Cancun is a remarkable story, since it was just a small fishing village as recently as 1970. Now two million or so people per year visit this Yucatan Peninsula city, and the Cancun attractions they enjoy keep them coming back for more. Things to do in Cancun Mexico can range anywhere from simply lying on the beach to taking an excursion to a nearby island. No matter what you do, the exciting resort atmosphere of Cancun is sure to make your vacation enjoyable.

Cancun Beaches

Cancun is known for its white sand beaches that meet crystal blue waters. Despite the attempts of some hotels to claim areas of the beach, it’s all public space so enjoy! If crowds aren’t what you’re looking for, steer clear (south) of the main hotel/resort area of Cancun. Crowded or not, the gorgeous Mexico beaches of Cancun are the greatest Cancun attractions.

Scuba Diving

Cancun offers scuba diving excursions that will take you to one of the main Cancun Mexico attractions: the nearby barrier reef that is the second largest in the world. Pulling on the flippers and wetsuits as a family can be one of the best things to do in Cancun.

Fishing

If landing a huge marlin off the Yucatan Peninsula is one of your dreams, be sure to take advantage of the sport fishing found near Cancun. With all kinds of fishing available here, angling for the big one is one of the most adventurous things to do in Cancun Mexico.

Snorkeling

Cancun, like many other Mexican cities, has great Caribbean snorkeling locations that allow you to see the most colorful tropical fish in the sea. For families with kids old enough, this is one of the most child-friendly things to do in Cancun.

Mexico Tours of Mayan Ruins

With the world famous Chichen Itza just three hours away from Cancun, a look at Mayan Ruins can be a great day trip during your Cancun getaway. One of the more culturally significant of the Cancun Mexico Attractions, a visit here or to the nearby Tulum ruins is well worth the transportation it takes to get there.

Cancun Hotels and Nightlife

Cancun is absolutely renowned for its thriving nightlife, and many Cancun hotels and resorts have nightclubs that are waiting for you to dance the night away. Not for the faint of heart, exploring the nightlife is one of the wildest things to do in Cancun. The Cancun hotel map can also help you find the best location for your accommodationsl.

National Institute of Anthropology and History

On a rainy day in Cancun, or if you are just tired of the beach, this museum at the Cancun Convention Center is a great place to learn about the history and culture of ancient Mexico. Before you visit Mayan ruins, a trip to this museum will give you a greater appreciation of the people who inhabited these locations. This is one of the truly educational things to do in Cancun Mexico.

Day Trip to Cozumel

Mexico’s largest island and cruise ship port is just a boat ride away from Cancun, making it one of the more enjoyable Cancun Mexico attractions in its own right. The unbelievable beaches of Cozumel, and the water sports that are popular on them, make a day trip to the island worth your while.

Isla Mujeres

For a shorter day trip from Cancun, check out this tiny island (named the “Island of Women” in Spanish), just a 25 minute ferry from Cancun. The laid back atmosphere of the island makes it a great place to just relax and watch the sun go down, one of the most peaceful Cancun Mexico attractions.