17 recommended tourist spots in Cancun! Ruins, beaches, and natural wonders

Cancun, located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, is a globally renowned travel destination that draws visitors with its world-class beaches and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ve probably heard about Cancun through travel documentaries and TV features, as it’s a favorite among international tourists.

Situated in the historical region known as the Maya area, Cancun serves as a gateway to ancient ruins, beach resorts, and traditional communities. Travelers from around the globe flock here to experience both cultural heritage and tropical leisure. With so many attractions to choose from, we’ve handpicked some of the top recommended tourist spots in Cancun that are a must-see on your visit!

1. Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is without question the most famous tourist attraction in Cancun, Mexico! Tourists from around the world come to Cancun just to visit this site. It is a prime World Heritage Site of the Maya civilization, packed with fascinating sights.

The pyramid called “El Castillo,” dedicated to the feathered serpent deity, stands at 25 meters tall. “El Castillo” means fortress. The main highlight here is the phenomenon that occurs twice a year: the shadow of a feathered serpent appears on the steps of the pyramid during the spring and autumn equinoxes at dusk. Be aware, this day draws massive crowds. Inside the temple, you’ll find a throne and statues that are said to have received the hearts of sacrificial victims.

2. El Rey Ruins

The El Rey Ruins are likely the closest archaeological site to Cancun’s Hotel Zone. It’s incredibly close—some people say they arrived just two minutes after leaving their hotel! That said, it’s still a historically significant site. El Rey is the remains of an ancient Maya city.

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The ruins are compact, stretching 520 meters north-south and 70 meters east-west, so touring won’t take long. Though the site was abandoned during the Spanish colonial era and has weathered with time and sea breeze, the atmosphere of the past is still palpable.

For those interested in ruins but don’t have time to travel all the way to Chichen Itza—or are busy with marine sports—this is a perfect alternative. The ruins are on a narrow strip of land, yet hotels are cleverly built around them. It’s a view that uniquely captures Cancun’s resort charm.

3. Gran Cenote

A cenote is a natural spring formed by underground water collected in sinkholes found in limestone areas—something unique to the Yucatán Peninsula. Beneath many cenotes are stunning limestone caves, creating breathtaking scenes that are almost unbelievable. The scenery before your eyes radiates an incredibly mystical atmosphere. In fact, the word cenote is derived from the Mayan language, meaning “sacred well.”

It’s said that there are about 7,000 cenotes in the Yucatán region, but Gran Cenote is one of the most recommended. Once you dive in, you’ll be amazed by the crystal-clear water—visibility can reach as deep as 100 meters! What makes Gran Cenote especially popular is the way the sunlight sparkles into the water, creating what’s called a “curtain of light.”

If you’re visiting Cancun as a tourist, this is a must-see spot. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Cancun.

4. Cenote Ik Kil (Cenote Ik-kil)

Cenote Ik Kil is a famous cenote located near the UNESCO World Heritage site Chichen Itza. It’s known as a bottomless cenote—no matter how deep you dive, you can’t see the bottom, which adds a thrilling experience.

The hanging vines that cascade from above add to its mystical charm. Unlike Gran Cenote, it’s easier to access and more casual to visit, which is why it often gets crowded with tourists. So, it might not offer a quiet and mystical atmosphere. However, there’s something you can only experience here—you can jump into the cenote from a 5-meter-high staircase! Perfect for those who want an active adventure and a memorable experience.

To get there, head to the Tulum ruins about 130 km south of Cancun. From Tulum, you can take a shared bus and then a 10-minute taxi ride. From Chichen Itza, it’s about a 30-minute taxi ride.

5. Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a small island that can be reached in about 30 minutes from Cancun. Although compact, the combination of blue sea, white sand, and palm trees is absolutely stunning! You can enjoy snorkeling and diving, but the island also has a relaxing vibe that’s great for families with children.

One fun aspect is getting around the island by renting a golf cart. Young kids especially will love this experience. While it doesn’t go fast, that just makes the laid-back pace more enjoyable. Since the island is small, you can drive all the way around it by golf cart. There are also small heritage sites to explore along the way.

Ferries depart from Cancun’s hotel zone, and the view of the Caribbean Sea from the ferry is breathtaking—worth the trip just for that. However, take note that the last ferry back to Cancun leaves around 5:00 PM, which is quite early. If you want to relax and fully enjoy the island, staying overnight for a few days might be a wise choice.

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6. Cozumel Island

Cozumel Island is a classic resort destination in North America. It’s a regular port of call for cruises, including Disney Cruise Line.

Cozumel is the largest island in Mexico, but you can still tour it in just a few hours by rental bike. Taxis are also available. After going around the island, pick a favorite spot to enjoy marine sports!

To get there from Cancun, take a bus from the terminal to Playa del Carmen, which takes about 1 hour. Then transfer to a ferry for another hour to reach Cozumel. A day trip is difficult, so staying a few nights is highly recommended. If you’re lucky, you might see a giant Disney cruise ship up close—making it an irresistible destination for Disney fans!

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7. Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, located about 65 kilometers south of Cancun, is a must-visit tourist destination known as the ferry hub to Cozumel Island. Once a quiet fishing village, the town has transformed into a trendy beach city, thanks to the booming number of tourists traveling to Cozumel.

Today, the 5th Avenue area of Playa del Carmen is lined with chic hotels, fashionable cafes, lively bars, and top-rated restaurants, making it a hotspot for North American and European visitors. The town buzzes with energy, especially at night, attracting many who travel just an hour by car or bus from Cancun for its nightlife.

In addition to the vibrant nightlife, Playa del Carmen also boasts beautiful white sand beaches ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, making it a top destination in the Riviera Maya for beach lovers and adventure seekers.

8. Xcaret

Xcaret (pronounced "shka-ret") is a famous marine park located just outside Playa del Carmen, near Cancun. More than just a park, Xcaret is a full-scale eco-archaeological theme park perfect for families and groups. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, see exotic animals, and even interact with dolphins.

One of the highlights is the underground river adventure. Wearing a life jacket, you float down a clear subterranean stream surrounded by sculptures and representations of indigenous culture—an experience often compared to Disney’s Jungle Cruise, but underwater!

Buses from Cancun’s terminal take just over an hour, and many Cancun-based tours include Xcaret. The park is packed with dining options and cultural shows in the evening, making it easy to spend a full day exploring.

9. Xplor Park

Xplor is a highly recommended adventure park that makes great use of its natural surroundings. Aside from the reception cave, which is man-made, the rest of the park is entirely natural. The top recommendation is the zipline! It’s an exhilarating experience soaring over the vast wilderness of the Yucatán. You’ll want to scream with excitement! There are also hammock-style and splashdown ziplines that end in water.

You can also explore the jungle and narrow caves by driving a jeep — all natural terrain. People of all ages will surely have a blast. You can even paddle a canoe through underground rivers and cenotes.

Tours include round-trip bus transfers from your hotel. Admission and food and drinks are included, so there’s no need to bring cash. It’s about an hour from Cancun. Note: the park limits admission to 1,500 people per day. You can reserve through your hotel, so once your schedule is set, booking early is recommended.

10. Tulum Ruins

The Tulum ruins are remnants of a walled city that flourished during the late Mayan civilization (around 1000–1400 years ago). Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya, and because it’s one of the best-preserved Mayan ruins, it’s a popular tourist destination even among those visiting Cancun.

The name "Tulum" comes from the Yucatec word for "fence" or "wall." Even after the Spanish invasion, this city remained for another 70 years. It served as an important trade hub, especially for obsidian, evidence of which can still be found. At the back of the central area stands the main temple, about 7.5 meters tall. Murals and other clues suggest it was a sacred site of worship.

From Cancun, it’s about a 2-hour bus ride to Tulum. Alternatively, you can take a van from Playa del Carmen for a more affordable option.

11. Coba Ruins (Coba Archaeological Site)

The Coba Ruins is a vast Maya archaeological site in Yucatán, home to the tallest pyramid in the region. Since it's not listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's relatively unknown, making it a hidden gem even among tourists in Cancun.

The height of the massive Nohoch Mul Pyramid is about 42 meters. What makes the Coba Ruins special is that visitors can actually climb to the top of this pyramid. Though it might seem easy at first, it surprisingly requires stamina—but the breathtaking view from the top is worth it! Gazing at the same landscape as ancient rulers once did feels like a rare and rewarding experience.

At the entrance, you can hire a guide or check your luggage. Since the site is quite large, renting a bicycle and cycling through the lush jungle is a great way to explore. The Gran Cenote is nearby, so visiting both from Cancun is an efficient travel plan.

12. Ancient City of Uxmal

Though it's a bit far from Cancun, the highly preserved ruins of Uxmal are also highly recommended. This site represents the Maya civilization from the Late Classic to the Postclassic period. Among Maya ruins, Uxmal is especially notable for the excellent preservation of its buildings, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

One of the most famous and well-preserved structures is the "Pyramid of the Magician." Measuring 73 meters long and 36.5 meters high, this massive pyramid is awe-inspiring up close. According to legend, it was built overnight by a dwarf born from an egg warmed by a sorceress, which is why it's also called the "Pyramid of the Dwarf." Even the folklore adds a layer of mystery to the site.

At night, there is a light and sound show, turning the illuminated temples into a stunning illusion. If you plan to watch the show, make sure to secure accommodations. To get there, take a 4-hour bus from Cancun to Mérida, then a 1.5-hour bus to Uxmal.

13. La Isla Shopping Village

La Isla Shopping Village is the largest shopping mall in Cancun, with over 180 stores. It features restaurants, luxury boutiques, cafés, and even a scenic waterway throughout the property, giving it a strong resort-like atmosphere.

There’s also a movie theater and an aquarium, making it ideal for families with young children. You can find all the local necessities like swimwear and sandals. While a bit pricey, the mall includes a supermarket and craft shops, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs.

True to Mexican culture, there are specialty shops for tequila and cigars. There's also a Harley-Davidson merchandise store. Interestingly, Mexico is known as one of the world's top silver-producing countries, so silver jewelry or accessories make great souvenirs.

One of the top recommendations here is to watch the sunset over the sea. Enjoy a meal at a restaurant facing the lagoon, and as the sun begins to set, step out onto the deck to admire the view. Buses run here from Cancun’s hotel zone.

14. Cancun Tower

If you want to see the beautiful view of Cancun and the endless sea from above, head to the highest structure in Cancun: the Cancun Scenic Tower!

The elevator slowly rotates as it ascends, allowing you to enjoy a full 360-degree panoramic view. The vast blue of the Caribbean Sea will surely move you. On the lagoon side, you can see mangroves and jungle. You’ll also spot Isla Mujeres and downtown Cancun. With so much to take in at once, the experience feels quite rewarding. The rotating cabin climbs up to a height of 80 meters, with the thin shadow of the tower adding a touch of thrill.

It’s just 10 minutes by bus from downtown and takes about 15 minutes total. It’s safe and enjoyable even for seniors and small children. The tower operates from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, making it a great spot to catch both the sunset and Cancun’s nighttime cityscape.

15. Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, located in Mexico, was the first natural site in the country to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name "Sian Ka'an" comes from the ancient Mayan language, meaning “Origin of the Sky,” instantly evoking a magical and otherworldly image of the place.

Spanning over 5,000 square kilometers, this massive reserve features a rare and dynamic mix of ecosystems including mangrove forests, lagoons, cenotes, coral reefs, and even desert areas. The diversity of geological formations in one region is considered exceptionally unique.

The reserve is also a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Tourists flock here primarily to catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles, which are easily spotted during guided tours. Other inhabitants include manatees, crocodiles, and on land, even pumas and jaguars. Popular activities in the area include boat tours, snorkeling, and jungle trekking.
Access: From Cancun, it takes about 2 hours by car, and joining a tour is the most convenient option. Due to rough road conditions, a jeep or off-road vehicle is highly recommended.

16. Izamal

Izamal, often referred to as "The Yellow Town", is a charming colonial city in Mexico painted in a deep golden hue. The vibrant yellow color represents corn, inspired by the ancient myth that humans were created from maize. This small and walkable city offers a quaint, picturesque atmosphere, but the best way to explore it is by renting a horse-drawn carriage. It’s a unique way to experience the warm and authentic Mexican vibe.

At the heart of Izamal stands a monastery, also painted in maize yellow. While its exterior appears cute and inviting, it is actually a sacred Christian site. Recognized as a pilgrimage destination, the monastery houses a circuit second in size only to the Vatican. It’s no surprise that the Pope himself once visited. Inside, you’ll find religious paintings, statues of the Virgin Mary, and exquisite decorations that are worth admiring.

Beyond the city, numerous Mayan ruins dot the surrounding areas. You can include them in your carriage tour for a cultural deep dive. Izamal is easily accessible—about 1 hour by car from Mérida or 4 hours from Cancun.

17. Cancun Underwater Museum – MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte)

(MUSA). This one-of-a-kind museum lies beneath the sea, where visitors dive or snorkel to witness a surreal underwater world filled with sculptures.
Founded in 2010, MUSA began as a coral conservation project by a British sculptor who submerged 480 life-sized statues under the ocean. Many of these artworks are surreal and startling, perfectly blending into the ocean’s mysterious atmosphere.

You can explore MUSA via snorkeling or scuba diving. While snorkeling offers a great view due to the clear water, diving is highly recommended if you want a closer look at the sculptures or take unforgettable underwater photos. Plus, you’ll encounter colorful fish swimming around these artworks, creating a dreamlike experience.
Though slightly eerie, this unreal underwater scene is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime memory.

◎ Summary of Recommended Tourist Attractions in Cancun

Did we manage to convey the charm of Cancun? Hopefully, you now understand that Cancun, Mexico, offers more than just the typical heritage sites and beautiful beaches—there are plenty of other sights worth visiting too.

As a destination you can’t take your eyes off, Cancun enjoys sunny weather and warm temperatures year-round, making it a perfect getaway. You’ll need to take a connecting flight from a major U.S. city. The time difference and transit might be a bit of a challenge, but once you arrive—it’s paradise!