Top 5 Must-Do Activities in Cancún for an Unforgettable Trip

Cancún is one of the most popular beach destinations in the world—and for good reason! With its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and rich Mayan history, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences. Whether you’re looking to relax at an all-inclusive resort, explore ancient ruins, or swim in crystal-clear cenotes, Cancún has something for every traveler. In this guide, I’m sharing five must-do activities that will make your trip to Cancún truly unforgettable—including one bucket list adventure you won’t want to miss!

In this post, I share the top 5 must-do activities in Cancún for an unforgettable trip!

When to Visit Cancún: The Best Time for Your Trip

The best time to visit Cancún depends on what you’re looking for—whether it’s perfect weather, fewer crowds, or incredible wildlife encounters. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during each season:

Winter (December – April): Peak Season

• Weather: Warm, sunny days with low humidity and little rain.
• Best For: Ideal beach weather, nightlife, and first-time visitors.
• Things to Consider: This is the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Expect crowded resorts, higher prices, and fully booked excursions. If you’re visiting during spring break (March–April), Cancún’s party scene will be in full swing.

Spring & Early Summer (May – June): Shoulder Season

• Weather: Still warm, with an increasing chance of rain and humidity.
• Best For: A balance between good weather and fewer crowds.
• Things to Consider: Rain showers become more frequent, but they’re usually short-lived.

Summer (July – September): Low Season

• Weather: Hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain and tropical storms.
• Best For: Budget travelers and those looking for quieter beaches.
• Things to Consider: While hurricanes are rare, this is Cancún’s hurricane season, so travel insurance is a good idea. This is the best time to swim with whale sharks, as they migrate through the waters near Cancun!

Fall (October – November): Off-Season & Pre-Holiday Calm

• Weather: Still warm, with lingering humidity and occasional rain.
• Best For: Travelers looking for deals before the holiday rush.
• Things to Consider: While crowds are low and prices drop, some resorts and tours may have limited availability due to maintenance or seasonal slowdowns.

No matter when you visit, Cancún offers something special year-round! I have traveled there twice—once in mid-September as well as mid-August. Both times I enjoyed sunny skies, warm water, and minimal crowds—despite an occasional evening rainstorm. If you’re flexible with your dates, planning around your priorities (weather, price, or experiences) will help you make the most of your trip.

Top 5 Must-Do Activities in Cancún for an Unforgettable Trip

1. Stay at an All-Inclusive Resort

When people think of Cancún, all-inclusive resorts often come to mind! These resorts provide a hassle-free experience with unlimited food, drinks, entertainment, and beachfront access all in one place. If you’re looking for a stress-free getaway where you can fully relax without worrying about logistics, an all-inclusive is the way to go.

Why Choose an All-Inclusive?

• Convenience: No need to worry about meal planning or extra costs—everything is included!
• Luxury & Comfort: Many resorts offer stunning ocean views, infinity pools, and top-notch spas.
• Activities & Entertainment: From live shows to water sports, there’s always something happening.
• Food & Drinks: Enjoy a variety of restaurants, buffets, and unlimited drinks, often with premium options you want to upgrade.

Things to Consider Before Booking

• Price vs. Value: While all-inclusives can be pricey, they often save money compared to paying for food, drinks, and entertainment separately. Look for deals and packages to maximize value!
• Resort Size & Atmosphere: Some are massive and lively (great for socializing and partying), while others offer a more intimate, quiet experience.
• Location: Most all-inclusives are in Cancún’s Hotel Zone, but some are further south in Playa Mujeres or Riviera Maya, offering a more secluded setting.

Which One to Choose

There are so many all-inclusive resorts in Cancún that it can be overwhelming to choose which one to stay at! During my first trip, I stayed at Iberostar Selection Cancún, and I can’t say enough good things about it! This resort boasts a gorgeous beachfront location, spacious rooms with ocean views, and a variety of dining options, from buffets to à la carte restaurants. The pools were refreshing, and the resort offered plenty of activities, including snorkeling, beach volleyball, and live entertainment in the evenings. The service was top-notch, and the staff went above and beyond to make our stay memorable.

If you’re considering an all-inclusive for your Cancún trip, I highly recommend Iberostar Selection Cancún! You can read my full unsponsored review here to see if it’s the right fit for you.

Another great option is the newer Hilton Cancún All-Inclusive Resort. Their food is some of the best I’ve ever had at an all-inclusive, and they do a phenomenal job of offering a variety of entertainment for all ages.

2. Visit Chichen Itza: A Must-See Wonder of the World

No trip to the Yucatán Peninsula is complete without visiting Chichen Itza, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient Mayan city is one of the most well-preserved and significant archaeological sites in Mexico, drawing over a million visitors each year.

The highlight of Chichen Itza is El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán)—a massive step-pyramid that served as a ceremonial temple. While climbing the pyramid is no longer allowed, standing before this 98-foot-tall structure is truly awe-inspiring. If you visit during the spring or fall equinox, you’ll witness a fascinating phenomenon: the setting sun creates a shadow illusion of a serpent slithering down the pyramid’s steps! Beyond El Castillo, the site has over 20 impressive ruins to explore, including The Great Ball Court, The Temple of the Warriors, and The Skull Platform—a chilling display of ancient Mayan sacrifices.

Chichen Itza is about a 2.5-hour drive from Cancún, making it a perfect day trip. Consider booking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of this ancient wonder!

3. Swim in a Cenote: One of Mexico’s Greatest Natural Wonders

One of the most unique and refreshing experiences in the Yucatán Peninsula is swimming in a cenote—a natural sinkhole filled with crystal-clear groundwater. There are thousands of cenotes scattered throughout the region, each offering a magical, otherworldly setting for a dip.

What makes cenotes special?

Formed Over Thousands of Years – These limestone sinkholes were created by collapsed cave systems and are often connected to underground rivers.
Crystal-Clear Water – Many cenotes have strikingly blue or emerald-green water, thanks to natural filtration through limestone.
Sacred Mayan History – The ancient Maya relied on cenotes for freshwater and considered them sacred, sometimes using them for rituals and offerings.

Where to Go: Our Experience at Cenote Oxman

With so many incredible cenotes to choose from, it can be tough to decide which one(s) to visit. On our way back from Chichen Itza, we stopped at Cenote Oxman, a hidden gem near Valladolid. The cenote is surrounded by dramatic rock walls covered in hanging vines, making it feel like something straight out of a jungle adventure. The highlight? A rope swing that lets you launch yourself into the deep, refreshing water below!

Valladolid, Mexico

On your way back from the Cenote, consider stopping in Valladolid, a vibrant city known for its colorful colonial buildings and rich Mayan heritage. Wander through Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado and admire the historic Iglesia de San Servacio, standing proudly since the 1700s. Valladolid is a must-visit for a taste of authentic Mexico!

4. Snorkel on a Vibrant Caribbean Reef

Cancún is home to some of the most breathtaking coral reefs in the world, making snorkeling an absolute must-do! The warm, crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean provide the perfect conditions to spot colorful fish, stingrays, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced snorkeler, the beauty of the Caribbean reefs is something you won’t want to miss!

Book a Snorkeling Tour for the Best Experience

If you’re new to snorkeling or want to visit the best spots, I highly recommend booking a guided excursion. We went with Total Snorkel Cancún, and it was an unforgettable experience! They picked us up and brought us back to our resort, so we didn’t need to worry about transportation. The guides were knowledgeable, patient, and made sure everyone felt comfortable in the water. During our tour, we saw sea turtles, tropical fishes, stingrays, and a variety of coral species.

Tips for a Great Snorkeling Experience

• Choose the Right Spot: The Cancún area offers several incredible reefs, including parts of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef in the world!
• Pick the Right Time: Morning tours often have calmer waters and better visibility.
• Prepare for Motion Sickness: If you’re prone to seasickness, take Dramamine before boarding—trust me, I learned this the hard way!
• Bring an Underwater Camera: The marine life here is stunning, and you’ll want to capture the magic!
• Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Many sunscreens contain chemicals that harm coral reefs, so opt for a reef-safe option to help protect Cancún’s fragile marine ecosystem.

Pro Tip: Bring a GoPro or waterproof camera to capture the surreal beauty of the reef and the vibrant marine wildlife!

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5. Swim with Whale Sharks: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

If you’re visiting Cancún between June and September, don’t miss the chance to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean! These gentle giants migrate to the waters off the Yucatán Peninsula each year, drawn by the abundant plankton. Despite their massive size—growing up to 40 feet long—whale sharks are completely harmless and known for their calm, slow-moving nature. If you’re visiting Cancún during whale shark season, this adventure deserves a top spot on your bucket list!

Tips for a Responsible & Enjoyable Experience

• Choose an Eco-Friendly Tour Operator: Look for operators that follow responsible wildlife guidelines to protect whale sharks and their habitat.
• Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen: To help preserve marine life, opt for biodegradable sunscreen or wear a rash guard for sun protection.
• Be Prepared for Open Water: If you’re prone to seasickness, take Dramamine before boarding, as the boat ride can get bumpy.
• Respect the Wildlife: Keep a safe distance, avoid touching the whale sharks, and follow the guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and ethical encounter.

What to Expect on a Whale Shark Tour

• Early Morning Departure: Most tours leave from Cancún or Isla Mujeres early in the morning for the best chance of sightings.
• Boat Ride to Open Waters: You’ll travel about an hour offshore to reach the whale sharks’ feeding grounds.
• Jump in and Swim Alongside Them: Once spotted, small groups take turns snorkeling beside these incredible creatures as they glide gracefully through the water.
• Capture the Moment: Many tours offer GoPro rentals or photos for an additional fee, but bringing your own waterproof camera is a great way to document this unforgettable experience!

Bonus: More Amazing Things to Do in Cancún

If you have extra time in Cancún, here are some more incredible activities to add to your itinerary:

• Visit Isla Mujeres – Take a short boat ride to this beautiful island known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibes.
• Relax at Playa Delfines – One of the best public beaches in Cancún, offering stunning turquoise water, soft sand, and fewer crowds than hotel beaches.
• Try Paddleboarding or Jet Skiing – Get an adrenaline rush on the Caribbean Sea with water sports like paddleboarding, jet skiing, or parasailing.
• Shop & Dine in Downtown Cancún – Experience authentic Mexican cuisine and culture by visiting Mercado 28 or Parque Las Palapas for street food and souvenirs.
• Party at Coco Bongo – Cancún’s most famous nightlife spot, featuring a Vegas-style show with live performances, music, and confetti-filled fun.

Final Thoughts

Cancún is one of my favorite beach destinations in the world! It is the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler. Whether you’re snorkeling on a vibrant reef, swimming in a cenote, exploring ancient ruins, or checking off a bucket-list experience like swimming with whale sharks, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Cancún, you’re sure to leave with amazing memories!

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