Experience Cancun: Essential Things to Do for Every Traveler

01 Chichen Itza

Visit the largest Mayan ruins in the world and one of the most important historical sites of the Mayan people at Chichen Itza. This was the original center of the Mayan Civilization, and the focal point of the city was the pyramid-shaped El Castillo. This was a temple to the God, Kukuklan. Chichen Itza is a UNESCO world heritage site and was recently named one of the seven new wonders of the world. Just be warned that it is very popular and the site is likely to be crowded. The ruins are 2.5 hours drive away from Cancun, and guided tours are available.

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02 Isla Mujeres

Escape the busy crowds of Cancun and head to the peaceful Isla Mujeres or Island of Women. You can reach the island by using one of the ferry boats, and the trip will take you just over 20 minutes. There isn't much to do on the four-mile-long island, but it is still a popular day trip. Head to Punta Sur and visit a Mayan temple that was dedicated to the moon goddess. You may want to visit one of the local turtle farms to spend time with these interesting creatures and find out more about them.

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03 Playa Tortugas

A popular beach for locals with a relaxed atmosphere and white powder sand. There are a few restaurants near the beach offering excellent local cuisine and views of the ocean. The beach is free to use which is a bonus in Cancun. The water is shallow with very small waves making this an ideal beach for those with small children.

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04 El Rey Ruins

The El Rey Ruins may not have the wow factor of Chichen Itza, but they are very conveniently located for most visitors. These Ruins are located right in the Hotel Zone of Cancun. El Rey Ruins are very small, so you can see everything in a short space of time but still gain some understanding of the Mayan Culture in the area.

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05 Playa Delfines

Those wanting to escape from the beaches of the Hotel Zone should head to this undeveloped and peaceful beach just outside of the city. You will need to bring your own drinks and snacks for the days as there are very few vendors and no facilities near the beach. The beach is known for having riptides, and rough sections of water so only go out for a paddle if you are a strong swimmer.

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06 Coco Bongo

Coco Bongo is the most famous nightlife hotspot in Cancun, yet it is not a standard club with a DJ controlled dance floor. At Coco Bongo, you can expect to witness a non-stop sequence of performances by acrobats, musicians, and even congo lines. A typical night will include balloons, projected videos, bubbles, and confetti. There are traditional nightclubs in the area for those that want to dance the night away.

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07 Delphinus Punta Cancún

Swim with the dolphins at this interaction experience operated out of the Hotel Hyatt Ziva in the Hotel Zone. Many different programs are offered such as the Ride with the Dolphin which allows visitors to swim with dolphins and even go for short surf holding on to a dolphins fin.

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08 Playa Marlin

Playa Marlin is a lovely public beach in the hotel zone that is perfect for guests not staying at a beachside resort with private beach access. The beach offers many facilities such as lifeguards and public restrooms. There are vendors offering chairs and umbrellas as well as places selling snacks and cooldrinks.

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09 Avenida Kukulcan

Avenida Kukulcan is the main avenue running through Cancun. There are many hotels, shops, and restaurants along the street catering to locals and tourists. Stroll along the avenue and take in all the interesting shops along the way. Watch out for crocodiles in the creeks just off the street.

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10 Museo Maya de Cancun

Learn about the history of the great Mayan culture and its impact on modern-day Cancun and Mexico in general. The museum contains artifacts from the Mayan civilizations and explains in detail the reasons for the different temples and other buildings in Chichen Itza and other Mayan sites. If you don't have time to go to any of the ruins, then this museum will give you a taste of the Mayan Culture.

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11 Cancún Centro

While the Hotel Zone offers a slice of paradise, downtown Cancún, or Cancún Centro, presents a vibrant tapestry of local life. At the heart of it all, Parque de las Palapas buzzes with energy come evening. Here, amid the laughter and chatter, you can indulge in authentic Mexican street food. The air fills with the aroma of freshly made tacos and tamales while local performers add a soundtrack to your culinary journey. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to taste the true spirit of Cancún away from the beachfront resorts.

12 Nichupté Lagoon

For a different view of Cancún, paddle through the serene waters of Nichupté Lagoon. This natural wonder, hidden just behind the Hotel Zone, offers a peaceful escape with its network of mangroves and clear waters. Kayaking here, you're likely to encounter a variety of bird species and maybe even the elusive crocodile sunning on the banks. As the city fades behind you, the tranquility of the lagoon provides a perfect counterpoint to Cancún’s lively beach scene.

13 MUSA

Dive into the surreal at MUSA, the Underwater Museum of Art, where over 500 sculptures rest on the ocean floor. This eco-project blends art with conservation, creating a habitat for marine life while offering a unique experience for snorkelers and divers. As you glide among the statues, fish weave between the figures, creating a living tableau that highlights the intersection of human creativity and natural beauty. It’s a hauntingly beautiful sight that offers a profound message about our relationship with the natural world.

14 Museo Maya de Cancún

Take a journey back in time at the Museo Maya de Cancún, where the rich history of the Yucatán Peninsula is preserved. The museum’s collection spans thousands of years, showcasing artifacts that reveal the complexity of the Maya civilization. From intricate jade masks to towering stone carvings, each piece tells a story of life, spirituality, and ingenuity. The museum, set against a backdrop of tropical greenery, offers a quiet space to reflect on the deep cultural roots of this vibrant region.

15 Xavage Park by Xcaret

Unleash your adventurous spirit at Xavage Park by Xcaret, where the thrill of the outdoors meets extreme sports. Whether you're navigating the only whitewater rapids in Cancún, soaring over the landscape on a zipline, or steering a monster truck through challenging terrain, Xavage promises an adrenaline rush. The park caters to all levels of adventure seekers, from families looking for fun to thrill-seekers chasing their next high. It's an exhilarating way to experience the natural beauty of Cancún from a different perspective.