What to do in Cancun

Activities, attractions and tours
Hotel Zone featuring general coastal views, tropical scenes and a pool

Cancun Attractions

When you hear about vacations to Cancun, visions of spring breakers may dance in your head. However, while this Mexican destination is certainly popular among college kids, there are plenty of reasons for other types of travelers to visit. Things to do in Cancun extend well beyond the beach, and include such unique experiences as visiting a turtle farm and taking a jeep tour through the jungle. Whether you are looking for a couples getaway, family trip, or vacation with friends — Cancun is a destination worth putting on your short list.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Cancun

While Cancun’s landscape is largely replete with palm trees and sand, there are still a few diverse neighborhoods in this Yucatán Peninsula city. Whether you want to mingle with other tourists or enjoy a bit more of a secluded locale, you can find somewhere to hang out in Cancun.

Isla Mujeres — This small island is less than 10 miles from the north coast of Cancun, and it provides some tranquil space for travelers seeking rest and relaxation. Instead of thumping nightclubs and dance parties, this region is known for golf cart transportation and lots of seafood.

Hotel Zone — Lots of the resorts and accommodations in Cancun can be found on Boulevard Kukulcán, which is also known as the Hotel Zone. The area spans more than 15 miles and affords easy access to beaches and restaurants by foot.

El Centro — Downtown Cancun, also called El Centro, affords a taste of local culture not available in tourist hot spots like the Hotel Zone. Small restaurants and Mayan ruins are just some of the sites in this part of the Cancun activities found here.

Things to See in Cancun

Before you break out your boogie board, remember that there are plenty of things to see in Cancun. In fact, Cancun excursions often yield some excellent photo opportunities. Head to El Rey Ruins in the Hotel Zone for the chance to see a bit of interesting ancient architecture and a whole lot of iguanas. Hundreds of reptiles have made the ruins home, and they’re not camera shy. You may also want to take in a sunset from Playa Delfines, where the views are picturesque and you won’t have to share them with hundreds of other tourists.

Things to Do & Attractions in Cancun

Things to do in Cancun, Mexico span across land and sea. If you’re a landlubber, head to one of the resort’s golf courses or take a stroll through the interactive aquarium. If you want to get your feet wet, Cancun water adventures range from sailing and snorkeling to more adventurous sports like parasailing and scuba diving. Of course, the nightclub scene in Cancun is also alive and well, so you have plenty to do in the evening hours. If you can’t decide what to see, Cancun tours will get you off to a good start.


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Explore areas of Cancun

Escenica Tower which includes a beach, a luxury hotel or resort and general coastal views

Zona Hotelera

4.5/5(1,203 area reviews)

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Zona Hotelera. Make a stop by La Isla Shopping Mall or Delfines Beach while you're exploring the area.

Zona Hotelera
Hotel Zone which includes a pool and a luxury hotel or resort as well as a small group of people

Punta Cancun

If you're spending some time in Punta Cancun, Forum Beach and Chac Mool Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Punta Cancun
Mexico and Central America which includes music, nightlife and night scenes

Downtown Cancun

4/5(170 area reviews)

Downtown Cancun is known for its popular shops, and you can see some sights in the area like Plaza 28 and Cancun Mall.

Downtown Cancun
La Isla shopping mall! Has some great attractions with a wide range of places to eat!

La Isla

If you're spending some time in La Isla, La Isla Shopping Mall and Isla Dorada are top sights worth seeing.

La Isla
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Avenida Tulum

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Avenida Tulum. A stop by Ceviche Square or Mercado Ki Huic might round out your trip.

Avenida Tulum
Loads of fun in diving in MUSA. Not common to find an underwater museum. Even if it has been sat up only in 2013, you can see that nature is already taking the space for itself and loads of corals are already growing on the statues.

Alfredo V. Bonfil

When in Alfredo V. Bonfil, you can plan a visit to Dubai Palace Casino and Ventura Park Cancun, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Alfredo V. Bonfil

Day trip destinations from Cancun