The Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Cancun (Because You Can’t Spend Your Whole Trip at the Pool… or Can You?)
So, you’ve made it to Cancun, land of endless sunshine, shockingly blue water, and buffets that will challenge your self-control. But once you’ve had your fill of lounging on the beach and eating your weight in tacos, you might start wondering: What else is there to do around here?
The answer? A lot. From snorkeling in natural water parks to climbing ancient ruins and even visiting a neon-pink lagoon, Cancun and the surrounding Riviera Maya are packed with adventure. So, let’s dive into the best things to do—starting in Cancun before moving south to the Riviera Maya and beyond.
Things to Do in Cancun (AKA, What to Do Between Beach Naps)
1. Hit the Beaches (You Know You Want To) –
Cancun’s beaches are the main event. Besides relaxing you can jet ski, parasail, and snorkel among other amazing activities. If you don’t leave with sand permanently stuck in your suitcase, did you even go to Cancun? The big resorts all have their beach space and they really want to entertain you, but incase you aren’t staying at one of those here are some of the best spots:
🏖️ Playa Delfines – The famous beach with the colorful “Cancun” sign. Take the photo. You know you want to.
🏖️ Playa Norte (Isla Mujeres) – A short ferry ride from Cancun, this beach is so calm and shallow you could wade in it for hours.
🏖️ Playa Chac Mool – Right in the Hotel Zone, perfect for a quick beach fix between shopping and tacos.
2. Explore the Hotel Zone
Cancun’s Hotel Zone isn’t just for resorts—it’s packed with shopping, entertainment, and restaurants. Take a stroll through La Isla Shopping Village, where you’ll find everything from luxury brands to local souvenirs. If you’re traveling with kids, check out the Interactive Aquarium or the Mayan Museum of Cancun for a break from the sun.
3. Take a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres
Taking an excursion to Isla Mujeres from Cancun is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Caribbean Sea while enjoying a day of adventure and relaxation. Just a short ferry or catamaran ride away, Isla Mujeres boasts stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and a laid-back island vibe. Many tours include snorkeling stops at coral reefs, where you can swim among vibrant marine life and even explore the famous underwater sculptures at MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte). Once on the island, visitors can rent a golf cart to explore charming streets, visit Punta Sur for breathtaking ocean views, or relax at Playa Norte, one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Many excursions also include buffet lunches and open bars, adding to the carefree atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for adventure, stunning scenery, or simply a peaceful escape, a trip to Isla Mujeres is a must when visiting Cancun.
Book an outing to the magical Isla Mujeres here!
Next Stop: The Riviera Maya (Because There’s More to Life Than the Hotel Buffet)
Xel-Há and Xcaret are roughly 45 minutes from the hotel zone, so plan accordingly.
4. Xel-Há: A Water Park, But Make It Natural
Xel-Há is a breathtaking natural water park in the Riviera Maya, Mexico, known for its stunning lagoons, cenotes, and crystal-clear rivers. This eco-adventure paradise offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement, with activities like snorkeling among colorful tropical fish, floating down the lazy river on an inner tube, and cliff jumping for the more adventurous. The park is also home to lush jungle trails, hanging bridges, and a variety of wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. One of the highlights of visiting Xel-Há is the opportunity to swim with dolphins, an unforgettable experience that allows guests to interact closely with these intelligent creatures. With its all-inclusive concept, visitors are able to enjoy unlimited food and drinks throughout the day. And thankfully the food was good, even my picky eaters were happy! There were family lockers so you didn’t need to carry around your belongings, which was nice! They had snorkel gear for everyone but sometimes the water was a little crowded, but people were friendly. Overall it was a perfect place to unwind and explore the natural beauty of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.
Book your adventure to Xel-Há here!
5. Xcaret: Where Nature and Culture Collide
Xcaret is part eco-park, part cultural extravaganza, and part “Wow, I didn’t know I needed to see a flamingo parade today”. Highlights include:
Xcaret is a world-renowned eco-archaeological park in the Riviera Maya, offering visitors a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. With underground rivers, lush jungle trails, and a rich showcase of Mexican traditions, it’s a must-visit destination for families and travelers looking to immerse themselves in the region’s history and beauty. In recent years, the Xcaret brand has expanded with exciting new parks like Xplor and Xplor Fuego, both designed for thrill-seekers. Xplor offers adrenaline-pumping activities such as zip-lining over the jungle, amphibious vehicle rides through caves, and rafting in underground rivers. As night falls, Xplor Fuego transforms the experience with torch-lit adventures, adding an exhilarating twist to zip-lining and cave exploration. Whether you’re drawn to cultural experiences at Xcaret or heart-racing adventures at Xplor and Xplor Fuego, these parks provide unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Riviera Maya.
6. Casa Tortuga Cenotes: Nature’s Best Swimming Pools
Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water, and they’re basically Mother Nature’s version of an infinity pool. Casa Tortuga has a mix of open-air and cave cenotes, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or pretending you’re in a tropical adventure movie. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision to visit and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip! The kids have talked about it so often! The Yucatan is known for its cenotes, they are incredible works of nature. The water was crystal clear at Casa Tortuga. The day was warm and the water was cool and refreshing. The kids loved swimming along the open-air cenotes watching fish or jumping off the cliffs. The guide was so friendly. My little ones were so relieved to be able to wear their puddle jumpers. (by the way parents, absolutely bring them if you’re debating packing them!!!) So if you’re on the Riviera Maya and you want an adventure for the day, Casa Tortuga was a win!
Ancient Ruins: Chichén Itzá vs. Ek Balam (AKA, The Ruin Showdown)
At some point, you should probably take a break from the beach to see some Mayan ruins (your camera roll will appreciate the variety).
Both of these site are pretty close to each other and are about 2.5 hours from the hotel zone.
7. Chichén Itzá (For the “I Saw One of the 7 Wonders of the World” Bragging Rights)
Yes, Chichén Itzá is breathtaking. Yes, it has the iconic El Castillo pyramid. But remember: you can’t climb or touch anything. The first time I went was nearly 23 years ago on my honeymoon and I experienced climbing to the top, but that was a long time ago. Now it’s a bit of a letdown for me, but remarkable to witness! Chichén Itzá is now a look-but-don’t-touch museum of ruins, so go for the history, not for the hands-on experience. (Now we go to Ek Balam for that!) With a tour guide you can step back in time and uncover the mysteries of the ancient Maya civilization of Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World! Marvel at the breathtaking Kukulcán Pyramid, where the incredible architecture aligns with the sun during the equinox to create the illusion of a serpent slithering down its steps. Explore the Temple of the Warriors, the eerie Great Ball Court, and the sacred cenote, where ancient rituals once occurred. Some of those rituals are disturbing and heartbreaking! Your journey will be enriched with fascinating history from expert guides, revealing the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many tours include stops at stunning cenotes for a refreshing swim and visits to charming colonial towns like Valladolid. I spent 2 years living in this area and will always love it. It is worth the stop! With comfortable transportation, delicious local cuisine, and the chance to witness one of the most iconic sites in Mexico, Chichén Itzá tour is an experience you won’t want to miss! Check out our other guide on ruins here.
Book your tour to Chichén Itzá here!
8. Ek Balam (For those of us who just really want to climb up those stairs!)
Discover the hidden gem of the Yucatán with a visit to Ek Balam, an ancient Maya city that offers a truly immersive experience away from the crowds. The first time we stopped here it was just us and a few workers. It was amazing! They let us wander around and we had the grounds to ourselves! That was a decade ago. Ek Balam is still undergoing excavation which makes it an amazing experience for that alone! We went back just last year and witnessed the progress made in 10 years. It is incredible! Unlike Chichén Itzá, In Ek Balam you can climb the massive Acropolis, where stunning panoramic views of the surrounding jungle await at the top. As you explore the site, you’ll marvel at intricate stucco carvings, well-preserved temples, and the massive jaguar-mouth entrance that gives Ek Balam its name. With fewer tourists and a more intimate atmosphere, this archaeological site allows you to connect with history. My children were in heaven as they had this up close and personal experience with history! Their imaginations came alive and the questions were entertaining! We had a rental car which was an adventure of its own but many tours also include a stop at nearby cenotes, where you can cool off in crystal-clear waters after exploring the ruins. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a unique adventure, Ek Balam is a must-visit destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in the Yucatán.
Book you Ek Balam adventure here!
9. Valladolid and Cenote Zaci
Nestled in the heart of Valladolid, Cenote Zací is a breathtaking semi-open cenote that offers a refreshing escape just steps away from the city’s charming colonial streets. With its dramatic limestone overhang, cascading vines, and deep turquoise waters, this cenote feels like a hidden oasis waiting to be explored. Adventurous visitors can jump from the rocky ledges into the cool, crystal-clear water, while others can simply relax and take in the natural beauty. Unlike more remote cenotes, Zací’s convenient location makes it an easy stop while exploring Valladolid’s colorful architecture and historic landmarks. There’s even a restaurant on-site where you can enjoy delicious Yucatecan cuisine (the cochinita pibil is divine) with a view of the cenote. Whether you’re looking for a quick dip or a serene spot to unwind, Cenote Zací is a must-visit gem in Valladolid! If you want to know why Valladolid is in my top 10 it is because I lived here for 9 months of my 2 years as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ. I loved this town and the people here. It was here that my love for the Mayan culture took root. I ate at this restaurant, I ate in the homes of the people. It is authentic! I took my wife here on our honeymoon. A decade later I took my in-laws here. Then 20 years later I brought my children to visit. The town, the history, the restaurant, and the cenote are still here! It is a taste of history, nature, and culture that live and breathe. I highly recommend a visit!
Book a trip to Valladolid here.
For the Hardcore Adventurers: The Ruta Puuc & The Pink Lagoon
10. The Ruta Puuc: A Road Trip Through Hidden Mayan Ruins
If you’re willing to venture even further inland, the Ruta Puuc is a string of lesser-known (but totally worth it) Mayan ruins. These include:
🏛️ Uxmal – Home to the impressive Pyramid of the Magician (which looks like a real-life level of Tomb Raider).
🏛️ Kabah – Known for its Palace of the Masks, decorated with hundreds of stone faces.
🏛️ Sayil, Xlapak, and Labna – Smaller but incredibly well-preserved ruins that give you a real sense of what ancient Mayan cities looked like.
11. Las Coloradas: Because Who Doesn’t Want to See a Bubblegum-Pink Lagoon?
Experience the surreal beauty of Las Coloradas, Mexico’s stunning pink lakes, located on the Yucatán Peninsula. These vibrant, bubblegum-pink waters get their striking color from high salt concentrations and microorganisms, creating a breathtaking landscape that looks like something out of a dream. Once a hidden gem, Las Coloradas has become a must-visit destination for photographers and nature lovers alike. While swimming is not allowed, visitors can take guided tours to learn about the salt production process and spot local wildlife, including flamingos that often gather in the area. Many excursions also include a visit to the nearby Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, where you can take a boat tour through mangroves and see crocodiles, exotic birds, and more. If you’re looking for a truly unique and Instagram-worthy destination, Las Coloradas is an unforgettable stop on any Yucatán adventure!
Book an exciting time to Las Coloradas here!
Final Thoughts: Cancun & Beyond
So, should you spend your whole trip by the pool? Maybe. But if you do feel like venturing out, there’s no shortage of adventure, history, and ridiculously beautiful places to explore. Whether you’re snorkeling in Xel-Há, climbing ruins at Ek Balam, or standing in front of a neon-pink lagoon wondering if you’ve stepped into a dream, the Yucatán Peninsula has something for everyone.
So, what’s your first stop? 🌊🏛️✨ Just head out and enjoy the beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula.
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