Things to do

Things to do in Cancún: the must-sees and our tips

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Ideal for: CouplesSoloFamiliesSeniors

The white sandy beach and turquoise sea of Cancún
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In short: Cancún is the gateway to the Riviera Maya. Enjoy the Hotel Zone beaches, head to Isla Mujeres, swim in the cenotes, visit Chichén Itzá and Tulum, and snorkel over the reef. Check on sargassum in spring and summer.

The Hotel Zone beaches

The long strip of white sand between lagoon and Caribbean Sea is lined with beaches. Some face strong waves: swim where the flags allow.

Isla Mujeres

By ferry from Cancún, Isla Mujeres offers Playa Norte, with calm turquoise water, and a more laid-back feel. Get around it by golf cart or bike.

The cenotes

These natural freshwater sinkholes, sacred to the Maya, are one of the region’s great experiences. The “cenote route” near Puerto Morelos groups several of them.

Chichén Itzá and Tulum

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chichén Itzá and its great pyramid make a day trip: arrive early to beat the heat and the crowds. The Tulum ruins above the sea are among the most photogenic in the Mayan world.

Underwater

The reef can be explored by snorkelling or diving, especially around Cozumel; the MUSA underwater museum displays submerged sculptures.

Day trips from Cancún

  • Playa del Carmen and its Quinta Avenida.
  • Valladolid, a colonial town near Chichén Itzá and several cenotes.
  • The water and nature parks of the Riviera Maya, for families.

Getting around

  • Hotel Zone buses run frequently, and ADO buses link the airport, downtown, Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
  • A rental car is handy for cenotes and Mayan sites.
  • A booked transfer is often simplest from the airport to the Hotel Zone.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Mexico.

Where to stay in Cancún?

The areas and our booking tips are covered in our guide Where to stay in Cancún.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need for Cancún and the Riviera Maya?

A week lets you enjoy the beaches, Isla Mujeres, the cenotes, Chichén Itzá and Tulum.

When is the best season?

The dry season, roughly December to April. June to November is hurricane season, and sargassum can reach the beaches in some years.

Should I rent a car?

It isn't essential, but it's handy for the cenotes and Mayan sites, at your own pace.