Cancun is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. You can relax, sunbathe and enjoy water activities such as diving, snorkeling and sailing. The region has the second largest barrier reef in the world. You can snorkel or dive and explore the incredible marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles and more. Cancun is close to important Mayan archaeological sites, such as Tulum and Chichen Itza. You can explore the ancient ruins, learn about the rich Mayan culture and marvel at the impressive architecture. Cancun offers a wide range of theme parks and exciting activities. You can visit parks like Xcaret or Xel-Ha, which combine adventure, culture and nature, or enjoy activities like zip-lining, boat rides or swimming with dolphins.
The climate in Cancun is generally warm and tropical throughout the year, with fairly constant temperatures due to its location on the Yucatan Peninsula.
These are just some of the tourist activities to do in Cancun. The combination of beautiful beaches, exciting activities, fascinating culture and lively nightlife make Cancun a popular destination in Mexico.
- Visit the West Coast National Park of Isla Mujeres, Punta Cancun and Punta Nizuc and admire its beautiful beaches and reefs.
- Take a boat tour of the Nichupté lagoon and explore the mangroves and canals of the Hotel Zone.
- Visit Tres Rios Mayan Park and enjoy activities such as snorkeling, zip lining and tubing.
- Take a bike ride along Kukulcan Boulevard and enjoy the scenery and sea breeze.
- Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the Riviera Maya and contemplate the beauty of the area from above.
- Visit Garrafon Natural Park on Isla Mujeres and enjoy water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking.
- Take an excursion to Holbox and Contoy islands to enjoy their beautiful beaches and bird watching.
- Visit the Mayan Museum of Cancun and learn about the history and culture of the ancient Mayan civilization.
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the sea in the Hotel Zone.
- Visit the Cozumel Reefs National Park and dive in its famous coral reefs.
- Participate in a swim with turtles experience in Akumal and observe these beautiful sea creatures up close.
- Visit Xoximilco Park and enjoy a traditional Mexican fiesta aboard a trajinera.
- Take an excursion to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and explore its mangroves, lagoons and cenotes.
- Take a visit to the Cancun Underwater Museum and immerse yourself in the art and marine life.
Cancun has a lot of places where you can enjoy authentic tacos al pastor, cochinita pibil tacos, seafood tacos and a variety of Mexican snacks such as quesadillas, sopes and tamales. It is also known for its lively nightlife. There are plenty of bars, discos and clubs offering live music. It is the perfect place for those looking for fun and nightly entertainment.
Bars:
- La Vaquita – A lively cow-themed bar offering live music and a great selection of drinks.
- Mandala – A famous nightclub with varied music and an excellent atmosphere.
- The City – One of the largest nightclubs in Latin America, with international DJs and theme parties.
- Palazzo – An elegant club with LED lights, electronic music and a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Dady’O – A nightclub with impressive light shows and renowned DJs.
- La Distileria – A bar specializing in tequila and mezcal, with a wide selection of drinks and cocktails.
- 11:11 Nightclub – An exclusive place with electronic music and sophisticated atmosphere.
- Mandala Beach Club – A beach club with pool and live DJ, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun.
Restaurants:
- Lorenzillo’s – A restaurant specializing in seafood and lobster, with a beautiful ocean view.
- Puerto Madero – Offers a selection of prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood.
- Harry’s Prime Steakhouse – Known for its delicious cuts of meat and elegant ambiance.
- La Habichuela – Serves traditional Mexican food in an authentic and cozy atmosphere.
- Hacienda Sisal – A charming place with Mexican cuisine and a wide variety of typical dishes.
- Casa Rolandi – An Italian cuisine restaurant specializing in lobster dishes.
- Lorenzillo’s Seafood & Grill – Another option to enjoy fresh seafood and lobster in a relaxed atmosphere.
- The Surfin Burrito – A surf style restaurant with delicious burritos and tacos.
- La Parrilla – An informal and authentic place to enjoy traditional Mexican food.
- Labná – Offers Yucatecan cuisine with unique and fresh flavors.
For several days, Cancun is filled with world-renowned music, dance and art exhibitions. These festivals bring together local and international artists offering live concerts, art exhibitions, theatrical performances and much more.
- Festival of Life and Death – An annual event held at Xcaret Park, with music, dances and performances related to the Day of the Dead.
- International Music Festival – A festival that brings together internationally renowned artists in different musical genres, such as jazz, classical and rock.
- International Gourmet Festival – An event that brings together world-renowned chefs and offers tastings, wine tastings and gourmet dinners.
- Caribbean Culture Festival – An annual celebration that highlights Caribbean traditions and culture through music, dance, art and gastronomy.
- Cancun Carnival – A colorful and lively party that celebrates the carnival tradition with parades, music and dancing.
- International Film and TV Festival – An event that showcases films and television productions from different countries.
- Cancun Jazz Festival – A jazz music festival featuring international and local artists.
- International Choir Festival – A series of choral concerts that brings together choirs from around the world.
- Festival del Mar – An event that promotes marine conservation through educational activities and exhibits.
- Noche de Museos – A monthly night in which Cancun’s museums open their doors for free and offer special activities.
The nearby magical towns near Cancun will transport you to an authentic and charming atmosphere, with cobblestone streets, old mansions and tree-lined plazas.
- Tulum: Located approximately 131 km south of Cancun, Tulum is famous for its Mayan ruins, stunning beaches and bohemian atmosphere.
- Valladolid: Approximately 160 km west of Cancún, Valladolid is known for its colonial architecture, beautiful plazas and its proximity to the archaeological site of Chichén Itzá.
- Bacalar: Located about 320 km south of Cancun, Bacalar is known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors” due to the various shades of blue in the water. It is a perfect place for water activities and relaxation.
- Izamal: Approximately 292 km west of Cancun, Izamal is known as “The Yellow City” due to the golden color of its colonial buildings. It is noted for its ancient pyramids and cobblestone streets.
- Holbox: Located about 150 km northwest of Cancun, Holbox is an island paradise famous for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and tranquil and relaxed atmosphere.
- Puerto Morelos: Just 36 km south of Cancun, Puerto Morelos is a picturesque coastal town that offers beautiful beaches, coral reefs for snorkeling and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Mahahual: Located about 365 km south of Cancun, Mahahual is a small coastal town known as the “Costa Maya”. It offers pristine beaches, reefs for snorkeling, and a variety of water activities.
- Felipe Carrillo Puerto: Approximately 151 km southwest of Cancun, Felipe Carrillo Puerto is a Mayan city that preserves its traditions and culture. It is an ideal place to learn about the life and customs of the Mayan community.
- Cozumel: Just 19 km southeast of Playa del Carmen and accessible by ferry from Cancun, Cozumel is famous for its beautiful coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
- Punta Allen: Located south of Tulum and accessible only by dirt road, Punta Allen is a small fishing village that offers secluded beaches, lagoons and great