About Soundset Beach Club
Soundset Beach Club is a lively oceanfront venue on Calle 4 (4 Norte) in downtown Playa del Carmen. It markets itself as “a place near the sea where music, gastronomy, cocktails and the sea come together to create a synergistic environment” (sandbeds.com ). In practice, Soundset has a laid-back beach atmosphere by day and turns into a high-energy beachfront nightclub at night. Travel guides describe it as a “music-oriented beach experience” with friendly, attentive staff and reasonable prices (wanderlog.com ). In fact, visitors highlight its friendly service and tasty menu – notably its fresh guacamole and grilled meat brochetas (skewers) – while relaxing palms and open-air seating invite guests to linger by the water (wanderlog.com ). The setting is charming: one local source notes it’s a “charming beachfront spot with great music and a relaxed daytime vibe” (even dog-friendly during daytime) (www.vivaplaya.net ). Unusually for a beach club, Soundset offers a swimming pool and a Jacuzzi on site (open daily from 10 am–6 pm) along with hammocks and thatched umbrellas on the sand (sandbeds.com ). A children’s play area and Wi-Fi throughout the grounds make it family-friendly. Most guests arrive casually in shorts and sandals, enjoying free lounge chairs and umbrellas with food or drink purchase (sandbeds.com ). Open roughly from morning until 3 am, Soundset spans the entire day – in fact, one local guide says “it’s an ideal spot to relax by the ocean without cover charges during off-peak seasons” (wanderlog.com ) (wanderlog.com ). Having grown into a nightlife icon, Soundset now draws both tourists and locals looking for sandy dance floors and poolside cocktails. Its evolution from a simple downtown hangout to a full-fledged beach party club adds a meaningful splash to Playa’s culture – even making news when authorities briefly closed it for late-night service in 2022 (riviera-maya-news.com ). Today it remains a marquee spot in the Riviera Maya for music, food and friends under the palm trees.
Events and Programming
Soundset Beach Club operates like a beachside festival most nights of the week. During daytime hours (roughly 9 am–6 pm) the mood is chilled: a resident DJ spins ambient or lounge tunes over the pool and sand, and guests can sip cocktails by the pool or under umbrellas. As evening falls, the party heats up. There are often themed events or live music shows on weekends, and local guides note that “weekend events with live bands or DJs” are common (www.vivaplaya.net ). Notably, Wednesday is famously Ladies’ Night – women enjoy free house drinks from 8–11 pm (www.vivaplaya.net ). DJs play every night of the week, and live bands typically appear Monday through Saturday, each night’s music style varying by the theme or crowd (sandbeds.com ). The lineup can range from popular regional acts to international DJs (Playa’s club scene regularly brings in talented producers). For example, Soundset once hosted Berlin techno DJ Eros Bilgic in an underground-style beach party, reflecting its taste for electronic and deep-house music. In general, admission is very approachable – many nights have no cover charge at all (especially off-peak) (wanderlog.com ). When cover is charged, it tends to be modest (often the equivalent of $10–20 USD for special concert nights). With music pumping until the early hours, Soundset offers the quintessential Riviera Maya experience of dancing barefoot in the sand under city lights.
Tickets and Booking
There is no formal box office for Soundset Beach Club – most regular days and events allow walk-in entry. General admission is usually free; instead, seating and amenities are secured by purchasing food or drink. To guarantee a spot on a busy night (especially holidays or big DJ bookings), it’s wise to reserve ahead. Patrons can usually make reservations by calling the club’s number or messaging its Facebook page (for instance, local listings show a contact around +52 984-108-2083, and the Soundset page at facebook.com/Soundset.pdc is used for event updates). Daybeds and VIP tables can often be booked in advance for a minimum spend during major events. Special concert events may sell tickets or wristbands; these are typically announced on Soundset’s social media or via party promoters. Tickets for headliner nights generally go on sale a few weeks beforehand. Otherwise, arriving early on the night of an event usually ensures entry. Note that after 11 pm the crowd grows and lines can form, so early arrival is recommended for popular shows. All payments (cocktails, food, deposits) are handled at Soundset’s own registers. No outside ticketing platform is used – simply check announcements or call ahead if in doubt about ticket requirements. As a day club there is no formal door charge or “day pass” price; umbrellas and chairs are included free with consumption (sandbeds.com ). Keep in mind Mexican pesos are preferred for minor purchases, though credit cards are generally accepted for most orders on-site.
Seating and Layout
Soundset’s layout is open and beachy rather than tiered or stadium-like. Most of the space is sandy beachfront. At the center or front of the venue is the main bar and DJ stage area; sun loungers and tables fan out around it under palapa umbrellas. Guests typically grab any free umbrella-shaded lounge chair or hammock during the day. For those wanting extra comfort, Soundset offers Balinese-style daybeds or cabanas on the sand (large cushioned platforms with thatched roofs). These luxury beds can usually be reserved in advance and provide a little privacy for a small group. In either case, good spots face the DJ booth so you can easily watch the action and ocean simultaneously. If there’s a crowd, standing near the front-center gives the best acoustics and view, but those sensitive to noise may prefer sitting under the shaded cabanas along the edges. Under or behind the kiosk bar there are some standing-height tables. Poolside, there are lounge chairs overlooking the sea. Overall, Soundset has no assigned seating; it’s mostly general admission standing or lounge areas. The venue doesn’t have traditional rows or numbered sections. For viewing, aim to position yourself in the open-air center – the lack of walls means the sound can dissipate into the night air, so closer is louder. Avoid the very south end near the street, since music speakers are usually set facing the beach. During daytime and early evening, families and couples often gather by the pool or at picnic tables; once night falls, people naturally converge on the beach dance area.
Getting There and Parking
Soundset Beach Club is located at Calle 4 Norte (4th Street North) right on the beachfront (official address “Calle 4 y la playa, Col. Centro”) (www.vivaplaya.net ). It is just a block inland from Playa del Carmen’s famous Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue) – from 5th Avenue, walk east on Calle 4 all the way to the sea and you’ll hit the club. If you arrive by ADO bus from Cancun or the airport, get off at Playa’s terminal (at Calle 10th Ave) and walk a few blocks east and south; roughly a 10- to 15-minute stroll. Colectivo vans also run downtown streets (ask to be dropped near Calle 4). Taxis and Ubers service 5th Avenue regularly – just tell the driver “Soundset Beach Club, Calle 4 Norte, Playa del Carmen.” The club’s Facebook directions echo the simple advice: “Go down Calle 4 until the beach and you’ll find it right there” (www.vivaplaya.net ).
Street parking in this part of town is available but limited. You can pull up on Calle 4 or nearby streets and pay the parking meter (coins or app) – note from local guides: “if you drive, there’s space to park outside – just remember it’s a metered zone” (www.vivaplaya.net ). There is no private lot or parking garage. Some nearby hotels have small lots (guest-paid) but those fill early. If planning a big night, consider parking further down 5th Ave (more paid lots) and walking or taking a quick cab. For taxi pickup after the event, the main roads (especially Avenida Juárez one block south) are easiest; mention “Zona Federal Marítima” if needed so the taxi knows you want the beachfront zone. Aside from driving, Soundset is very walkable if you’re staying in central Playa. Still, always give extra time – especially on busy weekend nights – because traffic and parking can add delays.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Soundset Beach Club you will usually head straight to the bar or restaurant counter to order, unless you’ve booked a cabana. There is a small entry desk and metal detectors are not typical – security is friendly but will ask visitors to empty pockets and may conduct a quick pat-down on suspicion of things like glass bottles (outside alcohol is prohibited). Dress code is very relaxed: daytime guests arrive in swimwear or shorts, while evening partygoers often switch to casual party attire (shirts are recommended after dark). The atmosphere is festive: think tanned beach crowd, colorful decor and Latin beats. Quality of service is generally high – staff is known to be “attentive,” (as reviewers mention) offering fresh towels, sunscreen and menu help (wanderlog.com ) (wanderlog.com ).
Food is served throughout the day and night at the main dining area; there are no outside-cooking restrictions (so no hard “kitchen closed” time like at some clubs). Menu highlights include Mexican seafood dishes, ceviches, grilled tacos and hearty pan-fried brochetas. The bar offers a full cocktail menu – mezcal margaritas, mojitos and frozen fruit drinks – along with local and international beers. Many guests praise the guacamole and carnitas-style skewers. Beyond food, you can purchase standard club amenities: ice buckets, drink mixers, and souvenir T-shirts or hats (a small bar corner stocks Soundset merch). There is no coat check or large baggage area; most people don’t carry much beyond a towel or bag for sunscreen.
Bathrooms and showers are available on the premises (with attendants for towels), located near the pool area – ask any staff for directions. A convenient shower stall lets patrons rinse off sand. Wi-Fi is advertised as free throughout the club (sandbeds.com ), which many visitors use to upload beach photos. There is usually a powered outlet behind the bar for charging phones, but otherwise power outlets are scarce on the sand – consider bringing a portable charger if you plan to be out late. Lifeguards are not present, so be cautious swimming and supervise children. At night, the venue enforces an 18+ policy (guests must be of legal age after around 6–7 pm), so expect ID checks at the door for younger-seeming patrons. Photography for personal use is allowed; however, professional camera equipment (tripods, drones, etc.) would require permission from management.
Nearby Amenities
Soundset sits within a bustling neighborhood full of restaurants, bars and hotels. Along 5th Avenue (just one block north) you'll find countless dining options – from quick tacos to upscale seafood. Good pre-show restaurants just a few minutes’ walk away include Los Aguachiles (fresh ceviche), El Fogón (local tacos and tortas) and Trujillos Cantina (Mexican fusion). For craft cocktails, check out La Botavera or Longboard Restaurant & Bar on 5th. If you want nightlife before or after Soundset’s events, 5th Ave is lined with bars (Coco Bongo, Mandala, La Vaquita, etc.), many of which stay open late and often offer cover charge discounts if you show your Soundset wristband.
In terms of hotels, Soundset is surrounded by accommodation for all budgets. A few highly recommended nearby options are The Reef 28 (a modern adults-only resort 2 blocks away), Hotel Rosewood (a boutique beachfront hotel 3 blocks south), and the large all-inclusive Yalku by Cine & Arts (a 10-minute walk down 5th). More affordable stays like the Emporio and DM Playa cope well with beach crowds and are within a 5-10 minute walk. If you’re driving, note that the closest big hotel parking lots may charge fees. For families, consider that many people come and go midday – dropping kids at a relative or hotel to nap while parents party –, so nearby child care or hotel nanny services are worth asking about.
Playa del Carmen’s main ADO bus terminal is on 5th Ave at 10th Street, about 0.8 miles (15 minutes on foot) from Soundset. From there you can catch domestic or cross-border shuttles (to Cancun, Tulum, Chetumal and beyond). If you arrive after a late show, know that last ADO buses usually depart around midnight or 1 am, so late-nights often end the same way they begin – with a group taxi or ride-share back to your hotel. As of recent updates, ride-shares like Uber and Didi operate in Playa, but availability can slow down after 2 am. Always plan your return trip in advance if attending Soundset past 3 am. Many guests prefer to stay one more night in town after partying late, as the sun rises quickly in the tropics.
What Makes This Venue Special
Soundset Beach Club stands out in Playa del Carmen for its dedication to both beach lifestyle and music culture. Architecturally, it blends rustic beach elements (thatched roofs, palapa shelters) with a modern coastal design. Cabanas and hammocks right on the sand make it feel like a private resort, while a giant palapa caps the main bar area. Unlike larger resort-owned clubs, Soundset occupies a public beach strip – giving it a community vibe and open feel. Culturally, it has become an important nightlife landmark. Wednesday “girls’ night” tradition and frequent theme parties (such as salsa nights or blacklight beach parties) draw a mix of locals and tourists. Music-wise, it frequently introduces underground house and techno to the Riviera Maya crowd; promoters say that Soundset helped put Playa on the map for international DJ sets outside of Cancun. At the same time, it’s fully Mexican at heart – you’ll hear Spanish rock, pop and cumbia mixed in alongside global hits, and national holidays (like Mexican Independence Day or Carnaval) see the club decorated and themed by the management. For many visitors, the “nothing fancy, just fun” atmosphere is what keeps them coming back. Guests regularly note the low-cost, friendly vibe (no cover, no min spend) in contrast to some pricier clubs up or down the coast (wanderlog.com ). The combination of day-and-night use (pool party by day; dancefloor by night) makes Soundset a versatile venue, unique among Playa’s beach clubs. Over the years, it has hosted memorable legendary moments for attendees – impromptu beach tango sessions, international DJ b2b sets, and large-group hammock outings – forging a special place in the memory of veteran clubbers and travelers alike.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Soundset is mostly at-grade or in sand, so wheelchair access is limited and may require assistance. No elevators are needed, but movement through sand may be challenging. Restrooms and the pool area are on level ground, though no ADA-specific ramps or lifts are advertised.
Please Bring/Not Bring: Don’t forget swimwear, sunscreen and a hat for daytime visits. Flip-flops or sandals are appropriate (the dance floor is sand, but some wear shoes once night falls). It’s wise to bring pesos in small bills (50–200 MXN) for tipping bartenders and servers. If you plan to dance, a portable fan or cooling towel is a good idea in summer – it stays hot until midnight. Outside food/drink is prohibited; only club-purchased items are allowed inside. Cameras and phones are fine, but drones or professional video gear need prior permission.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: A frequent error is arriving on a big holiday (New Year’s Eve, Semana Santa) without booking. The club can hit capacity quickly, so check ahead. Also, don’t walk too slowly on Calle 4 in flip-flops while eating late tacos at night – taxis have limited late-night runs on 5th Avenue. Finally, be aware that Mexican smoking laws allow outdoor smoking; if you’re sensitive, choose a spot downwind of the crowd.
Age/ID/Dress: By law, minors (under 18) are generally not allowed in late-night events. If you look underage after 9 or 10 pm, bring a passport or driving license. During daytime and family hours (before 7 pm), children are fine. There is no strict dress code, but spontaneously entering the pool or dance area barefoot is normal. One caveat: don’t wear full swimwear to dinner; a cover (shorts or sarong) is recommended.
Insider Tips: Arrive before sunset to grab the best beach seat or hammock (and catch the golden hour for photos). Locals love ordering classic coctelería (like a “Michilada” beer cocktail or a “Tinto Campestre” mezcal-based drink) – try one during your visit. If you’re coming by car, note that after 9 pm the ticket parking machines on the street often shut down – which essentially means street parking becomes free overnight. For foodies, ask the staff about the “special of the day” – chefs sometimes prepare shrimp tacos or grilled fish off-menu. And alwaystip 10–15% as customary. Lastly, follow Soundset on Instagram (look for @soundset.pdc) to catch surprise pop-up events or last-minute DJ announcements that never quite make it to mainstream event listings.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for events at Soundset Beach Club?
Generally no. Soundset does not have a traditional box office – most beach parties and DJ nights allow walk-in entry. You can usually pay at the door or just order food/drink. If a big-name artist is performing, check Soundset’s website or social media beforehand; sometimes tickets or RSVPs are offered for premium acts. But for casual nights, arriving early is all you need.
What is the cover or entry fee at Soundset Beach Club?
Soundset often has no cover charge at all – entry is free, especially on non-event days and outside peak season (wanderlog.com ). When a cover is charged (for a special concert or holiday party), it is usually modest (often the equivalent of around $10-20 USD). Basic daytime access is free, and usage of chairs/umbrellas in the club is covered by ordering food or drinks (sandbeds.com ).
What are the opening hours of Soundset Beach Club?
Soundset’s regular hours are roughly 9 am in the morning until 3 am the next day (www.trip.com ). (Some listings note it opens at 8:00am – in any case, it operates all day and late into the night.) The bar and kitchen start serving around 10 am, and the DJ and music begin by sunrise. As with many beach venues, hours can extend on holidays, but the posted hours are every day 9:00–3:00 (with daily live music or DJ sets).
Do I need a reservation or a minimum spend?
Reservations are only needed if you want a private daybed or table for a group. There is no mandatory drink minimum just to enter – you may lounge in public areas without obligation. However, Soundset’s free lounge chairs are only guaranteed for paying customers, so small purchases are expected if you stay a while. On busy nights it’s smart to reserve ahead to avoid queueing or to secure a VIP cabana.
Where exactly is Soundset Beach Club located?
Soundset is located at the end of Calle 4 Norte on the beachfront in central Playa del Carmen (Colonia Centro). Its address is effectively “Calle 4 and the beach.” You can reach it by walking one block east from the corner of Calle 4 and 5th Avenue, or by taxi to “Zona Federal Marítima, Calle 4 Norte.” (www.vivaplaya.net )
Is there parking at or near Soundset Beach Club?
There is no private lot; only street parking is available. You can park on Calle 4 or nearby streets (paid by coin meter or mobile app). One local guide notes: “if you drive, there’s space to park outside – just remember it’s a metered zone” (www.vivaplaya.net ). After 9pm the meters often turn off, so parking becomes effectively free at night. Alternatively, parking lots along 5th Avenue (several blocks north) will take longer but are an option.
How do I get to Soundset via public transit or taxi?
If you’re coming from Cancun or the airport by ADO bus, disembark at Playa del Carmen’s main terminal (near Calle 5 and 5th Ave) and walk south-east one block and east on Calle 4 until the beach. Local “colectivo” minibuses run on nearby roads (tell the driver “Calle 4” or “Zona Federal Marítima”). Taxis and ride-shares are plentiful along 5th Avenue; just instruct the driver “Soundset Beach Club, Calle 4 Norte.” The club is only a 10-minute walk from the heart of downtown Playa.
Where are the best seats or areas to watch the music?
For the best audio-visual experience, stake out a spot on the sand facing the DJ booth. The middle-front of the dance area gives you an immersive view but comes with loud sound. If you prefer shade, the hammocks and cabanas along the sides are nice – just be aware they are farther from the speakers. Families often sit by the pool (back of the club) where you can see the sea. Balinese daybeds (VIP cabanas) along the edges offer privacy and comfort; these are reserve-only and command a small fee. In short, anywhere near the center will hear the music clearly; if crowds get tight, spreading out under a shaded umbrella still lets you enjoy the vibe.
What items are prohibited at Soundset?
Standard beach-club rules apply. No outside alcohol or food is allowed. Large coolers or drones are not permitted. Weapons (even pocket knives) are strictly forbidden. Smoking tobacco or vapes is allowed in outdoor areas only (most guests do smoke freely under the open sky). Only small personal bags are allowed; expect a quick bag check on entry. Swimwear is fine during the day, but many venues ban it in the bar at night – so consider a light cover-up after dark out of respect.
Does Soundset have Wi-Fi, lockers, or coat check?
Yes, Soundset advertises free Wi-Fi throughout the beach club (sandbeds.com ). There is no formal coat or luggage check, and no locker rooms beyond the bathrooms. You can leave small belongings on your chair or rent a safe at the front (if offered on special nights). Cell reception is generally good, so you won’t be hard to reach or navigate with your own data.
Is Soundset Beach Club family-friendly or 18+ only?
Soundset welcomes families during daytime hours – the bright beach atmosphere and pool make it kid-friendly until about 6–7 pm. After dark, Soundset becomes 18+ (evenings are very much a nightclub scene). Underage guests may need an ID check if they stay late. The venue does have a playground area and sometimes a kids’ menu for early visitors, but by nightfall it’s adults only.
Can I pay with credit card or need cash?
Major credit cards and mobile payments are accepted at Soundset (they take Visa, MasterCard, etc.), especially for food and bar bills. However, carrying some Mexican pesos is highly recommended for small purchases (taxis, parking, tipping). ANOTEs was running for any small fees (like parking meters or street vendors). ATMs are available nearby on 5th Avenue if needed.
What is special about Soundset's music and atmosphere?
Soundset’s signature is its blend of beach relaxation and dance-party energy. The club frequently features electronic and house DJs playing over the waves, which is unique in this area. Visitors love its chill-but-fun vibe – you can lounge by day on a hammock, then dance barefoot in the sand at night. Unlike some exclusive clubs, Soundset feels accessible and local: crowds say it’s “affordable” and full of “excellent live music” (wanderlog.com ). The nonstop music sets it apart: every day and night has some live or DJ set, making it a permanent party spot on Playa’s coastline. In essence, Soundset is special because it never really “closes”: it offers 18 hours of beach club fun per day, with music playing from morning until late.
