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Things to do in Cancun

If you’re looking for a coastal paradise paired with the buzz of a metropolitan city, look no further than Cancun. Its renowned turquoise seaside is just the start of your adventure!

Located on the northern side of Quintana Roo, or The Mexican Caribbean, there’s plenty of opportunity to soak in the sun and stunning views. Snorkel and dive amongst the wildlife, go deep into pristine rainforests, or lounge by the pool of your first-class hotel. From visiting Mayan ruins to looking for the best Mexican and international food around, there’s something new to do and discover every day. The bustling nightlife is also the best scene to bask in the city’s energy and meet new people from across the world.

Whether you’re aboveground, immersed in the local life at Palapas Park, or underwater, to behold the incredible sculptures at MUSA, you’ll spend every moment savoring your Cancun holiday.

Here are some top things to do in Cancun:

Beaches and Water Activities
  1. Playa Delfines: A beautiful, less crowded beach known for its white sand and turquoise water.
  2. Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef in the world.
  3. Isla Mujeres: A short ferry ride away, this island offers stunning beaches, snorkeling, and the famous Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA).
  4. Cenotes: Swim or dive in natural sinkholes like Cenote Dos Ojos or Cenote Ik Kil.
Cultural and Historical Sites
  1. Chichen Itza: Visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, an ancient Mayan city with the iconic El Castillo pyramid.
  2. Tulum: Explore the ancient Mayan ruins located on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
  3. El Rey Ruins: Located in the Hotel Zone, these smaller ruins provide a glimpse into the region’s history without leaving Cancun.
  4. Museo Maya de Cancun: This museum offers a comprehensive look at Mayan history and culture.
Adventure and Nature
  1. Xcaret Park: An eco-archaeological park with cultural performances, wildlife, and water activities.
  2. Xel-Ha Park: A natural aquarium park ideal for snorkeling, tubing, and zip-lining.
  3. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site offering guided tours to explore its diverse ecosystems.
Nightlife and Entertainment
  1. Coco Bongo: Famous for its spectacular shows and vibrant atmosphere.
  2. Mandala Nightclub: A popular spot for dancing and enjoying Cancun’s nightlife.
  3. La Vaquita: Known for its fun, casual vibe and open-air dance floor.
Shopping and Dining
  1. La Isla Shopping Village: An open-air mall with a mix of luxury brands, restaurants, and an interactive aquarium.
  2. Mercado 28: A traditional market where you can buy souvenirs, crafts, and try authentic Mexican food.
  3. Dining: Enjoy a variety of dining experiences, from street tacos to fine dining. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like ceviche, cochinita pibil, and fresh seafood.
Relaxation and Wellness
  1. Spas: Many resorts offer luxurious spa treatments. Consider booking a Mayan-inspired spa day.
  2. Golf: Play a round of golf at one of Cancun’s top courses, such as the Iberostar Cancun Golf Club or Playa Mujeres Golf Club.
Day Trips
  1. Cozumel: Another beautiful island known for its excellent diving spots.
  2. Holbox Island: Famous for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and bioluminescent plankton.
Family Activities
  1. Interactive Aquarium: A fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike.
  2. Aquaworld: Offers a variety of water sports and activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling tours.

Cancun is recognized worldwide for its spectacular beaches of fine white sand, its fascinating turquoise blue sea, and unparalleled weather, as well as excellent air and land connectivity, and a first-class hotel infrastructure that places it as one of the best destinations for tourists in the world.

Here are some must-have apps for visitors to Cancun:

  • Google Maps: A no-brainer, Google Maps is an essential app for navigating any new city, and Cancun is no exception. With Google Maps, you can download offline maps for the Cancun area in case you lose internet connection. This will be especially helpful if you are venturing out of the Hotel Zone.

  • Cancun Bus: Cancun has a good public bus system that can be a convenient and affordable way to get around the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancun. The “Cancun Bus” app allows you to view bus routes, track buses in real-time, and purchase tickets ahead of time. While the app interface is mostly in Spanish, it’s fairly intuitive and easy to navigate.

  • DiDi: Ride-sharing services like Uber are not available in Cancun, but DiDi is a popular ridesharing app that works well in Cancun. It can be a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially at night or for longer distances.

  • XE Currency Converter: The Mexican Peso is the official currency in Cancun, so having a currency converter app like XE Currency Converter will be helpful, especially for tipping, buying souvenirs, or paying for street vendors. The app allows you to see live exchange rates and can even function offline.

  • Apps for Tours and Activities: Cancun offers a wide variety of tours and activities, from exploring ancient Mayan ruins to snorkeling in the underwater museum. There are many tour operator apps available, but some popular options include Xcaret, Isla Mujeres by Xcaret, and Cancun Adventures. These apps allow you to browse tours, book reservations, and sometimes even get discounted rates.

  • Restaurant Apps: Popular restaurant reservation apps like OpenTable or even the individual restaurant apps for places you specifically plan to dine at can be helpful, especially if you are visiting during peak season.

  • Food Delivery Apps: If you don’t feel like dining out, there are several food delivery apps available in Cancun, including UberEats and Rappi. These apps offer a wide variety of restaurants to choose from and can deliver food directly to your hotel.

  • Translation Apps: While Spanish is the primary language spoken in Cancun, many people working in the tourism industry speak English as well. However, having a translation app like Google Translate can be helpful for basic communication, especially when navigating menus or understanding signs.

Best time to visit Cancun

The best time to visit Cancún is from December to April during the peak season. Even though the crowds are heavier, you’ll experience near-perfect weather and find some of the cheapest flight and room rates for a winter getaway at the beach.

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