Top Things to Do in cancun: Activities & Attractions

Think Cancun's just about lying on a beach with a margarita? You're not wrong—but you're missing about 90% of the fun.

Sure, those powdery white beaches and turquoise waters get all the Instagram glory. But here's what most travelers don't realize: Cancun's sitting on top of ancient Mayan ruins, surrounded by underwater caves that'll make you question reality, and packed with experiences that range from adrenaline-pumping to soul-soothing. The best part? With Travel More Club, you'll save up to 89% on accommodations (seriously), which means more cash for actually doing stuff instead of just staring at your hotel room.

In this guide, you'll discover the absolute best things to do in Cancun—from exploring thousand-year-old pyramids to swimming with whale sharks. We're talking specific recommendations, insider tips, and real ways to maximize your Mexican Caribbean adventure without emptying your bank account.

Let's get into it.

Part of our comprehensive guide: Complete Travel Guide to Cancun 2025

Explore the Ancient Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza

Here's the thing about Chichen Itza: it's one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and it lives up to the hype.

This massive archaeological site sits about 2.5 hours from Cancun, but trust me—it's worth every minute of the drive. The El Castillo pyramid (also called the Temple of Kukulcan) stands 79 feet tall and was built with such astronomical precision that during the spring and fall equinoxes, the setting sun creates the illusion of a serpent slithering down the stairs. Mind. Blown.

The complex covers about 740 acres and was once a major city with an estimated population of 50,000 people. You'll wander through the Great Ball Court (the largest ancient sports arena in Mesoamerica), peek into the Sacred Cenote where Mayans made offerings to their gods, and stand in awe of the Temple of Warriors with its thousand columns.

Pro Tip: Get there right when it opens at 8 AM. The place gets absolutely mobbed by 10 AM, and you'll be dealing with tour groups and brutal heat. Early morning gives you better photos and actual space to appreciate what you're seeing.

Most guided tours from Cancun run $65-$95 per person, but Travel More Club members can save 40-60% on accommodation costs, leaving you way more budget for experiences like this. Plus, with no blackout dates, you can visit during shoulder season when tours are cheaper and crowds are lighter.

Snorkel or Dive the Great Mesoamerican Reef

Ready for an underwater adventure? The Great Mesoamerican Reef is the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, stretching over 600 miles from Mexico to Honduras.

Right off Cancun's coast, you'll find sections teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and rays. The water visibility often exceeds 100 feet, which means even if you're snorkeling from the surface, you'll see everything clearly. No squinting required.

Popular spots include Punta Nizuc (great for beginners), Manchones Reef (deeper with bigger fish), and the Cancun Underwater Museum—yes, you read that right. More on that in a second.

Snorkeling tours typically start around $45-$70 per person for a half-day trip. Diving? Expect $80-$150 for a two-tank dive depending on location. If you've never dived before, a Discover Scuba experience runs about $120-$150 and includes basic instruction in a pool before heading to shallow reef areas.

The marine diversity here is insane. You might spot:

• Green sea turtles (almost guaranteed at certain sites)
• Spotted eagle rays gliding gracefully below
• Colorful parrotfish munching on coral
• Schools of sergeant majors and blue tangs
• Massive groupers that look prehistoric

Water temperature hovers between 78-82°F year-round, so you won't even need a thick wetsuit. Just your swimsuit and sense of adventure.

Visit the Underwater Museum (MUSA)

Speaking of underwater museums—this might be the coolest destination guide thing you'll do in Cancun.

MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte) features over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged beneath the waves. British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor created most of these pieces, which serve dual purposes: they're incredible art installations AND artificial reefs that help protect the natural reef system by drawing divers away from more fragile areas.

The sculptures range from haunting (a VW Beetle covered in coral) to thought-provoking (people watching TV underwater) to just plain weird (seriously, there's a concrete house). Marine life has colonized these installations, so you'll see fish swimming through eye sockets and coral growing on outstretched hands. It's equal parts eerie and beautiful.

You can experience MUSA three ways:

1. Snorkeling ($50-$70): The shallow gallery sits in just 8 feet of water
2. Scuba diving ($90-$130): Access to deeper installations up to 28 feet
3. Glass-bottom boat ($40-$50): For those who prefer staying dry

The museum officially opened in 2009 and has since become one of Cancun's most unique attractions. It's also doing legitimate environmental work—studies show MUSA has successfully diverted 750,000 visitors away from natural reefs, giving those ecosystems time to recover.

Pro Tip: Book a morning tour when water clarity is best. Afternoon winds can kick up sediment and reduce visibility.

Take a Day Trip to Isla Mujeres

Want to escape Cancun's Hotel Zone hustle? Hop on a 20-minute ferry to Isla Mujeres.

This tiny island (just 4 miles long and barely half a mile wide) feels like stepping back in time—in the best way possible. Golf carts replace cars as the primary transport. Restaurants serve fresh catch mere feet from where it was caught. The pace? Let's just say you'll forget what stress feels like.

The main draw is Playa Norte, consistently ranked among the best beaches in Mexico. The water here is so shallow and calm you can wade out 50 feet and still be chest-deep. It's perfect for families, non-swimmers, or anyone who just wants to float peacefully without worrying about waves.

But there's more to do than beach-bumming:

• Rent a golf cart ($30-$50 for the day) and cruise the entire island
• Explore Punta Sur with its clifftop sculpture garden and views
• Snorkel at Garrafon Natural Reef Park
• Visit the sea turtle sanctuary (only $3 entry)
• Browse the downtown shops for local art and crafts

Round-trip ferries cost about $20 per person and run every 30 minutes from Cancun. Or spring for a catamaran tour ($70-$120) that includes snorkeling, lunch, and open bar. Yes, the boat ride gets a little rowdy. Yes, it's fun.

Since you're saving 40-60% on your Cancun hotel through Travel More Club, you can easily afford multiple island-hopping adventures during your trip.

Swim in a Cenote (or Three)

Cenotes are one of Mother Nature's coolest features, and the Yucatan Peninsula has over 6,000 of them.

These natural sinkholes form when limestone bedrock collapses, revealing crystal-clear groundwater below. Ancient Mayans considered them sacred portals to the underworld. You'll consider them the perfect escape from beach crowds and salty hair.

Three types exist:

• Open cenotes: Totally exposed to sky (like a natural swimming pool)
• Semi-open cenotes: Partially collapsed with sun filtering through
• Cave cenotes: Completely underground (bring a waterproof flashlight)

Some can't-miss options near Cancun:

Cenote Dos Ojos (about 2 hours away): Two interconnected sinkholes with the longest underwater cave system in Mexico. Insanely clear water where you can see 300+ feet of visibility. Snorkeling here feels like floating in liquid glass. Entry runs $15-$20.

Gran Cenote (near Tulum): Gorgeous semi-open cenote with resident sea turtles. Yes, freshwater sea turtles—who knew? Perfect mix of swimming, snorkeling, and cave exploring. Entry about $20.

Ik Kil (near Chichen Itza): Open-air cenote with vines cascading down 85-foot walls. Looks like something from a movie. Super popular, so go early. Entry $10.

Water temperature stays around 75-77°F year-round. Bring biodegradable sunscreen (regular stuff is prohibited to protect the ecosystem) and water shoes—those limestone rocks are slippery.

Experience Xcaret or Xel-Há Eco-Parks

Can't decide between culture, nature, swimming, and entertainment? These massive eco-parks deliver all of it.

Xcaret is the big daddy of Cancun attractions. This 200-acre park packs in underground rivers, a beach, a sea turtle sanctuary, a coral reef aquarium, a butterfly pavilion, a Mayan village replica, and a nightly show featuring 300 performers celebrating Mexican history and culture. Whew.

You could easily spend an entire day here. Float down the underground river (wear a life jacket—it's long). Snorkel in the inlet. Watch jaguars and flamingos. Then cap it off with the "Xcaret México Espectacular" show that'll give you goosebumps. Tickets start around $120 for adults, though prices vary by package.

Xel-Há focuses more on water activities. The entire park centers around a natural aquarium inlet where freshwater from underground rivers meets Caribbean saltwater, creating a unique ecosystem packed with tropical fish. You get unlimited snorkeling, cliff jumping, ziplines, and floating down lazy rivers. Plus it's all-inclusive (food and drinks included). Tickets run about $90-$130.

Both parks offer early bird discounts if you book in advance and arrive first thing. They also have combo packages if you want to visit multiple Xcaret Group parks during your stay.

Are they touristy? Absolutely. Are they worth it? Also absolutely. These aren't cheesy tourist traps—they're legitimately impressive experiences that showcase both natural beauty and Mexican culture.

Go Ziplining Through the Jungle

Want your heart pumping? Strap into a harness and fly through the treetops.

The jungles surrounding Cancun are dotted with adventure parks featuring zipline courses that range from "fun" to "holy crap I'm really doing this." You'll soar over cenotes, treetops, and occasionally wildlife (monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds are common sightings).

Most parks offer multiple ziplines of varying lengths and heights. Some courses include 10+ lines, with the longest stretching over 1,000 feet. You'll also typically get other activities bundled in: rappelling, swimming in cenotes, driving ATVs through the jungle, or crossing suspension bridges.

Popular spots:

Selvatica: Known for having some of the longest and fastest ziplines (including one over 1,000 feet). Also offers the "Extreme Canopy Tour" for adrenaline junkies. Packages run $90-$130.

Xplor Park: Features 14 ziplines (including one where you splash down into a cenote), underground river swimming, and amphibious vehicle driving. All-inclusive packages around $130.

Xenotes: Combines ziplining with four different cenotes. Each cenote offers different activities—kayaking, rappelling, jumping. Tours run about $160 but include transport, guide, and gourmet lunch.

Weight limits typically range from 220-300 pounds depending on the park. Most require closed-toe shoes and have restrictions for pregnancy or certain medical conditions.

Pro Tip: Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and possibly a little torn up. Bring a small waterproof bag for your phone if you want photos.

Swim with Whale Sharks (Seasonal)

This one's bucket-list material, and you can only do it during specific months.

Every year from June through mid-September, hundreds of whale sharks migrate through waters off Cancun and Isla Mujeres. We're talking about the largest fish species on Earth—these gentle giants can grow up to 40 feet long and weigh over 20 tons. Swimming alongside them makes you feel microscopic.

Despite their size, whale sharks are completely harmless. They're filter feeders who munch on plankton and small fish. They move slowly and gracefully, which means you can actually keep pace with them while snorkeling.

Tours typically involve:

• Boat ride to whale shark aggregation areas (about 1-2 hours)
• Small groups taking turns in the water (usually 2-3 people at a time with a guide)
• Multiple opportunities to swim with different sharks
• Snorkeling at Isla Mujeres or a nearby reef
• Lunch and drinks

The whole experience runs $120-$180 per person. Mexican authorities heavily regulate these tours to protect the animals, which means strict rules: no touching, maintain distance, biodegradable sunscreen only, limited snorkelers per shark.

Peak season is July through August when the highest numbers appear. Tours often spot 10-30 whale sharks in a single outing. Seeing just one is breathtaking. Seeing dozens? Life-changing.

Not visiting during summer? Don't worry—the destination guide has plenty of other things to keep you busy. But if you CAN plan around whale shark season, do it.

Party on a Booze Cruise or Catamaran Tour

Look, we know what you're thinking. And yes, you're right.

Cancun's party scene is legendary, and booze cruises are a rite of passage. But hear me out—these aren't just about getting drunk on a boat (though that's definitely part of it). The better tours combine stunning scenery, snorkeling, water activities, and yes, unlimited drinks.

Typical itinerary:

• Morning departure from Cancun or Playa del Carmen
• Sail to Isla Mujeres or a nearby reef
• Snorkeling session at a protected marine area
• Beach time or water activities (paddleboarding, kayaking)
• BBQ lunch on board or at a beach club
• Open bar throughout (and we mean OPEN)
• Music, dancing, and general shenanigans

Prices range from $70-$150 depending on the tour quality. Higher-end options offer smaller groups, better food, premium alcohol, and nicer boats.

Popular operators include Isla Mujeres Cruises (catamarans with trampolines you can lie on), Jolly Roger Pirate Ship (exactly what it sounds like), and various sunset sails if you want something more romantic and less Spring Break.

Just remember: pace yourself. It's a long day in the sun with alcohol flowing freely. Drink water between cocktails. Wear sunscreen. Maybe skip that eighth tequila shot.

The best part about these tours? You'll meet other travelers, have ridiculous conversations, make questionable decisions, and create stories you'll still be laughing about years later.

Explore Downtown Cancun and Mercado 28

Time for a reality check: the Hotel Zone isn't "real" Cancun.

If you want to experience actual local life, head downtown to "El Centro." This is where Cancunenses (locals) actually live, eat, and hang out. The vibe's completely different—less polished, more authentic, way cheaper, and honestly more interesting.

Mercado 28 is your first stop. This covered market sprawls across several blocks and sells everything: handcrafted leather goods, silver jewelry, hammocks, Mexican blankets, vanilla extract (yes, buy some), hot sauces, embroidered clothing, and all the touristy trinkets you could want.

But here's the key: HAGGLE. Starting prices are usually 2-3x what vendors will actually accept. Be friendly but firm. Walk away if needed—they'll often chase you down with a better offer. I once talked a vendor from $80 down to $35 for a leather bag. It's expected and part of the fun.

Around the market, you'll find fantastic local restaurants serving authentic Mexican food at a fraction of Hotel Zone prices. Tacos that cost $5 each at your resort? $1.50 here, and arguably better.

Other downtown highlights:

• Parque de las Palapas: Central square with street food, artisan vendors, and live music on weekends
• Puerto Cancun Marina Town Center: Upscale outdoor mall with boutiques and waterfront dining
• Avenida Tulum: Main drag with shops, restaurants, and actual local businesses

Downtown's about 20 minutes from the Hotel Zone via bus ($1 per ride) or taxi ($15-$20). The bus system ("R-1" and "R-2" routes) is safe, clean, and runs 24/7.

Since you're saving big with Travel More Club's up to 89% discounts on hotels, you can spend that money experiencing the real Cancun instead of just the resort bubble.

FAQs About Things to Do in Cancun

What's the best time to visit Cancun for activities?

December through April offers perfect weather—warm, dry, and minimal rain. But you'll pay peak prices and deal with bigger crowds. If you're flexible, consider May or November for shoulder season perks: better deals, fewer tourists, and weather that's still 90% great. Just avoid September through mid-October (peak hurricane season). With Travel More Club's no blackout dates policy, you can pick your ideal timing without worrying about restrictions.

How much should I budget for activities in Cancun?

Plan on $50-$150 per person per day for activities and tours. A basic snorkeling trip costs $50-$70. Full-day eco-parks run $90-$150. Archaeological site visits average $65-$95. Cenote entries are cheap ($10-$20), while whale shark tours hit $120-$180. Since you're already saving 40-60% on accommodations through Travel More Club, your activity budget stretches significantly further than it would otherwise.

Do I need to book activities in advance or can I book when I arrive?

Book in advance for: whale shark tours (limited permits), popular eco-parks (cheaper online), and anything during Christmas or Spring Break. Book on arrival for: smaller tours with flexible capacity, cenote visits, and downtown experiences. Most tour operators offer free cancellation 24-48 hours out, so there's little risk in booking ahead to secure your spot and better prices.

Is Cancun safe for tourists doing various activities?

Yes, Cancun's Hotel Zone and tourist areas are generally very safe. The Mexican government heavily protects tourism infrastructure since it's crucial to the economy. Use common sense: stick to established tour operators, avoid isolated areas at night, don't flash expensive jewelry, and keep copies of important documents. The activities mentioned in this destination guide are all well-established and regularly operate with thousands of tourists safely participating daily.

Your Cancun Adventure Awaits

Here's the bottom line: Cancun offers way more than beaches and all-inclusive resorts.

You can explore ancient Mayan cities that were thriving while Europe was in the Dark Ages. Swim with the largest fish on the planet. Float through underground rivers that look like something from Avatar. Zipline over jungle canopy. Snorkel among hundreds of submerged sculptures. Experience authentic Mexican culture just miles from the tourist strip.

The activities and attractions covered in this destination guide barely scratch the surface. We didn't even get into deep-sea fishing, kiteboarding, Coba ruins, Rio Secreto cave systems, or Cozumel day trips. Cancun's one of those rare destinations that genuinely offers something for everyone—adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, foodies, party animals, and beach bums alike.

And here's where Travel More Club changes the game: by saving up to 89% on accommodations with zero blackout dates, you're not choosing between a nice hotel and doing cool stuff. You get both. That savings means extra cenote visits, better tours, more meals at local restaurants, and maybe that whale shark experience you were on the fence about.

So stop googling and start booking. Your Mexican Caribbean adventure is waiting, and trust us—it's going to be way better than you're imagining.

Ready to start planning? Join Travel More Club today and get access to exclusive Cancun hotel deals (we're talking 40-60% average savings), plus no restrictions on when you can travel. Because your vacation should be about making memories, not emptying your savings account.

Travel big. Spend small. Welcome to Cancun.