Best Things to Do in Cancun
Are you seeking thrills and exciting activities and things to do in Cancun, Mexico? It’s hard to narrow down all the different options! From its many resorts, beautiful beaches, lively nightlife scenes–there are countless things to explore. This is why Cancun has become one of the most desirable beach vacation spots in Mexico drawing in over two million visitors every year. Not to mention the convenience of its international airport as well as various transportation services for hassle-free shuttle rides!
Whether you’re seeking an adventure or simply need some time to relax on white sandy beaches – this dreamy destination has something for everyone.
Now I have to be honest and confess that Cancun does not rank high on my list of favorites in Mexico due to its unique resemblance to Las Vegas; bustling crowds and a vast majority of first-time travelers who dare not consume anything beyond resort confinements.
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Thousands of students flock to Mexico during Spring Break, often ignoring the plethora of cultural experiences the city has to offer. Don’t get me wrong – Cancun’s nightlife and beaches are a blast! However, there is so much more fun that can be had in this beautiful destination if you take some time to explore it.
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From vibrant markets and ancient archaeological sites, to stunning coral reefs just waiting for exploration – make sure not to miss out on all that Cancun has waiting for you!
No matter how many days or months you plan to stay in Cancun, I want to share with you a few of the most exceptional activities that are available in Cancun year-round! To get your vacation planning off on the right foot, here’s an awesome selection of things to do while visiting Cancun!
A relaxing beach day is a must while in Cancun!
The Hotel Zone is home to an abundance of stunning beaches, where you can lay back and indulge in a refreshing margarita. These are some of our favorite beaches especially remarkable for their exquisite beauty and relaxing atmosphere.
If you’re searching for the most exciting activity to do in Cancun then look no further than Xcaret Park. Located just south of downtown, this is one of six Experiencias Xcaret amusement parks and one of the largest theme park attractions in all of Mexico! A day spent exploring Xcaret should be at the top of your Cancun bucket list.
If you’re looking for a fun and exhilarating ways to explore Cancun, then the 250-acre eco-park is just perfect. With over 40 attractions that include adventurous aquatic activities, interactive nature tours, as well as eye-catching live shows – it’s no wonder why this park sees more than one million visitors each year from all around the globe!
At this exciting park, you can learn more about the fascinating Mayan culture. Whether it’s for families, couples or friends of any age – there is something to ensure everyone has an amazing day out! Dive into ancient recreations from the Mayans combined with delicious traditional food as well as swimming in warm Caribbean waters and interacting directly with Nature.
In addition, its convenient location near downtown Cancun or the hotel zone makes it easily accessible by anyone in town. Don’t miss out on your chance to experience this remarkable attraction of Riviera Maya in Mexico!
Exploring the umbilical cord between modernity and antiquity, Cancun’s greatest sightseeing option is undoubtedly its Mayan ruins. Of these relics of a bygone era, Coba stands out as an unparalleled destination to explore. Connected with the local village that shares its namesake, visitors have access to both ancient customs and contemporary amenities while on their journey into history. Visiting these majestic Mayan ruins is one of the unmissable things to do in Cancun when uncovering Yucatán’s incredible past!
Traversing the ruins, you are met with a plethora of 1200-year old stone streets, pyramids, dwellings and even ball courts. Many of these remnants allow visitors to climb or touch them for an up-close experience that can’t be found elsewhere! Your entry into Coba will only cost $6 dollars; however, if you decide on taking tours or obtaining earlier/later access events, prices may slightly increase.
The Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico is renowned for its remarkable cenotes: natural sinkholes filled with lucid water and lined by limestone caves. All along the Riviera Maya, thousands of these astounding pools exist – many are open to swimming! Cenotes form when the overlying limestone surface breaks away, granting access to a vast network of subterranean rivers lying beneath. As such, people flock here from afar in order to swim or dive amidst picturesque marine life revealed within their depths.
Experiencing the splendor of Cancun’s cenotes is a must. A mere 40-minute drive away, you’ll find stunning spots along Ruta de Cenotes—from La Noria to Verde Lucero and Mojarras to Selvatica (just to name a few). My absolute favorite was Verde Lucero; it provided an especially heart-stopping adventure with its very own zipline!
For the avid golfer, Cancun is simply … paradise. With more than 15 golf courses in and around the city, you’ll find options for every level of experience – from challenging sand dunes to lovely lagoons, all sprinkled with Mayan ruins or cenotes! The most popular course has to be Pok Ta Pok: 18 holes located conveniently in the Hotel Zone, accompanied by driving ranges and two practice putting greens plus bars on hand so you can stay hydrated while enjoying your game. Find out what the Best Golf Courses in Cancun are!
The city of Cancun is comprised of two distinct regions, Downtown (Ciudad Cancun) and the Hotel Zone or Zona Hotelera. Boasting resorts, catamarans, lively nightlife venues, and picturesque beaches on a 15-mile strip in the shape of a number seven – this is where most people choose to stay for their visits. Along Kulkukan Boulevard that stretches from one side of the island to another lies many restaurants and bars perfect for dining out after dark as well as taking in stunning views during sunset hours.
If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of resorts in Cancun, then head downtown where locals live and hang out! Here, you will be able to explore an authentic atmosphere with local shops and eateries. Whether it’s souvenirs or clothing that catches your eye — shopping is definitely one of the top things to do in Cancun.
Explore the charming shops of Mercado 28 and Malecon Americas Shopping Center, savor the flavors at local taco stands or try out some unique restaurants. If you’re traveling with family or friends looking for a fun time out in nature, spend an afternoon in Parque Las Palapas to appreciate the true culture, then hop into a vibrant nightlife that mostly caters to locals!
If you’re curious to discover the true flavor of Cancun, pay a visit to Avenida Tulum. With an array of tantalizing taco stands and vendors offering delectable cuisines from all over Latin America, it’s sure to satisfy your appetite for culinary delights.
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Cancun’s nightlife is very vibrant, especially during Spring Break when students come from all over the world for some fun! When you’ve had your fill of sun and sand during the day, let loose in one of the town’s renowned nightclubs after dark. Though queues may be lengthy at times due to their popularity, they’re definitely worth waiting out – so take advantage of this opportunity to dance until dawn!
Coco Bongo is the most popular club in Cancun. They have acrobats, cover bands and DJs who spice up the night. It’s kind of a mix between nightclub and Vegas show! Unlike its counterparts with just a dance floor and music here and there, this venue has embraced high-octane entertainment for all to enjoy! From jaw dropping acrobats to impersonation acts, live musicians and DJ’s as well as massive video screens- get ready for conga lines, balloons galore, along with bubbles & confetti swirling in the air. Though admission may not be dirt cheap but it certainly offers great value when one factors in both their enthralling performances plus free flow drinks throughout the evening – giving you a bang for your buck!
Expert Tip: It’s always a madhouse in the general admission area, so we suggest you splurge on VIP seating for a more exclusive experience. We’ve tried both and would highly recommend going with VIP when possible.
If you’re searching for a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is perfect! With merely a fifteen-minute boat ride away, this small tropical island provides an abundance of leisurely activities. From beautiful beaches to fantastic shopping – as well as plenty of bars, restaurants and watersports opportunities – not only will you be able to relax in peace but also enjoy yourself immensely. It’s truly the best of both worlds!
Isla Mujeres is a must-see paradise in Mexico, where you can find some of the best beaches and attractions. The Garrafon National Reef Park and Tortugranja turtle conservation center are two amazing sites that should not be missed! You can easily take the ferry from Cancun to get there on your own or choose to join an exciting day tour package that includes a boat cruise, snorkeling session, plus lunch at a beautiful beach club. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity for relaxation and adventure!
Positioned close to Playa del Carmen, the alluring Tulum ruins are a simple trip from Cancun and you should not miss out. It’s located approximately 60 miles away and is easily accessible by local buses, tour companies, and collectives.
Visiting the Tulum ruins is an experience you won’t soon forget- with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, a serene beach and majestic architecture that has been standing for centuries. To truly appreciate this historic site, plan to spend at least two or three hours exploring its wonders. And don’t forget your swimsuit and towel- after all that walking in the heat of Mexico’s sun, a refreshing dip in those turquoise waters will be just what you need before heading back out!
Xel-Ha, pronounced Shell-ha and meaning “mix of waters” in Mayan, is an archeological Maya site located nearby. This massive natural aquarium serves up a blend of fresh underground river water with the Caribbean Sea’s warm turquoise depths – making it one of our favorite must-see spots while in Cancun.
This aquatic paradise of majestic rivers and cenotes, stunning lagoons and tranquil grottos is full of marine life, promising plenty of water activities. It’s also surrounded by lush jungle with walking trails, cycling paths, adventure parks for the kids, plus lots of hammocks to recline in after sampling the delicious all-inclusive buffet!
Are you wondering what else to do in Cancun aside from partying and going to the beach? Then it’s time for a special exploration: uncovering the history of its original inhabitants. Visit Chichen Itza, one of the world’s most famous and best-preserved Mayan archaeological sites! This city was already thriving as far back as 5th century AD —and many fascinating details remain intact today. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore an ancient civilization like no other!
Chichen Itza is a magnificently constructed city with its ancient pyramids and temples that have successfully stood the test of time. Its grandeur displays an intriguing combination of Mayan construction techniques and newer elements from central Mexico. If you want to enjoy this marvelous destination, then be sure to set aside several hours as it can become quite crowded!
For those without access to their own vehicle, do not worry; take advantage of one-day tour excursions departing from Cancun so that your journey will be enjoyable in air-conditioned comfort. No matter how you decide to tour this extraordinary archaeological site, we’re sure you’ll agree that it’s one of the most memorable experiences Cancun has to offer.
If you are looking to have a wild time on your spring break in Cancun, this spot is the place for you. Not only does it boast a lively party atmosphere with low-cost food and drinks, but its tranquil waters also provide ample opportunity for snorkeling, windsurfing, jet skiing and other thrilling beach activities—even more extreme options offered by locals! All these fun opportunities can be found at small huts scattered across the beach.
During the day, families can revel in the warmth of this beach’s clean sand and inviting water. As night falls, a festive atmosphere takes over with live music drawing fun-seekers from near and far to experience Cancun as it ought to be experienced – on its beautiful beaches!
Take some time to unwind and explore the beauty of the islands by way of a catamaran cruise! You can choose from endless adventures, such as enjoying all-day cruising, taking part in water activities like swimming and fishing, or simply watching a spectacular sunset during dinner.
There are so many possibilities that it’s useful to determine what type of experience you’d prefer: seeking out an action-packed day on the waves? Relaxing with friends? Partying on board? Or island hopping around paradise locations? With numerous cruises available, there is something for everyone – find your ideal adventure today!
An exquisite experience awaits you in Isla Contoy, an uninhabited Caribbean island just a few hours away from Cancun. Discover the culinary delights that await your journey over as well as fantastic activities while at the actual location! For only $100 per person, you can partake of an all-inclusive cruise package featuring services such as a guide, breakfast and transportation both to and from your hotel room; moreover, snorkeling equipment is readily available for those who choose it. It’s time to get on board!
Accessible as part of a national park, the island’s glistening beaches and flawless waters are carefully preserved – with strict protocols in place to preserve this paradise. Companies that provide access to the island understand these regulations fully, ensuring all passengers receive an exhaustive brief before arriving so that future generations may enjoy its pristine beauty untouched.
Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure at the Cancun Underwater Museum – an extraordinary site filled with captivating sculptures, created coral reefs and local sea creatures. Whether you prefer to scuba dive or snorkel, this alluring attraction gives visitors the opportunity to explore what lies beneath while enjoying breathtaking views of a watery world. Experience nature in its purest form as you wander through vibrant surroundings that are constantly being altered over time – giving each visit something new and unexpected!
The museum offers snorkeling and scuba equipment rentals, as well as knowledgeable guides for those who are not yet confident in exploring the area alone. It is highly suggested that you have some experience with snorkeling before taking a trip to this destination; however, if your skill level does not meet the expectations of exploration here, private training sessions and extended trips can be organized so that you can make the most out of your journey!
Make sure to make the most of your visit to this unique underwater museum in Cancun; plan ahead and arrive two hours before closing time for the best experience. An expert tip for those eager to explore!
For a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience, book yourself on one of the whale shark tours between June and September. Although these incredible creatures are the biggest in the world – don’t let their size intimidate you for they’re gentle and playful! Nevertheless, we must remember that they are endangered species, so there will be guidelines to ensure everyone follows them responsibly.
Your tour guide will explain all regulations such as only having at most a limited amount of people swimming with them at any given time – it’s then best to go with smaller groups when possible. Enjoy!
I Want to Swim with Whale Sharks!
If you love adrenaline-filled activities, Cancun is the place to be! From speed boats and jet skis to parasailing across its beaches, water sports offer an ultimate rush that will make your vacation extraordinary. But don’t forget the sunscreen and a life vest – safety comes first when it comes to having fun in Cancun’s waters. So what are you waiting for? Ready yourself for some serious thrills!
Cancun boasts a unique dual landscape: the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon. This way you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying numerous outdoor activities like fishing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking or bird watching! The best way to traverse this lush lagoon is by boat or jet ski – an experience that will leave you with memories (and photographs!) for years to come.
A journey through Nichupte Lagoon in Cancun, Mexico should not be overlooked! Whether you take a guided tour or charter your own boat, the lush greenery and exotic wildlife will astound you. Not to mention the breathtaking view of the sunset over this gorgeous lagoon – it’s simply unmatched! Don’t miss out on exploring Nichupte Lagoon when visiting Cancun; it truly lives up to its well-deserved spot at the top of any list.
Thrill-seekers seeking a memorable experience must look no further than Cancun’s most adrenaline-pumping activity: ziplining! Xplor, part of the renowned Xcaret family, boasts 13 heart-stopping zip lines that traverse through lush jungles and caves. Meanwhile Selvatica offers an action packed 10 course line for those who crave more extreme adventure. Both attractions guarantee hours of nonstop fun and excitement for visitors of all ages!
With the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef – the second-largest reef system in existence – located near Cancun, it’s no shock that divers flock to this region. The warm and translucent waters make for a majestic view of the vibrant sea life below, making diving one of Cancun’s top activities!
If you’re looking for a thrilling and educational experience, nothing quite compares to the underwater world of Cozumel. Just a short boat ride from Cancun, it’s easy to rent scuba diving equipment at many of their shops. If you are new to this sport, there is no need for worry as courses exist that will teach you all the fundamentals in rapid time! From its balmy waters and stunning visibility—Cancun is an ideal place for novice divers to explore beneath the waves!
For over a century, Mexicans have gathered to cheer on their beloved wrestlers at Lucha Libre matches. These brave competitors are such admired stars in Mexico that they’ve achieved celebrity status! Similar to American pro wrestling, many of the moves and outcomes may be pre-planned; however, these athletes require immense grit and determination during every bout. This is what makes Lucha Libre (or “free fighting”) truly remarkable entertainment for all ages – an incredible combination of athleticism with pageantry! At Arena Cancun, a classic battle of good versus evil unfolds several times each week with the participants wearing intricately designed masks. It’s one of the most captivating activities in all of Cancun and an experience that should not be missed! From local boutiques to the Arena Cancun itself, these custom-made masks are sure to make your visit even more special.
If you’ve been longing to feel the rush of swimming with sea turtles, then Cancun and Riviera Maya should be on top of your list! Akumal’s beaches provide an unparalleled experience for swimmers; from loggerhead to giant leatherbacks, a number of stunning species await in these warm waters. Whether you take part in snorkeling or go for a swim alongside them – it will definitely make lasting memories that will stay with you forever!
Animal lovers, if you’re in Cancun between May and October, don’t miss your chance to observe turtle mothers laying eggs in beach nests. From July to December, their offspring will hatch and brave the journey into the sea. Numerous resorts offer engaging conservation efforts while Isla Mujeres has a specialized Turtle Conservation Center; perfect for learning about these treasured creatures!
Families looking for a thrilling escape need look no further than Cancun’s newest waterfront amusement and water park. This fun-filled destination offers six separate parks, all with distinct themes that are sure to entertain everyone in the family! Wet ‘n Wild is full of waterslides, Aaah! has action-packed activities like zip lining, Grand Prix features go-karts galore, Fun World caters to younger children while Underworld presents an array of virtual reality experiences. With so much choice available at this incredible theme park there’s something for every member of your family – making it the perfect place to create lasting memories together.
For those wishing to experience the thrill of riding a wave, Cancun is an ideal destination. Although it may not offer intense waves like Sayulita on the Pacific coast, northern parts of the Hotel Zone still provide enjoyable surfing opportunities from June till November. Plus with its warm waters and stunning landscapes – combined with easy access to surf schools for lessons or board rental services – this Mexican paradise offers you exactly what you need to get started!
A trip to Mexico would be incomplete without experiencing the delectable street tacos. The downtown area of Cancun is THE spot for these tasty treats, and if you’ve only ever had them in a restaurant before then you are truly missing out! We believe that among all other activities to partake in around Cancun, noshing on tacos ranks at the top! Freshly made tortillas come with your choice of various fillings – from standard beef, pork, chicken and seafood options; to more unusual picks like goat tongue or pig skin – there’s something for everyone here. But no matter what filling you get we suggest giving Tacos al Pastor a go- they’re traditional and simply delicious!
Exploring the city on your own is effortless, beginning with Parque de las Palapas and meandering through the neighboring avenues, particularly Avenidas Tulum.
Despite what you may find at the usual tourist haunts, Mexicans take their tequila seriously – just as wine or craft beer connoisseurs do in America. A quality tequila is meant to be savored not quickly consumed with lime and salt; a good tequila tasting will introduce you to its many styles and types while offering insight into the drink’s history. If your opinion of this potent beverage has been less than favorable up until now, give it another try – when experienced through quality products, your perspective of it is sure to change!
Cancun’s waters are some of the best places worldwide to go fishing. If you’re a novice or experienced angler, several companies offer guided ocean and shallow water trips for all levels. Moreover, there is an array of fish species swimming in its crystal clear blue sea such as Barracuda, Grouper, Red Snapper, Sailfish Marlin and Tuna! So come explore this magnificent destination – book your tour today!
All the necessary fishing gear and license will be provided for you, with even more convenience when we clean and prepare your catch for a delicious meal at home.
From breathtaking white sand beaches to luxurious all-inclusive hotels, Cancun is an ideal destination for a variety of exciting water activities. Here, visitors can explore the depths with scuba diving, balance on top of paddleboards, marvel at marine life while snorkeling or take in stunning views from boat tours and so much more!
If you ever find yourself on a beach or in dimly lit areas at night, it is important to stay mindful of your surroundings. Additionally, maintain caution with the water currents and refrain from swimming when there are yellow or red flags present – for more details, read my post about safety in Cancun! By taking these precautions into account, you can rest assured that you will have an enjoyable experience no matter where your travels may take you. When visiting Cancun, daytime roaming in the hotel zone and downtown is generally safe. However, as darkness approaches, it’s best to stay within highly populated touristy areas for optimal security.
Minimum of three to five days in Cancun to experience the main attractions, unwind and take everything in. Guaranteed, if you give yourself longer than a day to explore this stunning destination, there’ll be no chance of boredom. With countless activities and sights waiting for you here – don’t hesitate! Grab your passport and embark on an unforgettable adventure today!
When vacationing in Cancun, it’s best to avoid drinking tap water as even though it won’t kill you, you don’t want to run the risk of getting ill and ruining your trip. To stay safe and healthy, opt for bottled water instead!
While it is safe to use tap water for brushing your teeth, playing on the side of caution and utilizing purified bottles from hotels may be more beneficial.
Absolutely, it is much more economical to travel with pesos as opposed to USD or Euro. Not only are these currencies accepted, but if you exchange your currency at a local casa de Cambio or bank, the conversion rate would be far better for you than any other option. Be sure to plan accordingly and make all necessary exchanges before embarking on your travels!
Congratulations on reaching the end of this comprehensive list of activities to do in Cancun! Hopefully, you found it helpful and inspiring as you plan your upcoming trip. If not, we have plenty more content with restaurant/hotel tips or additional practical travel advice for Mexico available here that will help make sure your stay is unforgettable. Thanks again for reading – enjoy exploring all that Cancun has to offer!
I recommend these travel resources for Mexico that I personally use:
🏨 Hotels: I have found that Expedia and Booking.com consistently have the best deals on hotels and resorts in Mexico. If you prefer to stay at a vacation rental, check VRBO that is usually cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: To find the best flight deals to Mexico, I always use Kayak. Remember to subscribe to their price alerts for the travel dates you want. Another great alternative for flight deals is Expedia.
🚗 Rental Cars: I always use and highly recommend Discover Cars because it allows me to compare several car rental companies and view ratings on various factors such as overall value, pick-up procedure, agent efficiency, car condition, and total time taken.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: For the fastest and easiest way to travel, I suggest arranging a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation. Honestly, no better way to travel from the airport to your hotel or resort.
🤿 Tours & Activities: For tours and activities in Mexico, I highly recommend using either Viator or GetYourGuide. These websites offer a full refund if you cancel your booking 24 hours before the start of the tour, and they also provide excellent customer service in case of any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: I always suggest purchasing travel insurance as a precaution before traveling, especially after a recent accident in a taxi in Mexico. For short trips, I recommend Travel Insurance Master, whereas for digital nomads, Safety Wing is a better option.
📷 Best Camera for your trip: I always carry with me a GoPro, It’s light, compact, takes great video and pictures, and most importantly, it’s waterproof! You just can’t go wrong with one. If you are interested in higher quality video and photography, I always carry with me on my trips and highly recommend the Sony A7IV which I think is the best travel DSLR Camera out there.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Remember to include a good sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. I always use and suggest Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is vegan, reef-friendly, and cruelty-free.
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