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Top things to do in Cancun: Adventure, culture, food, and fun
Traveling to Mexico in 2025? Discover 24 top things to do in Cancun and start planning your perfect itinerary today.
Cancun is one of the most-visited beach destinations in the world, and it’s no surprise why. You’ve got miles of uninterrupted coastline, ancient ruins that go back several hundred centuries, endless water activities, and an electric nightlife scene.
The question is never what to do in Cancun, but what to do first and how to fit everything important on your itinerary.
Our list of the 24 best things to do in Cancun, Mexico, will help you plan a trip to remember.
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Visit the best beaches in Cancun
With miles of powdered coral sand, clear turquoise waters, and world-class resorts, Cancun’s beaches are among the best in the world. If you’re visiting, here are four must-visit beaches.
Keep in mind that many beaches face seasonal seaweed (sargassum) issues, which can release a foul odor and irritate the respiratory system. Check daily warnings, especially during seaweed season (April to October).
Playa Delfines
Known as The Dolphin Beach, Playa Delfines is a local favorite. One of the only beaches without high-rise hotels on its shoreline, its elevated position offers incredible Caribbean Sea views. This is why it’s also called El Mirador (Lookout Point).
Free amenities include public restrooms, lifeguards, thatch-roofed palapas, and a playground. While there are no snack bars, vendors sell treats like churros and mango-on-a-stick.
Across the street, explore El Rey, an ancient archaeological site offering a glimpse into Cancun’s rich history.
Location: It’s 10 miles from downtown Cancun, at Punta Nizuc, Blvd. Kukulcan 17, Hotel Zone.
Playa Tortugas
Playa Tortugas is a favorite among both families and the party crowd. While the gentle waves make it ideal for young children to swim, the nightlife offers fun for adults seeking entertainment.
The pier at Playa Tortugas is a great spot to dive into the sea or take photos of the Cancun sunset. Located near the Cancun Convention Center, the beach has several restaurants and bars.
Lifeguards are on duty from 8 AM to 5 PM, and facilities include restrooms, showers, and volleyball courts. There are no palapas for shade, but you can rent chairs and umbrellas.
Location: On Kukulcan Blvd., Hotel Zone — around two miles from downtown Cancun.
Playa Langosta
Playa Langosta, or Lobster Beach, is located on the northern end of the Hotel Zone. Its calm waves are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and other family-friendly water activities, though it can get crowded during the weekend and peak seasons.
It’s got all the basic amenities, and there are plenty of restaurants nearby. Playa Langosta also runs a ferry service to Isla Mujeres — a beautiful island with stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and Mayan ruins.
Just half a mile from the beach is Float Fun Cancun, an inflated water park with trampolines, bridges, swings, and climbing walls. It’s around $15 USD for one hour, but they have full-day packages as well.
Location: On Kukulcan Blvd., Hotel Zone — around 4 miles from downtown Cancun.
Playa Chac Mool
Playa Chac Mool is a top spot in Cancun for water sports. You can rent equipment like jet skis, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear from vendors near the beach.
For beginners looking to learn surfing, 360 Surf School Cancun offers 90-minute lessons for around $75. A bit further away, Good Vibes Surf School provides both surfing and stand-up paddleboarding lessons.
Location: At Km 10 of Kukulkan Blvd., directly across from the Mayan Monkey Hostel and about 5 miles from downtown Cancun.
Explore the Mayan ruins near Cancun
The Mayan civilization shaped much of Mesoamerican history, from astronomy to agriculture. Visiting the ruins near Cancun is a great way to admire these architectural marvels and connect with their enduring legacy.
Explore intricate hieroglyphs that once recorded Mayan history and gain a deeper understanding of their complex ceremonies and beliefs.
Chichen Itzá
Located on the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichen Itzá is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
As a popular tourist destination, it can get crowded, so plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
For photographers, note that drones are prohibited, and you might need a special permit for professional photography equipment.
The most iconic structure at Chichen Itzá is El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán), a step pyramid that doubles as a calendar.
Each of its four staircases has 91 steps, totaling 364. Adding the temple platform at the top brings the total to 365, representing the days of the solar year.
During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the descending shadow of the pyramid creates the illusion of a feathered serpent (Kukulcán) slithering down the staircase.
Other highlights to explore include:
- Cenote Sagrado: A sacred natural sinkhole once used for sacrificial offerings.
- Ball Court: Where Mayans played a ceremonial ball game known as Ullamaliztli (pok-a-tok).
If you can, stay for the Chichen Itzá Night Show (around 8:45 PM in summer, 8:00 PM in winter). This spectacular light and sound show illuminates the ancient ruins bringing the magic of ancient civilization to life.
Location: Chichen Itzá is about 124 miles (2-hour drive) from Cancun. Renting a car is the most convenient option, but direct buses and one-day tours organized by local operators are also available.
Cost: The entrance fee is around $4.90. Guided tours range from $50–$150, depending on the amenities included.
Tulum ruins
The Tulum ruins, located on the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, are another iconic archaeological site.
It was one of the last Mayan cities to remain inhabited, with Mayans still living there when the Spanish arrived in the 16th century.
The site is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admission at 3:30 PM.
Must-see highlights include:
- El Castillo: A pyramid that served as both a temple and lighthouse.
- Temple of the Frescoes: An observatory used to track celestial movements.
- The Temple of the Descending God: Dedicated to the planet Venus, it features stunning murals.
When purchasing a ticket to the ruins, you’ll also need a Tulum National Park bracelet as proof of payment.
This gives you access to nearby beaches like Playa Santa Fe, Playa Pescadores, Playa Paraíso, and Playa Las Palmas.
Location: Tulum is about 80 miles south of Cancun. You can rent a car or take a bus (2-hour journey).
Cost: Entrance to the ruins is around $4.90. Additional fees apply for parking and professional cameras.
Coba ruins
Coba is one of the largest cities founded before the arrival of Columbus on the Yucatán Peninsula. It’s known for its extensive network of raised stone causeways (sacbes) that connect various structures throughout the ancient city.
The other main attraction is Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatán Peninsula. Climbing its 120 steps rewards you with breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.
While there, check out The Temple of the Macaw (considered a sacred bird by Mayans) and Conjunto Pinturas (popular for its decorative elements and Mayan motifs).
Coba is just as majestic as other ruins, but it’s relatively crowd-free, making it a great choice during peak travel seasons.
Location: Around 27 miles northwest of Tulum and 81 miles from Cancun.
Cost: Approximately $5 per person.
Enjoy water sports
Like most coastal cities, Cancun is a great location for water sports — from scuba diving and flyboarding to snorkeling and boating.
Here are some of the most popular water activities to enjoy while visiting Cancun.
Reef snorkeling
Home to the Mesoamerican Reef, Cancun boasts one of the most beautiful underwater ecosystems in the world. The city is also actively working to protect its marine environment.
One such initiative — and a great snorkeling point — is the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA). A unique underwater museum that features hundreds of life-sized sculptures (artificial reefs) submerged in the ocean.
Other popular snorkeling locations include:
- El Meco Reef, located between Cancun and Isla Mujeres.
- Puerto Morelos, a fishing village that’s part of the Mesoamerican Reef.
- Punta Nizuc, at the southern end of the Hotel Zone.
The best time to snorkel is during the dry season (December to April) when the water levels are at their highest.
Cost: Guided snorkeling tours range from $40–$100. If you prefer snorkeling independently, equipment rental costs around $10–$20 per day.
Jet skiing
Jet skiing is a popular activity along Cancun’s beaches and nearby lagoons like Nichupté.
No prior experience is required, but operators must be at least 16 years old, while children over 10 can ride as passengers when accompanied by an adult.
Many beachfront hotels and resorts offer jet ski rentals. For a unique experience, Jungle Tour Cancun offers rentals in the Nichupté Lagoon.
Cost: $60–$80 per jet ski for a 30-minute session. Some rentals may also charge a Natural Reserve Tax, typically around $15.
Speedboat tours
What better way to experience the beauty of the Caribbean Sea and get your dose of adrenaline? Many tours combine speedboating with other water activities like snorkeling or diving.
For example, the Cancun Jungle Tour offers a guided adventure through the mangrove channels, capped off with snorkeling at Punta Nizuc.
Make sure to book in advance as speedboat tours are a popular activity, particularly during peak seasons.
Since these tours depend heavily on daily weather conditions, consider choosing an operator with a bad weather guarantee or free cancellation policy.
Cost: Shared speedboats start at $45–$79 per person.
Discover Cancun’s nightlife and entertainment
From high-energy nightclubs to laid-back beach bars, Cancun’s Hotel Zone has plenty of options for both seasoned partygoers and newcomers. Here are some of our favorites.
Coco Bongo
One of the most popular nightclubs in Cancun (and Mexico), Coco Bongo is famous for its extravagant stage shows.
These four-hour spectacles feature a mix of live performances, acrobatics, and tributes to legendary music icons. Sometimes, they host performances for minors — so it’s worth checking beforehand.
Coco Bongo is open from 8 PM to 3 AM, with the party really getting started around 10 PM. There’s no dress code, but stylish party clothes are the norm.
Location: In the center of the Hotel Zone, at Blvd. Kukulcan 30.
Cost: It varies depending on the show and ticket, starting at around $60 per person, including five drinks.
For a premium package, the Gold Membership Ticket (around $200) includes unlimited drinks from 10 PM to 3 AM, dedicated service, VIP seating with the best views, and skip-the-line privileges.
The City Nightclub
Popular with the spring break crowd, The City Nightclub is open from 10:30 PM to 3 AM and can host up to 6000 guests. The dress code is smart casual.
Music-wise, it features a mix of genres including international hits, Top 40, and EDM. They also host throwback nights, live DJ performances, and special events — though the cover charge is typically higher during these times.
Location: In the Hotel Zone, at Blvd. Kukulcan Km 9.5. You can take the R1 or R2 bus, though a taxi is more comfortable.
Cost: $30–$40 (no drinks included) depending on when you visit.
Mandala Nightclub
Known for hip-hop, EDM, and reggaeton, Mandala Nightclub hosts themed parties most nights — including a carnival-themed party on Mondays, and a Spring Break-themed party on Thursdays.
It’s open daily from 9 PM to 3 AM, with a casual dress code accepted.
Location: In the Hotel Zone at Blvd. Kukulcan Km 9.5.
Cost: Cover charge is $100 for non-Cancun residents.
Mandala Beach Club
For daytime fun, Mandala Beach Club is the place to be. Set right on the shores of the Caribbean, it offers stunning coastal views.
The high-energy pool parties include Caribbean drinks, jacuzzis, and delicious food. It’s open from 11 AM to 5:30 PM, with a casual, pool-side dress code.
Location: In the Hotel Zone, just a 2-minute walk from Mandala Night Club at Blvd. Kukulcan Km 9.5.
Cost: General admission is $20, not including drinks or other amenities.
Visit the shopping centers and local markets
Whether you’re looking for an elegant outfit for an impromptu date night or stocking up on locally made souvenirs, here are some shopping malls to check out in Cancun.
Mercado 28
Mercado 28 is a popular flea market located in downtown Cancun renowned for its local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Mexican goods.
With over 100 shops, you’ll find everything from handmade ceramics and leather goods to embroidered clothing and jewelry.
As a tourist hotspot, prices can be high, but bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate. It’s open from 9 AM to 7 PM. For the best experience, visit early to avoid crowds.
How to get there: From the Hotel Zone, take Cancun’s R-2 bus to the stop for Market 28. Walk a few blocks up and you’ll reach Mercado 28.
La Isla Shopping Village
Unlike Mercado 28, La Isla is a premier, open-air shopping center where you’re more likely to find international brands (Abercrombie & Fitch, Prada, and Cartier) than artisan handicrafts or local boutiques.
Other attractions include a Ferris wheel, a wax museum, and the popular Ripley’s Mirror Maze. If you’re traveling with young children, it’s perfect for escaping the midday heat.
Dining options range from casual diners to upscale restaurants, giving you plenty of options. Located at the center of the Hotel Zone and separated from the hotels by a small canal, La Isla is open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM.
How to get there: Take a taxi or bus (R1 or R2) to the Hotel Zone.
Mercado 23
For a less-touristy local market, check out Mercado 23 in downtown Cancun. While it isn’t as large as Mercado 28, it’s less crowded, the souvenirs are cheaper, and the street food tastes more authentic.
Most stalls are open from 7 AM to 7 PM, so plan your visit for the early morning hours if you’re looking to buy fresh produce. Vendors typically prefer cash, so carry enough Mexican pesos with you.
Shopping tip: The Yucatán Peninsula is known for its high-quality honey, so buy a few bottles when you visit Mercado 23.
How to get there: It’s about 3.5 miles from the Hotel Zone, and you can take the R1 bus or a taxi.
Mercado Coral Negro
Located in the Hotel Zone near the Forum by the Sea Shopping Center, Mercado Coral Negro is another popular local market.
It’s known for its traditional embroidered clothing, beaded jewelry, and decorative souvenirs inspired by Mayan artifacts.
Unique finds include traditional wooden masks and piñatas (animal-shaped containers). Many stalls also offer temporary henna tattoos and hair braiding services. The market is open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM.
How to get there: Take a bus to the Hotel Zone. If you’re driving, the exact location is Blvd. Kukulcan Km 9.
Take a day tour to nearby islands
Like many Caribbean coastal cities, Cancun is surrounded by stunning islands just a short ferry ride away. Here are two must-visits to add to your itinerary
Isla Mujeres
Looking to escape Cancun’s lively energy? Isla Mujeres offers a peaceful retreat from the crowds with plenty of secluded coves to relax and unwind in.
When in Isla Mujeres, don’t miss:
- Garrafon Natural Reef Park: Enjoy zip-lining over the ocean, swimming with dolphins, and exploring underwater sculptures. For an extra fee, you can try the Mayan temazcal — a traditional steam bath believed to aid both spiritual cleansing and physical detoxification.
- Punta Sur: Located at the southern tip of the island, this spot has a lighthouse, the remains of a Mayan temple dedicated to Ixchel (the Goddess of Love), and a sea turtle sanctuary.
How to get there: The easiest way is by ferry from Ultramar Gran Puerto or Puerto Juárez. It’s a 30-minute ride and costs about $20 for a round trip.
Cozumel
If you’re into diving, Cozumel is a must-visit. About 60 miles south of Cancun, it’s home to the Mesoamerican Reef, one of the largest barrier reefs in the world.
Cozumel’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant reefs make it one of the best scuba diving destinations globally. Popular dive sites include the Palancar Reef, Columbia Reef, and the Cozumel Marine Park.
Not a fan of diving? Cozumel has many other attractions, including Mayan sites like San Gervasio and El Cedral. You can also explore Chankanaab National Park, which boasts stunning beaches, botanical gardens, and a lagoon.
How to get there: Take a bus from Cancun to Playa del Carmen (one hour), and then a ferry to Cozumel (45 minutes).
Enjoy family-friendly activities
Planning a family vacation to Cancun? Here are four attractions to add to your itinerary. They’re fun, safe, and perfect for families with young children.
Xcaret park
This eco-archaeological theme park is located in the Riviera Maya, around 47 miles south of Cancun. Opened in 1990, it’s known for both its cultural experiences and adventure activities.
It features over 50 attractions, including a coral reef museum, butterfly pavilion, sea turtle center, and Mexican Folk Art Museum.
There are also snorkeling tours and a Children’s World section with shallow cenotes and water activities for kids.
Don’t miss the ‘Xcaret at Night’ show, where over 300 artists stage a performance on Mexican history and folklore.
How to get there: Xcaret Park is on Highway 307, which connects Cancun to Playa del Carmen. The drive takes about 1–1.5 hours from Cancun.
Cost: General admission costs around $99 for adults and $49 for children (ages 5–11).
Interactive Aquarium
The Cancun Interactive Museum is a must-visit for families with young children. It houses over 140 species, including tropical fish, dolphins, and sea lions.
Highlights include:
- Touch zone: An interactive pond where you can gently interact with rays, starfish, and sea urchins.
- Dolphin rides: For $109, you can swim with dolphins for 45 minutes.
- Aquarium trek: Walk underwater in a six-meter (19.6 ft) deep aquarium. This 20-minute activity runs daily from 11 AM to 5 PM. The minimum age limit is 8 years. You can interact with species like shad, orange tail triggerfish, sea robins, pepper surgeonfish, Moorish idol, and African surgeonfish during the trek.
Location: The aquarium is in La Isla Shopping Village, Blvd. Kukulcan Km 12.5.
Cost: General admission is around $15.
Cancun Scenic Tower
The Cancun Scenic Tower (Torre Escénica de Cancún) is the tallest structure in the city. It’s a 10-minute ride in an air-conditioned cabin that rotates slowly to provide a 360-degree panoramic view of Cancun and the Caribbean Sea.
During the ride, a guide will share interesting insights about Cancun’s history and notable landmarks like Isla Mujeres and Nichupté Lagoon.
The tower is open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM and is wheelchair-accessible. If you can, take the ride at sunset — the views are particularly beautiful and make for unforgettable photos.
Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 4.5, in the Hotel Zone.
Cost: Around $20 per person.
Dolphin encounters
Last but not least, swimming with dolphins is one of the most memorable things to do in Cancun.
Many beaches, parks, and tour operators offer activities like fin greetings, dorsal swimming, and more. You usually need to be at least 4 feet tall and a capable swimmer.
Dolphin Discovery in Isla Mujeres, the Interactive Aquarium in Cancun, and Xcaret in Riviera Maya are all great places to sign up for dolphin swims.
While swimming with dolphins can be an unforgettable experience, it’s important to be mindful of ethical tourism practices. Many facilities that offer these experiences may not prioritize animal welfare.
To ensure you’re making a responsible choice, look for organizations that support marine conservation and focus on rehabilitation rather than entertainment.
Opt for activities that allow you to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, rather than ones that involve direct interaction, which can often cause stress and harm to the animals.
Enjoy the best of Cancun with travel internet from Holafly
Cancun is a fantastic travel destination, and we hope this guide helps you plan your perfect itinerary. But let’s be honest — some of the best discoveries happen on spontaneous detours.
For those, you’ll want high-speed internet to access GPS, book tickets on the go, find local recommendations, and more.
While resorts and the Cancun airport offer free WiFi, we recommend using a Holafly eSIM as the best option for staying connected.
With Holafly’s eSIM for Mexico, setup is fully digital, activation takes just minutes, and you get unlimited data for $6.90 for a one-day plan or much less for longer plans.
The longer your eSIM plan, the cheaper your daily rate. For example, a 10-day plan will cost you $3.69 per day. You can even share up to 500 MB of data daily with your other devices or your travel companions.
Ready to explore Cancun with ease? Get your Holafly Mexico eSIM today for reliable internet wherever your Mexican adventure takes you.
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Based in Mumbai, Sharan Kaur Phillora has 6+ years of experience in the B2B writing industry. She has written for brands like Pocket52, Nexweave, Maze, NaNLABS, and Userpilot. When she's not working, Sharan can be found immersed in murder mystery novels or exploring Mumbai's streets on her bicycle in search of the perfect slice of pizza.
