Things to Do in Cancun | Beaches, Culture and Family Adventures

The beaches in Cancun are legendary for good reason. With powdery white sand that stays cool under the tropical sun and water so clear it looks illuminated from beneath, they’re the heart of the region’s appeal. The calm, shallow areas near the resort are perfect for families with young swimmers. Plus, couples can find secluded spots to enjoy the sound of the Atlantic waves. Spending a simple day soaking up the Caribbean sun remains one of the most popular things to do in Cancun.

Just offshore lies the Great Mayan Reef, a true paradise for underwater exploration. Spots like Punta Nizuc offer incredible snorkelling where you can witness vibrant coral gardens and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish. For a unique day trip, a visit to Isla Mujeres provides excellent diving opportunities and the chance to see the MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art), where sculptures rest on the ocean floor to encourage reef growth. These are among the most breathtaking Cancun activities to do for nature lovers and adventure seekers.  

You cannot visit the Yucatan Peninsula without diving into a cenote. These natural limestone sinkholes, filled with cool, fresh groundwater, were considered sacred by the ancient Maya. Swimming in the emerald waters of a jungle cenote, like those found along the "Route of the Cenotes" near Puerto Morelos, is a genuinely magical experience. The shafts of sunlight piercing through the jungle canopy into the cavernous pools create an unforgettable sight that’s a must-see for any visitor. 

Back at the resort, the water is your playground! Club Med offers a wide range of included water sports, from sailing and kayaking to stand-up paddleboarding. For those who want to see the reef without leaving the resort, the snorkelling right off the beach is world-class. Prefer to stay on land? The iconic flying trapeze lessons offer a thrill for both kids and adults, providing a soaring bird's eye view of the Caribbean coastline. 

Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is the crown jewel of Mayan history. A day trip here lets you to stand before the towering El Castillo pyramid and learn about the extraordinary astronomical knowledge of the Maya. To make the most of the experience, we recommend arriving early to beat the heat and the crowds. Many tours also include a stop at a nearby cenote or the colonial town of Valladolid, making it a full day of cultural exploration. 

For a different perspective on history, the ruins of Tulum sit perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise sea. It’s the only Mayan city built right on the coast, and the contrast between the ancient grey stone and the bright blue water is spectacular. After exploring the temples, you’ll descend the stairs to the small beach below for a refreshing swim. Trust us, this is one of the most picturesque things to do in Cancun, Mexico. 

To experience the modern soul of Mexico, head to the local markets in downtown Cancun, such as Mercado 28. Here, you can find hand-painted ceramics, woven textiles, and traditional silver jewellery. These markets are also excellent places to try authentic street food, like tacos al pastor or marquesitas. Witnessing a cultural performance, with traditional mariachi music and folkloric dancing, provides a deep sense of the country's fascinating heritage. 

One of the greatest benefits of staying at Club Med is the ease of exploration. The resort’s excursion centre offers curated, guided tours to Chichén Itzá, Tulum, and the cenotes, taking the guesswork out of transport and ticketing. For families and first-time visitors, these guided experiences ensure you see the highlights of the Yucatan with professional G.O.s (Gracious Organisers) handling all the fine details. 

For a day of real excitement, the eco-adventure parks like Xcaret or Xel-Há are world-class. Xcaret blends nature with culture, featuring underground rivers you can float through, butterfly pavilions, and a nightly spectacular that charts the history of Mexico through music and dance. These parks are designed to be family-friendly, offering a safe environment for kids to encounter wildlife and explore the jungle. 

If you’re looking for more adrenaline-heavy Cancun activities to do, the region offers plenty of jungle adventure parks. You can fly through the canopy on ziplines, drive amphibious vehicles through muddy trails, or rappel into deep caverns. These tours often combine several activities into one "adventure day," ensuring that even the most energetic teenagers return to the resort fully satisfied. 

Isla Mujeres and Cozumel are perfect island escapes just a short ferry ride away. Isla Mujeres is known for its relaxed pace and North Beach (Playa Norte), often cited as one of the best in the world. You can rent a golf cart to explore the island, visit a turtle sanctuary, or simply enjoy a fresh seafood lunch by the water. These island trips offer a change of pace from the mainland and are among the most rewarding things to do in Cancun. 

Club Med Cancun Yucatan is designed with the multi-generational family in mind. While parents take a well-deserved break at the Jade Exclusive Collection space or the luxury spa, children can join the Kids Clubs. From toddler activities to teen foam parties and trapeze lessons, the G.O.s ensure every age group is entertained. With four restaurants, including the beachfront Taco Arte, and five bars serving unlimited snacks and gelato, even the pickiest eaters are catered for around the clock. 

Cancun is so much more than a beach destination. It’s a gateway to a world of ancient history, natural wonders, and thrilling adventures. By choosing an all-inclusive stay at Club Med Cancun Yucatan, you’ll ensure your holiday is as relaxing as it is exciting. From the flying trapeze to the ruins of Chichén Itzá, the sheer variety of things to do in Cancun ensures that every member of the family finds their own slice of paradise in the Mexican Caribbean.

Plan your Cancun getaway with Club Med, where every day brings new adventures and all-inclusive comfort.