Many people think of Cancun solely as a tropical beach paradise, which it definitely is. However, Cancun teems with interesting places to go, exhilarating things to do, and in such vast variety that nobody’s passion is denied.
Cancun has so many options for sightseeing and activities that it may be hard to choose just what to do on your vacation (not a bad problem to have)! Here we will highlight just a few glimpses of what Cancun has to offer — adventure parks, aquatic activities, museums, and more!
1. See the World’s First Permanent Cirque du Soleil
Joya, the first-ever permanent Cirque du Soleil show outside of the USA, is a feast for the senses! Uniquely written and designed for the Mayan Riviera, this breathtaking spectacle is definitely the crème de la crème of entertainment options in the region.
If you’ve seen a Cirque show before, you know what a jaw-dropping experience it is! The acrobats perform fascinating feats, and every detail of the stage backdrop and costumes is absolutely perfect.
There are four different levels of tickets to choose from: VIP, dinner + show, Champagne package, and show only. All levels enjoy live music half an hour before the performance. Every seat in the modern, air-conditioned theatre provides an excellent view, so you can be fully absorbed in the show.
2. Discover Mexico’s Mayan Archeological Sites
Cancun has a few small Mayan ruin sites that you may see here and there. In order to really experience the Mayan culture, though, you need to travel a bit further.
If you head inland (west), you can see the world-renowned ruins of Chichen-Itza, Coba, and Uxmal. These sites are each very impressive in their own way, but require time and some advance planning. Or visit Tulum, where the ruins of an ancient Mayan holy city are perched on cliffs overlooking the sea.
Visit our Mayan Ruins page to learn about additional locations within a reasonable distance from Cancun.
3. Go Wild on Aquaworld’s Jungle Tour
Drive your own boat through the lagoon and explore all kinds of hidden nooks in the mangroves of this Caribbean jewel. AquaWorld also offers diving, snorkeling, ‘AquaTwister’ (a jet boat ride out on the open ocean), parasailing, flyboarding, deep-sea fishing, and beyond.
4. Get to Know Cancun’s Museums
Photo Credit: aindigo
Cancun has a fascinating collection of museums that you’re certain to love.
Cancun’s Mayan Museum & San Miguelito Archaeological Site
Located conveniently at KM 16 in Cancun’s bustling Hotel Zone, Cancun’s Maya Museum (Museo Maya de Cancun) offers an insightful journey into the rich history and culture of the ancient Mayan civilization.
The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, tools, and sculptures that showcase the daily life, beliefs, and artistry of the Mayan people. Visitors can explore detailed exhibits that provide an in-depth understanding of the Mayan culture and its significance in the Yucatán Peninsula.
Adjacent to the museum is the San Miguelito Archaeological Site, a fascinating Mayan ruin right in the heart of Cancun. This small but significant site features well-preserved structures, including temples and platforms, surrounded by lush greenery. San Miguelito offers a unique opportunity to experience ancient Mayan architecture without leaving the city.
Museum of Mexican Folk Art
For an immersive cultural experience, visit the Museum of Mexican Folk Art, home to an extraordinary collection of traditional Mexican handicrafts. Legend has it that these vibrant pieces were amassed by a renowned hacendado, whose deep love for Mexico inspired him to gather unique works representing various regions of the country.
The museum showcases the creativity and imagination of Mexican artisans through colorful and intricate works, highlighting diverse artisanal techniques from different states. As you explore the exhibition, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the rich artistic heritage of Mexico.
5. Take to the Seas on a Replica Spanish Galleon
Become a pirate of the Caribbean on this fun-filled voyage through the beautiful waters of the Mexican Caribbean. Experience an exciting pirate attack while sailing aboard a 17th-century authentic Spanish Galleon replica.
These spectacular galleons are 93 feet long and can hold up to 350 passengers, immersing you in a true pirate environment. Once aboard, you’ll be welcomed by pirates with a delicious cocktail as the sound of cannons signals the start of the adventure.
The fun begins with games, contests, dance activities, and captivating stories of pirate lore. At dinner, enjoy a delicious buffet, but be prepared for an exciting enemy pirate ship attack and watch Captain Hook’s crew battle to triumph at the dock!
6. Step Back in Time at Xoximilco
This is a floating cultural experience where you can party like a local! Xoximilco is a vibrant tribute to the traditions, culture, and folklore of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mexico. Aboard a colorful trajinera, you’ll glide through the lively canals of Xochimilco, becoming part of the celebration filled with dance, toasts, music, and fun games that bring the experience to life.
As you cruise through the park, savor the aroma and flavors of authentic Mexican gastronomy with delicious dishes representing the diverse culinary heritage of the country. No Mexican celebration is complete without drinks, so enjoy an open bar on board featuring tequila, rum, vodka, beer, soft drinks, and flavored waters—always something to raise a glass and say cheers!
To enhance the festive atmosphere, live music groups perform traditional Mexican beats that will have you dancing and singing along. A lively host accompanies your journey, engaging everyone with games, funny stories, and invitations to enjoy an unforgettable evening.
7. Get a Strike on a Family Bowling Night
Cancun’s Ninth Pin Bowling Alley is where you can enjoy great times with tasty bar food, unlimited premium drinks, and sports action on multiple screens. Whether you’re a bowling pro or just sending every ball down the gutter, everyone over the age of four is welcome.
The All-Inclusive Bowling experience includes shoe rental and is based on six people per lane per hour, with an additional cost for participation. It’s the perfect spot to strike, sip, and snack!
8. Get Your Catch of the Day Deep Sea Fishing
Photo Credit: MPH Photos
Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in Cancun aboard well-equipped, comfortable boats designed for an unforgettable adventure on the Caribbean Sea.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, Cancun offers fantastic opportunities to catch a variety of game fish such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna. The fishing charters provide all necessary gear, expert guides, and safety equipment, ensuring a fun and safe outing.
Departing from Cancun’s marina, these excursions typically last several hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters, spot marine life, and reel in your big catch.
Deep sea fishing in Cancun is perfect for groups of all sizes and promises an exciting day filled with action, stunning ocean views, and the possibility of landing a trophy fish to remember your Cancun vacation by.
9. Go Park Hopping In and Around Cancun
There are several major attractions or parks that are not within Cancun itself. Some sites are accessible on foot, or you can take a taxi or bus if needed. If you don’t rent a car to get to the parks listed below, the best choice is to book a tour.
XPLOR
This park is located just south of the city of Playa del Carmen (about a 45-minute bus ride south of Cancun). It’s a well-designed park with zip-lining, ATVs, and underground rivers you can raft or swim in. This is an extremely active, fun-packed day! You can book a day or night fire tour.
XCARET
Xcaret is a beautiful park that helps give you a well-rounded scope of Mexico. Enjoy seeing exotic animals, theatrical and traditional performances, beautiful beaches and jungle pathways along with food and drink. There are also underground rivers to explore and an ocean bay for snorkeling and swimming with dolphins. This park is in the same general location as XPLOR–just a little further south–still about a 45-minute bus trip from Cancun.
XEL-HA
An absolutely gorgeous park for all you water-lovers out there is XelHa! It’s roughly an hour and a half’s drive south of Cancun. This park is full of great snorkeling spots, cliff jumping, beaches, zip-lining, water obstacle course, lazy river tubing, and a whole lot more.
10. Take a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres
Photo Credit: Arkadij Schell
Isla Mujeres is a stunningly gorgeous island lying a few miles off Cancun’s coast. This is a fantastic day trip where you can go and just walk around the small island or rent a golf cart and tour around for a few hours.
Ferries run back and forth from various points in Cancun all day long. Excellent food and drinks are easily found on the island, as well as beautiful beaches ranging from sugary soft sand to rocky cliffs! It’s yours to explore.
11. Feed Sharks at the Interactive Aquarium
The Interactive Aquarium is a fun place to visit and experience marine life like never before. Children can interact with sea creatures, and visitors can swim with dolphins and feed sharks from inside a clear, protective Plexiglas box that is lowered into the shark tank!
12. Enjoy Panoramic Coastal Views at La Torre Cancun
For the best view of Cancun’s coast and cityscape, you can go to the top of La Torre Cancun, a rotating tower in Xcaret Park. If you want to get a good feel for the lay of the land and get some amazing bird’s-eye views, Cancun’s Scenic Tower is something you’ll want to put on your list.
Explore All the Most Exciting Things to Do in Cancun
Whether you’re visiting Cancun and staying in the bustling hotel zone, discovering hidden gems in downtown Cancun, enjoying a snorkeling tour in the crystal-clear water, or relaxing on the white sand beaches, there is always something new and exciting to discover.
With its natural beauty, rich culture, and endless activities, Cancun guarantees an amazing time for the whole family or solo travelers alike. Book your Cancun stay today!
