Playa del Carmen Vegan Guide
Find out the best vegan resources from a Playa local including where to shop, where to eat, and how to find other vegans to hang out with in this Playa del Carmen vegan guide.
Whether you’re a brand new vegan in Playa del Carmen or you’ve lived here a while, there’s always something new to discover. In my four years living in Playa, I still haven’t managed to try every vegan option there is but this guide should hopefully get you started on the best of the best the Playa del Carmen vegan scene has to offer.
Read on to find out which restaurants are vegan-only, where to go to find other vegans and support the community, and where to shop to get the best produce for your own creations.
Plantivoros tacos
Vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen
These are the top vegan restaurants in Playa that only cater to vegans so you don’t need to worry about getting any surprises on your plate. Many of these restaurants are owned or run by a vegan chef, as well so when you eat here, you know you’re supporting a vegan business.
1) Plantivoros
This is currently my favorite vegan restaurant in Playa del Carmen. Plantivoros’ relaxing open-air palapa setting alone should make it to the top of any list but you’ll be happy to know that it’s run by a vegan chef who has a long history here in Playa.
On the menu, you’ll find some classic Mexican dishes that you may not otherwise be able to try including enchiladas, chile relleno, and (my personal favorite) albondigas. There’s a long menu, however, with something for everyone so it’s a great place to head back to again and again, and again so you can try it all.
If you’re feeling like a night in, Plantivoros also delivers. They use bicycle delivery as well so you don’t need to feel guilty when you’re being a little lazy.
2) The Pitted Date Vegan Restaurant
The Pitted Date is a bit of an institution here in Playa. Known for its protein bombs and vegan egg, you’ll find a wide variety of vegan eats here, whether you’re after some classic Mexican dishes or something that reminds you of home.
The Pitted Date Vegan Restaurant has been around Playa for a while but moved to its current location just a few years ago. While it’s a little bit outside of the center, it’s actually a great location for coupling with an afternoon at the beach because it’s near one of the best spots in Playa. If you’re looking for what to do in Playa del Carmen for the day, head to Coco Beach where you’ll find lots of sand to spread out on, crystal-clear water, and a more local vibe.
3) Comet 984
An oldie but a goodie, Comet 984 is one of those off-the-beaten-track treats that should be more popular. I really don’t want to ruin the surprise but this 50’s-stlye diner is all-vegan junk food goodness.
Think, thick, creamy milkshakes, hot dogs, chilly cheese fries, and a huge variety of burgers. Comet 984 has some locally-made patties but also carries some imported favorites like Gardein and Beyond. Give them a go when you’re feeling like some comfort food and keen to indulge. My top pick is the Snickers milkshake.
Smoothie bowl at Corazon Contento
4) Peace & Bowl
Tucked away inside Mercardo 30, Playa’s favorite shared eating space, Peace & Bowl is the place you go when you just want a solid vegan meal that you know won’t disappoint. They started off selling their star acai bowls at markets around the city but now the offering includes hummus bowls, salad bowls, and pizzas topped with all the good stuff.
This is a very busy location, however, so you either need to trust the gods you’ll find somewhere to sit and enjoy, grab something to go, or get it delivered. Although you will miss out on their very pretty presentation if you do.
5) Hummus - Comida Vegana
This is a relatively new entry here in Playa but Hummus has been making waves among the vegan community here. And, don’t worry. It’s not just all hummus. Although, the hummus is very good here.
You’ll find a selection of salads including a classic Israeli salad and a yummy chickpea one filled with veggies. Falafel dishes include a pita, giant hamburger, and the Imperial Plate which is stocked full of everything you could ever want in one meal. Finish your meal off with some sweet treats like a very moist tres leches cake or a selection of vegan cookies.
6) Fresco Habito
Found tucked into a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it corner of Playa, Fresco Habito has actually been around for a while. You just need to know how to find it first.
At Fresco Habito, you’ll find lots of good-for-you but great tasting choices like buddha bowls and giant smoothies packed with fresh ingredients. My obsession is their toasts topped with their house-made almond cheese. I swear, I could eat that stuff by the bucket full. There’s an extensive menu here and everything is good so I definitely recommend you stop by.
7) ARCANA restaurante
This is the newest entry to the small but mighty Playa del Carmen vegan restaurant crew. Arcana is located on the prettiest street in Playa and is a good option for breakfast or lunch.
On the menu, you’ll find a selection of wholesome milks infused with spices, fresh juices, smoothies, and even special rainwater collected from the Mayan jungle. Food-wise, there are some delicately-made dishes here that are just begging for a photo to share. Overnight oats, smoothie bowls, and the oyster mushroom spiced shawarma are all enticing.
8) Corazon Contento
This one might be a bit confusing for Playa's old-timers. Corazon Contento used to be a delivery-only service but now has a residence in Ressio Cafe. Now, with a landscaped courtyard to sit in and enjoy some of Corazon Contento’s hearty treats, there’s no excuse not to give them a shot.
Corazon Contento’s menu tends towards the street food with lots of tacos, tortas, and other Mexican specialties but if you’re looking for something a bit more healthy, they also have a variety of smoothie bowls that should hit the spot.
Need more Playa del Carmen vegan restaurants?
If eight’s not enough, check out my full list of the best vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen for more options that might not be all vegan but do have a full vegan menu or have something special to offer a Playa del Carmen vegan.
Playa del Carmen vegan stores
For when you want to cook for yourself and source the best vegan products in Playa, I’ve made a rundown of the best stores to check out. Being a vegan in Playa del Carmen doesn’t mean you have to miss out on any of your favorites back home
Mr Tofu is a staple here in Playa and any vegan will be excited with what you can find in store. From vegan meats and cheeses to ready-made foods, you’re likely to find whatever you’re looking for here. Bear in mind that they carry both local and imported goods and the imported products will fetch a similar price to what you’d find back home.
Olio Mercardo is a gem for vegans in Playa del Carmen. Besides some organic and dispensary items, you’ll find a kitchen stocked with homemade ready-made vegan meals, desserts, and even vegan pizza. The owner has a great system where if you bring the tubs back from the meals, you get a small amount off your next purchase.
Diosa Vegana is another all vegan store that stocks mostly local items. You can find ready-made snacks, protein powder, non-dairy milk, and plant-based meat replacements.
Farmer’s Market (replaced the old Clorofila) is all about vegan cheeses and dairy. They make high-quality products that are delicious and always happy to have a chat about what’s in store. You can also find a fridge stocked with other vegan goodies along with some organic produce.
Both Bio Natural and Bio Organico also have stores with predominantly vegan items. Just be mindful that some things are not vegan so you’ll need to check labels to be sure.
DAC is a fruit and vegetable store that also carries a decent amount of vegan items. Head to the back counter where half is dedicated to vegan meats and cheeses.
Panneria is a bakery that stocks vegan bread, pastries, and desserts. Similar to Olio, they have a reward system for those who bring their own containers.
The larger supermarkets also stock some vegan items and it’s worth asking what’s in store when you visit. In Mega, Wallmart, and Chedraui specifically, you can find vegan yogurt and soy chorizo as a minimum.
Playa del Carmen vegan food delivery
For those times you don’t feel like leaving the house and you want some vegan goodness delivered right to your door, Playa has actually got a lot of vegan delivery options.
Chillin Chilakil
Just chilaquiles done very well, Chillin Chilakil offers two vegan toppings, a crispy oyster mushroom, and an al pastor. Top it all off with vegan cream and cheese and you’re in for a treat. Service is impeccable and delivery is usually super fast.
Veganons
Veganons does lunch deliveries for those after a regular healthy vegan lunch option. Menus are published the weekend before and you can pick and choose which days you’d like to order or go for the convenience of having the whole week ordered for you. I also love that they use reusable containers that you exchange at each delivery.
ALV Tacos
Solid tacos, tortas, and burritos for when you just want some comfort food delivered to your door. These guys can be a little slow but I think it’s worth the wait. Just don’t order when you’re starving!
Sushi Playa
These guys have a ton of vegan sushi offers and are willing to make any amendments that you want. Along with sushi, you’ll find a selection of noodle and rice dishes. Sushi Playa is available on the ordering apps but it’s a lot cheaper (and faster) to order direct.
Many of the restaurants mentioned above either do their own delivery or use one of Playa’s popular delivery services. Some services are app-based while a couple use Whatsapp for ordering. Here are some to try if you can’t find anything that you’re craving:
Rappi
Uber EatsRappi
Pizza at Peace & Bowl
What is hard to find as a vegan in Playa del Carmen?
While you can get most things you might need locally in town, there are some items that Playa just doesn’t have. Specialty teas, herbs, and spices can be somewhat of a bother to find.
If you’re live here or are going to be hanging out for a while, you can order from:
Amazon.mx
Mercardolibre (like Latin America’s Amazon)
I’ve ordered from all three with no issues but you should make sure you’re comfortable with how the address system works here. It can be tricky to figure out for newcomers to Playa but if you’re staying in a condo with security or reception, you should be fine.
Vegan in Playa del Carmen wishlist
If you’re still on your way to Playa, here are some suggestions of things you might want to bring with you as they are either hard to find or lots more expensive:
Gluten-free items
Mineral makeup
Vegan Playa del Carmen resources
Playa has a very active vegan community that is very passionate about fostering one of the best places to live as a vegan. To help get you started, here are some key resources where you can meet other vegans and find out about what’s happening in the community.
Playa del Carmen vegan communities
If you’ve got some free time on vacation or are keen to strengthen your ties to the community of vegans in Playa, you can’t look past Casa Animal. It’s Playa’s first community center for animal lovers that often hosts workshops, information nights, and fun events to promote animal welfare. Check out its Facebook page for the latest on cooking classes, movie nights, and other fun activities that happen regularly here.
For those who will be in town for a while and would like to get more involved with the community, you can join the Playa del Carmen vegan Telegram group. A great place to organise meet-ups with other vegans, ask any burning questions, and find out the latest events.
Vegan Playa del Carmen Facebook groups
It’s usually quicker to ask any questions in the Telegraph group but, for more of a wider reach, these Facebook groups have hundreds of members who can help:
Veganos en Playa del Carmen (mostly Spanish but great for keeping up with events)
Playa del Carmen vegan accommodation guide
Maybe when you think of all inclusives, you think of sun-burnt tourists overindulging in both food and drinks. Luckily, Sandos Caracol Eco Resort is a bit of an oasis in the resort world here and it’s one of my favorite places to stay. Sandos’ emphasis on “eco” can be seen in the restaurants, bars, and entertainment. From the natural cenotes you can swim in to the jungle walks lining the property, Sandos Caracol is a treat.
It used to have a vegan restaurant on site but now it’s gone one step further and has a separate vegan menu for each one of its seven restaurants. The best part about the change is that you can join your friends or family at any of the restaurants (even the steakhouse) and still get to have a great dinner.
Read reviews of Sandos at TripAdvisor or get booking details here.
What else would you like to see?
I’ll keep adding to this Playa del Carmen vegan guide as I discover new options but if you have any questions or notice any changes, please let me know in the comments below.
Best vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen
Learn about all the best vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen including some vegan-only options from a local vegan in Playa del Carmen for the last four years.
I’ve been living in Playa del Carmen for four straight years now and vacationing here for many years before. It’s possibly one of the most vegan-friendly places to visit and its strongest attraction is that you can easily find vegan versions of local cuisine.
Saying that, if you’re new in town or just new to being vegan, it can be tough to figure out where to eat in Playa del Carmen and that's where I come in!
This list of the best vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen are either all-vegan or very vegan-friendly and as you can see there are a lot of options. It’s a veg fest over here! Plus, these are just the ones I’ve tried personally or those that consistently make the lists of the best food in Playa del Carmen so it will be great to hear of any great vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen that you find in the comments.
Fresco Habito
Vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen
These are the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen that only serve vegan food. So no meat, dairy or other nasties are on the menu at all.
Note: I’ve kept the opening hours vague because restaurants in Playa del Carmen tend to open and close when they want and it’s common to turn up somewhere, only for them to still be closed half an hour after opening time. Check out the restaurant’s Facebook for the most up-to-date times (or when they’ve decided to take a cheeky day off).
1) The Pitted Date Vegan Restaurant
This is my number one choice when it comes to places to eat in Playa del Carmen. I take all my guests here, vegan or not and it doesn’t fail to impress. It can get a little pricey but if you stick to local options like my favorite — chilaquiles — it’s actually on par with most places.
A lot of menu items are made in-house and are freshly prepared including the vegan egg, cakes and sauces. I think everything is good on the menu but usually stick to the all-day breakfast options where you can have indulgent items like the french toast made with a French-style brioche, the croissant sandwich or the croque monsieur. There are also tons of healthy options for when you want something light.
Note: They do tend to run out of items and service can be slow so I wouldn’t suggest the Pitted Date if you’re super hungry or in a hurry.
Open: Breakfast, lunch, and an early dinner
The Pitted Date menu - Website - Facebook
2) Plantivoros
Probably the best vegan restaurant in Playa right now, Plantivorous has a varied menu of Mexican classics like tacos, enchiladas, tortas along with lots of healthy eats made vegan.
Plantivoros is located in a breezy open-air setting in a small cafe a short walk outside of the tourist zone. Bright murals, enticing eats and warm service make it worth the trip.
Honestly, I tend to either eat in or get delivery here at least once a week now and I can say with my hand on my heart that vegan food in Playa del Carmen doesn’t get any better than this.
Open: Lunch and dinner
3) Comet 984
This Playa restaurant is a fun place to visit even if you’re not vegan. Vegan junk food served in a 50’s diner with burgers, hot dogs and corn dogs featuring prominently. Give their Snickers a milkshake a try and you’ll see why I avoid this place like the plague. That thing is way too good and I still need to fit into a swimsuit occasionally.
Open: Lunch and dinner (closed Sunday)
4) Peace & Bowl
This is a tiny, little, colourful spot in the back of Mercardo 30 that does bowls — smoothie bowls, salad bowls and (my favourite) hummus bowls — toasts with delicious toppings, juices, smoothies and desserts. Everything is super fresh and homemade and the presentation is beautiful.
Open: Breakfast and lunch
5) Fresco Habito
I am not a fan of this place but it is very popular and might be worth a try for you if you are nearby. They have multiple locations along the Riviera Maya and do juices, smoothies, toasts and bowls. Much the same offering as Peace & Bowl so if you wanted to support a small, local business with a lot of heart, I’d head there instead.
Open: Breakfast and lunch
Vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes in Playa del Carmen
These are also great places to eat in Playa del Carmen that are either mostly vegetarian or have clear vegan options on the menu.
Bio-Organicos
Another personal favourite, this quiet spot off Fifth Avenue is mostly vegetarian with eggs on the menu. Most things are vegan, though, or your can easily veganize it. The food style feels very much like home cooking and I often come here when I’m seeking some comfort food.
There is also a mid-size health food store attached with some vegan options on offer.
Open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
La Ceiba de la 30
A small cafe located inside of DAC fruit and vegetable shop that serves up healthy and affordable juices and smoothies along with a bunch of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These are in my top two places to get chilaquiles in Playa (along with The Pitted Date). Make sure you tell them you’re vegan so they can eliminate the cream and cheese.
Open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Trujillos
Creative cocktails, a lively atmosphere and Mexican food like you’ve never tried before. What more could you need? Trujillos is a fun place for cocktails and appetisers or for a sit down meal on my favourite street in Playa del Carmen, Calle 38. After your visit, make sure to head down to the beach for a stroll in the sand.
Open: Dinner
Bio-Natural
Popular enough to have two locations, this Playa restaurant is all vegetarian with clearly-marked vegan options. There is a huge variety to choose from with Mexican specialties along with international favourites and the large store inside is stocked with vegan goodies along with health and wellness products.
Open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Bio-Natural menu - Facebook - Website
Piola
Another favourite on Calle 38, Piola is all about Italian food. The best part is, they have vegan cheese and tons of veggie options to choose from. Regular specials keep me coming back for more including their 2 for 1 margaritas on Thursday night.
Open: Brunch, lunch and dinner
Piola menu - Facebook - Website
Eat Bar
A small restaurant close to the centre of the city who understands vegan well. They have really tasty falafel pitas, hummus and a Beyond Burger option. Vegetarians can try the shakshuka or omelette baguettes.
Open: Late breakfast, lunch and dinner
Uno Japanese
If you’re craving Asian food in Playa, you’re likely to find a giant sea of sub par sushi and a few Thai options. Uno opened last year with a refreshing change to the scene and, thankfully, tond of vegan options on the menu. I’m a big fan of the ramens, gyoza, bao and dumplings.
Open: Lunch and dinner
Po Thai
Clearly-labelled vegan options are on the menu and the staff are eager to tailor dishes to meet most dietary requirements.
Ojo de Agua
One of the most popular restaurants Playa del Carmen, Ojo de Agua has big fresh juices and smoothies with delightful combinations, huge sandwiches that come with an equally large salad and super creative breakfast options. Definitely worth a visit at least once!
Open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Falafel Nessya
If you’re craving falafel, this is the place to come. They’ve got falafel pitas and hummus and that’s about it. They obviously stick to what they know and it shows.
Open: Lunch and dinner
Jonny Como Pizza
While many of the vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen serve their own version of pizza, if you’re craving the real thing, make a beeline for Jonny Como. Or better yet, give them a call and get them to deliver it. It’s one of the best vegan pizza Playa del Carmen options and they really understand what vegans do and don’t need.
Open: Lunch and dinner
Fresco Habito
Chez Celine
A French cafe that’s great for breakfast, brunch and delicious vegan treats. Try their vegan omelettes, baguettes, salad bowl and parfaits. Check out the bakery inside for take away options and vegan pastries. Service is friendly and super quick.
Open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Website - Facebook - Chez Celine menu
Choux Choux Cafe
Another French cafe that has some big fans in Playa and I can see why. It’s in a great location, there are some creative vegan options on the menu and the coffee is really good.
Vegan waffles, omelettes and tartines are all served with a French touch. Service is usually awful here, though so make sure you’ve got some time to kill when you visit. You’ve been warned.
Open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Choux Choux Cafe Vegan Molettes
Les Amis
If you’ve got some time on your hands, and I mean at least 20 minutes, this is a tasty sandwich spot where you can customise your fillings. The owner is super friendly and always up for a chat and he’s also got some yummy juices, smoothies and mostly vegetarian breakfast options as well.
Casa Sofia
A lively Italian restaurant with almost nightly events, Casa Sofia offers several vegan options including some of the best vegan pizza in Playa del Carmen, several vegan pastas, and even some appetisers.
Restaurant Nativo
This one makes the list because of its super cheap smoothie options. A one litre cup of whatever fruit and vegetable combination you can think up is just $40 and there are a whole lot of options. The downside is that takeaways are served in a styrofoam cup so bring along your own container if you’re going to grab one on the go.
Xquitelicious
A bit out of town but worth it if you’re keen to try the popular Mexican street food of esquites. Esquites are traditionally made with a base of sauteed mature corn and topped with a combination of lime juice, hot sauce, chile powder and mayonnaise.
Xquitelicious offers a vegan alternative with fresh corn, sauteed organic tofu, mushrooms, grated vegan cheese, toasted pumpkin seeds and roasted garlic vegan mayo. My mouth is watering just thinking about.
Open: Lunchish
Vegan enchiladas - La Cueva Del Chango
La Cueva del Chango
This is one of the best vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen that isn’t actually vegan! At La Cueva del Chango you’ll find a full-page vegan menu filled with Mexican specialties like chilaquiles, enchiladas, and sopes along with a ton of other options. The vegan plate gives you the chance to try a variety of their yummy fillings and the fresh juices (or a margarita or two) are a great way to round off your meal.
Moshe Cube
If you’re craving falafel or hummus, this is my current go to. Bonus points for being fast and very filling.
Sakura Ramen
Very new on the scene, these guys pump out traditional ramen with a big smile and have a vegan option on the menu.
Open: Lunch and dinner
Las Hijas de las Tostadas
There are three of these guys in Playa and I’m a big fan. Especially when you’re dining with seafood-loving friends because there are plenty of choices on the menu for vegans. You’ll find hot and cold tostada options and a portobello burger (minus the cheese) plus lots of yummy cocktails.
Open: Lunch and dinner
Vegan stores in Playa del Carmen
Mr Tofu
Some say it’s the most pricey place to buy vegan products but it’s certainly the most vegan grocery in Playa del Carmen. Everything in store is vegan and you’ll find tons of vegan meats, cheeses, convenience meals and beauty products.
DAC Playa del Carmen
When looking for any hard to find ingredients, most people will point you in the direction of DAC. A large selection of market fresh fruits and vegetables, international grocery items, vegan cheeses and meats and spices, nuts and other goodies you can purchase by weight.
Vegan bakeries in Playa del Carmen
Basic Foodie
A cafe as well as a bakery, you’ll find vegan loafs, bagels, cookies, mollettes, savory and sweet toasts, desserts.
Open: All day Monday to Friday and for breakfast and lunch on the weekend
Shoebox bakery
Vegan cupcakes and cakes are on offer at this adorable bakery in the centre of town.
Open: All day Monday to Saturday
Panneria
All sorts of tasty treats including breakfast, lunch and a ton of bakery items.
Open: All day Monday to Saturday
Das Brot
A popular German bakery which has a handful of vegan loaves and yummy granola.
Open: All day Monday to Friday and until 2pm on Saturday
Carlotta Home Bakery
A smaller selection of vegan goodies than the rest but they do have salads, sandwiches and fresh juice also on hand. If you’re in the market for any reusable coffee or tea mugs, cute tea cups and other adorable odds and ends then they’re worth a peek.
Open: Breakfast and lunch
Vegan burgers in Playa del Carmen
These Playa del Carmen burger restaurants all offer at least one veggie burger option on the menu. Make sure you advise that you are actually vegan as standards can be a bit lax when it comes to burger spots.
3XL Burger: There are four veggie and vegan options and you can customise your burger
Branton Burger: A more local spot that was one of the first to offer a veggie option with a Portobello burger. Now you can also get one made with Beyond meat
Mu Burgerhouse: This is a popular burger restaurant but the ‘No Como Carne’ is just vegetarian sadly
ALV Tacos: Along with tacos and tortas, ALV Tacos has some great vegan burgers with some interesting twists.
Mamalonas Burgers: A decent selection of tasty vegan and vegetarian burgers.
Beach bars in playa del carmen
One of the great pleasures of living by the beach is grabbing a bite to eat with your feet in the sand. The following beach bars have at least a couple of vegan offerings:
Lido Beach Club: This is my favorite beach bar with comfy beds that you can spend all day laying out on. There are nice big fresh juices and smoothies to drink and for eating you’ve got a whole bunch of vegan options including a cauliflower and mango ceviche, fajitas, tacos, nachos and chilaquiles with jackfruit, mushrooms, and other yummy toppings. They also have vegan cheese that you can add to everything.
Mamitas Beach Club: One of the fancier beach clubs and possibly the most well-known, you’ll have to pay a fee to use the beds here. On the menu, you’ll find a couscous or quinoa salad and a vegan burger.
Fusion Beach Bar: Fusion is known for its nightly fire show at 11pm. Definitely worth a visit and you only really need to grab a drink and chair to see the show. If you’re hungry, though, vegan options include baba ganoush, hummus, falafel, guacamole, a few salads, a veggie burrito (minus the cheese), and a couple of pastas. They also usually have some live music going.
Zenzi: Breakfast is your best bet here when you can find fruit salad or chilaquiles without the cheese and cream. After breakfast, you’ve got guacamole and nachos minus the cheese. What they’re lacking in food options, they make up for with live music and regular salsa nights throughout the week.
Vegan delivery services
One positive that came out of the pandemic that shall not be named was the rise of in-home vegan delivery services. Now you can sit back and order vegan junk food, vegan versions of Mexican meals and healthy vegan choices all from your phone. No pants required!
Here are some of my favourites:
Chillin Chilaqil
Vegan On
Pichis
Corazon Contento
La Tamaleria
Vegan Rock
Hecho Con Love
Lusanti
Gourmet Hummus
Playa Pop
Vegan Playa del Carmen tips
Portions tend to be on the large side, presumably to cater to the American tourists, so I like to carry a small Tupperware container with me for the inevitable leftovers. Most places on this list will have environmentally friendly containers but it’s still a great idea to reduce waste where you can.
Most coffee shops in Playa have at least one non-dairy milk option, usually an almond, coconut, or soy milk.
Unless you’re in one of the specific vegan or vegetarian restaurants, make sure to highlight that you’re vegan and what you don’t want to eat. While Playa is a very vegan-friendly place, mistakes do still happen, especially if you happen to get a new employee.
Plantivoros tacos
Vegan Playa del Carmen resources
Read my full Playa del Carmen Vegan Guide for more on where to shop as well as all the necessary vegan Playa del Carmen tips and resources
Happy Cow is a great tool here
Kay Tours is a sustainable ecotourism company that offers small-group and private tours in Playa del Carmen and are happy to cater to vegan travelers. (website: www.kay.tours)
Facebook groups to join for all Playa del Carmen food love
Veganos en Playa del Carmen (mostly Spanish but great for keeping up with events)
Share your favorite vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen
Now that you can see all of my favorite vegan food Playa del Carmen, it’s time to share your own! Whether you’re visiting or live here, there’s plenty to discover as a vegan in Playa del Carmen with new options popping up every day. If you notice any changes or you find a new gem, please share your vegan restaurants in Playa del Carmen that you find in the comments below. Happy eating!
What Are The Best Vegan Gift Ideas
This guide for vegan gift ideas should clear up any doubts and gives you some clear suggestions of great vegan gifts for her, vegan gifts for him, some practical vegan travel gifts and even a few funny vegetarian gifts.
I’ve aimed to include some unique items that your vegan friends might not have seen before so your gift will really stand out! Most items are under $50 and all are under $150.
I’ve been vegetarian for most of my life and know the plight of many of my friends and family when it comes to getting gifts for vegetarians especially travellers! There seems to be so many rules and labels and many people struggle to think of good gifts for vegans. I personally am vegan at home and tend to add dairy to my diet when I travel but still maintain a cruelty free stance when it comes to cosmetics and clothes. Other vegans and vegetarians have their own guidelines that they live by and it really is a very personal choice.
This makes coming up with vegan present ideas tricky! This guide for vegan gift ideas should clear up any doubts and gives you some clear suggestions of great vegan gifts for her, vegan gifts for him, some practical vegan travel gifts and even a few funny vegetarian gifts. I’ve aimed to include some unique items that your vegan friends might not have seen before so your gift will really stand out! Most items are under $50 and all are under $150. If you have any suggestions for a vegan friendly gift please let me know in the comments so I can add it to the list.
Jump to:
Who could eat this little cute little guy?
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links included are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase.
What Not To Give A Vegan
Being vegan means different things to different people and there are many ways to live a vegan lifestyle. In a nutshell, Vegans seek to exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.
What this means for you when buying vegan presents is to avoid three main things:
Animal based foods like meat (inc. fish, shellfish and even insects), diary, eggs, and honey,
Non-food products that are made with animal materials, like fur, leather, silk, and wool, and
Products that have been tested on animals, usually common in cosmetics.
This can sound pretty complicated so to help you out here are some definite no-nos that are 100% not vegan friendly gifts that can seem like a good gift idea to the unsuspecting:
Beeswax candles
Makeup, bath or body products tested on animals or containing animal products
Jewellery with feathers or pearls
Down coats or bedding
Leather purses
Non-vegan wine or alcohol - some drinks can be filtered through things like bone marrow or fish bladders
Vegan Friendly Gifts
So now you know what not to give, here are some of the best gifts for vegans and of course these make great presents for vegetarians as well. For the traveller in your life, think small useful gifts they can take on the road or things they can use at home that will actually add value.
Vegan Gift Ideas - Gift Baskets
Vegan Gift Baskets
A gift basket or hamper is one of my favourite types of gifts! It’s like getting a bunch of different presents all in one and it can be very easy to make your own vegan hamper maybe using some of the suggestions on this page or by adding some of your friend’s favourite products.
A gift basket or hamper is one of my favourite types of gifts! It’s like getting a bunch of different presents all in one and it can be very easy to make your own vegan hamper maybe using some of the suggestions on this page or by adding some of your friend’s favourite products.
Here are great vegan gift baskets that you can find online from retailers like Etsy or Amazon.
Vegan Jerky Sampler Gift Box this is a great one to take as a snack when travelling!
Vegan makeup
Makeup is a very personal thing for most women but there are a few things you can buy that will be happily accepted and are generally universal. A great place to go to in person is your local Sephora store, they stock a lot of vegan makeup brands; or if you’re into online shopping you should find most on Amazon.
Vegan lipstick
Pacifica Devocean Natural Lipstick
Lime Crime Unicorn Lipstick
Zuzu Luxe Lipstick Allure
Urban Decay Sheer Revolution Lipstick
Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick
Vegan Mascara
Stellar Gaze Length & Strength Mascara Supernova Top Choice on Amazon
Aquarian Gaze Water Resistant Mascara
Wet n Wild Mega Length Mascara
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Vegan Makeup Brushes
Brushes are a really important part of a woman’s makeup routine and most people don’t realise that they’re traditionally made from animal hair, like squirrels, minks, and horses. Synthetic brushes are easy to find if you know what to ask for. Here are some of my favourite good quality vegan makeup brushes.
Qivange Makeup Brushes
Flawless Beauty 10 piece
Bamboo 4 piece
Ecotools Cruelty Free Set
Amoore Makeup Brush Set
Vegan Lip Balm
Hurraw! Lip Balms
Lush Key Lime Pie Lip Balm
Crazy Rumours Lip Balm
PETA Vegan Lip Balm
Eco Lips Bee Free Vegan Lip Balm
Vegan Hiking Boots
For the vegan traveller in your life, these could be the best gift you could get. I’m always on the hunt for a great pair of hiking boots that will travel well and last. There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a trek, out in the middle of nowhere and have your boots fall apart.
For the vegan traveller in your life, these could be the best gift you could get. I’m always on the hunt for a great pair of hiking boots that will travel well and last. There’s nothing worse than getting halfway through a trek, out in the middle of nowhere and have your boots fall apart.
Finding a great pair of vegan hiking boots can be tough because they’re not always advertised as vegan. Here are my top three recommendations for great vegan hiking boots at three price points but still under $150 making it a perfect vegan Christmas gift to go under the tree.
Will’s Vegan Shoes
These boots are a great price from a company that is wholly vegan. I love how plain they are, as I’m not a fan of outlandish design or loud logos splashed across my clothes.
Check out the latest prices on Men’s and Women’s
Altra Lone Peak 3 Mid Neo Running Shoes
These shoes are a lightweight dream and get consistently excellent reviews online.
Check out the latest prices on Men’s and Women’s
La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX Boot
This award winner gets top reviews on Amazon and are full featured but still lightweight.
Check out the latest prices onMen’s and Women’s
Vegan cook books
Vegan Food Gifts
For the vegan chef in your life one of the best gifts you could give is one that helps them put together their own favourite vegan meals. Here are some of my favourite products for the kitchen and some of my favourite vegan cook books.
Vegan cook books
Thug Kitchen 101 (my personal favourite)
Beautifully Real Food: Guilt-Free, Meat-Free Recipes to Indulge In
The First Mess Cookbook: Vibrant Plant-Based Recipes to Eat Well Through the Seasons
Vegan for Everybody: Foolproof Plant-Based Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and In-Between
The No Meat Athlete Cookbook: Whole Food, Plant-Based Recipes to Fuel Your Workouts—and the Rest of Your Life
Clever kitchen items for vegans
Blender - for morning smoothies and healthy soups - Ninja Professional Blender
Food processor - for making dairy free pesto - Hamilton Beach 8-Cup Food Processor
Cast iron skillet- every kitchen should have at least one! - Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet
Ice cream maker - give your friend the joy of dairy free ice cream - Cuisinart ICE-21
Pasta maker - egg free pasta at their fingertips - Marcato Atlas Pasta Machine (Made in Italy)
Cute and Funny Vegetarian Gifts
Here are some really extra ideas if you want to be really creative with your gift giving ;)
Hopefully this guide makes your shopping easy for your vegan loved ones. You should be able to find some great vegan birthday gifts or vegan Christmas presents that they will love.
Please let me know if you have anything you would like to add in the comments or if you found something new to buy!
Home made vegan dessert - yum!
