28 Best & Fun Things to Do in Cancun, Mexico (2024)

Cancun is a beautiful world of deep history, meaningful artistic expression, and scenic views of the ocean, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the world.

Cancun sees an estimated 15 million tourists each year, and it’s genuinely no wonder why because this city is a relaxing location to enjoy a tropical summer far from the usual busy modern life.

You can expect to see amazingly preserved ruins that give you a glimpse into Mexican history and outstanding landscapes that can only be described as natural wonders.

Cancun is an iconic vacation spot, and in this list, we’ll help you decide which places you should visit first.

You’ll experience local festivities and culture, all while in the comfort of some of the best resorts in the world, Here are lists of Cancun resorts, the best all inclusive resorts in Cancun and top resorts in Riviera Maya with reviews.

Here are just a few of the best things to do in Cancun, Mexico.

Things to Do in Cancun:

1.  Visit the Beaches of Cancun

Entry Ticket: Parking fee or free

Address: Cancún, Mexico

• Plenty of beach options for families, kids, and surfers
• Many beaches are close to the most iconic Cancun spots

To start off, we should touch on the magnificent beaches of Cancun, but because this gorgeous seaside Mexican city has too many to pick from, we’ll be highlighting just a few of the most fantastic and vacation-friendly beaches available to tourists visiting this city.

One of the most well-known white sand beaches in the area is Playa Langosta, which offers incredible ocean views, shallow waters that are perfect for kids or those who simply want to relax beachside, and several tasty restaurants in the area.

Another great beach to visit in Cancun is Playa El Niño, which is a great beach for any boating activities or swimming. 

There are also plenty of floaties vendors, snack bars, and fantastic seafood spots dotting this palm-lined beach.

Our last beach recommendation is a perfect location for the surfers, as Playa Chacmool is a beautiful white sands beach with clear turquoise waters and massive waves that are perfect for any water sports fans.

Whatever beach you choose, we’re sure you’ll enjoy the incredible beach views and great relaxing beachside areas.

2. Go ziplining at Selvatica

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $34.30 for children, $69.30 for adults

Address: Ruta de los cenotes Km 18 Carretera, Quintana Roo Puerto Morelos – Leona Vicario, Sin Colonia, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Mexico

• Great for families and adrenaline seekers
• A whole day of fun right in the heart of the jungle of Mexico

Selvatica Adventure Tribe is a great place to visit for fun near Cancun.

The exciting amusement park offers guests thrilling adventures on ziplines, aerial bridges, and off-roading experiences.

By purchasing one of the Selvaticas tickets, you’ll get a one-of-a-kind, exciting jungle experience that will take you through the most interesting parts of the Mexican forests.

Selvatica doesn’t just offer ziplines and off-roading; they also allow guests to experience their one-of-a-kind super flight ride, bungee jumping adventures, cenote swim, and much more for those adrenaline seekers out there.

This location is excellent for family fun or those who want an exhilarating jungle experience not too far from Cancun.

3. Dreams Vista

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Room pricing averages $280 a night

Address: Residential Puerta del Mar Sm 84 MN 12 Lote 1-03, 77520 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• A perfect place to stay for couples
• It gives guests a full tropical experience

Dreams Vista is a beautiful all-inclusive resort located on a sandy beach facing the breathtaking Caribbean Sea, only 20 km from the Cancun airport and 5 km away from Cancun’s unique Mercado 28 flea market.

This golf and spa resort is sure to take your breath away with its magnificent room designs, huge open windows that allow natural lighting and a cool swim breeze, and spectacular views of the surrounding area.

This resort is ideal for small families or couples on a tropical getaway that wishes to experience Cancun’s fantastic beachside ambiance even while in your hotel.

Dreams Vista promises a relaxing private lounge, 24/7 room service, a minibar for every room, and terraces that overlook the ocean.

4. Café con Gracia

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Tankah 69 Mza, 1 Lote, 24, 77509 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Sweet and savory foods with lots of coffee options
• Perfect breakfast or snack place

If you’re staying in Cancun for any amount of time, you may be curious to try out some of the city’s delicious foods and beverages that have become a staple in the area, or perhaps you just want a delightful latte to keep you going.

Well, Café con Gracia has everything you could want from a small local coffee spot, where you can try their absolutely delectable waffles that are topped with chocolate syrup, strawberries, and a scoop of ice cream, or one of their savory items like the bagel with salmon or ham n cheese panini.

And of course, you should try their coffee, offering various lattes and frappuccinos, all with different flavors and toppings.

You’ll be sure to enjoy their entire menu, making this café one of the most fun things to do in Cancun.

5. Visit the Chichen Itza Maya ruins.

Entry Ticket: $26 USD for adults, $3.92 USD for kids

Address: Yucatan, Mexico

• An enriching historical area that is exceptionally well preserved
• Tons of places to explore and tour, surrounded by tropical jungle

To truly experience the beauty and amazement of Mexico, you should visit one of the many ruins that dot the land near the city of Cancun, such as Chichen Itza Maya.

At these ruins located west of Cancun near the cultural city of Valladolid, you’ll see ancient wonders such as step pyramids and statues of Mayan gods, all surrounded by the natural magnificence of the Mexican jungle.

These ruins are incredibly well preserved, making it hard to believe that they were built in a time so long ago, approximately 600 AD.

As you explore the area, you’ll learn all about the deep history of the country of Mexico and how its history has shaped the present-day culture and the people that live there.

6. La Marqueta Del 7

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Av Huayacán SM 312-LT 14 y 15, 57, 77533 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• A fast-food tasting restaurant with authentic Mexican food

When staying in Cancun, you’ll smell some fantastic food and hear all about the exquisite flavors of authentic Mexican food, so you’ll be itching to try some of that food for yourself.

The best spot to go to sample some of Mexico’s most excellent dishes is La Marqueta Del 7. 

This street-food-esque restaurant has some of the best menu options in the entire city.

From their savory quesadilla con nopales to their sweet and smooth flan Napolitano, their menu and topping options are extensive and sure to be an excellent food spot for any meal of the day.

7. Museo de Cozumel by Cozumel Parks

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: $9.69 per ticket

Address: Av. Rafael E. Melgar 321-Planta Alta, entre calle 4 y 6 Norte, Centro, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Q.R., Mexico

• This extraordinary museum has tons of exhibits and artifacts on display
• Perfect for families or history buffs

Museo De Cozumel is a fantastic museum located on an island just south of the city of Cancun and showcases various exhibits and artifacts, as well as a great restaurant with ocean views.

As you walk through this carefully curated museum, you’ll see many artifacts and important discoveries that were made in the beautiful country of Mexico, from ancient Mayan statues well preserved within the exhibits to pieces of agricultural history.

This location will genuinely give you an idea of just how deep the history of the country is, especially the forested area of Cancun, which holds some of the Mexico’s most remarkable secrets.

8. Take in the Views at The Cancun Scenic Tower.

Rating: 4.7★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $10 USD

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 4.5, Kukulcan Boulevard, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Amazing views of the Cancun area

The Cancun Scenic Tower, or Torre Escénica del Embarcadero de Cancún, is a rising tower with a spacious observation deck that allows 360-degree views of the surrounding city and beaches from high above.

This is the perfect location to visit for those who want scenic views of the Cancun area or a great photo opportunity.

This spot is great for kids and includes wheelchair accessibility, making it perfect for all families.

9. Mercado 28

Rating: 4.2★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Xel-ha Mz 13, 28, 77509 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• A local flea market with tons of items to explore
• Famous in the Cancun area for its great souvenirs

For those who want to enjoy more of the local community of Cancun and truly experience the city as a local would, a stop by Mercado 28 is a must. 

This area is a long-running busy flea market with tons of items, where you will be able to find the perfect souvenir or gift.

As you walk through this flea market, you’ll come across various areas selling everything from colorful, authentic fine China to carefully aged top-shelf liquor.

Mercado 28 is an iconic part of the culture and life in Cancun, and a visit here is a memorable experience for any tourist planning on exploring this colorful city.

10. Coco Bongo

Rating: 4.2★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $90

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan 30, Punta Cancun, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Amazing musical shows that are one-of-a-kind in Mexico
• Fantastic beverage and food menu
• Nobody under 18 allowed within the club

Coco Bongo is a must-see for anyone visiting Cancun for more than a day. 

This exclusive nightclub offers guests a one-of-a-kind eccentric show that changes themes each night.

As you step into this nightlife hot spot, you’ll be greeted by outgoing employees, bright neon colors, and an immersive showing that is only enhanced by the club’s fantastic menu and drinks included with your ticket.

Coco Bongo also offers VIP tables and a more elite experience for those who want even more out of a night on the town.

11. Divinia Carne

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Free, reservation recommended

Address: Plaza Pabellón, Blvd Luis Donaldo Colosio, Av. Cumbres, 77560 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Fantastic steakhouse with lots of options
• Great for family dinners or couples

Divinia Carne is a delicious steak house that offers an exquisite menu and a unique warm ambient atmosphere right in the heart of Cancun.

When scheduling your table reservation, you’ll enjoy a several-course meal where you are served savory, perfectly cooked steak, small tasting portions, and sweet flavors mixed in.

Divinia Carne is one of the most important places in Cancun for any foodies or couples looking for a fantastic meal and experience.

12. Try out-standing paddle boarding with SUP Cancun

Rating: 5★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $20 USD

Address: Hotel Imperial las perlas Km 2.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Excellent exploration activity on the ocean waves
• A cheap way to fully enjoy the ocean

If you’d like to hit the ocean waves or see further out into the turquoise waters of Cancun without renting an expensive boat. 

In that is the case, you may want to consider visiting the SUP Cancun rental company to get your own standing paddle board.

Standing paddle boarding has long been a staple of water sports in many seaside Mexican cities, but especially in Cancun, where you can see the beauty of the waters from atop the waves.

As you paddle across the waves, you’ll get to see unique views of the city and the Caribbean Ocean for a low price that can be enjoyed by most families.

13. Café de Amancia

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 77580 Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico

• Authentic Mexican food cooked to perfection
• Great for lunches

When you’re visiting the beautiful city of Cancun, you may end up wandering further south to explore some of Mexico’s southern beaches, ruins, and jungle adventures.

If you do, then you should consider paying a quick visit to the traditional Café de Amancia.

This café boasts an authentic Mexican menu with tons of delicious breakfast and lunch treats, like classic omelets served with a side of potatoes or Chilaquiles con huevos, which is fried tortilla strips covered in salsa and cheese then topped with an egg.

Café de Amancia has a beautiful and cozy atmosphere that welcomes each guest to sit and enjoy their food beside large open windows or on the patio where you can enjoy the seaside breeze.

The unique ambiance of this café and its lovely homemade menu make it one of the best things to do in Cancun.

14. Captain Hook Cancun

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: $72 USD for adults, $36 USD fid kids

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan km.5-Km 5, Kukulcan Boulevard, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Amazing music and stunt shows all on board a replica pirate ship
• Great for families and kids

To enjoy the great waves of the Caribbean Sea at their fullest, you can book with Captain Hook Cancun, an amazing pirate-themed show all taking place aboard a replica pirate ship.

The Captain Hook experience offers a bar, dinner menu, and hours of entertainment, all while you’re at sea in a spectacular ship adorned with sparkling lights and stunning details that will immerse you fully into the show.

The combination of incredible drinks and dinner items, the fantastic music and stunt performances by friendly cast members, and a stunning venue makes this one of the most fun places to visit in Cancun.

15. El Rey Archeological Zone

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: $3.20 USD

Address: Hotel Zone, 77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico

• Historical wonder that invites tourists to see ancient buildings
• Lots of local wildlife nearby and beaches

El Rey Archeological Zone is an expansive historical area of the central part of the Cancun shoreline where you can see some of the city’s oldest buildings.

This area also boasts access to beaches and a large iguana population that brings tourists to the area to enjoy the natural wildlife that it offers.

El Rey is a beautiful part of the city of Cancun where you can explore the age-old cultural heritage of Cancun, all with ease of access thanks to its location very near other well-known tourist spots.

There’s truly no reason to miss out on this fantastic beachside site, especially with such amazing views of the surrounding ocean and wildlife, making it one of the most best things to do in Cancun.

16. Interactive Aquarium Cancun

Rating: 4.3★

Entry Ticket: $9.74 USD

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan 12.5, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Great for children and fans of aquatic life
• Beautiful aquarium with lots to do and see

Interactive Aquarium Cancun boasts a huge amount of unique sea creatures as well as plenty of interactive experiences and shows for guests to see.

As you walk through this colorful aquarium, you’ll get to see many of Mexico’s and the Caribbean’s most common underwater creatures, from eels to turtles and dolphins.

You’ll get to interact and touch the dolphins and see the trainers perform amazing shows with them.

This aquarium takes special care in treating every single animal and guest right, so this spot is a must-see for any Cancun tourists.

17. Restaurante Buenos Aires

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Av. Alamos 22, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Huge menu with matching cocktails
• Great ambiance

This one-of-a-kind grill has a vast menu with items ranging from perfectly grilled steaks to Empanadas.

Vist Restaurante Buenos Aires and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the unique offer of a menu item for everyone and plenty of cocktails to match.

As you walk into this warmly lit restaurant, you’ll be greeted with friendly staff and a beautiful interior that nicely complements their tasty grilled dishes.

Their extensive menu of beverages and dinner options are carefully hand-selected to pair with each other exceptionally well.

This restaurant’s outstanding menu and lovely interior make this one of the best restaurants to visit in the Cancun area.

18. Punta Sur

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: $18 USD for adults, $11 USD for children

Address: Quintana Roo, Mexico

• Wonderful island archeological zone
• Lots of great walking trails in the area

Punta Sur is a significant ecological zone located on an island just off the coast of Cancun. 

This island boasts scenic views of the ocean from cliff sides and beaches, as well as plenty of other things to see and do nearby such as markets as well as walking trails.

As you explore the area, you’ll also get to see various wild animals, from iguanas sunbathing on the coastline rocks to the many birds sitting in the palm trees.

Punta Sur is perfect for any family looking to get out and explore for a day or those who enjoy sailing, fishing, or other water activities.

19. Renaissance Cancun Resort

Rating: 4.6★

Entry Ticket: Average $135 per night

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 1.5, Puerto Cancún, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Great resort for families
• A cheap fee for a fantastic resort with tons of amenities

Another great resort to stay at when you are spending time in Cancun is the Renaissance Cancun Resort. 

This large 4-star hotel has constant views of the ocean, a café and bar, hot tubs, and a sauna, all on-site.

This modern-designed resort has a large area to explore, 24/7 room service, and much more, making it one of the ideal places to stay in Cancun.

But not only is the resort a wonderful place to spend your time relaxing, but it’s also within close proximity to some of Cancun’s best beaches and notable locations.

20. Stop by Tulum

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Tulum, Mexico

• Colorful town not too far from Cancun
• Lots of amazing beaches and ancient statues

If you are planning on staying in Cancun for a weekeond or more, an important place to check out when you have a free day is to make the short drive to the town of Tulum, where you can see some of Mexico’s most wonderful natural beauties and cultural staples.

Tulum is known for its breathtaking beaches that can rival those of Cancun’s, as well as its extremely well-preserved ancient ruins that dot the area in and around this colorful little town.

Tulum has numerous things to do, from the deep caves underneath the jungle that you can explore to taking a kayaking trip through the canals of Mexico.

This little beach and jungle town is the perfect place to wind down for a day and simply soak in the amazing views and history of the country of Mexico.

21. Tours Acuáticos TravelArt

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $47 USD

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan km 13, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Wonderful underwater art that is a must-see
• Perfect for scuba divers

If you’re one of the thousands of people that visit the fantastic city of Cancun each year, you’re likely going for the amazing ocean views and natural beauty of the beaches. 

However, there is also plenty of man-made art to see underneath the waves.

Tours Acuáticos TravelArt will take you underneath the ocean waves to see some of Cancun’s most moving pieces of artwork displayed in an underwater exhibit that’s famous for its collection of statues that have grown algae on them, making them look like ancient relics.

Scuba diving and seeing these fantastic wonders of art is an unforgettable experience for anyone who visiting Cancun.

22. Nichupte Lagoon

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Quintana Roo, Mexico

• Perfect fishing spot or sailing location
• Great for a day-long family outing

Nichupte Lagoon, known as Nichupte, is a large body of water that divides the downtown busy city of Cancun from the thin strip of land that holds hotels and Cancun’s most famous beach attractions.

So, it’s no surprise that Nichupte is an incredibly popular place to visit for those who love sailing and fishing alike. 

The Lagoon is home to many of Mexico’s most abundant fish and offers great views of the surrounding area, including Cancun itself and the beaches nearby, making it a relaxing place to simply enjoy the sunshine.

23. Museo Maya de Cancún y Zona Arqueológica de San Miguelito

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: $4.18 USD

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan km 16.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Great museum collection
• Lots of well-preserved pieces of Mexico history

Another fantastic museum to check out in the Cancun area is Museo Maya de Cancún, a spacious museum that houses hundreds of ancient artifacts and intriguing exhibits.

As you browse through this museum’s fascinating collection of well-preserved statues, ancient Mayan art, and the outdoor ruins section, you’ll feel a deep connection to each and every piece.

This museum has a perfectly maintained collection of exhibits and artifacts that make it a must-see for any tourist visiting Cancun, both for its impressive displays and detailed historical descriptions.

24. El Meco Ruins

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: $3.20 USD

Address: Carretera Puerto Juarez, López Portillo, 77520 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Fascinating Archeological site right in the heart of Cancun

Located slightly north of downtown Cancun, El Meco Ruins is one of the most iconic archeological parts of Cancun, with several long-forgotten buildings and statues on display in this small area.

Tropical trees and palm plants surround these decrepit ruins that have been carefully preserved by the Cancun locals, so that now you can walk among these ruins yourself to feel the sheer scale and power of them.

This historical site of ancient ruins is one of the most revered places to Cancun locals and shows just how deep their history goes, making this one of the most important places to visit in Cancun.

25. Jardin Del Arte

Rating: 4.5★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 4.5, Kukulcan Boulevard, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Peaceful art garden
• Great for relaxing after a long day

While exploring the streets, parks, and recreational areas of this city, you may come across Jardin Del Arte or Art Garden. 

This spot is exactly as the name implies, boasting a beautiful garden decorated with art.

Many of these art pieces and statues that tower overhead each give a certain emotional response, and put together, they form a wonderful community area for all to enjoy entirely for free.

Its combination of fantastic art pieces and lovely garden landscape make Jardin Del Arte a perfect place to go to enjoy the weather or to take a peaceful walk among the statues.

Jardin Del Arte is absolutely one of the most incredible top things to do in Cancun.

26. Xoximilco

Rating: 4.8★

Entry Ticket: Starting at $89.99 USD

Address: Chetumal Km. 282, Juárez, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Mexico

• Great for kids and families
• Fantastic theme park with lots to do

Next on our list is a perfect spot to take kids.

Xoximilco is a theme park entirely built around Mexican culture, food, art, and customs, and is a large colorful homage to the beautiful country of Mexico.

In this fascinating theme park, you can ride on gondolas through the jungle while taking in the beauty of the park or taste some of the park’s most delicious Mexican snacks.

Xoximilco is an iconic spot in Cancun, and it’s clear to see why, with its lovely, detailed design and plenty of great things to do as a family, including its many rides and games.

Xoximilco is absolutely one of the most fun things to do in Cancun.

27. Parque De Las Palapas

Rating: 4.4★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: 77500, Tulipanes LB, 22, Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

• Lovely park that has tons to do
• Considered a must-visit for tourists

Possibly the beating heart of Cancun, Parque De Las Palapas is a wonderful spot where you can explore the center of the city all while having access to great walking trails, tasty food carts, picnic tables, and much more.

This park boasts one of the most trafficked areas of Cancun, and it’s easy to see why, with a multitude of activities and is a great atmosphere for kids and families.

Parque De Las Palapas will ensure you are completely entertained, which makes it perfect for anybody visiting Cancun.

28. Mahache

Rating: 4.9★

Entry Ticket: Free

Address: Av. Guerrero 72, Centro – Supmza. 001, 77400 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

• Delicious food served in creative ways
• Located near Punta Sur

And lastly, on our list, we’re going to finish off with a wonderful restaurant and bar located on the nearby island of Isla Mujeres, the same place where the previously mentioned Punta Sur is located.

On top of the great location of the restaurant, this spot has absolutely incredible food and drinks that can’t be topped by anybody else.

From its decadent chocolate mousse served with a raspberry on top to its extremely popular coconut shrimp served within a hollowed-out pineapple, your mouth will be watering.

Mahache is the perfect place to get dinner before you leave the iconic and breathtaking world of Cancun.