Things to do in Cancun
Turquoise waters and spectacular beaches are just one aspect of this diverse destination. This region of the Caribbean has so much more to offer - golf, shopping, a vibrant nightlife, and plenty of opportunities for site seeing not to mention the fabulous Mayan cuisine.
Best things to do and see
SHOPPING AND DINING
Enjoy the Captain Hook dinner cruise aboard an 18th-century replica of a Spanish galleon ship. This pirate-themed cruise is great for all ages. Be a part of the captivating pirate antics, play swashbuckling games and participate in a ship-to-ship battle. Dine on chicken, steak or lobster whilst enjoying views of Nichupte Lagoon and the Mexican coastline
Shopping in Cancun can be a very modern affair with numerous shopping malls and outlets selling national and international brands. Hacienda Tequila in Kukulcan Plaza sells 480 different types of tequila at some of the best prices in the area.
With its wide pedestrian avenue running parallel to the beach, Playa del Carmen has a huge selection of places to eat, from inexpensive fast food cafes to up-market restaurants. Enjoy people-watching from the Sports Bar, Tequila Barrel or Chez Céline bakery.
CULTURE AND HISTORY
Chichén Itzá is a spectacular must-see UNESCO World Heritage site. There are several full-day guided tours that allow you to stop for a swim in a nearby cenote (Ik Kil or Hubiku) before the certified guide leads you through the ancient capital of the Mayan Empire, considered the most important archaeological zone of the Yucatán.
Isla Mujeres (Island of Women) is a small, beautiful island located just a short 20-minute ferry ride away from Cancun. Step ashore and explore the Maritime Museum and discover the famous pirates, explorers and vessels that navigated the Mexican waters.
WATER AND SPORTS
An Underwater Museum tour of the MUSA offers a unique snorkel excursion to view hundreds of life-size eco sculptures. The MUSA was created to divert divers from the nearby coral reefs which were being damaged by the more than 750,000 annual visitors. There are currently around 500 sculptures that change over time as sea life takes up residence, these will one day be completely reclaimed by nature creating a whole new reef ecosystem.
NATURE AND WILDLIFE
Here you can explore the beautiful landscape of the Biosphere Reserve of Rio Lagartos, where you can enjoy a boat ride through the mangrove area, nest of a variety of birds and marine species and of course the beloved pink flamingos can be seen. If you have never seen a pink river, here you can, the high concentration of salt and microorganisms in the river colour it pink, salt is mined here as consequence of the salt concentration in the water.
Have an unforgettable day on a private Tulum and Cave Adventure tour that combines the beauty of Tulum with an amazing adventure through the stunning underground rivers, caves and sinkholes located in the heart of the jungle.
INSIDER TIPS
Rio Secreto
For those seeking the less travelled roads of Cancun, consider the only crystal museum in the Riviera Maya.
It’s a stunning underground river through what is considered the largest non-submerged cave of the Peninsula. With thousands of stalagmites and stalactites it is recognized to be one of the natural wonders of the world.
Roundtrip transportation to the peninsula is available from any hotel in Cancun’s Hotel zone so getting there is quite simple
Events and holidays
Jan – Mayan Village Show, Epiphany
Feb – Inception Music Fest, Carnival, Lasser Sailing Show
Mar – Holy Week and Easter, Anniversary of the Founding of Cancun
Apr – Cinco de Mayo, Cancun Jazz Festival
May – Independence Day, Viva México en Cancun
Jul – Mayan New Year
Aug – La Fiesta de Playa, Labour Day Weekend
Sep – Viva México En Cancun
Oct – Dia de la Raza
Nov – Day of the Dead, International Film Festival
Dec – Christmas Day (Dia de Navidad)