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What to do in Cancun?

Cancun is a versatile destination that can offer you activities for any time of the day and any type of trip. 

Its beaches are internationally recognized for their beauty and blue tones. Its nature and atmosphere make Cancun a vibrant destination, a favorite of national and international tourism.

In this guide we list ideas of activities and places to visit during your trip that we hope will maximize your experience.

 🚘 Rent a car in Cancun, Quintana Roo

 

Get to know the best beaches in Cancun

Cancun's beaches are nationally and internationally recognized for their beautiful blue tones, sand that looks like foam and calm waves. Here we list some of the favorites for tourists and locals:

 

Lobster Beach

The favorite beach of locals and tourists. It is shallow, perfect if you are traveling with children.

Playa Langosta Cancún - La mejor playa para toda la familia

 

Delfines Beach

Known for its panoramic view, unparalleled blue tones and high waves. 

Visita Playa Delfines en Zona Hotelera - Tours & Actividades | Expedia.mx

 

Tortugas Beach

Ideal for water sports and has a vibrant atmosphere.

Playa Tortugas Cancún - Todo lo que debes saber - Info Quintana Roo

 

Chac Mool Beach

A quiet beach near the Hotel Zone.

Praia Chac Mool em Cancún - Dicas de Cancún

 

Caracol Beach

It stands out for its crystal clear waters, which are kept very clean.

 Playa Caracol Cancún - Tequila Transfers

 

Have fun in its water parks and aquariums

With diverse options for adventure, relaxation and nature, Cancun's water parks and aquariums offer activities for all tastes. Get to know the main water parks in Cancun:

 

Xel-Há

A natural park with floating rivers, snorkeling and playgrounds.

Xelha Todo Incluido

 

Cenote Xcaret

Ideal for swimming and exploring with the family in a natural environment.

Xibalbá by Xcaret | Nature Reserve in Yucatán

 

Cancun Interactive Aquarium

Perfect for children who love marine life. There are interactive exhibits and activities.

 Qué incluye mi entrada al Acuario Interactivo de Cancún?

 

Selvatica Adventure Park

Offers zip lines, vehicle circuits and other exciting activities.

 Cómo llegar a Selvatica? - El mejor parque de aventura extrema

 

Visit to Xcaret

This eco-archeological park offers nightly shows and activities that can be very romantic.

 Xcaret Park: Ultimate All-Inclusive Riviera Maya Escape

 

Visit its natural reserves

Take advantage of your trip to Cancun and get in touch with nature. Although its beaches are beautiful, Cancun and its surroundings have several natural points of high importance for the ecosystem and unparalleled beauty.

 

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

A World Heritage site with impressive biodiversity.

2 h 15 min

 Sian Ka'an: qué es, dónde está, cómo llegar y más. Guía completa

 

Puerto Morelos Reef National Park

A protected area ideal for snorkeling.

41 min

Tour de snorkel en el arrecife de Puerto Morelos con almuerzo en el club de  playa 2024 - Cancún

 

Love Lagoon

Framed among mangroves, this lagoon is part of the Nichupté lagoon. It is a secret paradise, considered a natural jewel of Cancun. Its waters change color due to the eyes of water, sometimes it looks blue, sometimes brown, green, sometimes transparent. 

18 min

Descubre La Laguna Del Amor, Un Escape Natural En Cancún

 

Your opportunity to practice water activities

Because of its tranquility and natural beauty, Cancun's beaches are perfect for a variety of water activities.

 

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The coral reefs near Cancun are ideal for these activities.

Kit Snorkeling Anak Masker Snorkel SUBEA 100 Abu-abu

 

Kayak y Paddleboarding

Many places offer equipment rental.

 8 Best Paddle Board And Kayak Combos With Buying Guide - Gili Sports EU

 

Water Sports

Try jet skiing, parasailing or windsurfing.

Historia del windsurf: Orígen y evolución

 

What to eat in Cancun?

In Cancun there is something to eat for every taste and budget, whether you are craving something local or gourmet, you are sure to find a wide and delicious variety to satisfy your cravings.

 

Fresh Seafood

Try the ceviches and fish tacos at local restaurants.

Pescados y mariscos archivos - Fred's Restaurant Cancún - Grupo Anderson's

 

Traditional Mexican Cuisine

Don't miss the typical dishes like cochinita pibil and mole.

 Cochinita Pibil, la estrella de la cocina yucateca | Secretaría de Turismo  | Gobierno | gob.mx

 

International Cuisine

Cancun has a variety of options, from Italian cuisine to sushi.

LOS 10 MEJORES sushi en Cancún - actualizado en agosto de 2024 - Tripadvisor

 

Local Markets

Market 28 is a good place to try local food and buy souvenirs.

Mercado 28 Cancún: Local y artesano - Info Quintana Roo

 

Visit its archaeological sites

Although it is not one of the best known destinations for its archeological sites, Cancun offers several points that were of great importance in the Mayan culture:

 

Ruinas de Tulum

An impressive archaeological site overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Las 4 Ruinas Mayas de Tulum más espectaculares que debes visitar!

 

Coba

Mayan ruins that you can explore by bicycle or on a tricycle tour.

Zona Arqueológica de Cobá | Aquatours

 

Xaman Há

One of the first Mayan settlements. The ruins of this archaeological site are located in the middle of the jungle.  Within this installation are 19 buildings that served as religious site where there are paintings and murals typical of the Mayan civilization.

Xaman-Há Archives - Royal Holiday Travel

 

El Rey

A small archaeological zone, it is located very close to Delfines beach in the hotel zone. As a Mayan settlement it was dedicated to maritime trade and fishing activities.

Zona Arqueológica El Rey is one of the very best things to do in Cancún

 

Cost per day for tourists in Cancun

The budget for a vacation in Cancun can be very varied, and it totally depends on the activities you do, your consumption, lodging and transportation. Here are some options to give you an idea of how to budget your trip.

 

Low Budget

$50 - $100 USD. You can stay in budget hotels and eat at local food stalls.

 

Medium Budget

$100 - $200 USD. Opt for 3 to 4 star hotels and mid-range restaurants.

 

High Budget

$200 - $400 USD or more. Luxury accommodations, meals at high-end restaurants and exclusive activities.

 

Enjoy your trip to Cancun, Mexico

We hope this guide will help you plan your visit to Cancun and Quintana Roo. Enjoy your trip! Remember to be environmentally responsible during your trip to help preserve nature and the beauty of the city.

🚘 Rent a car in Cancun, Quintana Roo