No matter where you stay, plenty of tours and excursions depart from Cancun's resort areas and will take you on nearby adventures or day trips with knowledgeable, local guides. Check out our list of must-do things in Cancun for an unforgettable vacation.
1. Leap into cenotesThese natural swimming pools are hidden havens in an underground cave filled with vibrant turquoise water. Revered by the ancient Mayans for life-giving freshwater, these sacred wells were also believed to be portals to the underworld. With long jungle vines, rocky ledges, and sunlight pouring through from above, the scene is magical, to say the least. Some of the best cenotes in Cancun include the Chaak Tun Cenote in Playa del Carmen, as well as the Dos Ojos and Grand Cenotes in Tulum.
Travel just 1.5 hours from Cancun into Akumal, where you can swim and snorkel with peaceful sea creatures in the “Place of the Turtles”. The small bay where green sea turtles are found is shielded by the second-largest coral reef, perfecting the conditions for snorkeling. We recommend booking a tour so you can sit back, relax, and let the locals tell you about the area and the creatures that call it home. The tour will provide snorkeling equipment and sometimes even lunch!
This mysterious locale near Playa del Carmen will take you on a magical journey through an underground river where you can swim among thousands of stalactites and stalagmites. You can walk (or swim) through mineral-rich waters and learn about the nature reserve's geology and the history that dates back millions of years.
Folklore, rituals, and science of the ancient Maya civilization have fascinated visitors for centuries. The most iconic of all the Mayan ruins is the ancient city of Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Spend an entire day marveling at the magnificent structures and learning the workings of the Mayan calendar. Head to the Tulum Ruins for ancient structures overlooking the Caribbean Sea, where you can lay your towel down and lounge beneath thousands of years of history on a white sand beach. Surprisingly, The Hotel Zone is even home to a partially unearthed Mayan City of El Rey, where you can get a taste of history without going far. You’ll be back to your resort by dinner!
Explore wild, exotic jungles where you can see tropical birds, wildlife, and greenery along the way. Pair your zip-line tour with a walk along hanging bridges, an ATV rental, or jump into a cenote for an adventure-filled day. Book your excursions in advance or at your resort to secure your spot.
Turn up the romance with a relaxing cruise on the Caribbean Sea. Sail on a catamaran, luxury yacht, or pirate ship, depending on your desired experience. Most sunset cruises will provide cocktails, charcuterie boards, dinner, or a private chef-prepared meal.
Explore a museum like no other where wearing your swimsuit is encouraged. The Cancun Underwater Museum is the most extensive underwater sculpture garden and adventure park of its kind. Snorkelers and divers come face to face with unique sculptures like a Volkswagen Beetle, giant hands, and a man at his desk, to name just a few. Stay dry with the Subsee Explorer tour, where you board a submarine boat with glass windows and take in the sights from the comfort of a cabin.
Xcaret Park in Cancun is home to a water park, theme park, amusement park, eco-archaeological park, and more - all in one place. Set in the Mayan jungle among underground rivers, cenotes, and the Caribbean Sea, there are over 50 natural and cultural attractions where you can connect with nature (and each other) with activities like sting ray encounters, swimming through caves, dinner-theater shows, speed boat rides, and so much more.
Cancun sport fishing is an experience you won't want to miss. There are plenty of private charters, including deep-sea fishing, bottom fishing, fly fishing, and light tackle, as well as fishing and snorkeling combinations. Most charters will include all the fishing equipment you'll need, including a license, bait, and complimentary drinks. Some will even clean, fillet, and cook your catch for you.
For some, golf is essential to unwind and pass the time during a great vacation. Cancun and the surrounding areas are home to 15 golf courses and have become a world-class destination for lush courses with impeccable design. The Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club is a favorite location in the heart of the Maya jungle. Along with wildlife you can see on the course, you’ll also enjoy a Mayan pyramid replica. At the Hard Rock Riviera Maya, you have a choice of two championship courses to choose from - Golf Club Playacar and the Hard Rock Golf Club.
Whether you're looking for passion, rejuvenation, or adventure, you'll find a variety of experiences in Cancun. Head over to Beachbound.com and discover yours today!
