Plan Your Trip to Cancun: Best of Cancun Tourism
Cancun, Mexico
Essential Cancun
Things to do
Food & drink
3 days in Cancun
A family-friendly weekend in Cancun
- Hyatt Ziva Cancun13,835The Hyatt Ziva is ideal for multigenerational travel because it’s basically two hotels in one—one side is for families, the other is adults only. There’s also the KidzClub with great activities like water volleyball, arts and crafts, and even video games; our baby was too young, but if your kids are ages 4–12, drop them there (for free!) and then enjoy some quiet pool time. We also loved the family-friendly live entertainment every night.
- Chichen Itza26,520Most of the tour buses that go to Chichén Itza don’t have or allow car seats, so we rented a car from the Enterprise in downtown Cancun instead. From Cancun, it was about a two-hour drive, and then we hired a certified tour guide at the ruins (and it was well worth it). We loved shopping for souvenirs at the market, and were delighted to find the “secret” popsicle stand near the main entrance to cool down after our tour.
- La Ruta de los Cenotes64For a break from the beach, I highly recommend Ruta de los Cenotes—a 21-mile-long road near Puerto Morelos with dozens of cenotes. We especially loved La Noria and Kin-Ha; at both, you could either jump in from a platform or climb down a ladder into the cool, calm water. Arrive early to avoid the crowds, and bring towels and flotation devices if your kids need them. Most cenotes have lockers to store your valuables.
- Isla MujeresFor a fun day trip, we took the 15-minute Ultramar ferry to Isla Mujeres. The beautiful Playa Norte beach has peddlers selling snacks like grilled shrimp skewers and frozen mango slices, but we went straight to Lola Valentina restaurant and sat on the patio with a mountain of guacamole and chips to watch the street performers. Afterward, we went shopping on Miguel Hidalgo Avenue—a pedestrian-only street that turns into a lively party at sunset.Read more
- Whale Shark Tour from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Riviera Maya737If you’re visiting Cancun from May through September, don’t miss the chance to swim with whale sharks. We went out with Ocean Tours and the experience was amazing. They picked us up from our hotel (extra convenient!); the guides were bilingual and super friendly; and they provided everything we needed: life jackets, snorkeling equipment, snacks and cold beverages, and the confidence needed to swim alongside the world’s largest fish.
- Interactive Aquarium1,863Our toddler-to-be loved touching the starfish and sea urchins in the tide pool area at this aquarium, but older kids will love the dolphin swim experience. We adults also did the underwater walking experience, which takes place in one of the aquarium’s vast tanks full of fish and invertebrates—it was fascinating!
- Croco Cun Zoo2,237At this zoo-like spot, you actually get to interact with the animals, which was a really fun way to learn about Yucatan wildlife. We fed white-tailed deer, wore a boa constrictor, and even walked a boardwalk next to native crocodiles. The property is largely untouched, so it’s a really natural, comfortable place for the animals to live. And best of all: kids under five get in free.
- Cancun Food Tours1,264For a fun night out with the family, book the Lucha Libre experience with Cancun Food Tours. We had the best time watching the wrestling match (from ringside seats!) and learning more about the sport (including whether Nacho Libre is real—he is, sort of). They even gave us masks to wear, plus we got to enjoy delicious tacos and a tequila tasting during the match and walk through a super cool night market afterward.
- Captain Hook: Pirate Show and Dinner Cruise in Cancun2,050One of our favorite family-friendly things we did in Cancun was this immersive, pirate-themed adventure. Sailings depart every day at 6:30 p.m. and include a cannonfire send-off, live music, games, and a “battle” with an enemy ship. It sounds cheesy, and it is, but we had a blast. And kids eat free at the buffet with a paying adult; get the $55 surf and turf for yourself.
- Lorenzillo's6,264The oldest and most celebrated restaurant in Cancun is also one of the most expensive, but it’s family friendly and lots of fun. The service is welcoming and attentive (a plus if you’ve got hangry little ones), and there’s nautical decor, live lobsters, and fish tanks to entertain the kids while you finish your wine. Oh—and there are crocodiles in the lagoon outside. Big ones!
Browse collections
- Winter in CancunSee what makes this place so magical this time of year
- Bring the kidsWhere to find fun for all ages
- All about the MayaAncient ruins and history with local guides
- Cancun on a dimeEats and activities that won’t break the bank
- If you're feeling fancy-ishLuxury experiences that are totally worth it
- Get off the beaten pathHidden gems and spots locals love
- Doable day tripsTake a detour to these nearby and noteworthy stops
- Spring break foreverThe party starts (and never ends) here
- Drinks with a viewTake it in: Rooftop bars and beachfront faves
- Hit the wavesParty boats, underwater excursions, and more
- Take a dipRooftop pools, swim-up bars, and poolside hangs
More ways to get on beach time
Cancun Travel Guide
Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Cancun
justaguyincancun
Do not forget your sunglasses and biodegradable sunscreen. Studies show that some chemicals contained in regular sunscreen can be harmful to coral reefs!
BinMcKin
Chain restaurants are expensive, opt for the cantina with authentic Mexican food. You will not be disappointed.
CancunCanuck
While U.S. dollars are accepted at most places (buses won't take U.S. coins), it is better to use pesos. Prices are in pesos, your change will be in pesos and your service staff will appreciate tips in pesos.
Jon W
I tell them to picture the most beautiful beach, the kindest people, and the most amazing selection of resorts to choose from. There is something for everybody across all interests and price points.
Joan S
Cancun offers cuisine to satisfy every taste. Whether you're looking for gourmet restaurants as part of your all-inclusive or just simple food there's sure to be a resort that offers what you're looking for. Want to dine outside your resort? No problem. Cancun has everything from the finest steakhouse and seafood restaurants to small places to just grab a quesadilla.
SeeSea99
The hotel zone in Cancun has one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere. The hotels along here have amazing oceanfront views available and many of the hotels have pools right along the beach.
What is the best way to get there?
flying
Cancun is served by the Cancún International Airport.
Do I need a visa?
Mexico has a visa exemption agreement with several countries, which means travelers coming from nations within this agreement (including the United States) don’t need a tourist visa for stays of up to 180 days — as long as they hold a passport valid at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, with one blank visa page.
For more information about visas and which countries are exempt, see here.
When is the best time to visit?
Late April through May: The Spring Breakers have left it is before the thick of Summer when the humidity rises and tropical storms can bring rainfall. There are also good deals on offer at this time of year. The average daytime temperatures reach highs of 87 Fahrenheit (31°Celcius) and lows of 73 Fahrenheit (23° Celcius).
Get around
bus
Three private bus lines connect Cancun’s downtown area and the "hotel zone" as well as more distant destinations such as Playa del Carmen and Tulum. For more information about fares and schedules, see here.
taxi and rideshare
Public taxis hailed from the street do not have meters, so always agree on a price before you get in. Site taxis, or taxis that belong to a company that are called or booked, have standard prices — negotiation is not welcome. Ridesharing companies like Uber are also available.
For more information about Cancun taxis, see here.
On the ground
What is the timezone?
Eastern Standard Time
What are the voltage/plug types?
The standard voltage in Cancun is 127V and the standard frequency is 60Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins.
What is the currency?
The Mexican peso is the main currency, however, U.S. dollars are widely accepted throughout the Cancun Hotel Zone.
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes.
Is it easy to find a bank?
Yes.
How much do I tip?
In Mexico, tipping in either U.S. dollars (bills only) or pesos is acceptable, although pesos are more practical for the recipient.
How much do I tip?
Bartender
20 pesos per drink
Restaurant
10-20%
Bellhop
20-50 pesos
Housekeeper
50 pesos per night
Taxis/rideshare
Only if a taxi driver helps with luggage, 10 pesos per bag
Tour guide
10-20%
Spas
15-20%
Are there local customs I should know?
Drinking:
The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.
Slow it down:
Arriving 30 minutes to two hours late to a social function at someone’s house is acceptable. In fact, it is actually polite to arrive late as the host won’t be ready if you arrive on time. The same goes for dining out — don’t be in a hurry. The waiter won’t bring you the bill when you’ve finished eating as it is considered too forceful and rude. You’ll have to ask for the bill but in the meantime, sit back and relax.
Greetings:
Mexicans are very friendly and personable people. When meeting a group, take the time to greet each individual personally and shake their hand.
Learn the language:
Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is a sign of respect and courtesy and will be appreciated.
Cancun travel advice
Resort Recommendations
According to forum posts, some travelers recommend the Catalonia Royal Tulum for its excellent beach and food options, specifically when upgraded to Privilege for access to the restaurant BLoved. RIU Palace Las Americas and RIU Palace Costa Mujeres are also favored by many users for a good balance of amenities and atmosphere suited for both relaxation and some daytime fun.
Family and Accessibility Options
For family-oriented stays, posts highlight Barcelo and Iberostar as top choices due to their comprehensive facilities catering to various age groups. Travelers have called out Luxury Bahia Principe Akumal and TRS Coral for their accessibility features, particularly useful for guests with mobility issues, offering close proximity to amenities and transportation options within the resort.
Luxury and Party Atmosphere
For a more luxurious or adult-centric experience, Secrets The Vine and Excellence Playa Mujeres are frequently praised for their superior service, adult-only areas, and vibrant nightlife options. Breathless Riviera Cancun is also noted for its lively atmosphere, making it suitable for younger adults looking for both party and relaxation opportunities.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Visitax Introduction
Visitax is a tourist tax introduced in April 2021 for foreign visitors over the age of 4 entering the state of Quintana Roo, which includes popular destinations like Cancun. The tax was initially set at 224 pesos but has since been adjusted to 259 pesos.
Payment Methods
The tax can be paid online through the official government website (https://www.visitax.gob.mx//sitio/) or through a contracted third-party site, TravelKore, which charges a slightly higher fee. Payment is linked to the visitor's passport number, and a QR code is provided as proof of payment.
Enforcement and Compliance
Despite being mandatory, enforcement at Cancun Airport is lax. Check-in agents and security personnel do not typically request proof of payment, and many travelers report walking past tax collectors without paying. According to forum posts, there has been no strict enforcement or repercussions for non-payment, leading many to ignore the tax.
Recent Developments and Traveler Advice
Recent discussions suggest that there may be future changes to the enforcement of Visitax, potentially including penalties for non-payment. However, as of now, the tax remains poorly enforced, with many travelers choosing not to pay until stricter measures are implemented.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Self-Guided Tours
Some travelers suggested exploring Isla Mujeres independently by taking a ferry and renting a golf cart once there. This allows for a flexible schedule and the opportunity to visit attractions like Punta Sur and Playa Norte at one's own pace.
Guided Tours
According to forum posts, for guided tours, Shut Up and Fish is recommended for personalized fishing, snorkeling, and visiting ruins and cenotes. Additionally, Sin Postal Tours is praised for their extensive tour offerings, including cenote trips and archaeological site visits.
Tour Booking Advice
Travelers have called out the advantage of booking tours upon arrival in Cancun rather than pre-booking online to avoid being locked into schedules and to potentially benefit from better deals and weather conditions. Moreover, many posts emphasized the availability of tour vendors throughout Cancun, which allows for price comparisons and flexibility.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Public Transit Options
According to forum posts, the R-1 and R-2 buses are prominent public transportation options within Cancun's Hotel Zone. These buses run frequently along the main boulevard and are affordable at 12 pesos per ride.
Taxi Services
Some travelers mentioned that taxis in the Hotel Zone are not metered, and it is crucial to agree on a fare before starting the trip. A price sheet divided by zones determines the fares, but taxis may try to charge more if not challenged.
Alternative Transport
For those exploring beyond public buses and taxis, private transfer services like Canada Transfers and USA Transfers are frequently recommended. These services provide a reliable and possibly more comfortable way to navigate around Cancun, including the Hotel Zone.
Travel to Nearby Attractions
For journeys to nearby attractions or other cities, forum users suggest using the ADO bus service, which can be accessed by taking the R-1 bus from the Hotel Zone to the ADO bus station downtown.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Tipping Rates
According to forum posts, tipping etiquette in Cancun varies, but many travelers recommend tipping between 10% and 20% at restaurants and bars, depending on the service quality. Some users suggest tipping at least 20% to acknowledge the hard work of local service staff.
Currency for Tipping
Travelers have called out that both U.S. dollars and Mexican pesos are accepted for tips in Cancun. However, tipping in pesos is often preferred to avoid exchange rate issues for the recipient. It's also recommended to ensure that U.S. dollar bills are in good condition without any rips or markings.
Special Considerations
For specific services like all-inclusive resorts, users suggest planning a tipping budget, as tips are greatly appreciated by staff, even where tips are included in the package. Tips can significantly enhance the quality of service received. For instance, large tips at the beginning of service at beach or pool bars can ensure more attentive service throughout the day.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Beach Amenities
According to forum posts, several Cancun beaches such as Playa Delfines, Playa Caracol, Playa Tortugas, and Playa Chac-Mool offer rentals of loungers and umbrellas. Some of these are Blue Star beaches where, by law, palapas and loungers should be free, although travelers mentioned that staff might request payment unless challenged.
Food and Beverage Options
Travelers have reported that there are setups for drinks and light food available at places like Playa Delfines, though the offerings are not extensive and prices can be high. Beachside restaurants are available near many beaches, but not directly on the sand, except at Playa Tortugas.
Beach Safety and Cleanliness
User discussions reveal that while amenities are available, the cleanliness and safety of facilities like showers can be questionable. For example, the showers at Playa Delfines are mentioned as often being in poor condition and sometimes non-functional.
Additional Services
Some beaches offer non-motorized water sports and activities, but availability varies greatly by location and some beaches might restrict these activities. Enforcement of local rules regarding alcohol and beach toys also varies, impacting the amenities that might be available to visitors.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Recommended Companies
According to forum posts, several users have recommended EasyWay, Avant, and America as reliable car rental options in Cancun. These companies are frequently mentioned for their transparent pricing and good customer service.
Booking Tips
Travelers have advised booking directly through the car rental companies' official websites rather than through third-party platforms. This approach helps avoid hidden fees and ensures that the quoted price is the final price you pay.
Additional Services
Some travelers mentioned that companies like EasyWay offer additional services such as airport pick-up and detailed online quotes that include all fees and insurance options, helping to ensure there are no surprises upon arrival.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?ADO Bus Routes and Destinations
According to forum posts, the ADO bus service in Cancun provides routes to several significant destinations. Travelers have mentioned routes from Cancun to Valladolid, Chetumal, Mérida, and Bacalar. Additionally, the ADO bus operates from the Cancun airport to downtown Cancun, where passengers can connect to other services.
Service Frequency and Availability
Forum users have noted that ADO buses run frequently, with services like the airport route operating every 20 to 30 minutes. However, full schedules are typically posted only about a month in advance, and travelers can expect similar schedules throughout the year based on current postings.
Additional Travel Tips
Some travelers said that while ADO buses cover major locations, for travel to coastal towns like Puerto Aventuras or Akumal, other forms of transportation such as taxis or colectivos might be necessary, as ADO is an express service with limited stops.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?
- We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Cancun, which include:
- Some of the most popular restaurants in Cancun include:
- Cancun is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:
- We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Cancun:
- If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Cancun between June and August, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between March and May.