Best 18 Things and Activities to Do in Cancun 🌴☀️
1. Relax at Playa Delfines 🏖️
Playa Delfines is one of the most beautiful public beaches in Cancún, as it holds the Blue Flag, which guarantees its consistent cleanliness and excellent facilities. This beach is ideal for sunbathing and taking a selfie at the famous "Cancun" sign.
If you are traveling with children, we do not recommend that they enter the sea, or at least not without the supervision of a responsible adult.
Playa Delfines is popular among people who are passionate about activities such as bodyboarding, and many visitors come to this beach seeking adventure due to the consistent waves in this area of Cancun.
Pro:Unlike other beaches, Delfines has free parking 24 hours a day.
The restrooms have showers and toilets, but they are open from 9 am to 5 pm. Take your precautions.
2. Go snorkeling or scuba diving at the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA) 🤿
Have you ever heard of a unique underwater museum with more than 500 sculptures submerged under the breathtaking Caribbean Sea? MUSA is more than a museum; it is a true surreal experience. You can float from 2 to 4 meters deep to contemplate accessible sculptures, even without scuba diving. Many agencies offer glass-bottom boat tours or Catamaran experiences, which are ideal for enjoying multiple experiences at the same time. In the Manchones Gallery, near Isla Mujeres, you can find more figures belonging to MUSA, which are between 8 and 10 meters deep. This is an ideal depth for activities such as snorkeling or free diving.
📸 Photography and environmental awareness at MUSA The sculptures in MUSA are made with pH-neutral materials, designed to become artificial reefs that attract corals, fish, crustaceans, and turtles - amazing, isn't it? We know you don't want to miss out on capturing this memory forever, so we recommend taking an aquatic camera with you to capture moments, such as “La Jardinera de la Esperanza” or the VW Beetle covered in coral.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Do not kick, try to pull, or push the sculptures.
- Do not use sunscreen, this may retard the growth of the coral you plan to reproduce in the museum.
3. Marine life observation
There are many ways to appreciate the beauty that the seabed of the Caribbean Sea has while visiting Cancun; here are some of them:
🐢 1. Manchones Reef (Isla Mujeres)
Location: Near Isla Mujeres, accessible from Cancun.
What to see: Brain coral, barracudas, parrot fish, lobsters, turtles, and manta rays.
Fact: Manchones is the site with the most marine biodiversity than the reefs near the hotel zone.
🐬 2. Punta Nizuc
Location: South of Cancun's Hotel Zone.
What to see: Reef fish, rays, sponges, turtles, and part of the MUSA (see more information in number 2).
Accessible: Ideal for beginners and children.
3. Puerto Morelos Reef National Park (30 min. from Cancun)
What to see: Large extensions of live coral, turtles, nurse sharks, moray eels, andpuffer fish.
Fact: Puerto Morelos Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Reef System (MAR), a site preserved and protected 24/7 by the Coast Guard.
🐋 4. Swimming with whale sharks (season: June - September)
Location: Open sea, between Isla Contoy and Isla Holbox (departures from Cancun).
What to see: The world's largest fish (whale shark), dolphins and manta rays.
📝 Tips for enjoying marine observation:
🧴 Use biodegradable sunscreen to avoid damaging the reef (or better not to use).
📸 Take a waterproof camera or waterproof case.
🦺 Always wear a buoyancy vest if you snorkel in the open sea. Just because you know how to swim does not make you immune to the shifting currents of the Caribbean.
📅 Check weather and tide conditions before your activity.
🤿 Do not touch the corals or disturb the marine fauna.
4. Explore Chichen Itza 🏛️
To visit Chichén Itzá is to immerse yourself in one of the most enigmatic and majestic sites of the Maya culture. This ancient ceremonial center, located in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, is not only a tourist stop but also a historical, astronomical, and spiritual experience. Walking along its white stone paths under the Caribbean sun, the first significant encounter is usually with the imposing Pyramid of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo. This perfectly symmetrical structure is a masterpiece of architecture and astronomy; during the spring and autumn equinoxes, its design casts the shadow of a serpent descending its steps. This phenomenon still amazes us today. It is currently considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Upon leaving, many travelers enjoy a Yucatecan lunch in one of the nearby restaurants, where cochinita pibil or panuchos are perfect companions for this experience.
Tip: Bring sunscreen, cool clothing, ahat orcap, tennis shoes, and water.
5. Swim in a cenote 💧
Swimming in a cenote near Cancun is one of the most magical and refreshing experiences you can have in the Riviera Maya. These natural formations, sacred to the ancient Maya, offer visitors crystal-clear waters of turquoise or deep blue tones and are surrounded by abundant vegetation, stalactites, and a very special energy. Just a few minutes or a couple of hours from Cancun, several cenotes are open to the public, perfect for swimming, diving, snorkeling, or simply relaxing in nature. Some are inside caverns, others are open lagoon-type cenotes, and there are even some semi-open ones, ideal for exploring if it's your first time. One of the most popular is Cenote Azul, about an hour from Cancun. It has shallow areas, perfect for families, and deeper ones where you can dive from the rocks or snorkel among the fish. Nearby, you will also find Cenote Dos Ojos, renowned for its underwater caverns and excellent visibility, which makes it a favorite among certified divers and those seeking a more immersive experience. Most cenotes have basic facilities (restrooms, showers, vest rental, and rest areas) and charge an entrance fee that generally varies between $150 and 400 Mexican pesos. It is essential to use biodegradable sunscreen or avoid applying it before entering the water to prevent damage to the ecosystem.
6. Sail on a Catamaran to Isla Mujeres ⛵
Sailing on a catamaran to Isla Mujeres, without exaggeration, is one of those experiences that stays with you long after the trip is over, not only for the scenery, which is spectacular, obviously but for the relaxed vibe that this experience brings from the moment you set foot on the dock. Once the catamaran pulls away from shore, the blue of the sea starts to get deeper and clearer. You see the bottom of the ocean as you glide over the waves. Halfway along the way, many tours make a stop to snorkel at the El Farito reef, a sunken ship, or a section of the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA). After you get back on board, the atmosphere gets livelier. When you get off the island, the time is yours. You can walk downtown and have a coffee, rent a golf cart (highly recommended), and take a tour around the island, visit Playa Norte, which looks like a giant saltwater pool, or lie under a palm tree and do nothing. Some tours include entrance to a beach club featuring buffet-style food, lounge chairs, and even a pool, allowing you to continue enjoying the good life for a while longer. The return by catamaran is usually at sunset.
7. Visit Xcaret or Xel-Há 🎢
Visiting Xcaret or Xel-Ha is one of those plans in the Riviera Maya that you have to experience at least once. Both parks offer entirely different experiences, but they share a common thread: they connect you with nature in a fun, relaxed, and spectacular way.
If a mix of culture, soft adventure, and a wide variety of activities in one place is your thing, then Xcaret is for you. It's a giant eco-archaeological park (really, you could spend two whole days and still have things to see) where you can float down subway rivers, walk through the jungle, visit a natural aquarium, see jaguars, flamingos, sea turtles, and even tour actual Mayan ruins. But that's not all. It also features cultural shows, pre-Hispanic dances, a colorful Mexican cemetery, a chapel overlooking the sea, a butterfly farm, and a henequen hacienda that transports you to another era. The finishing touch comes at the end of the day with the famous night show "Xcaret Mexico Espectacular," which is a journey through Mexico's history told through music, fire, dance, and intense emotions (you'll be clapping on your feet!).
Now, if what you're looking for is to relax, swim, and float all day in a natural, paradisiacal environment, then Xel-Há is perfect. Here, everything revolves around water: it's a huge natural cove where you can snorkel among colorful fish, dive off a rock into the water, slide down an aquatic zip line, ride bike trails, and, if you're up for it, climb up to the lookout lighthouse and go down a spiral slide that leads straight to the river. The best part is that it's all-inclusive, so you can eat, drink, and repeat as many times as you want in its restaurants and bars (yes, there are also cocktails and beer, no guilt). Xel-Há is ideal for those who want to spend a quieter day yet still experience incredible moments.
So, which one to choose?
- Visit Xcaret if you want culture, nature, and a night show.
- Choose Xel-Há if you prefer free snorkeling, unlimited food, and pure relaxation with an ocean view.
And if you can't decide... well, do like many travelers and visit one day and the other the next. You won't regret it.
8. Walk around the Hotel Zone 🌅
Strolling through Cancun's Hotel Zone is an experience that combines the best of the Caribbean with a vibrant and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those who want to discover the city at their own pace and without rushing. Walk along the palm-lined Kukulcan Boulevard, with the turquoise sea on one side and a mix of luxury hotels, stores, cafes, and the occasional restaurant. You can stop for a coffee or a smoothie on a terrace overlooking the sea or sit in one of the many green areas that dot the road and watch the tourists and locals come and go. If you are in the mood for the beach, cross the street to step onto the white sand and take a dip in the crystal clear waters.
9. Parasailing over the Caribbean Sea🪂
Parasailing over the Caribbean Sea in Cancun is one of those experiences that give you a perfect mix of adrenaline, peace, and views that are taken from a travel website. Imagine yourself on the beach, with the sun warming your skin and that salty breeze that already makes you feel in vacation mode, when suddenly you get ready to take off into the sky tied to a giant parachute flying behind a speedboat. As you soar, the feeling is fantastic. First, you are a little nervous because you're soaring high, but then there's that absolute calm as you float above the turquoise-blue water. From up there, the view is another level: the immensity of the Caribbean Sea, the carpet-like white sand beaches, the gently crashing waves, and, if you're lucky, even small schools of fish or rays swimming under the surface. It is like flying without wings. The ride usually lasts a few minutes, just enough time to capture spectacular photos and videos, feel that connection with nature and the sea, and enjoy the moment. Additionally, parasailing in Cancun is very safe: the companies use certified equipment, provide you with all the necessary instructions, and accompany you throughout the activity. So, even if you've never done anything like this before, it's very accessible for beginners.
10. Live the party at Coco Bongo 🎉.
It's not just a nightclub; it's a complete experience that mixes nightclub, theater, circus, and concert all in one place. From the moment you walk through the door, you feel the excitement in the air. The lights, the loud music, and an atmosphere full of people ready to have fun make you forget all your worries. The show kicks off with acrobats, dancers, celebrity impersonators, special effects, and scenes reminiscent of the most iconic movies. It's as if each song becomes a live mini-musical, but with the advantage that you can dance, sing, and scream from the dance floor.
The atmosphere is incredibly inclusive, and it doesn't matter whether you go with friends or alone; in no time, you'll be making new party buddies. They also offer various packages that include an open bar or VIP seating for those seeking a more exclusive experience. If you are looking for a night where adrenaline, dance, and show merge to the maximum, Coco Bongo is the place you have to experience when you are in Cancun. Get ready to dance and laugh, and never want the night to end.
11. Taste Yucatecan cuisine 🌮
Tasting Yucatecan cuisine in Cancun is like taking a journey of flavors through the heart of the Mexican southeast without moving much. Although Cancun is famous for its fresh seafood and international cuisine, it is also one of the best places to experience traditional Yucatecan gastronomy, which has deep Maya roots and a unique personality: intense, spicy, and comforting.
One of the great classics is cochinita pibil, a delicacy of pork marinated in achiote, wrapped in banana leaves, and simmered until it falls apart on its own. You can order it in tacos, tortas, or served on a plate with pickled red onion and habanero sauce on the side (respectfully, of course, it stings with love... but it is so hot).
Another must is the pollo pibil, milder than the pork version but just as tasty, or the panuchos and salbutes: fried tortillas stuffed (or not) with black beans, lettuce, tomato, avocado, red onion, and meat on top. They are the kind of antojito you could eat non-stop and without guilt.
You can also try something more homemade like the relleno negro, which looks like a simple dish at first glance but is full of depth in flavor, thanks to its black recado of burnt chiles, or a lime soup, light, aromatic and perfect to start any meal with a very characteristic flavor of the region.
Places to eat Mexican food in Cancun include La Habichuela, Los de Pescado, El Pocito, and even some corners inside local markets (in downtown Cancun) where the seasoning feels like it's homemade.
12. Visit the ruins of Tulum 🏖️
This ancient Mayan archaeological site has something unique: it's situated right on the oceanfront, perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean. So, while you walk among ancient temples, you're also surrounded by palm trees, salty breezes, and a view that looks like something out of a postcard. The first thing that strikes you is how well-preserved the structures are. You can see the famous Castillo, which dominates the cliff and once served as a lighthouse for Mayan navigators. There is also the Temple of the Wind God and other ceremonial buildings surrounded by vegetation and iguanas sunbathing everywhere (seriously, they look like part of the tour).
The atmosphere is quiet, almost mystical. If you go early, you can tour the place with fewer people and with the golden morning light illuminating the ancient stones. And when you finish the tour comes the best part: you can go down to the beach just below the cliff and take a dip in those crystal-clear waters you saw from above. It is an experience of brutal contrast.
13. Relax day at a beach club🍹
A relaxing day at a beach club in Cancun is precisely what you imagine when you think of "total vacation mode." It's that perfect combination of a white sandy beach, turquoise sea, a comfortable chaise lounge, a cocktail in hand, and zero worries. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere speaks for itself: chill music, smiles, and a service that makes you feel like you don't have to do anything but enjoy. As you lay under an umbrella, you can order anything from fresh ceviche or freshly made fish tacos to a piña colada served directly on the fruit. Most clubs offer a full menu, a cocktail bar, and snacks, and some even include access to water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, or beachfront massages. There are options for all tastes. Mandala Beach has a livelier vibe, making it perfect for a night out with friends, where you can enjoy music and a party atmosphere. Coco's Beach Club, on the other hand, is a more relaxed setting, ideal for couples or those seeking to unwind. Best of all, you don't have to be a hotel guest to enjoy them. Many operate with a minimum consumption or a day pass, so you arrive, settle in, and let the Caribbean work its magic.
14. Jetski or speedboat tour 🚤
Doing a jet ski or speedboat tour in Cancun is one of those experiences that get your adrenaline pumping and soak up the Caribbean Sea... all at the same time. If you are looking for adventure and love the sea, this activity is a must. If you choose jetskiing, you drive yourself, which is part of the charm. You can go alone or with someone else and feel the freedom of gliding at full speed through the Nichupte lagoon or the open sea. It's a mix of total freedom and pure excitement. There are moments to go fast, make turns, jump a little with the waves, and others to stop, look around, and realize how amazing it is to be there. If you prefer something more stable but just as fun, speedboat tours are also perfect. They are usually guided, but you drive the boat yourself, following the group through canals surrounded by mangroves, across the lagoon to more open areas. The duration of these tours ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the option you choose, allowing you to easily fit them into your day without compromising your itinerary.
15. Explore Nichupté Lagoon by kayak or paddle board 🛶.
Exploring the Nichupte Lagoon by kayak or paddleboard is one of those quiet, authentic, and exceptional experiences that connect you with the most natural side of Cancun, the one that many tourists miss out on because they stay on the beach or in the comfort of their all-inclusive resorts. This lagoon is not just a simple body of water. It is a vast system of mangroves, hidden canals, and wildlife that stretches between the Hotel Zone and the city. And paddling through it, either in a kayak or on a paddle board, allows you to see Cancun from another perspective: quieter, wilder, more intimate. From the first moment you enter the water, you feel the change of pace. There's no car noise or club music, just the gentle sound of your paddle cutting through the water, birdsong, and, if you pay attention, even the rustle of the mangroves moving in the wind. If you go early in the morning or at sunset, the views are from another planet: golden skies, reflections on the water, and, sometimes, turtles or small crocodiles (yes, there are some, but don't worry, they are used to seeing humans and pose no danger if you visit the lagoon in a group). Some tours offer ecological excursions with explanations about the local flora and fauna, as well as sunset tours accompanied by snacks and drinks. Others are more flexible, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
16. Shopping at La Isla Shopping Village 🛍️
Shopping at Plaza la Isla is as relaxing and delightful an experience as enjoying a casual stroll. This open-air mall, located in the heart of Cancun's Hotel Zone, combines elegant boutiques with a vibrant atmosphere and spectacular views of the lagoon. Here, you will find well-known international brands, as well as local handicrafts, all mixed with art galleries and design stores. This perfect blend is ideal for finding everything from a light dress to accompany you at sunset to unique souvenirs made by Yucatecan artisans. As you walk around, you can't help but enjoy the energy in the air: from families strolling with children, couples pausing for a cold drink on the terrace, to travelers with bags in hand, the atmosphere is calm yet full of friendly life. If you suddenly get hungry, there are options to satisfy all cravings: cafes, restaurants overlooking the sea, artisanal ice cream parlors, and even themed food trucks add a unique touch to the experience. Before heading back, take a moment to visit the interactive aquarium inside the plaza, where you can feed stingrays, touch starfish, and learn about the region's marine ecosystem. It's a perfect bonus for those traveling with children or simply enjoying a stroll (and also for those traveling with kids).
17. Day at Isla Contoy (nature reserve) 🐦.
Exploring Isla Contoy in one day is an experience that feels like a short trip to a forgotten paradise. It is a natural sanctuary located in front of Cancun, protected as a National Park since 1998, where only up to 200 visitors are allowed per day, thereby preserving its serene and unspoiled character.
Upon arrival, you have approximately three hours on the island to walk along ecological trails guided by biologists and learn about mangroves, dunes, and local species, including more than 150 bird species, frigate birds, pelicans, cormorants, and sea turtles that nest on the beach.
It is essential to respect the environment:
It is forbidden to carry traditional sunscreen or products containing chemicals. It is recommended to use biodegradable sunscreen, wear light, long-sleeved clothing and hats, and apply mosquito repellent, as some trails can be infested with many insects.
A day at Isla Contoy is premium ecotourism: reef snorkeling, diving in a marine life and bird sanctuary, ecological hiking, and natural history, all in a protected environment where nature is the protagonist. Plus, you get the bonus of Isla Mujeres, making this excursion one of the best getaways to disconnect and reconnect with yourself (and nature).
18. Restaurants for romantic dinners in Cancun 🌃
Ilios Greek Estiatorio - Dinner with a Greek vibe and a lot of passion
This restaurant has quickly gained popularity not only for its food but for its enveloping atmosphere. With its dreamy Mediterranean design, dance shows, and dishes served with fire or Himalayan salt, Ilios is perfect for those seeking something more vibrant yet equally romantic. Its terrace, overlooking the lagoon, is ideal for sunset. If you book in advance, you can secure a table with a show included.
📍Zona Hotelera, Blvd. Kukulcan km 13.5
🕯️ Recommended for couples who want romance with style and energy.
Entre Muelles - Relaxed Waterfront Romance
This place is a well-kept secret for many travelers. It is more casual than others on this list but with much charm: tables facing the lagoon, rustic chic décor, warm lights, and delicious Mexican-Mediterranean cuisine. It's ideal for a quiet dinner, with the gentle swaying of the water and a relaxed atmosphere.
📍Zona Hotelera, Blvd Kukulcan km 3.5
🕯️ Recommended for an intimate date, away from the noise and close to the heart.
Taboo Cancun - For a sophisticated and sensual rendezvous
From the same group as Ilios, Taboo offers a "beach club by night" experience, featuring Mediterranean cuisine, impressive presentations, and a soft musical ambiance at the beginning that gradually intensifies towards the end of the night. If you want to dine and linger in style, you'll be in your element here.
📍Zona Hotelera, Km 13.5
It is recommended for couples who love visuals, enjoy trendy vibes, and appreciate good energy.
Cenacolo Zona Hotelera - Romantic Italy in the Caribbean
This Italian restaurant has that perfect warmth for a date. Handmade pasta, anexcellent wine list, aterrace overlooking the lagoon, and a service that takes care of every detail. It doesn't have a show, but it does have an elegant and quiet atmosphere that makes it perfect for talking, toasting, and enjoying.
📍Blvd Kukulcan km 13
Recommended for an elegant, unpretentious evening.
Puerto Madero - Argentine classic with a view and sails
It is a favorite of many travelers for its consistently good cuisine, cuts of meat, and fresh seafood. The ambiance on the terrace in the evening is ideal for a quiet but sophisticated evening.
📍Zona Hotelera, Km 14
Recommended for couples who love intense flavors in a well-kept environment.
Tora Cancun - Asian Romanticism by the Water
Modern Japanese fusion cuisine in a beautiful space overlooking the lagoon. Warm lighting, bamboo-inspired architecture, and a spectacular sushi menu. It's ideal to surprise your partner with a unique experience, one that is visually appealing and well thought out.
📍Blvd Kukulcan km 13.5
Recommended for: an elegant date with Asian flavors.
Tips for your ideal night
📅 Book in advance, especially for sunset or weekend dining.
🕰️ Ask for a table overlooking the lagoon or the sea; the atmosphere changes completely.
🍷 Take the opportunity to try local wines or mezcal cocktails if the place offers them.
🚕 Most are in the Hotel Zone, accessible by taxicab or transportation from your hotel.
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Do you already know Cancun? What would you add to the list? Please leave it in the comments! 👇
Published on Jul 09, 2025
