The Best Things To Do in Cancun, Mexico: An Insider’s Guide

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Article written by: Rebecca
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Looking for the best things to do in Cancun, Mexico? This guide is from someone who’s lived there and is spilling her insider secrets!

The mere mention of Cancun may arouse thoughts of all-inclusive hotels and sitting by a hotel pool all day.

But this Mexican beach city has some unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else, as well as amazing food and a fun nightlife.

I’ve asked travel blogger Isabella to share her insider secrets to the best things to do in Cancun, Mexico – some must-do experiences and some a little more off the beaten path.

Over to you, Isabella, to share your Cancun guide!

Aerial view of Cancun beach with clear turquoise waters, white sands, and thatched umbrellas providing shade to beachgoers.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What to do in Cancun: More than an all-inclusive vacation

Mainly known as one of the most exciting destinations for spring breakers, Cancun’s reputation centres around spectacular all-inclusive hotels, white-sand beaches and an unbelievably turquoise sea.

However, you may be surprised to learn that Cancun is so much more than this. Beyond days lazing by a fancy hotel pool, there’s actually so much to see and so many fun things to do in Cancun that a week-long trip may not be enough.

Read on for this essential travel guide to enjoying Cancun to the fullest, including what to see, the best restaurants in Cancun, nightlife and how to get around.

Can’t-miss things to do in Cancun

1. Go kayaking or paddle boarding in the Nichupté Lagoon

This spectacular lagoon is most often ignored, but it’s an amazing environment for birdwatching in Cancun while paddling and enjoying the spectacular views.

It’s even better at sunset when the city skyline sets on fire on the horizon. This tour includes a sunset wildlife boat trip.

2. Spend a day on Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a small island with spectacular beaches, only a 30-minute ferry ride from Cancun. This is one of the best things to do near Cancun.

There are catamaran tours to visit Isla Mujeres like this one, which include a snorkeling trip and non-stop drinks, or it’s possible to have a DIY experience by taking a public ferry and exploring the island at your own pace.

Renting a golf cart is the best option to get around on a day trip to Isla Mujeres.

A wide angle view of a pristine Cancun beach with bright blue waters and waves gently crashing onto the sandy shore.

3. Dive the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA)

Both experienced divers and first timers will enjoy this unique experience. The dive at the Underwater Museum of Art is an easy, shallow water dip but the sights are spectacular.

This underwater museum features statues, marine life and even a coral- and plant-covered VW Beetle, now home to many tropical fish.

Most dive shops in Cancun can organise a visit and equipment or this tour will arrange it all for you.

4. Take a day trip to the Ruta de Los Cenotes

La Ruta de los Cenotes is a countryside road that begins in Puerto Morelos and continues towards the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Lined with spectacular cenotes (natural sinkholes with crystal clear water where one can swim), spend a day driving the route and stopping in to experience these beautiful water holes.

You can either rent a car and do it yourself, or join a tour to explore the cenotes in the area. This is a must do in Cancun!

A serene cenote in Cancun surrounded by lush greenery and clear, tranquil waters, reflecting the vibrant plant life.

5. Swim with whale sharks

This is an unforgettable experience that any nature and animal lover should experience at least once in a lifetime. Tours to swim with whale sharks are available from Cancun.

Make sure to do your research first to find a reputable provider that maintains a safe and responsible distance from these beautiful creatures.

Underwater view of a gentle giant whale shark swimming among schools of smaller fish in the deep blue waters off Cancun.

The best places to eat in Cancun

Eating in Cancun is difficult – but only because there’s so much choice it’s hard to decide! Many fine-dining Mexican and international restaurants are located in the hotel zone, but you can find a few interesting ones in downtown Cancun.

Here are some of the best places to eat in Cancun:

  • Elefanthai is a Thai and Indian food restaurant located in Plaza La Isla. Although their food is delicious, it’s more about the spectacular romantic setting, which makes a unique dining experience.
  • La Habichuela, an iconic Mexican restaurant with two locations, one on the lagoon in the hotel area and the other in downtown Cancun in Parque de las Palapas. Both offer a lovely ambiance and delicious food, a combination of Mexican flavours with an international touch.
  • Los Aguachiles is a special place with a cozy and laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant specialises in seafood and tacos and is popular among tourists and locals alike.

Nightlife in Cancun

The nightlife in Cancun takes places around Coco Bongo, the most popular and unique attraction. It’s like a discotheque but with amazing shows from a team of dancers that does covers of the most iconic singers: Madonna, Queen, Michael Jackson, as well as music from the 80s. The place is packed every single night.

In the same premises, there are other fun nightclubs to dance and drink the Cancun nights away.

Two shot glasses with golden liquid and lime wedges on the rim, sitting on a wooden table with a soft-focus beach background.

Where to stay in Cancun

The hotel choice in Cancun is huge and diverse, from hostels to all-inclusive hotels of different price ranges, or simple bed and breakfasts.

The most exclusive properties are located along the beach of the Zona Hotelera (hotel zone), on a 16-mile strip that separates the sea from the lagoon.

Cheaper choices are in downtown, with all properties a few kilometres back from the beach.

Check the latest rates on hotels in Cancun on Booking.com or Expedia.

How to get around Cancun

Moving around Cancun is very easy. There are a few things to know though:

In the hotel zone, which is just a single straight road, local buses are the best option (cost about 50 cents per ride). However, going downtown can be tricky. Ask the bus driver where to connect to the next bus to reach the destination needed.

Taxis are definitely the most comfortable option but more expensive. Keep in mind that taxis are far more expensive along the hotel zone than in downtown. From a hotel you can’t call an external taxi driver, as they aren’t allowed to enter. It’s possible the other way around, though, from outside to the hotel.

While in town, using a taxi “de sitio” (the taxis at taxi stands or requested by phone) is more expensive than the ones stopped on the road. But they are most of the time cleaner and in better conditions.

Use GuateGo to get from the airport to downtown.

Renting a car is also a possible option – especially if you want to travel outside of Cancun (to the cenotes, for example). You can easily compare rentals on DiscoverCars.

A breathtaking sunset view from Cancun, with the orange sun dipping into the ocean horizon, framed by silhouetted palm trees.

Wrap up: Things to do in Cancun

There is so much more to Cancun than spring breakers and all-inclusive hotels, and I hope this Cancun insider guide has shown you that. Suffice to say, whatever you chose to do and wherever you will stay, you’re going to have a blast!

Cancun travel guide: FAQs

What’s the best time of year to visit Cancun?

The ideal time to visit Cancun is from December to April, during the dry season when the weather is sunny and warm. However, this is also peak tourist season. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months of April, May and November.

Is Cancun safe for tourists?

Cancun is generally safe for tourists, especially in areas popular with visitors like the Hotel Zone. However, like any tourist destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, use common sense, and follow travel advisories.

Can I drink tap water in Cancun?

I recommend drinking bottled or purified water during your stay in Cancun. While many resorts purify their water, it’s best to avoid tap water to avoid stomach issues. I always pack a filtered water bottle, like this Grayl bottle which purifies water.

Can I use US dollars in Cancun?

US dollars are widely accepted in Cancun, especially in tourist areas. However, you’ll often find better prices paying in Mexican Pesos. Always have some local currency, especially for smaller purchases and when venturing off the beaten path.

Are there cultural tips or etiquettes I should be aware of?

Respect local customs and traditions. Tipping is customary and appreciated in Mexico; consider tipping service workers, tour guides, and at restaurants. Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.

About the author

Isabella is a serial traveller who decided to ditch the 9-to-5 life at the age of 44 to travel through Latin America and become a professional digital nomad. She loves to capture nature and wildlife with her inseparable Canon 6D and write about her beloved Mexico and her adventures across Latin America on her blog BoundlessRoads.com. Follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook.

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What are your favourite things to do in Cancun? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.


Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Mexico travel articles:

MEXICO TRIP ESSENTIALS

  • Book flights to and around Mexico online with Skyscanner. I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
  • Find great hotels across Mexico. Check prices on Booking.com and Expedia online.
  • Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Mexico on GetYourGuide or Viator. There’s something for everyone.
  • A copy of the Lonely Planet guide to Mexico will be handy.
  • One thing I always purchase is travel insurance! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

1 thought on “The Best Things To Do in Cancun, Mexico: An Insider’s Guide”

  1. So many great things to do! I´d be most excited to visit Isla Mujeres and Cenotes! I´ve only visited Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Playa del Carmen so far!

    Have a nice weekend!
    Anna

    Reply

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