Mexico Guide
The Yucatán
Nightlife
1 Alux Juárez, 400m west of Hwy-307 
984/803-0713 It's expensive and a trek from the main drag (tell the cab driver "ah-LOOSH"), but how often do you get to party in a Technicolor-lit cave? French-tropical dinner menu starts at 8pm; a DJ or a floor show of belly dancers and jazz musicians begins around 10pm. Usually no cover; drinks are M$70 and up.
2 Bar Ranita C 10, between Av 5 and Av 10 A crew of regulars – mostly expats – hang out at the horseshoe-shaped bar in this snug and mellow wood-panelled spot. A welcome break from Playa's generally top-volume scene.
3 Blue Parrot on the beach at C 12 As the rest of Playa goes upscale, this longtime beach haunt, also known as the Dragon Bar, stays true to its casual, anything-goes vibe, with tables in the sand, a young crowd and two-for-one drinks 7–10pm.
4 Deseo Av 5 at C 12 The poolside bar at the stylish hotel draws its inspiration from Miami Beach, with beds to lounge on, over-the-top cocktails and bartenders as attractive and ostentatious as the crowd.
5 Diablito Cha Cha Cha C 12 at Av 1 Mexico-goes-rockabilly is the loose theme at this retro-cool lounge – you can fuel up on Asian snacks, or just go straight to vanilla martinis and the like.
6 Mambo Café C 6, between Av 5 and Av 10 984/803-2656 A smaller version of the popular Cancún club, this space has an excellent sound system and a roster of big-name Cuban and Dominican bands. Wed is ladies' night, with open bar from 10pm till midnight. Price: Cover is usually M$50 Opening time: Closed Mon
7 Mamita's Beach Club on the beach at C 30 The single coolest place to be during the day, with a hip but not overbearing party atmosphere, complete with a live DJ. Chairs and umbrellas are for rent, but you can spread a towel at the water's edge and still get waiter service. Occasionally hosts blow-out night-time dance parties.
8 
La Santanera C 14, between Av 5 and Av 10 Super-stylish club with a comfortable, breezy lounge area, diverse music and good strong drinks. The scantily clad party crowd – equal parts visitors and residents – usually staggers out around 5am. No cover.
9 El Tigre Av 10, between C 2 and C 4 Good local spot for beers, ceviche and ridiculously generous botanas. Women will probably feel more comfortable accompanied by a man; the billiards area upstairs is men-only. Opening time: Closes by 5pm