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There are plenty of things to do in Cancun, the stunning wonderland on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. It includes relaxing on beautiful beaches or learning the history of ancient Mayan ruins, swimming in vibrant coral reefs or checking out the lively nightlife. Cancun truly caters to everyone. Beautiful natural surroundings, a diverse cultural history and countless entertainment options make Cancun an unmatched combination of luxury and adventure. This tropical playground in Mexico is one of the best holiday destinations ever.
10 Best Things To Do In Cancun
Explore the best things to do in Cancun on your trip to this coastal heaven with this list for the best experiences:
1. Relax On Cancun’s Stunning Beaches
Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Explore the turquoise oceans and pristine sands of Cancun’s Playa Delfines and Playa Norte beaches. Cancun is famous for its pristine beaches, white sand and turquoise waters. The most popular of these is Playa Delfines, with amazing views of the sea and a relaxing vibe. If you want something wilder, you can visit Playa Tortugas or Playa Chac Mool for water sports, beach clubs and partying. Isla Mujeres, a short ferry ride away, has clean beaches, such as Playa Norte with its stunning scenery. Be it a place of relaxation or adventure, Cancun’s beaches are the perfect tropical oasis.
Best Time To Visit: December to April
Distance: 50 – 80 miles from Cancun
2. Explore The Mayan Ruins Of Tulum
Photo: Popo le Chien / Wikimedia Commons
Explore the Mayan ruins situated on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, just 30 minutes from Cancun. The Mayan ruins of Tulum are a must-see historical monument on the Caribbean coast with breathtaking sea views. Tulum was once a bustling port city and a Mayan trade centre. Its impressive ruins. The famous El Castillo (The Castle) perched on a hill are flanked by ancient walls and enigmatic structures such as the Temple of the Seven Tresses. You can tour the ruins, learn about the Mayan culture and unwind on the nearby beaches, making Tulum a unique cultural and natural experience.
Best Time To Visit: December to April
Location: About 80 miles (130 km) south of Cancun
3. Explore Isla Mujeres
Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Take a ferry to this lovely island, which has sandy beaches, snorkelling and the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). Isla Mujeres, the idyllic island near Cancun, is known for its quaint beaches, clear waters and marine life. You can enjoy the island on a day trip snorkelling at the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA), visiting the Turtle Sanctuary or even going to Punta Sur to see some amazing views of the coastline. Isla Mujeres also has some nice shops and restaurants, as well as a few beaches. This includes Playa Norte, which is known for having good waves. The peacefulness and beauty of Isla Mujeres is an ideal getaway from Cancun’s urban bustle.
Best Time To Visit: December to April
Location: 8 miles (13 km)
4. Snorkel Or Dive In The Mesoamerican Reef
Photo: Matthew T Rader / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Experience swimming among the colourful marine life in the second-largest reef system in the world, off the coast of Cancun. The Mesoamerican Reef, or Great Mayan Reef, runs up the Caribbean coast of Mexico. Cancun provides one of the best access points to this marine habitat, offering snorkelers and divers a chance to see colourful coral reefs, marine species and underwater caves. Popular sites such as Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Cozumel offer incredible tropical fish, turtles, rays and dolphins. The Mesoamerican Reef offers an unforgettable, sensory underwater experience in clear waters, whether you are a novice or a seasoned diver.
Best Time To Visit: From December to April
Location: The Mesoamerican Reef stretches along the Caribbean coast near Cancun
5. Swim In Cenotes
Photo: National Marine Sanctuaries / Wikimedia Commons
Cenotes offers a unique, refreshing swimming experience, with its clean, freshwater pools tucked into the natural limestone caves. In the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, these impressive natural wonders were the result of caves that collapsed centuries ago. The cenotes are surrounded by dense jungles where you can swim, snorkel and explore marine species underwater. Some cenotes have amazing stalactites and stalagmites, which makes them one of the best things to see in Cancun. The pure, cool water is great for cooling down, and its tranquillity makes it a worthwhile visit for tourists.
Best Time To Visit: From November to April
Location: Cenotes are primarily found in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico
6. Explore Xcaret Park
Photo: FeldBum / Wikimedia Commons
The Xcaret Park is an iconic eco-archaeological reserve filled with watersports, wildlife and traditional shows. Xcaret Park in Cancun perfectly blends nature, culture and exploration. You can dip into underground channels, dive into azure cenotes, and experience the park’s diverse wildlife, from jaguars to monkeys and exotic birds. It has ancient Mayan ruins, interactive exhibits, and performance spaces that offer a peek into Mexico’s culture. The highlight is the Xcaret México Espectacular night show, a stunning Mexican music and dance show. From dolphin swimming to exploring caves, Xcaret promises a day of immersive excitement for kids of all ages.
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Location: Playa del Carmen
7. Take A Jungle Tour
Photo: Xe3osc / Wikimedia Commons
Tour the jungle via ATV, dune buggy, or zipline through the forest. A Jungle Tour in Cancun is a thrilling ride through tropical vegetation and a chance to appreciate the region’s natural beauty. Whether on an ATV, dune buggy or on foot, these trips take you through the jungle, through pristine rivers and hidden corners. You can see wildlife, explore plants and birds, go ziplining, off-roading and swimming in cenotes. It is a way of getting out into the wild and enjoying adrenaline-packed activities. It is the perfect balance of fun and exploration for every visitor.
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Location: Playa del Carmen, and Tulum
8. Swim With Dolphins
Photo: Tomás Del Coro / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Visit one of the many resorts or parks, such as Dolphinaris, to see how awesome it can be to interact with dolphins. Dolphins swimming in Cancun is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with these bright, playful dolphins. These are available at most dolphinariums and hotels, such as Dolphinaris, and typically include a safety briefing, an opportunity to swim, interact and perhaps even a dolphin kiss or handshake. You will also learn about dolphin behaviours and conservation efforts to save these smart animals. The crystal-clear waters of Cancun are the perfect backdrop for this magical trip.
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Location: Dolphinariums and resorts in Cancun
9. Enjoy Cancun’s Nightlife
Photo: laye cana / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Go out at night and party at famous nightclubs, such as Coco Bongo or the City, where there are lively performances and music. Cancun’s nightlife is energetic, colourful and eclectic. From famous nightclubs such as Coco Bongo and The City, where DJs perform in a unique setting, to beach bars where you will enjoy a laid-back vibe and a breathtaking view, Cancun’s nightlife never rests. Dancing to the latest music, throwing a themed party, or having a cocktail by the seaside, there is something for everyone here. These places are ideal for a fiery yet memorable night in Cancun.
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Location: Centred in the Hotel Zone
10. Take A Boat Tour To Isla Contoy
Photo: Bernard DUPONT / Wikimedia Commons
Explore a birding sanctuary on a private island preserve with crystal-clear waters. Boat tours to Isla Contoy give a tranquil day trip to this uninhabited, beautiful island just off the coast of Cancun. Intimately beautiful, Isla Contoy is a nature preserve and birdwatcher’s paradise with more than 150 species of birds. The tour typically includes snorkelling in the clear waters, sunbathing on the pristine shores and exploring the island’s tropical vegetation and fauna. Its calm setting and stunning landscapes make this a good one-day trip for nature lovers and those looking for an escape from the city crowds.
Best Time To Visit: November to May
Distance: 5 kilometres (28 miles) by boat
Cancun is not only a resort town but also a rich and complex city with history, adventure, and culture. From ancient Mayan sites to eco-tours to lively nightlife, there are numerous things to do in Cancun for tourists. It is a tropical haven where you can have lots of time to rest, explore and have a lot of fun. Cancun will provide you with a full and diverse experience regardless of whether you’re staying for the weekend or the week. Start booking your holiday today with TripXL and be charmed by the splendours of the coastal heaven of Mexico.
Cover Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
