Cancún mexico
Known for its all-inclusive resorts on pristine white sand beaches with sparkling blue waters there will come a time when you are tempted to visit this paradise. Cancún is located on the eastern shore of Mexico on the Yucatán Peninsula bordering the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its resorts and party scene, but it has so much more to offer. Aside from its amazing beaches, there are several day trips and activities you can do during your stay.
things to do
Enjoy the Beaches
You simply cannot come to Cancun and not visit the amazing beaches. If you stay at an all-inclusive resort, chances are you will be right on the beach but if not there are several public beaches for you to enjoy. One of the best public beaches is Playa Delfines which is also located right next to the infamous Cancún letters. You can also check out: Playa Marlín, Playa Ballenas, or Chac Mool Beach on the Caribbean side of the beaches or Playa Las Perlas, Playa Langosta or Playa Tortugas on the North side. The Northern side beaches are more protected and calmer for children and less waves.
Zona Arqueológica de El Rey
This small site is a small ruin of the Mayan civilization and it is covered with amazing iguanas. Since it is in Cancún, you can visit without needing to spend hours of transport via tour or bus. It can be reached easily by public bus from your hotel. It is conveniently located across from Playa Delfines if you want to check that out after your visit.
The nightlife
Cancún is known for its incredible nightlife and party atmosphere. It is a great destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties as well as a favorite spring break location. There are literally so many bars and clubs to choose from you cannot go wrong. Some of the favorites include Mandala, Coco Bongo, Carlos’n Charlie’s, Congo Bar and more.
Indulge in an all-inclusive
You can splurge on staying at an all-inclusive for your stay or simply get a day pass if you want to relax and eat and drink all day. There are some resorts that have day passes so you can get that feel just for the day. Some of these include: Hard Rock Hotel Cancun, Intercontinental Presidente Cancun, Panama Jack, Live Aqua and more.
Xcaret Park is a theme park and resort. It includes many different activities including zoo, water park, underground rivers, and live shows.
Mercado 28
If you love some haggling, chaos of market places, and souvenir shopping you may want to check out this market in the center of Cancun. You can get here on the public bus. Remember not to pay full price!
Snorkeling
With these crystal clear blue waters you should definitely consider seeing the amazing aquatic life below. There are so many wonderful places to snorkel and dive. Isla Mujeres is a great place to snorkel. You can consider checking on the Cancún Underwater Museum which has underwater statues.
Whale Shark Tour
If you want to get the chance to swim with these magical creatures you can book a tour between June and mid-September from Isla Mujeres or Cancún.
day trips
Chichén Itzá
Chichén Itzá is a UNESCO world heritage site and part of the 7 wonders of the world. It is about 2.5-3 hours from Cancún. It is the most famous and visited Mayan site. You can take a tour here or do it yourself via local buses. Either way it is worth the trip.
Isla Mujeres
This beautiful island is located about 20 minutes from Cancún via ferry. There are also a number of tours that offer snorkeling and boat rides to this island. If you have time you can stay on the island. On the island you can check on Ixchel temple, Hacienda Mundaca, Garrafon Reef Park and more.
Cenotes
These water-filled sinkholes occur when limestone collapses to expose the water underneath. Some of the popular ones include Cenote Ik Kil which is nearby Chichén Itzá so it can get extremely busy midday as many tours to Chichén Itzá also include a stop here. Cenote Azul is about 1 hour and 15-minute drive from Cancún. Also, you can check out the Ruta De Los Cenotes which is about 30 minutes away includes at least 10 cenotes along a 20 km stretch.
Snorkeling/Diving Tours
There are so many wonderful places to snorkel and dive. Isla Mujeres is a great place to snorkel. You can consider checking on the Cancún Underwater Museum which has underwater statues. If you want to get the chance to swim with whale sharks you can book a tour between June and mid-September. Some top tour operators include: Jungle Tour Adventure Cancun, Total Snorkel Cancun, and Cancun Jungle Tours among many others.
