Things to Do in Cancun

June 7, 2022


high resolution image of chichen itza

There's a reason why Cancun is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The beaches are beautiful, the weather is perfect, and there's plenty to do both during the day and at night. From swimming and sunbathing to shopping and partying, Cancun has something for everyone.

One of the best things about Cancun is its variety of activities. You can go swimming and snorkeling in the ocean, take a boat tour, visit a Mayan ruins site, go zip lining, or check out one of the local nightclubs. No matter what you're into, you can find something fun to do in Cancun.

The beaches alone make Cancun a great destination. With crystal-clear water and soft white sand, they're some of the most beautiful in the world. You can relax on the beach all day long, or take a swim in the ocean to cool off. If you're looking for a little more excitement, there's always something going on in Cancun's lively nightlife scene.

If you're looking for a vacation destination with plenty of vegan-friendly options, Cancun is a great choice.

chichen itza

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is a Mayan ruins site located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and for good reason - it's an amazing place to visit.

Chichen Itza was once a major city and cultural center for the Mayan people. Today, visitors can explore its many temples, palaces, and other structures. The most famous structure at Chichen Itza is the Temple of Kukulkan, a pyramid-shaped temple that is steeped in history and mythology.

If you're interested in ancient civilizations or Mayan culture, Chichen Itza is definitely worth a visit and is a Unesco world heritage site. The ruins are well-preserved and provide a fascinating glimpse into this lost civilization.

Is there vegan food at Chichen Itza?

At Chichen Itza, there is a restaurant with a buffet option that includes lots of vegan options.

photo of a cenote in cancun

Swimming In Cenotes

Cenotes are natural pools and caves that can be found all around the Yucatan Peninsula. There are many different cenotes near Cancun, and each one is unique. Some are open to the public, while others can only be accessed by swimming through caves. The Maya called them cenotes because it translates into "sacred well".

Check out the Cenote Route (Ruta De Cenotes). This scenic route is home to some of the best cenotes near Cancun, including Verde Lucero, La Noria, Selvatica, and Mojarras. So if you're looking for a day of adventure and exploration, be sure to check out the Ruta De Cenotes!

photo of a show at the coco bongo nightclub in cancun

Coco Bongo

Coco Bongo is one of the most popular nightclubs in Cancun, Mexico. It's known for its lively atmosphere, great music, and spectacular shows. If you're looking for a night of dancing and partying, Coco Bongo is the place to be.

The club has multiple floors, each with its own different vibe. The main floor is where most of the action happens, with a large dance floor and stage where live bands and DJs perform. There's also a VIP area if you want to enjoy the club in style.

If you're visiting Cancun for the Cancun nightlife, make sure to check out Coco Bongo! It's one of the best nightclubs in town and definitely worth a visit.

photo of the madonna wax figure at the cancun wax museum

Cancun Wax Museum

The Cancun Wax Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. The museum features life-size wax figures of some of the most famous people in history, including Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and Michael Jackson.

The museum also has a section devoted to Mexican culture, with figures of popular Mexican celebrities and historical figures. If you want to learn more about Mexico and its history, the Cancun Wax Museum is a great place to start.

photo of the cancun underwater museum

Cancun Underwater Museum

The Cancun Underwater Museum is a must-see for any scuba diving or snorkeling enthusiast. The museum features over 500 life-size sculptures that have been submerged in the ocean. The statues are designed to promote the growth of coral reefs, and they're also home to a variety of fish and other marine life.

The Cancun Underwater Museum is a great place to explore the underwater world without having to get wet. It's also a great way to learn about the importance of preserving the world's oceans and marine life.

Mercado 23

Mercado 23 is a large market located in the heart of Cancun. The market is filled with stalls selling everything from souvenirs to clothes to food.

If you're looking for a place to find great deals on Mexican crafts and goods, Mercado 23 is the place to go. You can bargain with the vendors for the best prices, and there's a good chance you'll find something unique that you can't find anywhere else.

Boulevard Kukulcan

Boulevard Kukulcan is the main street that runs through Cancun, Mexico. The boulevard is lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels. It's also home to some of Cancun's most popular attractions, including the Coco Bongo nightclub and the Cancun Wax Museum.

If you're looking for a place to do some shopping or grab a bite to eat, Boulevard Kukulcan is the place to be. There's something for everyone on this busy street, and it's worth a visit.

photo of a lucha libre show in cancun

Lucha Libre Show

Lucha Libre is a popular form of Mexican wrestling. It's known for its flashy costumes, high-flying acrobatics, and over-the-top theatrics.

If you want to experience something truly unique, check out a Lucha Libre show. These shows are always entertaining, and they're a great way to learn about Mexican culture.

There are several Lucha Libre shows in Cancun, so be sure to check one out if you're looking for traditional things to do in Cancun while you're in town!

photo of the ruins at Zona Arqueologica El Rey

Zona Arqueologica El Rey

Zona Arqueologica El Rey is an archaeological site that is home to the ruins of an ancient Mayan city. The site includes several pyramids, temples, and palaces.

If you're interested in learning about the Maya and Maya ruins, Zona Arqueologica El Rey is a great place to start. The site is well-preserved and provides a great insight into the Maya civilization.

The beauty of this site is that it's right in the Hotel Zone, so you don't have to travel far.

woman snorkeling in cancun

Snorkeling

Cancun is home to some of the best snorkeling in the world. The clear waters and beautiful reefs make it a paradise for any snorkeling enthusiast.

There are several snorkeling spots around Cancun, but one of the best is Playa Delfines. This beach is known for its clear water and abundance of fish.

tulum ruins

Tulum

Tulum is an ancient Maya city that is located about an hour south of Cancun. The city is home to a number of well-preserved Maya ruins, including a castle that overlooks the ocean.

If you're looking for a day trip from Cancun, Tulum is a great option. The site is fascinating and provides a great insight into the Maya civilization.

Plus, the drive down the coast is beautiful, and you can stop at several beaches along the way.

Is there vegan food at the ruins in Tulum?

Like Chichen Itza, there is a restaurant with a buffet option that has many vegan options.

photo of the pink water at Las Coloradas

Visit Las Coloradas

Las Coloradas is a small town located on the Yucatan Peninsula. The town is home to a pink lake that is truly a sight to behold, but the real stars of the show are the wild flamingos. These beautiful birds can be seen wading in the waters or feeding on the banks of the lake.

If you're looking for a place to take some unique photos, Las Coloradas is the place to go. The pink waters of the lake make for some stunning pictures, and it's a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

coba ruins

Coba

Coba is one of the most popular archaeological sites in Mexico. It is located in the state of Quintana Roo, near the town of Tulum. The site consists of a large pyramid, a smaller pyramid, and a number of temples and other structures. Coba is believed to have been inhabited by the Maya people from around 600 AD to 900 AD.

aerial view of isla mujeres

Isla Mujeres

Just a short ferry ride from Cancun is the idyllic Isla Mujeres. This small island is home to white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and an abundance of activities to keep visitors busy. Popular pursuits on Isla Mujeres include swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, fishing, and kayaking. In addition, the island is also home to a few Mayan ruins which can be explored.

man riding a jet ski in cancun

Jet Skiing

If you're looking for an adrenaline rush while in Cancun, jet skiing is a great option. There are many places in Cancun that offer jet-skiing, so finding a rental shouldn't be difficult. Jet skiing is a lot of fun, but it can also be dangerous, so make sure to take all necessary precautions before getting on the water.

Temazcal Ceremony

A Temazcal ceremony is a traditional Mexican steam bath. The ceremony is based on ancient Maya and Aztec rituals and is said to have healing properties.

If you're interested in experiencing something truly unique, a Temazcal ceremony is definitely worth checking out. These ceremonies can be found at many resorts and spas around Cancun.

playa del carmen beach

Visit Cancun’s Best Beaches

If you’re looking for a beach vacation, Cancun is the place to be. With its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Cancun offers some of the best beaches in the world. Here are some of the best beaches in Cancun:

1. Playa Del Carmen – This beach is located in the heart of Cancun, Mexico and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its wide variety of restaurants and bars, as well as its close proximity to downtown, Playa Del Carmen is a can’t-miss stop on your visit to Cancun.

2. Isla Mujeres – This small island located just off the coast of Cancun is a paradise for beach lovers. With its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, Isla Mujeres offers some of the best beaches in the area.

3. Akumal Beach – This beach is known for its wonderful snorkeling opportunities. If you’re looking to explore the beauty of the Caribbean Sea, Akumal Beach is a must-visit destination.

4. Xel-Ha Beach – This beach is located in a natural park and is known for its clear turquoise waters. Xel-Ha Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

5. Puerto Morelos – This small town located just south of Cancun is home to some of the best beaches in the area. With its quiet atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Puerto Morelos is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Cancun.

Cancun Scenic Tower

For a bird’s eye view of Cancun, Mexico head to the Cancun Scenic Tower. This tower is located in the heart of Cancun and offers panoramic views of the city. The tower is also home to a restaurant and bar, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the stunning views.

aerial view of the nichupte lagoon in cancun

Kayaking in Nichupte Lagoon

Nichupte Lagoon is a large lagoon located in Cancun. The lagoon is home to a variety of wildlife, including turtles, fish, and birds.

Kayaking is a great way to explore the lagoon and its many inhabitants. Many tour companies offer kayaking tours of the lagoon.

photo of xavage park

Xavage Park

Xavage Park is an adventure park located in Cancun, Mexico. The park offers a variety of activities, such as zip-lining, ATV riding, and rock climbing.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, Xavage Park is the place for you.

El Parque de las Palapas

El Parque de las Palapas is a park located in the heart of Cancun. The park is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a playground and a basketball court.

El Parque de las Palapas is a great place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of Cancun.

Garrafon Natural Reef Park

Garrafon Natural Reef Park is a nature park located on Isla Mujeres. The park offers a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including iguanas, birds, and fish.

Lizard (and Crocodile!) Spotting

Cancun is home to a variety of lizards, including iguanas and geckos. These lizards can be spotted in many places around Cancun, Mexico, such as in the trees, on the beach, and in parks.

One of our favorite things to do in Cancun to pass the time while walking from one place to another in Cancun was to keep an eye out at the side of the sidewalks for lizards. We even spotted baby crocodiles in the Nichupte lagoon from the sidewalk.

Scuba Diving

Cancun is home to some of the best scuba diving in the world. The clear turquoise waters offer visibility of up to 100 feet, making it a great place to see a variety of marine life.

There are many great scuba diving spots in Cancun, Mexico, but some of the best include the Nichupte Lagoon and Punta Nizuc. The Nichupte Lagoon is a large lagoon located in the northeast of Cancun, and it offers excellent diving conditions, with plenty of coral reefs and marine life to see.

Punta Nizuc is located on the southern tip of Cancun and is home to some of the most impressive coral formations in the area. With crystal-clear water and a wide variety of marine life, Punta Nizuc is a must-see for any scuba enthusiast.

Visit The Sea Turtles

Cancun is home to a variety of sea turtles, including the loggerhead turtle, the green turtle, and the hawksbill turtle. These turtles can be found nesting on the beaches of Cancun from May to September.

If you’re lucky, you may even spot a turtle while swimming in the waters off Cancun, Mexico.

However, the best way to see these turtles is to visit one of the turtle sanctuaries in Cancun. The Garrafon Natural Reef Park and the Puerto Morelos National Marine Park are both home to turtle sanctuaries where you can learn about these amazing creatures and even swim with them.

El Meco Archaeological Site

El Meco is an archaeological site located on the outskirts of Cancun. It's a small site, but it's well-maintained and has a tall pyramid. You can get there by car, taxi, or minivan. There are three plazas at the core of the site, and several structures/mounds on private property nearby. There's also a white stone road coming in from the southwest.

photo of a group of people stand up paddleboarding in cancun

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Cancun is a great place to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). With its calm waters and beautiful scenery, SUP is a great way to explore Cancun.

There are many places to rent SUP boards in Cancun, such as at the marina or at one of the many hotels along the beach.

Jetpack Adventures

One of the newest and most popular things to do in Cancun is jetpack adventures. This activity allows you to fly high above the water while strapped to a jetpack.

Jetpack adventures can be found at a few different locations in Cancun, Mexico, such as at the Playa Delfines and Puerto Morelos.

Cancun Sign

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Cancun is the Cancun sign. This giant sign can be found on Boulevard Kukulkan, and it’s a great place to take photos.

Explore Downtown Cancun

Downtown Cancun is the perfect place to experience the local culture. There are many great shops and restaurants, as well as a few museums.

Some of the best places to visit in downtown Cancun include the Mercado 23, the Plaza de Toros, and the Museum of Popular Mexican Art.

Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy is an uninhabited island located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Cancun. Despite its small size, the island is home to a variety of wildlife, including over 150 species of birds.

Isla Contoy is a protected national park, and it’s only accessible by boat. There are a few different tour companies that offer day trips to the island, and they can be booked through most hotels in Cancun.

Parasailing

Cancun is a hotspot for adventure seekers looking to explore everything from the ocean depths to the skies above. If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, one of the best things to do in Cancun is parasailing. Soar high above the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, taking in views of Cancun's hotel zone, Nichupté Lagoon, and Isla Mujeres. It's an experience you'll never forget.

Play Golf

Cancun is a golfer's paradise with over 15 golf courses to choose from! There are courses for all levels of play, many with interesting and challenging designs incorporating cenotes, jungles, mangroves, lagoons, sand dunes, and Mayan ruins.

The Pok Ta Pok course is one of the most popular in the area - located in the heart of the Hotel Zone, it has 18 holes, a driving range, and practice putting greens.

Bring your clubs, as playing golf is one of the most popular things to do in Cancun.

Take a Mexican Cooking Class

If you love Mexican food, then one of the best things to do in Cancun is to take a Mexican cooking class.

Most classes include a trip to the market to buy fresh ingredients, as well as a visit to a local home or restaurant kitchen.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a place to vacation that has it all, Cancun is the perfect spot. From ancient Maya ruins and world-class golf courses to stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, there's something for everyone in this Mexican paradise.