15 Unique Things to Do in Cancun Instead of Drinking

If you think Cancun is all about white sandy beaches, massive all-inclusive resorts and wild spring parties, think again. Step away from swimming pools and crowded nightclubs, and you will find its other side, rich in culture. Let’s dive into unique things to do in Cancun that have nothing to do with partying. These are our top picks.

This Mexican city is like a Mexican Las Vegas – the official party capital of Mexico. But Don’t let its party reputation fool you – the city’s beauty rests beyond the luxury 5-star hotels.

 

TIP:

When travelling here, avoid Spring Break (March and also April) as thousands of tourists fill huge nightclubs across the city for a week of partying.

 

15 Unique things to do in Cancun in Mexico

To make it easier, we have divided attractions into 3 sections:

 

• unique things to do in Cancun for water enthusiasts
• unique things to do in Cancun for history lovers
• and also unique things to do in Cancun’s Hotel Zone and nearby.

 

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Unique things to do in Cancun for water enthusiasts

 

1. Swim with Whale Sharks

Did you know the waters around Cancun are home to the largest fish in the sea? Whale sharks can reach a length of 12 metres (39 feet). But don’t let their size scare you – these slow-moving sharks are docile and harmless to humans. They live between 80 and 130 years and eat plankton or small fish.

Whale Sharks are peaceful and don’t snack on anything larger than jellyfish, sardines or mackerel.

 

Swimming with whale sharks is one of the unique things to do in Cancun because it offers an opportunity to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures. Plus, snorkelling tranquilly near these endangered species on our planet is an experience of a lifetime.

DID YOU KNOW?

Whale sharks hang out in the waters near Isla Mujeres during summer. Therefore, if you want to swim with them, plan your trip during whale shark season. It runs from June through mid-September.

TIP:

Choose a tour company which provides a sustainable practice and responsible tourism. An eco-conscious company doesn’t feed whale sharks and restricts divers (2 and a guide). For whale shark’s safety, keep a safe distance from them.

 

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2. MUSA Cancun

©aquaworld.com

 

There are a few snorkelling sites, yet the MUSA Cancun is the most unusual. Did you know the MUSA Museum is one of the largest and most ambitious underwater art attractions? This underwater museum has over 500 life-size sculptures and is a shelter for marine creatures.

Snorkelling in the MUSA underwater museum is one of the unique things to do in Cancun because it’s one of the world’s largest artificial reefs. And the fantastic part? This man-made reef encourages coral reef development. This innovative project, created to prevent the effects of climate change, already has 12 different galleries. When you snorkel or dive, you can get up close and personal with marine life. You can see how corals grow, and local species colonize statues.

GOOD TO KNOW:

The MUSA Museum is one of the best attractions in Cancun for water enthusiasts. This famous underwater museum illustrates the interaction between art and nature. It offers a perfect opportunity to snorkel and dive. The maximum depth of the water is 8 metres (27 ft).

 

3. Swim in a cenote

Did you know the Yucatan Peninsula is home to nearly 6,000 cenotes?

 

For an adrenaline-packed adventure, add swimming in cenote to your bucket list. Believe it or not, the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico doesn’t have rivers. Instead, it has thousands of sinkholes filled with fresh water from the rain. The locals refer to them as cenotes. 

These natural swimming pools form naturally due to the collapse of the surrounding limestone. Together, they create the massive underground river system. Some cenotes have turquoise and emerald waters. They are open to the sun, and tropical vegetation surrounds them. Others have underwater caves with rising stalagmites and stalactites. But they all have one thing in common – they are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and some also for scuba diving.

 

DID YOU KNOW?

The ancient Maya used cenotes for water supplies and occasionally for sacrificial offerings. 

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Many of these refreshing swimming pools are easy to reach, and you can explore them when you rent a car.
• The best cenotes you can find along the Cenote Route (Ruta de Cenotes) near Puerto Morelos. It’s about a 30-minute drive away from Cancun. 
• The water temperature in cenotes is around 25°C (77°F). We recommend you wear a wetsuit in a partially covered cenotes.

 

TIP:

If you don’t fancy driving, visit the cenote on one of these tours.

 

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4. Isla Holbox

If you prefer to explore another island, take a boat ride to Isla Holbox. This laid-back haven with pristine beaches and clear waters is one of the best-kept secrets of Cancun. It is less developed and has car-free roads and sun-drunk dogs, which help to create an idyllic escape.

Isla Holbox lies on the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, within the largest ecological reserve in Mexico. Come here to see the mesmerizing glowing bioluminescent plankton. As a bonus, you can spot rich marine life like whale sharks or sea turtles. Plus, if you are a fan of street art, you can spot many colourful murals on the island.

 

5. A Day trip to Isla Mujeres

If you want to take a break from cosmopolitan city, hop on a ferry to serene Isla Mujeres. Isla Mujeres is a tiny laid-back island just across from this large city. It’s relatively unspoilt and has gorgeous beaches and crystal clear waters with the Musa Underwater Museum. Isla Mujeres promises an authentic Mexican experience and a peaceful day.  It’s a perfect escape for everyone who seeks a slice of paradise.

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6. Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy offers world-class diving and snorkelling. It is also the bird watcher’s paradise in Mexico. 

 

One of the unique things to do in Cancun is a day trip to Isla Contoy because it has extraordinary biodiversity and wildlife. Isla Contoy has gorgeous white sandy beaches and is the only National Marine Park near Cancun. This tiny uninhabited island near Isla Mujeres lies on the world’s second-longest coral reef system – the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Isla Contoy is home to 4 types of endangered sea turtles and many different birds, such as flamingos, frigate birds and pelicans.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Isla Contoy is a protected National Park with strict regulations. All Isla Contoy visitors must respect strict rules and pick up after themselves to keep the island pristine. Plus, you need to plan your trip here ahead of time. There is a daily limit of 200 visitors per day, and you cannot visit it on your own.

TIP:

Apply reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen and bug repellent before getting on the boat.

 

7. Xcaret

One of our favourite attractions is Xcaret, located in the Riviera Maya. It’s a famous water and theme park, which is a part of Xcaret Experiencias Group. This company owns other parks like Xplor Park, Xel-Ha and the Xoximilco, Xenotes and other tours and activities.

One of the reasons why we love Xcaret is that it offers many natural-based and also cultural attractions. You can swim and snorkel in the underground rivers and snuba in the nearby reefs. This amusement park also has a bird and butterfly pavilion, a replica of a Mayan village, a cemetery and a museum.

Other highlights of Xcaret are a parade of Aztec Horses and the Papantla Flyers ritual ceremony, which you can witness 4 times a day. Also, don’t miss the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular show in the evening. It’s an amazing 2-hour show with over 300 artists – make sure you don’t miss it.

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Unique things to do in Cancun for culture lovers

 

8. Visit Chichen Itza

If you only have time for one attraction, make sure it’s the ancient Chichen Itza.

 

No trip to Cancun is complete without a visit to iconic Chichen Itza because it’s one of the best-preserved Mayan archaeological sites in the world. Did you know a UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World? That’s why visiting Chichen Itza is one of the unique things to do in Cancun. 

This world-famous attraction is one of the largest Maya cities. Everyone flocks here to snap a photo of the famous Kukulkan Pyramid, but there is more to see. Find the secrets of the largest ball court in America and stand by the sacred cenote where the Maya made offerings to their gods. Chichen Itza also has a lot of secret stories, and this is just the beginning. 

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9. Coba ruins 

Coba might not be as famous as Chichen Itza, but its pyramid is the tallest in the Yucatan.

 

If you want a break from sunbathing and sipping cocktails, take a day trip to the Coba ruins. Coba is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. This ancient Maya city has some of the finest Maya architecture and the largest networks of stone roads in the Maya world. As you cycle near two ball courts, you can learn secrets about the shocking world of the Maya.

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10. Temazcal

©greenmaya.mx

 

When it comes to unique things to do in Cancun, a Temazcal ritual is hard to beat. This traditional Mayan ceremony of purification cleanses the body, mind and spirit. It takes place in a small ceremonial hut in complete darkness. During the ritual, a local shaman pours water over heated volcanic rocks. He also uses different types of herbs to invite spirits. 

Temazcal has been performed since ancient times and is a perfect example of the rich Maya culture. It’s an unusual experience you don’t want to miss when in Mexico.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Make sure you drink plenty of water before, during and after taking the ritual. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit, towel and also sandals. Also, avoid alcohol and have only a light meal before the ritual.

 

11. Xoximilco, Cancun

Spend a few hours floating on colourful traditional gondolas. ©playadelcarmen

 

If you want to get in touch with the Mexican culture and spend a fun night out with an open bar, visit Xoximilco. Xoximilco Theme Park allows you to experience an authentic Mexican fiesta. You’ll sample a range of Mexican delicacies and different types of tequila and beer. Try various blends of flavours representing the whole country while floating on the canals. If you’re brave enough, you can even try fried crickets!

And the best part? You will listen to traditional music with Mariachi singing and play games. 

DID YOU KNOW?

The inspiration for Xoximilco in Cancun comes from the famous Xochimilco neighbourhood in Mexico City. The original Xochimilco with canals has a UNESCO status. The Aztecs built these historical canals for transporting goods. 

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Kids are welcome here, but this popular attraction caters to adults seeking an authentic Mexican fiesta. Keep that in mind if you want to visit with small children. 

TIPS:

• Don’t forget to bring a bug spray and comfortable shoes. 
• For the best prices, book this tour in advance. 

 

Unique things to do in Cancun – Hotel Zone

 

12. El Rey Ruins

©yucatanmagazine.com

 

Did you know Cancun is also home to a few archaeological sites? One of them is El Rey Ruins, in the heart of its Hotel Zone. El Rey Ruins are at least a thousand years old. Despite its long history, nobody knows their real name. They got their name El Rey (the King) after a king-like sculpture which 2 English travellers discovered on the site in the 20th century.

DID YOU KNOW?

El Rey was one of the Maya ports on the Yucatan Peninsula’s east coast. Other famous ports were Xcaret, Tulu and Xelha.

 

Visiting El Rey Ruins is one of the unique things to do in Cancun because they are a perfect example of the pre-Columbian Mayan culture. It’s a small site with two main plazas, 47 structures, 2 white stone roads and the hundreds of iguanas which call this place home. While El Rey ruins may not have the same wow factor as Chichen Itza or Coba, they are worth a visit if you don’t want to travel far.

GOOD TO KNOW:

El Rey Ruins are open every day between 9 am and 4.30 pm. As of May 2024, the entrance fee to the ruins is 55 Mexican Pesos (USD 3.2) for adults. You can find the ruins on the lagoon side of Avenida Kukulcan, near km 18.

 

 

13. Cancun Scenic tower

Experience Cancun like never before by heading to 4.5 km Blvd. Kukulcan (Playa Linda) and visit its famous Scenic Tower. This 80 m (260 ft) tall tower offers breathtaking views of the city and the Caribbean Coast. If you come here on a clear day, the views stretch all the way to Cozumel Island. 

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The locals refer to this tower as Torre Escenica.
• This 360° rotating tower is the highest point in the city. While the tower gently spins, you can hear about Cancun’s history. 
• The Scenic Tower welcomes visitors every day from 9 am until 9 pm. The admission is USD 20 for adults (as of  May 2024). 
• Tickets to any of Xcaret’s parks or tours grant access to the Cancun Scenic Tower. 

TIP:

Alternatively, get panoramic views of the city from the Ferris Wheel, which you can find at 12.5 km on the Kukulcan Boulevard in the Hotel Zone. This 70-metre height wheel is also a featured attraction on the Go Cancun pass.

 

 

14. Nichupte Lagoon 

Did you know Cancun is home to numerous crocodiles living in a large lagoon next to Cancun’s entire hotel zone and a small part of downtown? The Nichupte Lagoon has seven lakes and a combination of salt and freshwater, which creates the mangrove nature reserve. It is home to a variety of fish, birds, and other animals. This makes the Nichupte Lagoon a haven for birdwatchers, outdoor lovers and adventurers.

The lagoon pathways with gorgeous views of the lagoon and a Hotel Zone are perfect for joggers, bike riders and walkers. However, keep your eyes peeled – this pretty lagoon has crocodiles. There are signs warning of the presence of these reptiles and the risk of danger in approaching their habitat.

While swimming, water-skiing, paddleboarding and kayaking on the lagoon may be tempting, it’s crucial to consider the risks before booking those activities.

Enjoying water sports on the Nichupte Lagoon is one of the unique things to do in Cancun only for everyone who wants to experience the thrill of sharing waters with powerful predators.

TIP:

Instead, explore the lagoon by a speed boat or book a sunset cruise to see crocodiles in their natural habitat. It’s a much safer way of exploring the Nichupte Lagoon. Not only you’ll see a variety of species, but you will also learn about its ecosystem from an expert guide.

 

 

15. El Meco ruins – one of the unique things to do near Cancun

©locogringo

 

If you want to escape the craziness of this party city, head to El Meco ruins. El Meco is a small archaeological site which lies north of Downtown Cancun. The archaeologists believe this small fishing village dates back to 200 AD and acted as a port. Archaeological findings suggest that the Maya used one of its structures for maritime navigation.

Exploring El Meco ruins is one of the unique things to do in Cancun because this site is home to the tallest pyramid in the Cancun area and the northeast Yucatan Peninsula. The pyramid is 12 metres (40 ft) tall, and from its top, it is possible to see the Nichupte Lagoon, Isla Mujeres and the sea. Apart from the pyramid, which once acted as a lighthouse, you can see three plaza groups with various structures. 

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• El Meco ruins is one of the recently opened tourist attractions. You can visit El Meco Ruins between 8 am and 5 pm. 
• Expect to pay around 65 Mexican Pesos (USD 3.80) for an adult. 
• Guides are only available in Spanish.
• EL MECO RUINS ARE NOT OPEN AT LEAST UNTIL 26th of February 2024 due to renovation. Hence, check their website before you decide to explore them. 

TIP:

Entry to El Meco Ruins is free for Mexican nationals on Sundays. Don’t forget to bring your ID with you.

 

16. Shopping

1. Mercado 28

If you want to avoid the high prices and prefer a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, head to Mercado 28. Mercado Veintiocho is a traditional Mexican flea market in the heart of the downtown. This massive craft market is a labyrinth of alleys and stalls. Vendors sell souvenirs, such as ceramics, clothing, magnets or tequila. And here’s the fantastic part – you can find similar items in shops in the Hotel Zone, but at a fraction of the cost. 

Shopping at Market 28 is one of the unique things to do in Cancun for everyone who likes bartering with vendors. 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Mercado 28 is far from the fancy malls on Avenida Kukulcan. 

TIP:

• Vendors are keen to make a sale. Hence, negotiate the price down. 
• If you are not interested, simply respond with a polite “No, thank you.”

 

2. Shopping in the Hotel Zone

If haggling prices at Mercado 28 is not your experience, visit one of the shopping centres. This city is a shopping haven offering a diverse range of options. You will find everything from ultra-chic designer stores and renowned brand names to shops selling local Mexican handicrafts. We have cherry-picked perfect places where you can go if you fancy shopping:

 

• Marina Puerto Cancun (Blvd. Kukulcan, Km 1, Hotel Zone)
• La Isla Shopping Village (Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 12.5, Hotel Zone)
• Kukulkan Plaza & Luxury Avenue (Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 13, Hotel Zone)
• Plaza Caracol (Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 8.5 Hotel Zone)
• Plaza Las Americas (Av. Tulum 260, Downtown)
• Plaza Flamingo (Blvd. Kukulcán, Km 11.5).

 

Now you know what unique things to do in Cancun are!

 

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GETTING AROUND CANCUN

If you stay in Cancun, forget about renting a car or taking an expensive taxi. Did you know this city has an excellent bus system? The buses run 24 hours a day throughout the Hotel Zone. A one-way ticket costs only about 12 pesos (as of May 2024). It is straightforward to use and very cheap. That’s why public transport is an excellent alternative to expensive taxis.

The bus stops are easy to find because they are almost everywhere. They go all the way by Kukulkan Avenue from the beginning of the hotel zone to the Cancun Downtown area. The two major routes in Cancun are R1 (Ruta 1) and R2 (Ruta 2):

• R1 – Take this route if you want to go downtown, Puerto Juarez, or the Cancun bus station (to get onto ADO buses to Playa del Carmen or Tulum)
• R2 – Goes to Mercado 28

 

TIPS:

• The buses on “the ocean side” of the street will go towards downtown. “The lagoon side” buses will go towards the airport. 
• If you know the bus you want and see it coming, wave your arm, and a driver will stop for you. 
• It is best to pay as close to the 12 pesos as possible. If you give a driver 15 pesos, most likely you will not receive any change.
• Bus drivers do not accept American coins, so if you pay with dollars, it is 1 dollar.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

If you prefer to take a taxi, every hotel and Shopping Mall in the city has a Taxi spot. Don’t forget to check the fare before you get in. Also, always check that the taxi driver has an ID card with the driver’s name, driver’s licence, and photo.

 

Have you been to Cancun in Mexico, or is it on your bucket list? If you have any recommendations, we would love to hear them in the comments. Also, save it also to your Pinterest.

 

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Last updated: 03/05/2024