30 Things to Do in Cancun: My Favourite Beaches, Ruins & Day Trips

AT A GLANCE: Our Top Picks for Things to Do in Cancun

• Most cultural: Chichen Itza guided tour
• Best food activity: Stuff your face with Some Street Food
• Most refreshing: Visit a Cenote and go swimming
• Best nightlife: Coco Bongo or Señor Frog’s
• Best free activity: Playa Delfines or admiring the street art
• Best day trip: Isla Mujeres, Valladolid or Chichen Itza

Whilst backpacking Mexico you will end up in Cancun primarily to visit ruins or cenotes, do day trips, hit the beaches, or party like it’s the summer of ’69 again.

A lot of the beach/party stuff is in Cancun itself, whilst ruins and cenotes are a little further afield, but still awesome to visit.

Don’t try cramming everything into a single trip. Pick and choose activities based on your interests and travel style. Whether you’re into culture, nightlife, food, beaches, nature, family travel, or budget travel, Cancun has something to offer up.

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It caters for all budgets, with activities like a wild night in Coco Bongo putting a dent in your bank balance, but munching tacos from a street stall costing mere pennies. Cancun is pricier than most spots in Mexico, but still has a lot that caters towards broke backpackers.

Top tip: Hiring a car in Cancun is a very cool way to explore this awesome place. Having your own wheels to get around on gives you the ultimate freedom to explore where you want and when. If you can convince a few mates to join you, it’s actually a pretty affordable way to get around.

Some of the best things to do “in Cancun” are actually outside the city, so transport planning matters.

THE MOST CULTURAL THING TO DO IN CANCUN

THE MOST CULTURAL THING TO DO IN CANCUN

Chichen Itza Guided Tour

• > Ancient Mayan ruins
• > Stunning architectural marvel
• > Learn about Mayan Civilization

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THE BEST THING TO DO IN CANCUN FOR FOODIES

THE BEST THING TO DO IN CANCUN FOR FOODIES

Stuff Your Face with Some Street Food

• > The best tacos in the city
• > Learn about Mexico’s culinary culture
• > Go beyond the tourist spots

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THE MOST EXCITING THING TO DO CANCUN

THE MOST EXCITING THING TO DO CANCUN

Visit a Cenote

• > Unique natural sinkholes
• > Ideal for adventurous swimming
• > Stunning jungle surroundings

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1. Visit a Modern Wonder of the World – Chichen Itza!

Now this place is not actually in Cancun. But, if you’re in Cancun, and have some spare time, you should definitely take the two-and-a-half-hour drive to one of the modern wonders of the world – Chichen Itza. Put a full day aside for this one.

A lot of people have told me they didn’t enjoy their trip here and that they think this place is overrated. I would disagree. I was amazed by this ancient Mayan structure and thought it was 100% money well spent. I loved not just the ruins, but the iguanas roaming around too! There are even cenotes hidden here, but I’d be lying if I said they were particularly interesting.

The one area where I would agree with the naysayers is the jaguar whistles. What are they? I hear you ask… Well, vendors will flog these annoying jaguar-shaped whistles to make a noise supposedly similar to the big cat’s roar. But the fact they’ll blow them every few seconds is what makes them irritating. These guys are like kids discovering a new toy that they won’t put down.

Entrance to Chichen Itza costs around $40 and it’s best visited early in the morning to ensure you can get a good photo of the structure without an abundance of tourists in front of it (like mine). There are multiple structures on the site, (not just the famous one) and you can spend about half a day here learning about the Mayan civilisation. A guide can enrich your experience.

I recommend bringing sun cream and water. It gets pretty hot here. Expect big crowds. This is a World Wonder, so it’s pretty popular. I would say it was quieter than most World Wonders I’ve been to (and I’ve visited all), but still attracts reasonable crowds.

2. Stuff Your Face with Some Street Food

Stuffing your face with street food is usually one of my favourite activities wherever I go. But I’ll be 100% honest with you, the street food in Mexico is easily the best I’ve ever had in my experience travelling to over 100 countries.

Tacos, tortas, quesadillas, burritos, ceviche, enchiladas, marquesitas… should I go on? All 10/10.

Eating street food sometimes splits opinion, with concerns of a lack of hygiene or professionalism. Well, folks, let me tell you that this is the home of authenticity. And whilst yes, some things may not be up to scratch, my best meals ever have all been off the street and not at fancy restaurants.

Downtown Cancun is better for street food. I suggest joining a food tour if you’re nervous and want a local who can show you the best bites to eat. The golden rule is to choose busy stalls with a high turnover of people. These are the ones the locals trust, where you know it’s gonna be good.

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3. Watch the Acrobatics at Coco Bongo

Coco Bongo is a nightclub in the Hotel Zone that’s famous with locals and tourists alike. And it’s a pretty epic club at that! The reason for Coco Bongo’s fame is the acrobatic shows it hosts as part of its crazy parties. It’s more of a nightclub disco/show than a regular club night.

It is NOT cheap though, a night in Coco Bongo can set you back $60 USD for just a standard ticket. It should be noted that this does include 5 drinks though. And for $78 USD you can get unlimited drinks (be careful with this). Check out their packages online to see what the latest prices are.

If you’re looking to splash the budget, let loose, be entertained and have an unforgettable night, Coco Bongo is a must-do in Cancun. If you’re a broke backpacker like me, it’s probably best you skip this one…

Plan your transport before heading back to your ho(s)tel. I always use Uber to get around Cancun at night, it’s safe and reliable.

4. Dive Into a Stunning Cenote

A trip to Cancun isn’t complete without a trip to the cenotes. These are natural pools created by sinkholes, and swimming here is a pretty unforgettable experience. Cancun is a great base to see some cool ones!

There are a handful of cenotes actually located in Cancun, but the best ones require a bit of a journey. My favourite cenote in Mexico was Ik Kil Cenote (above) because they had a rope swing which entertained me for hours! Tours here are often part of the Chichen Itza package and make for an exciting day.

I recommend tours if you don’t have your own transport. I think Mexican transport is decent between major cities with the ADO bus network, but not great to reach cenotes tucked into quieter corners of the Yucatan Peninsula.

You should head to Cenotes earlier in the day. This means you won’t have to share the water with dozens of other people, and it’s a great time for some atmospheric shots. The dramatic sinkholes surrounded by lush jungles around gives them a very Lost World feeling.

Bring a towel and swimwear with you. Don’t put too much sun cream on, and do check to see if a lifejacket is required. Rules vary by cenote. Have some cash on you too, some charge entry fees, and I didn’t find any that took card payments. Water shoes are another good thing to have.

5. Visit a Real Life Shaman in a Temazcal Ceremony

For a truly unforgettable Cancun travel experience, take a trip to a temazcal (shaman’s hut) and you’ll have the opportunity to take part in a shamanic ceremony with a real-life shaman.

A temazcal ceremony is a traditional Mexican ceremony that translates roughly to ‘house of heat’. Essentially, this is a Mexican extreme sauna that is undoubtedly one of the best activities in Cancun.

You’ll sit opposite the shaman as he burns aromatic herbs and copal (tree resin) to purify your thoughts and rid you of bad intentions. If you feel like you need a release and want to learn something about traditional Mexican culture, this is the place to come.

It’s a truly exhilarating and empowering experience, but beware it is very tough. I am somewhat of a regular sauna user and whilst I thoroughly enjoyed the experience overall and felt amazing afterwards, I would not want to do it again. This is not easy, but defo worth it.

I found it to be physically challenging. If you’re sensitive to heat, dehydrated, pregnant, or have certain health conditions, I’d advise against this.

It’s a cultural experience rather than being just a spa activity, so expect to pay a pretty penny for one of these. Often over $100 USD. Always ask what’s included and how the ceremony is run so you know what to expect.

6. Do Nothing at a Beach!

There are a bunch of sweet beaches in Cancun, and choosing one to sit on all day is my favourite thing to do here. The standout beach in my eyes is Playa Delfines, which is undeveloped and free to access. Catching a sundowner here is a great way to end the day (or start off the night).

It’s an easy bus ride from the city, making it convenient if you’re staying on the other side of town. There’s also a wooden lookout where you can get some great shots of the sun setting over the ocean. It’s pretty stunning, and a great place to do sweet nothing!

Playa Caracol, Playa Chac Mool, Playa Tortugas, Playa Marlin, Playa Xcacel and Playa Ballenas are great too if you want some alternative options.

Go early for fewer crowds and less heat. Don’t forget to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and shade if needed. And always watch currents and flags, even better if a lifeguard is present. My other tip would be never to leave valuables unattended. You’re still in Mexico, so having your belongings swiped isn’t rare unfortunately.

7. Explore the Hotel Zone

Most people come to Cancun to stay in Mexico‘s fanciest hotels in the Hotel Zone. And well, to be honest, I don’t blame them. The Hotel Zone is definitely pretty cool. It’s not “authentic Mexico” but it’s still fun.

The zone is a 22.5km strip with beaches on each side, located in arguably the best place in Cancun, hence why they built all the best hotels there. It’s touristy, and pretty expensive if I’m honest.

During my first couple of nights, I stayed in Central Cancun and decided to walk to the Hotel Zone. After 3 hours I realise I’d underestimated the size of it, but was at least able to see many malls, beaches, clubs and even iguanas chilling in the trees. Buses run down here, but to be honest, for future trips I’m just gonna Uber it. Rideshare apps are cheap here.

The good thing about the Hotel Zone is that it’s got everything you need, and if you stay here, you probably won’t need to leave. Even if you don’t stay here, I would recommend checking this place out as it’s fun and unique. A cheeky night at Señor Frog’s never hurt anyone.

8. Learn How to Cook Mexican Food

Mexico is one of the most famous foodie countries on earth. And best of all, they’re willing to share their secrets with hungry tourists who want to cook the meanest tacos going. Cooking classes are on offer in Cancun, and often combined with a market tour.

Foodies and couples will really love this activity. You can learn how to make basics like tacos, salsas, ceviche, tortillas, or regional dishes. It beats eating at pricy Hotel Zone restaurants for sure. Just check class reviews and group sizes before booking anything.

Cancun Food Tours is just one school on offer, that’ll actually take you to one of Cancun’s top restaurants. Learn to use traditional utensils, insider tips and tricks on cooking Mexican food, and ultimately have a recipe or two to take back with you.

Some of my personal favourites to learn to cook include chilli chicken tacos, and ceviche with a perfect pico de Gallo. Mmmm.

9. Discover a World Under the Waves

The underwater world is one of the best things about the Yucatan Peninsula. Being near some pristine coral reefs just offshore, it’s a prime spot for diving and snorkelling. It’s absolutely worth a trip, and if you’re not able to dive, take a glass-bottomed boat instead! Discovery tours are also an option for beginners.

To make the marine world that much more weird and wonderful, the MUSA (Museo Subaquatico de Arte) have placed 500 statues and sculptures that help promote the growth of coral. It’s eerie, fascinating, and easily one of the most unique things to do in Cancun.

Exploring the underwater world is another activity that can be done on any budget. Snorkelling is often free (if you have the gear) and scuba diving can cost you an arm and a leg in some places. Glass-bottom boat tours can be a bit of a middle-ground option.

Don’t touch the marine life here. You can cause harm to it and to yourself. Shark attacks are rare, but jellyfish pack a nasty sting, so be careful. I suggest booking tours with good reviews. Last time I didn’t do this, I ended up stranded in the Philippine Sea during a hailstorm. Not fun!

10. Watch Some Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling)

Lucha Libre is a traditional style of wrestling entertainment that is famous throughout Mexico. And let me tell you, this is super entertaining! It’s a fun night activity regardless of whether you’re a solo traveller, or chilling with the family. Check schedules and venues to see where events are taking place. I know Luchatitlan is a popular one, although I didn’t go there myself.

The Luchadores (wrestlers) are masked and the shows are full of flips, tricks, acrobatics and a nice healthy dose of comedy. There is some serious talent on show here and it is definitely an unforgettable experience.

The locals can take it very seriously though, so beware to not turn up too drunk and start laughing all the time. Some of the theatrics are bonkers, such as dwarves slapping each other in the face and being thrown onto tables.

11. Take Some Surfing Lessons

Taking a surf lesson is always a great decision, no matter where you are. Cancun is not famous for having the best waves in the world, unlike the Pacific coast, but it is a fantastic place for beginners to grab a soft board (the best type for newbies) and learn to harness the power of the waves in a gorgeous location.

My favourite thing about surfing in Cancun is that the Caribbean sea is so warm you can just go in your bikini or swim shorts – no wetsuit needed! Just check conditions before entering the water, so you know everything’s dandy.

I wouldn’t recommend surfing here for intermediates but I had a great time splashing around in the waves a bit hungover with my beginner mates and they loved it too. 🙂

Just make sure you book with a reputable instructor with good reviews. You shouldn’t mess around with charlatans in risky places, such as the water.

12. Go on a Day Trip!

There are so many stunning places you can take day trips to in and around the Cancun area. Some of the most popular locations include:

• Playa Del Carmen: An easy stop, good transport hub, but not very unique. Beaches and parties, that’s it really. I spent one night there then moved on.
• Tulum: It has ruins, beaches, cenotes, but is touristy and expensive. Personally I wasn’t a fan, but if you’re into the hippy dippy wellness stuff, then you may like it here. I’d suggest doing more than a day trip though if you want to visit.
• Valladolid: A more local-feeling colonial town, good with cenotes/Chichen Itza. This is the nearest spot to visit Chichen Itza from, so if you plan to visit Valladolid, then do Chichen Itza from there (but if not, I’d say Cancun is the next-best base).
• Isla Mujeres: The easiest island day trip offering awesome beaches, fun driving around the island in golf carts, and snorkelling.
• Isla Holbox: Beautiful but better as an overnight trip, fragile infrastructure makes it a little more raw and rugged, but I’m a fan!
• Cozumel: Strong for diving/snorkelling, but better as a full day or overnight adventure.

Day trips are great because they force you to get up and go exploring, rather than sitting on your butt and doing nothing. To be honest, I would suggest you skip out of Playa Del Carmen as it’s super touristy and not that unique. Tulum is just a levelled-up Cancun (not too shabby) and a decent option, but Valladolid is a proper Mexican town, as it was my favourite place.

If you want to head to an island, I can recommend Isla Mujeres and its stunning white-sand beaches. Although it’s probably best to stay at least one night here to ensure you have a full experience.

13. Find out all about the Day of the Dead at Coba

You probably know about the Day of the Dead (or Día de los Muertos), Mexico’s best festival already. However, you may not be aware of the very special Day of the Dead festivities at Coba, an archaeological site just a stone’s throw from Cancun.

The local Maya community here, known as Tres Reyes, puts on the Hanal Pixan (‘Food of the Soul’) ceremony here at Puerto Juarez from October 31st-November 2nd. This involves candle-lighting, offerings of food to ancestors to continue their bond with the living, and picnics of traditional food of the region. Witnessing this genuine ceremony is one of the more unusual things to do in Cancun.

A local guide is always a good idea, as they can help you not just with language barriers, but also understanding the traditions.

This is an authentic experience, so attend respectfully. The fact that it’s real rather than a tourist gimmick is what makes it so cool to witness. Don’t miss this if your trip clashes with DotD as the cool kids call it, en ingles.

Grab Yo' Self a Rental Car!

One of the best ways to travel off-the-beaten-path is to hire your own wheels. If you can convince a few mates to join you, it can actually be pretty affordable… and bloody good time!

Check Rental Car Prices

14. Speak to the Locals!

Now you may be thinking, what do you mean talk to the locals? Well, I mean have real, in-depth conversations (in Spanish if possible) with the local people of Cancun.

I smashed Duolingo for 9 months before my Mexico (and extended Latam) trip, and it really enriched my experience. I was able to drink beer with locals whilst talking about travel and football in a language I’d picked up from scratch.

Despite getting something out of this being the wrong attitude, speaking to locals can open so many doors for you whilst in Cancun. For example, I met a young man about my age who showed me all his favourite street food stands. After hearing about his life we discovered a shared passion for fishing and he helped me organise a fishing trip for the next day.

I recommend this activity because it’s fun, interesting and free! You may just meet a friend for life too. All in all, it’s good to get to know what life is really like for the local people and try to find some recommendations or hidden gems that the locals keep for themselves.

15. Go for a Deep-Sea Fishing Trip

Cancun is an excellent sportfishing location all year round. And going on a deep-sea fishing trip in the Caribbean Sea is one of the coolest things to do in Cancun in any season.

From around April until August you can catch Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Tuna or even Blue Marlin which are some of the best-tasting and most famous sportsfish in the world. These things are super strong. If you are here between September and February, you can catch Barracudas, Spanish Mackerel and even Snappers, which are all great sport (and scran) too!

It’s not guaranteed that you will catch a fish every time, but boy is the thrill worth it. To top it all off, you can keep what you catch and cook up some yummy fish tacos afterwards!

Keep an eye on the weather too. It can impact on your trip, if the seas are choppy, you should stick to the shore. Seasickness can also curtail your fun, so good conditions are important if you wish to have a good time.

16. Experience Tequila Tasting

Mexico is famous for many things, but there aren’t many things better in life than drinking Tequila in Mexico. Joining a bar crawl or taking a tour of the Tequila Factory is a great way to get yourself started. It’s not quite the same as doing a production-line tour in the town where this stuff comes from, funnily enough, called Tequila!

Another budget-friendly way to try tequila is just to buy your own from liquor stores or ask to sample some shots at bars. I personally liked Patron and Don Julio tequila the most, but these weren’t cheap.

Make sure you know how to drink tequila properly if you’re going to do it – real Mexicans drink it neat. Lime and salt is a western degeneracy, you won’t find any of that here.

Remember not to get hammered if you’re gonna swim afterwards. This is dangerous and you can risk your life by doing so. Many backpackers have been lost to a lethal combo of alcohol and water.

17. Visit the Rooftop Pool at Nomads Hostel

I stayed at Nomads Hostel for my first ever night in Cancun and I had such an amazing time at their rooftop bar. They have a rooftop pool in a great location here with sexy views of the Cancun skyline making it a great thing to do in Cancun at night.

As Nomads is a hostel, this is also a great way to meet other backpackers. Hit up the rooftop bar for top skyline views, and get chatting with your new mates with a little bit of social lubricant (tequila). Perhaps it’s not the right vibe for families, but solo travellers and budget backpackers, this is right up your street!

Make sure to bring your swim stuff and a good travel towel so you can jump into the pool and a camera to capture the views.

18. Discover the Mayan Museum of Cancun

A visit to the Mayan Museum of Cancun (Museo Maya de Cancun) is essential for anyone interested in the ancient Mayan civilisation. This is a great activity to do either before or after visiting some Mayan ruins as a way to learn a bit more about the Mayans and their way of life.

The museum costs around $5 and hosts some of Yucatan’s most prized and interesting Mayan artefacts. There is actually a ruins site (San Miguelito) just around the corner too which is a nice way to make a full or half-day out of this activity (probably a half-day). If you’re a history buff then these are some of the most interesting places to visit in Mexico for sure.

I love doing this as a calmer alternative to wild parties, and an option to explore on dull rainy days (which are thankfully not too common).

19. Explore the Rio Secreto Underground River

The Rio Secreto Underground River is located in nearby Playa Del Carmen right next to Xcaret Park. Here you can discover the underground world of the Riviera Maya by entering a cave system and the ‘secret river’.

Entrance is not super cheap, but is only accessible through a guided tour. If you take a full three or four-hour tour of the cave system it is definitely worth the cash.

A tour of this type can cost about $89 per person and often includes lunch. Part of the profits go towards the conservation and maintenance of this magnificent natural site. It’s a fun experience for adventure travellers, and families with older kids.

You need a moderate fitness level to tackle the walking and swimming required here. Apologies to those with disabilities that make activity difficult, but this isn’t a suitable activity for you. Sorry guys. Bring shoes and clothes that can get wet.

20. Visit Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park is an eco-tourism-focused amusement park situated nearby to the Xcaret Mayan ruins and Rio Secreto Underground River. They describe themselves as a ‘natural waterpark’. It’s basically Mexico’s answer to Disneyland.

A full-day ticket with a nightshow costs $159 USD (yikes) and makes for a truly unforgettable day for the whole family. You can save around $15 USD by booking 1+ weeks in advance. The Rio Secreto Underground River is often considered part of the park, but to fit all this into one day is tough. It’s a fun full-day family activity, but Broke Backpacker friendly? Nah.

Other great activities to try include taking part in an ancient Mayan game (like volleyball and football mixed together), adrenaline-pumping ziplining and admiring the butterfly pavilion. Cultural displays and evening performances are on offer too.

Some may suggest pairing this with other nearby activities, but I disagree. There’s a lot going on here, and if you do other things, you will be rushing around Xcaret without seeing the best of everything.

21. Admire the View at the Cancun Scenic Tower

The Cancun Scenic Tower (Torre Escénica) located near the Playa Linda dock in the Hotel Zone area has some of the best views in all of Cancun for you to feast your eyes upon. The Cancun scenic tower is a thin red structure with a rotating observational deck at 262ft. It provides breathtaking 360 ° views of the Hotel zone, Nichupte Lagoon and of course, the Caribbean Sea.

Tickets to the highest point in the Riviera Maya costs $10 for children and $20 for adults. The views are defo worth this price and shouldn’t be missed – especially on a clear day. Okay, I said Xcaret should be a full-day activity best without combining it, but I’m gonna immediately backtrack and say you should also come here on the same day – because it’s free for Xcaret ticket holders.

This is best visited on a clear day when you can see everything.

22. Practice your Spanish!

A trip to Cancun can be the perfect scenario for you to practise, brush up, or even begin to learn Spanish. I found the Spanish language spoken by the Mexicans much easier to understand than in other Spanish-speaking countries and really improved my listening skills here.

Learning a new language is always fun, and doesn’t have to be full-on. Just take it day by day, word by word, and you might just surprise yourself. Learn basic greetings, numbers, directions and prices. It goes a long way when ordering taxis, boarding buses, exploring markets, checking into hostels etc.

I highly recommend doing what I did and smashing Duolingo before your trip. The green owl is brilliant for teaching you the basics, but sucks when you get past the beginner stage in my opinion. I have a 1,850-day streak, but my Spanish is no better than it was after 365 days tbh…

If you are more serious about wanting to learn more Spanish, consider checking into a language school or hiring a teacher of your own to accelerate your progress. Cancun is a great spot to ease in, as most people speak English too, so you can dip your toes in gently.

23. Kayak in Nichupte Lagoon

Nichupte Lagoon is situated in between the Hotel Zone area and the main part of Cancun. This lagoon is a natural site that really stole my heart with its astonishing beauty and wildlife. It’s way more peaceful than the chaotic Hotel Zone.

The flora and fauna here amongst the mangroves is truly something to behold. Kayaking, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) or taking small boat tours are all popular ways to experience this Cancun gem.

Keep your eyes peeled for exotic birds, try to catch some cool-looking and tasty fish like mangrove snappers, or arrive here for sunset to have a memorable moment to savour.

Go with your guide if unfamiliar with the area and looking for someone with a keen eye for wildlife spotting. And don’t forget to slather on the sun cream, you can easily burn out here, it’s very exposed.

24. Find the City’s Street Art

In recent years the city has developed a healthy street art scene, with many doors and walls in Downtown Cancun being daubed with vibrant murals. Artists from all over the world have joined in, including Interesi Cazki from Ukraine, as well as Aaron Glasson (New Zealand) and Celeste Byers (USA). Unlike other activities, this one is free to do!

This growing collection of street art reflects the vibrant culture of Cancun and have become landmarks in themselves. Discovering them on a stroll around town has got to be one of the coolest free things to do in Cancun. Oh, and don’t forget your camera!

Go during daylight to admire the art at its best. Combine it with munching on the local street food, visiting Mercado 28, or just enjoying the local cafes. Have a look to see if any locals are hosting art walks where they can explain the symbolism of everything in more depth.

25. Discover the Mayan Ruins of El Meco

It wouldn’t be a trip to Cancun without discovering the ancient history of the Yucatan Peninsula – that’s why they call this section the ‘Riviera Maya’.

I recommend heading to El Meco: an archaeological site close to the city that’s often missed by visitors, making for one of the more off-the-beaten-track things to do in Cancun. The ruins were first inhabited sometime around the 3rd century AD, and then grew again around the 11th century. It’s much closer and quieter than Chichen Itza, so a great easy alternative with few crowds.

A trip to El Meco is a great thing to do in Cancun and the entrance fee only costs about $4 too, making it a good budget activity.

You can combine it with a trip to Puerto Juarez, or even head to Isla Mujeres afterwards. You don’t need to spend long here, so it’s not a full-day activity. It’s open 8am-5pm daily, but I suggest missing it on Sundays, as residents get free entry so it’ll be packed with locals.

26. Try Flyboarding, Jet Skis, or Other Water Sports

If you’ve ever wanted to fly through the air on a water-powered jetpack, here’s your chance.

Is this the future? Possibly. If you’re not so sure about it, heading to the Hotel Zone and watching others being propelled by jets of water can be pretty entertaining. You’ve got to be 12 years or older, which makes it a pretty fun thing to do in Cancun with older kids.

Other fun ways to get your adrenaline pumping on the water include parasailing or renting jet skis or a boat and letting loose on the throttle. Just be careful… please.

Choose licensed operators before booking activities. Safety is important and not all people running activities are reputable. Check reviews before booking. Also check safety gear and insurance. And it goes without saying, avoid alcohol before water sports.

27. Enjoy a Mexican Booze Cruise

One of the top things to do in Cancun, especially for solo travellers of course, is to party. Cancun is classic Spring Break territory, but it doesn’t have to be Spring Break for you to get involved in the action. Enjoy the sun, sea and atmosphere on a classic boat party. I find boozy activities like this to be by far the easiest way to make new friends abroad.

Climb onboard one of the boats leaving from Marina Kaybal and prepare yourself for mayhem. There’ll be chances to snorkel, so we recommend getting boozy after your dive to stay safe. There’ll be plenty of chances to have a drink after, and watching the sunset over the city from the water is pretty special, too.

Be sure to secure your valuables here. Leave non-essentials at your accommodation. When I do stuff like this, I’ll bring my rucksack, secure it to a fixed setting with my cable lock, and use a padlock to secure my phone/wallet inside. Sure, someone with a knife can still rob you, but most thieves are opportunists, and in this case, may just be drunks who necked too much booze and didn’t act with malice. So chances are you won’t be robbed by taking these precautions.

Plan your transport back in advance, not when you’re too hammered to make good decisions (Uber is good in Cancun).

28. Stroll around Market 28

Coming in at number 28 we have… Mercado 28. There’s nothing quite like strolling around a market. They’re an awesome way to experience a culture, so you should definitely hit up a local market in Cancun such as Mercado 28.

Market 28 is a flea market in Downtown Cancun, a must-see if you feel like grabbing a few unusual knick-knacks. If you don’t fancy spending your money or you’re travelling on a tight budget, negotiating can save you a bit of cash. Alternatively, just walking around the market still makes for a great day out.

You can find cheap souvenirs and small snacks here. Watch out though, you’ll get “Gringo priced” to begin with. Haggling is part of the culture though, so get the cost knocked down to something you’re happy with before striking a deal.

Go during the day, as Mexico becomes a little shady at night… You can combine this with a spot of street art exploration, or even some downtown foodie adventures.

29. Party at Señor Frogs

It’s time to party. There are a bunch of pretty famous places to drink and dance until the early hours in Cancun, so definitely hit them up while you’re there!

Legendary Cancun drinking spot Señor Frogs in the Hotel Zone is my favourite spot, but it’s pretty full-on – the sort of place you can start busting out a few dance moves. Thursdays are not to be missed as it’s their salsa night, and it can get pretty wild (in a good way).

They also have some pretty nice food there and I’ve heard that their guac is simply divine. Go and try it.

It’s loud and tourist-heavy, so may not be for everyone. If you do come here, keep your money and phone secure, and pre-arrange how you’re getting back when the night finishes (again, I suggest Uber).

30. Leave Cancun!

Cancun is cool, kinda. BUT, the rest of Mexico is so much more authentic.

My final suggestion to any backpackers in Cancun would be to leave the city after a few days and head somewhere else. Especially if you don’t have much time in Mexico.

Don’t get me wrong, Cancun can be good fun, but trust me on this one. Go explore the rest of Mexico. Consider heading to Valladolid, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Bacalar, or smaller beach towns depending on your route.

This isn’t an unpopular opinion either. Cancun is typically recommended by American Tourists who haven’t fully experienced what makes Mexico such a wonderful backpacking destination. I challenge you to find anyone who has travelled a lot of Mexico who says Cancun was one of the best locations. I’m a fan of Oaxaca, Palenque, Bacalar and more ahead of Cancun to be honest.

Cancun is an obvious stop for people arriving at Mexico’s second-biggest international airport. Finding cheap flights is easy – and that makes it even more tempting.

Here are some extra inside tips to consider before you visit Cancun.

• Invest in travel insurance! You never know what may happen on the road. I’ve had medical bills of over £1,000 before… thankfully I also had insurance which meant I only paid the excess.
• Learn to haggle. Never accept the first price offered to you and haggle your way down to avoid getting ripped off!
• Don’t use taxis. Taxis charge a lot in Cancun, and are run by a mafia-like gang who scam tourists and can be aggressive. Buses are a much cheaper alternative. Uber works too.
• Bring a good water bottle with you. I always use a filtered water bottle which makes tap water safe to drink, even in countries like Mexico where it can be pretty nasty. I’ve never been ill from it, even in the likes of Afghanistan and India.
• Don’t get caught up in the Hotel Zone. Cancun’s Hotel Zone has everything you could possibly need, but make sure to trek beyond the area to make the most of your trip and see more of “the real Mexico”.
• But avoid unfamiliar areas at night. While Cancun is relatively safe to visit, it’s best to steer away from non-tourist areas as these will have higher levels of crime. Central Cancun certainly felt a little shady when I was there around sunset.
• Find cheap flights. Every once in a while, a killer deal pops up. Keep an eye out, and don’t fall into the trap I often do of booking a day or two before your trip and finding prices have gone to the moon…
• Book popular tours in advance. Cancun is super touristy, so the good stuff sells out fast. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

And here are a few more bits of advice related to water and the weather.

• Use reef-safe sun cream. If you don’t you can damage the reefs, and then we won’t be able to enjoy them in the future. So please be responsible!
• Stay hydrated. Cancun gets HOT. Cancun’s heat + active days + lots of alcohol are a bad combo. You can get in trouble if you don’t take care of yourself. Consume lots of water, especially when active or drinking booze,
• Protect belongings on beaches. This is a problem in Mexico. An unattended phone to you is a “free phone” to a local. Theft is common here, and if you don’t protect your stuff, you’re just asking for it to be stolen. Have a trusted friend look after your possessions, or lock them up in secure places. A waterproof phone pouch is a good idea whilst swimming, but make sure it really is waterproof!
• Be aware of hurricane season. June-November is when the weather can be lethal, and in all honesty, you should avoid Cancun in this time. Minor hurricanes can have minimal impact, but larger ones can lead to tour cancellations, choppy waters, or much much worse.
• Avoid sargassum season. From April-October, the waters are full of ugly seaweed. This fortunately mostly coincides with hurricane season, so you don’t have to add many more months to your “don’t come at this time” list. It turns the beaches brown, makes swimming less enjoyable, and it absolutely reeks. Yeah, swerve sargassum season where possible.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Cancun

Mexican travel insurance can be awkward, make sure your policy covers you for your stay in Cancun. You will probably need it!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Cancun is known both as a party town and as a gateway to some admittedly stunning historical Mayan sites. There’s so much to see and do in the area, so there’ll be something for you no matter your group size, budget, or interests.

It’s admittedly not the most authentically Mexican spot you’ll find, but it still has beaches, food, nightlife, cenotes, ruins, museums, water sports, and easy day trips. I’d say you need to get completely out of the Yucatan Peninsula to see “the real Mexico”.

If it’s your first time in Mexico, you come on a family trip, or you want something easy, you may love Cancun. I must admit though, we broke backpackers generally crave something a little more adventurous. I still think it’s fun for half a week or so, but it shouldn’t be the main focal point of your Mexican travels.

The best trip balances a beach, a cultural experience, a cenote, and a ruins adventure alongside a food experience. Get a taste (literally in the latter’s case) of each major Cancun activity, then zip west, away from the Gringo heartlands of Cancun and nearby Tulum and Playa del Carmen.

No matter where you stay in Cancun, you’ll be sure to find authentic and adventurous activities at every turn. Even if you don’t have it top of your itinerary, you will most likely come anyway, as the airport is just about the best entry point into the country, and crossing overland from Belize will take you nearby regardless.

Enjoy Cancun for what it does well, then give yourself time to see the parts of Mexico that made you want to travel there in the first place.