What to do in Cancun

Activities, attractions and tours

Cancun showing a beach, tropical scenes and landscape views
Cancun showing a beach, tropical scenes and landscape views
Hotel Zone featuring a beach, general coastal views and swimming
Cancun
Hotel Zone which includes general coastal views, a pool and landscape views

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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What to do in Cancun


Discover the most popular places to visit in Cancun

Explore areas of Cancun

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

Zona Hotelera

4.5/5(1,203 area reviews)

Relax on white-sand beaches or poolside at luxury hotels, dive at an underwater museum, swim with dolphins and visit archaeological ruins.

Zona Hotelera
Aerial panoramic view of Punta Norte beach, Cancun, Mexico. Beautiful beach area with luxury hotels near the Caribbean sea in Cancun, Mexico.

Punta Cancun

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

Punta Cancun
Aerial view of the Cancun downtown. Busy street with small buildings near the beach area of Cancun in Mexico.

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
Cancun Hotel Zone

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
Fishing boat in Puerto Juarez at sunrise

Puerto Juarez

The pristine beaches and fun-filled waterparks are top of the list for many visitors to Puerto Juarez. A stop by Ultramar Ferry Puerto Juárez or El Niño Beach might round out your trip.

Puerto Juarez
Avenida Tulum

Avenida Tulum

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Avenida Tulum. A stop by Royal Yak Casino and Sports Book or Ceviche Square might round out your trip.

Avenida Tulum

 

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Day trip destinations from Cancun

Frequently asked questions

Is Cancun worth visiting?
Offering a blend of history and surfing, there are plenty of things to do in Cancun. While you're here, head to Gaviota Azul Beach, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Cancun?
When you've checked off leading attractions like Gaviota Azul Beach and Forum Beach, spend some time enjoying Cancun's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cancun?
The top tourist attraction in Cancun is Gaviota Azul Beach, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Cancun?
Three days will be enough time to tick off many city highlights, like Arrecife El Meco Underwater Museum, Escénica Tower and Teatro de Cancún. The average stay in Cancun is four days. If you feel the urge to extend your trip, Avenida Kukulkan isn't far away.
Is Cancun a walkable city?
With major attractions like Xbalamqué Theatre nearby, Cancun is very much a place to explore on foot. Like to discover some cool neighbourhoods within walking distance of the city centre? Avenida Tulum is around 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Cancun with kids?
What to do in Cancun for adults?
Tequila Museum and Oasis Arena are just a couple of the things to do in Cancun. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Cancun?
From enjoying parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Cancun. If you're looking for inspiration, get some tips from a local tour guide. Mercado 23 is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing adventures.

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