Top 21 Must-Do Activities in Cancun for an Unforgettable Vacation

Cancun has a long history as one of the best places to celebrate Spring Break, with college students flocking to its white-sand beaches. However, there are plenty of things to do in Cancun besides strutting down the beach or partying into the wee hours of the morning. We’ve traveled to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula repeatedly since 1999, and we always find something new to see and do.

Cancun serves as the gateway to the Mayan Riviera, with numerous hotels lining the coast of the Caribbean Sea, showcasing its clear turquoise waters. There is an endless list of activities in Cancun, and we have diligently worked to try them all!

Best Things to Do in Cancun

Before exploring the top activities in Cancun, let’s discuss transportation options from the airport to your hotel. If you’re seeking affordable transportation, consider eTransfers for the best prices. They provide shuttles to the Hotel Zone, Playa Del Carmen, and all along the Mayan Riviera.

It’s evident that many visitors embark on at least one of numerous day trips from Cancun. With convenient access to the Mayan Riviera and the southern Caribbean Coast, many of the top experiences involve excursions and day trips originating from the hotel zone. We will discuss our favorite day trips as well as the best options within the Hotel Zone.

Best Things to Do in Cancun – Hotel Zone

If you’re planning a trip to Cancun, make sure to venture out of your luxury hotel to discover the beauty and culture of this little slice of paradise in Mexico. Let us guide you through activities that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Stroll the Hotel Zone

The Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) is a popular destination in Cancun for good reason. This extensive stretch of sand is lined with hotels, presenting opportunities for diverse activities without needing to book a tour. Moreover, it’s regarded as one of the safest areas in Cancun. From watersports to natural theme parks, Mayan ruins to underwater rivers, Cancun has it all.

Simply walking along the hotel zone is an adventure itself. This area spans 22km (14 miles) and is filled with restaurants, bars, shopping malls, and all-inclusive mega-resorts. La Isla shopping village is an open-air mall that is ideal for dining, shopping, and people-watching.

2. Maya Ruins of El Rey

While it may not rival Chichen Itza or Tulum in fame, the El Rey Ruins is a significant Mayan archaeological site located near downtown Cancun. With 47 ruins to examine, including a burial site and ancient murals, this site is easily accessible for those not wanting a lengthy bus ride to more famous sites.

One of the main attractions here is the colony of iguanas that have made the ruins their home. They are accustomed to the presence of people, enhancing your chances of seeing these fascinating creatures during your visit.

3. Coco Bongo

If you’re searching for exciting nightlife options in Cancun, consider heading to Coco Bongo. This club provides an entertaining experience featuring acrobats, a light show, and gogo dancers, creating a vibrant atmosphere that’s beyond a standard nightclub experience. Prepare for a fun, long night!

4. Playa Delfines

Cancun’s beaches are renowned for their stretches of white sand. The Hotel Zone boasts fantastic beaches with soft white sand. While many visitors may stay at an all-inclusive resort, Playa Delfines stands out as the only public beach that is free of hotels and restaurants, providing a local experience for a quieter day at the beach.

Offering free beach umbrellas and lifeguards on duty, Playa Delfines, which translates to Dolphin Beach, increases the chances of spotting dolphins swimming nearby.

Best Cancun Beaches

Walking on the soft white sands during sunrise is a cherished activity for many. The beaches in Cancun are extensive, allowing for enjoyable walks for hours. If you’d like to explore beyond Playa Delfines, consider visiting other nearby beaches such as Playa Tortugas, Playa Forum, and Playa Marlin.

5. Cancun Scenic Tower

For panoramic views of Cancun, the Torre Escenica (Cancun Scenic Tower) offers one of the best vantage points. Situated just inland from the Hotel Zone near Playa Tortugas, it provides stunning perspectives of the rows of all-inclusive resorts, Cancun, and the Caribbean Coast.

6. Visit the Cancun Sign (Letras Cancún)

Capturing a selfie in front of a destination’s sign has become a famous travel tradition, and Cancun’s vibrant sign is located on Playa Delfines, making it a must-see attraction during your visit.

7. Museo Maya de Cancun (Mayan Museum)

For those wanting cultural insights without venturing far from the Hotel Zone, the Museo Maya de Cancun provides an excellent opportunity to delve into the history of the pre-Columbian Maya. This museum, opened in 2012, enriches your understanding of Mayan heritage and culture.

8. Downtown Cancun

To immerse yourself in authentic Mexican culture, explore downtown Cancun. This area features more affordable hotels and easy access to local markets, shopping districts, and restaurants. Avenida Tulum is the main artery, bustling with restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.

9. Outdoor Markets Cancun

Cancun also boasts traditional markets for those who prefer a more local shopping experience. One such market is Mercado 28, an open-air market selling souvenirs, crafts, and jewelry. Perfect for bargaining, it offers a more traditional feel compared to modern shopping malls.

Water Activities in Cancun

10. Tackle a Flyboard

If you’re yearning for an adrenaline rush, try flyboarding in Cancun’s hotel zone. A handful of operators provide exhilarating experiences, letting you soar over the water. For those apprehensive about trying it themselves, watching others is equally entertaining.

11. Go Kayaking

Nichupte Lagoon, a natural reserve near Cancun, features mangrove forests and lakes ideal for kayaking, enabling you to connect with nature without traveling far from downtown.

12. SUP – Stand Up Paddleboarding

Many Cancun hotels offer complimentary stand-up paddleboarding as part of their packages, making it a fun and budget-friendly activity along the coast. The calm waters in the hotel zone create perfect conditions for exploring and getting some exercise.

16. Zip Lining through Jungles and Cenotes

For adventurous souls, zip lining offers thrilling experiences soaring above the jungle. Xplore, a popular eco-park, combines various activities including zipping, ATV rides, and exploring underground caves.

17. Isla Mujeres

A fabulous day trip involves taking a short boat ride to Isla Mujeres, also known as the “Island of Women.” This destination boasts beautiful beaches and opportunities for water sports like snorkeling in the coral reefs.

20. Chichén Itzá

No visit to Cancun would be complete without exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, this historical site features the Temple of Kukulkan and a cenote.

Where to Stay in Cancun

Along the Mayan Riviera from Playa Del Carmen to Tulum, you’ll find great places to stay. There are numerous hotels in the region, and many offer tours and transfers for added convenience. For additional insights, consider external review platforms for hotel recommendations that fit your budget and preferences.

When to Visit Cancun

Anytime can be enjoyable in Cancun, though the best timing typically falls from December through April for optimal weather conditions. However, summer introduces humidity and the potential for afternoon showers, ideal for swimming with whale sharks from June to September.

These experiences, each unique in its own right, collectively present the finest adventures Cancun has to offer. What experiences do you aim to try on your next visit to Mexico?