avenida and Calle 2 norte
- Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Known as home to the best roast chicken en la Playa, Asadero el Pollo is literally named after the dish. This is a great choice for food on the fly; service is fast and prices are reasonable. Make sure to go early in the day, as Asadero only serves lunch and closes before 5pm most days. Cash only.
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Chez Celine
- 5 Avenida and Calle 34
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Who would have thought; a quaint French bakery in the middle of Mexico? Chez Celine has been a popular destination for locals and visitors since it opened in 2010. Serving pastries, coffee, and small french plates such as quiche, this little spot is great for your morning meal.
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Ah Cacao Chocolate Cafe
- 5th Avenida and Calle 30; 5th Avenida and Calle 18
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- www.ahcacao.com
It can be hard to find a good dessert in this meat-centric town. Enter Ah Cacaos, serving only ice cream and chocolatey items, this cafe offers a "complete chocolate experience." From cakes to hot cocoa, pudding, and even chocolate shampoo, this place has cacao lovers covered. Be sure to check out the brownies and Mayan hot chocolate.
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El Fogon
- 30th Avenida and Calle 6 Norte; 30th Avenida and Calle 32
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
At El Fogon you'll find authentic Mexican food at a great price. This place keeps locals coming back again and again, so you know it's good. This cash only restaurant gets pretty busy at both locations, but it is well worth the wait. Be sure to check out their signature dishes, tacos al pastor and frijoles charros.
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Los Aguachiles
- 25th Avenida and Calle 34
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Known for its fresh, authentic Mexican food, Los Aguachiles offers delicious grub at an affordable price. Open from 11:30am to 8pm, Monday through Saturday, this place may look like a hole in the wall, but it serves some of the healthiest and freshest Mexican food in la Playa. All dishes are grilled or sautéed, rather than fried, and tacos can be wrapped in a handmade tortilla or a leaf of bib lettuce. Be sure to experiment with the large selection of sauces offered as well.
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Carboncitos
- Calle 4 Norte between 5th and 10th Avenidas
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Despite it's more touristy location, Carboncitos offers delicious, authentic Mexican food. Frequented by many locals, this is the classic, go to Mexican restaurant. They are best known for their chilaquiles en la mañana and their grilled meats and tacos al pastor en la tarde.
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Las Brisas
- Calle 4 Norte and 10th Avenida
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
In a beachside town, one expects good seafood. For reasonably priced, fresh from the sea fish, look no further than Las Brisas. Located in the more tourist oriented part of town, this place manages to maintain its small town charm and serve quality food.
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H&C Butcher Shop
- Calle 1 Sur between 20th and 25th Avenidas
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
If you are one of the BPM attendees luck enough to be staying in accommodations with a kitchen, this is the place to get your protein for those meals as home. Dearly loved by the citizens of la Playa, they serve fresh meats by the kilo para llevar (take out). They also serve arrechera (flank steak) and other steaks pre-cooked, also para llevar.
Sleep
There are enough hotels to chose from in Playa del Carmen that choosing one can be a bit overwhelming. We picked eight that cater to a range of budgets, but are all conveniently located near the BPM venues and a ton of great restaurants. There are also many more hotel and condo options listed on BPM's website to help find the one that's right for you.
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Acanto Boutique Hotel
- Calle 16 Norte and 5th Avenida
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 873-1252 / +1 (888) 331-2177
- www.acantohotels.com
This charming Hacienda style hotel has everything one could want while in paradise. Each room is equipped with a full kitchen and balcony. Take your pick of a one, two, or three-bedroom suite, all of which overlook the pool and lounge area. The beach is located just one block away and guests of Acanto have access to the beach club which features a live DJ, bar, and restaurant.
BPM Booking Code: BPM Amenities: Pool, Gym, Beach Club, Wine Bar, Spa Services, Laundry Service, Free WiFi in Lobby, Car Rental Service -

Be Playa
- Calle 26 Norte and 10th Avenida
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 803-2243
- www.beplaya.com
This unique hotel, just a block off of the beach, provides plenty style and comfort for your BPM trip. Complete with bohemian style decor and a sushi restaurant, it is hard to go wrong with Be Playa. Choose from a standard suite, a junior suite, or a master suite. Both junior and master suites come equipped with an in-room jacuzzi tub, the perfect way to relax after a long day and night of dancing.
BPM Booking Code: BPM2011 Amenities: Pool, Restaurant, Poolside Bar and Lounge, WiFi, Mini Bar, In-Room Dining, iPod Dock -

Mosquito Beach Hotel
- Calle 8 between 5th Avenida and the beach
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +1 (866) 547-8756 / +52 (984) 873-0001
- www.mosquitobeachhotel.com
This modern, stylish hotel is located right on the beach and features a restaurant and in-room dining from award winning chefs. Each room has a balcony, mini-bar and free WiFi. Be sure to check out the 4,000 square foot Zen Eco Spa to recharge for the next day of BPM.
BPM Booking Code: BPMFESTIVAL Amenities: Pool, Beach Bar, Spa Services, Free WiFi, Beach Club, In-Room Dining -

Hotel Aventura Mexicana
- Calle 24 Norte and 10th Avenida
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +1 (800) 537-4197 / +52 ( 984) 873-1876
- www.aventuramexicana.com
Hotel Aventura Mexicana is a mini-oasis within a larger oasis. The grounds include two pools, three sun decks, tropical gardens and even a small waterfall. Rooms range from one double bed to a two bedroom condo, with a variety of options in between. Hotel Aventura also offers several tours and adventures around the Mayan Riviera if you want to take a break from the music and explore the beautiful surrounding areas.
BPM Booking Code: BPMAVM Amenities: Pools, WiFi, Beach Club, In-Room Dining, Spa Services, Yoga Classes -

Le Rêve Hotel & Spa
- Playa Xcalacoco Fracción 2
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 109-5660 / +1 (984) 109-5660
- hotellereve.com
It is a little farther out than some of the other hotels sponsored by BPM, but Le Rêve is a jungle oasis that will not disappoint. This beachfront sanctuary offers an array of services, from a full spa to afternoon tea. Choose from four suite types; garden, horizon, master and bungalow, all of which feature private balconies and rain showers.
BPM Booking Code: BPM2013 Amenities: WiFi in common areas, Pool, Beach Access, Gym, Spa Services, In-room iPads -

Hotel Colibri Beach
- Calle 10 Norte and 1st Avenida
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 ( 984) 803-1090
- www.hotelcolibribeach.com
This small, family-run hotel offers a rustic Mexican atmosphere right on the beach. Featuring 25 rooms and five little cabanas, all with private balconies. Colibri Beach also boasts its own beach club, Lido, with a full bar, restaurant and nightly events.
BPM Booking Code: BPM2012HCB Amenities: Balconies, Air Conditioning, Beach Club, Bike Rentals -

Luna Blue Hotel
- Calle 26 between 5th and 10th Avenidas
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +1 (415) 839-8541 / +11 52 (984) 873-0990
- www.lunabluehotel.com
Luna Blue Hotel offers clean, cozy rooms at an affordable price, with access to multiple beach clubs just a few blocks away. The Luna Blue Bar is not to be missed; a tropical grass hut serving the finest liquors in the Caribbean, complete with swing chairs and a waterfall.
BPM Booking Code: BPM2013 Amenities: Pool, Bar, Free WiFi, Beach Club, Car Rentals -

Riviera Del Sol
- 1st Avenida and Calle 30
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 873-3100
- www.rivieradelsolplayadelcarmen.com
Riviera Del Sol combines classic Mexican decor with a comfortable, homey feeling. Each of the sunny rooms has a balcony, overlooking the pool or the garden. Enjoy an in-room massage at the end of the day, and be in tip-top shape to continue your dance marathon the next day!
BPM Booking Code: BPMRIVSOL Amenities: Pool, Garden, Restaurant, Massage Services, Gym
Shop
If you're looking to shop (and can find the time), take a stroll down 10th Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach. For more serious shopping, you'll need to venture further into town, north of 12th Street.
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Comercial Mexicana: Mega Playa del Carmen
- Constituyentes Avenue and 30th Avenue
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (0)1 984-803-0690
- www.comercialmexicana.com.mx
The Mega is your one-stop shop for all the essentials you'll need during the festival. It's especially handy you're renting a house or condo -- stock up on groceries, beer, wine, toilet paper, shampoo... you get the picture. You might even be able to pick up a few souvenirs.
Party
BPM has done the work for you when it comes to planning a party; booking all of the festival shows at the best clubs and venues in town. We've given you a little taste below of all the locations so you can prepare accordingly and get the most out of BPM.
All the venues have full bars, in most cases several of them, and some serve food as well. Non-BPM bars are as abundant as hotels and restaurants and can easily be found on any given street in la Playa.
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Kool Beach
- Calle 28 & The Beach
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 803-1960
- www.koolbeachclub.com.mx
Kool Beach club has a lot to offer, whether you're dancing away to one of BPM's stellar artists, or any other time. Known for it's delicious restaurant serving food from 8am to 5pm, Kool is also home to Natural, a fresh juice and smoothie bar. Topped off with two bars, a lounge and a pristine section of beach, you won't want to miss a show happening at Kool.
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Mamitas Beach Club
- Calle 28 & The Beach
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 803-2867
- www.mamitasbeachclub.com
Be sure to check out the shows at Mamita's during your BPM vacation. Featuring a menu of international cuisine, Mamita's also offers beachside massages and boasts ample room to lounge, dance, or whatever your heart desires.
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La Santanera
- Calle 12 between 5th and 10th Avenidas
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 803 2856
- www.lasantanera.com
La Santanera is an open air club, making it great spot to bust a move during BPM. Known as a favorite of la Playa locals, this bar/club is upscale with a laid-back attitude. Be sure to cruise through at some point during BPM.
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Canibal Royal
- Calle 48 & The Beach
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 803-4506
- www.canibal-royal.com
This beach club is a bit more low key and usually less crowded than Kool or Mamita's. Serving Mexican, Brazilian and Mediterranean food, Canibal Royal is open for breakfast and lunch. Along with its bars and beachside lounge, you can't go wrong.
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Alux Cave
- Avenue Juarez between Calle 65 and 70
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- +52 (984) 2062 589
- www.aluxrestaurant.com
Alux Cave is one of the most unique venues on the festival circuit. This naturally formed cave is located underneath Playa del Carmen and features an award winning restaurant and bar. The lounge is a cool, intimate setting for BPM, but watch out for the stalagmites- it is a cave after all.
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Blue Parrot Beach Club
- Calle 12 Norte & The Beach
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
- 1-888-484-0161
- www.blueparrot.com/beach-club
The Blue Parrot Beach Club is home to the classic beach party setting. Sway beneath the palm trees and feel the sand beneath your feet at the BPM shows here. The beach club serves food from 7:30am to 6pm and has multiple bars serving up drinks into the wee hours of the morning.
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Coco Maya Beach Club
- Calle 12 Norte & The Beach
- Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Located next door to the Blue Parrot, Coco Maya is another great beachside venue. Featuring three stages and dance areas, one of which is on the beach, Coco Maya is a favorite with locals and visitors. Stop by during the day for some sunbathing and enjoy a bite to eat on the beach.
Explore
The Mayan Riviera is rich in history, culture, and natural wildlife. There are an array of things to see and do, from the old Mayan temples to swimming with manatees. Any downtime you experience at BPM not filled with naps can easily be filled with an excursion. Some hotels offer tours and outings to the places listed below, as well as other locations throughout the riviera, so be sure to check with your hotel to see what they offer. You can also rent a car for the day to check out the region; trust us, it will be well worth it.
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Xel-Há
- Carretera Chetumal-Cancun km 240
- Tulum, Mexico
- 1-888-922-7381
- www.xelha.com
Xel-Há is a tropical playground that's not just for kids. Located about 30 minutes south of la Playa, this natural aquarium has a variety of activities including snorkeling, swimming with dolphins, and stingray encounters. Complete with multiple bars and restaurants, this natural oasis is a great way to spend a day off from BPM.
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Tulum
- Tulum, Mexico
- www.tulum.com
The small town of Tulum is home to some of the most famous Mayan ruins. Located 45 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, this pre-Columbian walled town is home to the Pyramid El Castillo and the Templo del Dios Descendente. Several hotels offer day trips to these sites, but you can rent a car to visit them as well.
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Barrakuda Mexico Water Sports
- Royal Hideway Hotel
- Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
- +1 (646) 732-8166
- www.barrakudamexico.com
Barrakuda has a large variety of water sports for visitors to choose from, all of which will add a little adventure to your Playa del Carmen getaway. Sports include snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, parasailing, sport fishing, sailing and more.
At-a-Glance
Location:
Playa Del Carmen, MexicoDates:
January 4-13, 2013Price Points:
10-Day VIP: $600 7-Day VIP: $4003-Day VIP: $200Website:
www.thebpmfestival.com
Related Coverage
The Bests of BPM
28 January 2013Photo Highlights: BPM Days 7 & 8
16 January 2013Photo Highlights: BPM Day 6
12 January 2013Photo Highlights: BPM Day 5
10 January 2013Photo Highlights: BPM Day 4
08 January 2013Photo Highlights: BPM Day 3
08 January 2013Stream the BPM Festival Live
07 January 2013Cultivora's Guide to Winter Festivals
05 December 2012Phase 1 of The BPM Festival Lineup
02 October 2012

