Things To Do
in Cancún
Cancún is a sun-soaked resort city on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, famed for its powdery white-sand beaches and crystal-blue Caribbean waters. It blends luxury hotels and nightlife with access to ancient Maya sites and the vibrant Riviera Maya. The Hotel Zone along Kukulcán Boulevard is where most visitors stay, lined with restaurants, bars, and shopping.
It's a gateway to snorkeling, cenotes, and island trips to places like Isla Mujeres and Cozumel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to Tulum. Wander through the ruins of this ancient Mayan city perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, taking in the stunning views and rich history. Don't forget to bring your camera as you explore the iconic El Castillo and the Temple of the Frescoes.
After touring the ruins, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Tulum's beachside restaurants, savoring fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes. Spend the afternoon swimming in the turquoise waters of Tulum's beaches or relaxing on the soft white sand. If you're feeling adventurous, consider snorkeling in the nearby cenotes, experiencing the unique underwater caves.
As the sun sets, return to Tulum for a beachside dinner under the stars at a cozy restaurant. Enjoy some live music while tasting traditional dishes such as cochinita pibil or ceviche. Wrap up your evening with a peaceful stroll along the beach, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, then head to Playa Tortugas for a fun-filled morning of water sports. Try your hand at jet skiing, parasailing, or paddleboarding, all while enjoying the stunning coastal views. The beach is bustling with energy, making it a perfect spot to soak up the sun and thrill of adventure.
After an exhilarating morning, take a break for lunch at a beachside bar where you can indulge in refreshing drinks and light bites. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach, lounging in a hammock, or participating in beach volleyball with locals. If you're feeling adventurous, consider booking a diving session to explore the vibrant underwater life of the Caribbean.
As the sun begins to set, prepare for an evening of vibrant nightlife in Cancún. Head to the famous Coco Bongo for an unforgettable show filled with music, dance, and acrobatics. After the show, dance the night away at one of Cancún’s trendy nightclubs, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-4 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (Hotel Zone) | $5-15 |
| 🍺Beer at bar | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear water
- Wide range of activities from culture to nightlife
- Good infrastructure for tourists
- Nearby cenotes and Maya sites within day trips
- Crowds in peak season
- Can be expensive in the Hotel Zone
- Hurricanes risk during the rainy season
- Some areas can feel touristy and commercial
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo poco español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
Places to Visit in Cancún
Visit one of these nice places.
Underwater sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor create a surreal gallery for snorkeling and diving photography.
Wide, palm-fringed beaches with clear turquoise water—perfect for sunrise or sunset shots.
Well-preserved Mayan ruins in the Hotel Zone with ocean views and lush jungle backdrops.
Cliff views at Punta Sur and the powdery white sands of Playa Norte offer striking coastal photography opportunities.
Food in Cancún
Cancún Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A whole fish fillet marinated with adobo and split open to grill, served with salsas and tortillas.
Must-Try!
Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, chilies, and lime wedges.
A light lime soup with tortilla strips and shredded chicken, a classic Yucatecan comfort dish.
Mahi-mahi marinated with achiote and sour orange, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled.
Slow-roasted pork with achiote and citrus, a traditional Maya preparation often found in Riviera Maya menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling downtown market offering crafts, fresh produce, and affordable street food like tacos, tostadas, and marquesitas.
Beachfront taquerías and carts serving tacos al pastor, ceviche cups, elotes, and churros—great for quick bites on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or brief kiss on the cheek with friends; address adults as Señor/Señora.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or ruins; avoid loud behavior in sacred or residential areas.
Ask before taking photos of people in markets or private spaces; be mindful of local customs and personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Cancún
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect 10–20% for good service; in smaller establishments, rounding up is appreciated. Tour guides and bottle-service staff often receive a similar range.
Cash (MXN) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; some places in the Hotel Zone also take USD. Use pesos for the best rates; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; beaches can be crowded and water activities are common. Stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Hurricane season with potential storms and rough seas; warm and humid with spaces for indoor activities as backups.
Pleasant daytime temperatures around 24–28°C (75–82°F); cooler nights; ideal for outdoor activities and diving with clearer skies.
Warm and sunny with excellent water visibility; spring break crowds can occur in March; book tours early.
Cancún at Night
Hiking in Cancún
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic site with a jungle trail around the ruins; longer hikes possible in adjacent areas.
Extensive natural reserve with mangrove trails, birdwatching, and boat-led exploration; about a 2–3 hour drive from Cancun.
Airports
How to reach Cancún by plane.
Major hub serving international and domestic flights; quick access to the Hotel Zone by taxi or express bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest visitor demographics, driving most of the tourism infrastructure.
Domestic tourism is strong, with many locals visiting for weekends and holidays.
A small but growing community of foreign residents and seasonal visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport among locals and visitors; watch matches or join a casual game on the beach.
Diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, and parasailing along the Caribbean coast are widely offered.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cancún.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie tacos, salads, and fruit bowls; ask for soups and sauces without animal stock; pescatarian options are common.