Cancun in the Riviera Maya has become a highly desirable tourist destination, surpassing the typical beach vacation. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by this reputation, Cancun planned for it. The Hotel Zone was designed to offer a blend of luxury and exceptional service, with a focus on creating memorable experiences for visitors.
You have a wide selection of all-inclusive resorts and waterfront hotels to choose from, allowing you to enjoy a private beach setting. While it is a perfect place to unwind and relax, there are also numerous enjoyable activities in Cancun to keep you entertained. For more information on where to stay in Cancun, check out our article.
23. Interactive Aquarium
At the La Isla Shopping Village, the Interactive Aquarium offers a unique experience with sea creatures. Instead of just looking at them from afar, you can actually swim with them.
One exciting activity is the Aquarium Trek. You wear a special helmet and dive into the water for half an hour. Fish and rays surround you, and you can even feed them.
You can also swim with dolphins and enjoy the Interactive Zone, where kids can learn about nature through fun exhibits.
22. Explore Downtown Cancun
Avenida Kukulkan is the main road in the Hotel Zone, but Avenida Tulum is the heart of Downtown Cancun. Unlike the touristy areas, Downtown offers a more local experience of Cancun. Instead of all-inclusive resorts, this area is filled with markets, monuments, food, and culture. Exploring Avenida Tulum is a great way to see all of these aspects.
Prepare for a day of observing people, trying out authentic restaurants, and visiting important landmarks. Some notable landmarks include Fuente de Ceviche sculpture park, government buildings, and the Monumento a la Historia. Don’t forget to indulge in plenty of tacos along the way and take a break at Parque Las Palapas.
21. Xoximilco Cancun
Xoximilco Cancun is a unique theme park in the Yucatan region. Unlike other parks that focus on nature, this one celebrates food and culture. It’s not far from Cancun and took inspiration from Xochimilco in Mexico City.
The park has canals that lead to different islands. These islands used to be part of a historical city. You can explore each island by riding on a traditional boat called a trajinera.
As you glide along the canals, you’ll hear mariachi music in the air. The boat will stop at floating vendors offering authentic food, tequila, and beer.
20. Swim with Dolphins
In Cancun, there are many places where you can swim with dolphins. One of these places is the Interactive Aquarium, but if you want the best experience, it is recommended to visit Delphinus. Delphinus offers a variety of options to cater to different needs, including activities for couples, families, and even a one-on-one swim.
They have several locations, most of which are either in or near the Hotel Zone. One popular choice is Playa Mujeres, where you can swim with dolphins in a sanctuary located in the Caribbean Sea. This unique sanctuary is the only one of its kind worldwide that also connects to a beach. Other options for swimming with dolphins include visiting Xel-Ha Park or going to Puerto Morelos.
19. Museo Subacuatico de Arte
The Museo Subacuatico de Arte (MUSA) is located near Isla Mujeres, off the southern tip. Unlike traditional art museums, this museum is unique because all its exhibits can be found underwater. The main goal of MUSA is to protect the beautiful reefs in Cancun, and it now showcases more than 500 art pieces.
Visitors can enjoy the museum’s collection either from a glass-bottom boat or by going on a scuba diving adventure. Some of the popular attractions include a submerged VW Beetle, eerie statues emerging from the ground, the Time Bomb, and the Last Supper. As time passes, the statues become covered in coral, attracting more marine life to the museum.
18. Playa Delfines
Playa Delfines is a beautiful beach located in the southern part of the Hotel Zone. Unlike the busy streets near Punta Cancun, this beach is not crowded with resorts, which makes it a peaceful place to visit. The shoreline is made of golden sand and stretches along the coast effortlessly.
The sea is also quite shallow, allowing visitors to sit and relax as they watch the water come in and out. If you need a break, you can go to the palapas, where you can enjoy a cocktail while being by the waterfront. Playa Delfines offers more than just sun, sand, and the Caribbean Sea.
It is also famous for its Instagram-worthy location, thanks to the well-known Cancun sign. So, don’t forget to take a picture in front of the colorful sign and embrace your tourist side while visiting this beach.
17. La Isla Shopping Village
La Isla Shopping Village is located in the middle of the Hotel Zone on a man-made island. Its main purpose is to serve as a large mall where you can find local boutiques, national brands, and international clothing lines.
This mall is the largest one in Cancun, making it a great place to go if you’re in need of some retail therapy or want a break from the sun. You can spend the whole day moving from one store to another, browsing and buying whatever catches your eye.
Additionally, there are various dining options available, featuring both Mexican and international cuisine, as well as souvenir stores to add some variety. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the Ferris wheel and the Interactive Aquarium located in the village.
16. Torre Escenica
In Xcaret Park, there is a tall tower called Torre Escenica that is a modern and famous sight in Cancun. It stands at a height of 360 feet and provides amazing views of the city and the stunning coastline. There are two ways to reach the top of the tower. If you prefer exercise, you can climb up the steep staircase at your own pace.
But if you want an easier option, there is a glass elevator that takes you up. As the elevator goes from the bottom to the top, it rotates slowly, allowing you to enjoy a complete view of 360 degrees that keeps getting better with every second.
If you are staying in the northern part of the Hotel Zone, you will have a beautiful night view of the tower. After sunset, it lights up, creating the shape of a vibrant flower.
15. Xcaret Park
In Riviera Maya, there are several eco theme parks that combine elements of nature and water parks. Xcaret Park is the most popular one and offers a wide range of water and jungle activities. It’s advisable to obtain a map before going there to plan your day effectively because there are so many options available that it can be overwhelming.
One activity you shouldn’t miss is floating along the park’s underground rivers, where you can either relax or snorkel while your belongings conveniently wait for you at the end. After that, you can explore other attractions like the bird sanctuary, the coral reef aquarium, and Monkey Island. Many of these attractions can be found along the Tropical Jungle Trail.
14. Coco Bongo Cancun
The northern Hotel Zone, also known as Punta Cancun, is where the exciting nightlife of the coastal city takes place. It is a place where the nights begin early and continue until the early hours of the morning. The highlight of Punta Cancun’s nightlife is Coco Bongo Cancun, which is not your ordinary nightclub.
Instead, it is a unique live performance venue that offers a combination of a circus and a club. Visitors can experience an exhilarating night filled with acrobatics, live music, bubbles, and confetti. Each night at Coco Bongo is different from the last, providing an ever-changing experience.
You can spend your time dancing to the energetic music and being amazed by the performances that will leave you speechless.
13. Chichen Itza
If you’re in Cancun, don’t miss out on a day trip to Chichen Itza, which is about three hours to the west. It’s a famous archaeological site that will give you a great understanding of the region’s history. Get ready to start early and take a road trip through beautiful countryside to reach this ancient site.
Chichen Itza has been around for a long time, with some buildings dating back to the 5th century. It’s a favorite spot for archaeologists because it represents different periods of Mayan history. The highlight of your visit will be the stunning pyramid known as the Temple of Kukulkan.
This enormous structure is almost 100 feet tall and has nine levels that symbolize different parts of heaven. It’s amazing to see! The whole site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it has been preserved very well. Your visit to Chichen Itza will definitely be a memorable one.
12. Playa Marlin
Cancun has many beachfront resorts where guests can enjoy a private beach experience, but there are also some great public beaches in town. Playa Marlin is one of them. It is located just south of the El Rey Ruins and offers a peaceful area with golden sand.
Visitors can easily rent beach equipment like umbrellas and chairs and then find their own spot on the beach. After relaxing under the warm sun, they can explore the beautiful turquoise Caribbean Sea and have fun in the waves.
Playa Marlin also provides restrooms and outdoor showers for convenience, allowing visitors to freshen up before heading to one of the nearby restaurants.
11. El Rey Ruins
If you are staying in the Hotel Zone in Cancun, you can easily visit the El Rey Ruins, which is a famous archaeological site. It is located in the southern end, just a few steps away from Playa Delfines. These ruins have a long history, dating back to the middle of the 3rd century.
There are more than 45 buildings at this Mayan complex, and you can even see the remains of a magnificent pyramid. The site was actually named after a mask that was found here, which is believed to have been dedicated to the sun god. In addition to the pyramid, there are also interesting tombs from the 10th century.
The El Rey Ruins also have two important terraces, one used as a marketplace in the past and the other for ceremonies.
10. Mercado 28
If you want to experience modern life in Cancun, you should visit the downtown area and check out Mercado 28. This bustling market is the largest in town and has over 600 vendors selling all kinds of things. To get there from the Hotel Zone, you can take a bus that runs frequently and only costs around a dollar.
Once you arrive at the market, you can explore a wide variety of handmade goods, textiles, and clothing. Just be prepared to negotiate prices with the vendors. Mercado 28 is also a great place to try some delicious local food at a much cheaper price than in the Hotel Zone.
9. Isla Contoy
Isla Contoy, located north of Cancun, is a beautiful island that remains untouched. The beaches here are pristine and free from any signs of human presence. You can enjoy a peaceful day at the secluded beaches, surrounded by stunning colors that will stay in your memory. However, the most fascinating aspect of Isla Contoy is its diverse wildlife.
The island serves as a nesting spot for four different types of sea turtles. In addition, there is a lush forest on the island, providing a safe haven for numerous bird species. More than 100 bird species can be seen flying around in the canopy.
Once you have explored the island, put on your snorkeling gear to uncover the treasures beneath the ocean’s surface.
8. Snorkel with Whale Sharks
Whale sharks are incredibly impressive animals that can weigh up to 20 tons and grow up to 40 feet in length. During the summer, a significant number of these migrating whale sharks can be found near the Yucatan Peninsula, and Cancun is a great starting point to witness them.
These majestic creatures are officially endangered, which adds to the significance of the experience. From June to September, regular tours depart from Cancun and Isla Mujeres.
When you join a tour, you’ll be provided with snorkel gear and the group will be split into different “swimming shifts” to ensure that the number of people in the water at any given time is limited. This approach allows for a more personal and enjoyable swimming experience with the whale sharks, without causing them any intimidation.
7. Parque de las Palapas
Located just a few steps away from the busy Avenida Tulum, Parque de las Palapas is a paved park where locals gather and experience the essence of their culture. The park serves as a meeting spot for Cancun residents, who can enjoy exploring the plaza filled with various handmade items being sold by vendors.
They can then indulge in delicious street food options like churros, tacos, and marquesitas. The park creates a delightful ambiance with live music and regular performances taking place on its stage. Children can have fun at the playground, ride the carousel, or even rent small electric cars to cruise around on.
From the park, one can also embark on a stroll along the renowned avenue to discover many significant landmarks of Cancun.
6. Playa Langosta
Playa Langosta is a beautiful beach in Cancun, located between downtown and the Hotel Zone. It has a long stretch of snow-like sand that smoothly merges with the light blue sea. The waves in this area are gentle, making it a perfect spot for floating and enjoying the sky.
Playa Langosta is a popular choice for families due to its pleasant conditions and amenities such as a playground, restrooms, showers, and various local restaurants. Unlike Playa Mujeres or the Hotel Zone, Playa Langosta is not usually crowded, allowing visitors to have more space on the beach. This beach is well-loved by locals and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
5. Mayan Museum of Cancun
The Mayan Museum of Cancun has a large collection of artifacts from different archaeological sites in Mexico. It gives us a glimpse into the past. The museum has three main exhibition halls where you can see more than 400 interesting relics. One highlight of the museum is its collection from the famous Chichen Itza site.
Although it’s amazing to see the historic complex in person, the museum helps provide more context about this important time period. After visiting the museum, you can follow a walking trail that leads to the nearby San Miguelito Archaeological Site. These Mayan ruins are a nice addition to the indoor museum experience.
4. Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island located eight miles away from the mainland, which is quieter compared to Cancun. Visitors can easily reach the island by taking a 20-minute ferry ride from the downtown port. It is a delightful place to stay, as there are various charming hotels and resorts suitable for families.
Despite its small size of less than four miles long, the entire island can be explored quickly by renting a golf cart. Some must-visit spots include the stunning western beaches, such as Playa Norte, famous for its crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand.
Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy snorkeling at Garraton Natural Reef Park, known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. Lastly, you can relax at one of the many casual oceanfront bars and witness the beautiful sunset over Downtown Cancun.
3. Explore Cancun’s Hotel Zone
The Hotel Zone in Cancun is located in the heart of the tourist district and offers everything travelers need in a convenient location. It is easily accessible from Cancun International Airport and is home to numerous hotels and all-inclusive resorts, making it a hassle-free destination for vacationers.
The zone stretches along a thin island that is shaped like the number 7 and is only a short distance from downtown. Avenida Kukulkan is the main road that runs through the district, connecting the south, middle, and north zones. In addition to the many restaurants, bars, and beaches available, there are also other attractions in this area.
Guests can enjoy shopping at La Isla Shopping Village, visiting the Mayan Museum, and playing golf at Iberostar.
2. Playa Tortugas
Playa Tortugas is a well-liked beach situated between Downtown Cancun and the heart of the Hotel Zone. It is surrounded by large resorts and offers various amenities on-site. This beach is particularly suitable for families with young children who want to have a fun day by the water.
Unlike the windier eastern coast of Cancun, the beaches in this area are more protected due to the presence of Isla Mujeres. This barrier helps to reduce strong waves and winds. The swimming experience here is enjoyable, especially with the presence of shallow areas. It is no wonder that both locals and tourists appreciate this beach.
Additionally, there are restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a meal or have sunset drinks just a short walk away from the shoreline. People visiting the beach can also participate in water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.
1. Cenote Azul
If you head south from Playa Del Carmen, you’ll find a must-visit place called Cenote Azul. It takes about 90 minutes to drive there along the Yucatan Peninsula. Once you arrive, you’ll have an amazing view of one of the best cenotes in the area. A cenote is a type of cave or chamber that lies underground.
The water in this cenote flows through limestone rocks, creating a beautiful setting for swimming. The light reflects off the cave walls and the crystal-clear water, making it really picturesque. Cenote Azul is especially unique because it has a collapsed cave, which creates a natural swimming pool.
There are boardwalks that guide you along the water’s edge, and the inviting jade-blue water will tempt you to take a dive. To avoid the crowd, it’s best to arrive early in the day before it gets too busy.
