Cancun is a tropical oasis situated on the Riviera Maya in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It’s a destination know for it’s warm beautiful beaches, luxurious hotel strip, and nonstop night life. Cancun is known for being a party destination for the spring break college crowds and the newly graduated high school crowd looking to let loose. But there is so much more to Cancun besides the beach and the parties. It is surprisingly a family-friendly destination getaway, so we’ve taken a look at 6 of the best things to do in Cancun, Mexico.
1. Ek Balam
One of the newly renovated sites open to the public, Ek Balam’s beauty easily rivals Chechen Itza and Tulum. While you can’t climb up any of the pyramids at Chechen Itza or Tulum, you can climb up the main temple and get a close-up view of the intricate and well-preserved carvings at Ek Balam. This place is a magical treat and it is believed to be a holy site where human sacrifice may have taken place however they are still excavating. Don’t miss the chance to step into the past and take in a panoramic view of the jungle at the top of the temple.
Tip: bring sunscreen, a hat, or an umbrella because it’s hot outside!
2. Xcaret
This is by far my favorite amusement park. There’s so much to do here and you won’t be disappointed. Built on an ancient Mayan ruin site it still houses the preserved structures that you can openly explore. There is also an underground river you can swim through that flows through real caves that were once used in ancient times. Some other neat feature of Xcaret is that it houses a Mexican cemetery, two churches, and it’s a marine wildlife sanctuary. Don’t miss the final show, a tribute to Mexico and its rich history.
Tip: buy your tickets online to save a few bucks and get there when the park opens. Once inside, head on over to the underwater caves for a fresh dip and swim.
3. Explore a Cave
There are many ways to explore caves in Cancun. You can explore the underwater caves of Xcaret, zipline in and out of caves in Xplore, or opt for a guided tour that will take you through the darkness and excitement of a real cave. Just don’t wake the bats as you explore the mysteries of stalactites and how it takes million of years to form these beautiful and fragile pillars.
4. Captain Hook Dinner and Pirate Battle
Warning, this turns into one big party! The show takes place on one of two wooden ships replicating the ships of old. The captain and his crew entertain you the whole night through. Upgrade your dinner to include lobster or just stick with the chicken. The drinks never stop because it is an open bar event. Close to the end of the adventure there is a battle between your ship and another one where the pirates fight with swords and swing from ship to ship with ropes in hopes of taking the treasure. The end of the cruise goes out with a bang and a dance party.
Tip: opt for bottle service and you’ll be seated at the top overlooking all the action. You’ll also get to enjoy your dinner first here.
5. Mercado 28
Everyone needs to buy souvenirs when they go somewhere, right? Your friends and family members back home are expecting a cute little bottle of sand or Mexican Vanilla right? Head on over to the Mercado 28 (open air Market) for all the souvenirs under the sun! Pick up a few items for yourself as well and don’t forget to haggle the prices down. It’s practically expected that you do so unless you think they are already giving you a fair price. There’s everything here that you can think of getting someone or yourself.
Tip: Grab a beer and a taco and enjoy a drink while you stroll through the shops. Bring Pesos only! The exchange will not be decent here if you use any other currency.
6. Spend a day at the beach
This one is a given but really, what did you come to Cancun for? Everyone needs to have a beach day while they vacation (holiday for you European folk) in Cancun. It’s a must do while here. So get your swim suit ready, a few bottles of beer, or just order a classic tropical drink from your hotel’s bar. I can guarantee that no matter what time you go to Cancun, the water will be warm and clear.
Well I hope you booked your flight and hotel and packed your bags already. My last few tips are to go during the off seasons. I like to visit in May which is right after all the spring breaks but right before the summer rush. Usually there’s not a problem with mosquitos but still pack some repellent.
Another tip is to bring plenty of sunscreen. It’s too expensive to buy this necessary item there. The last tip I have is to exchange your currency before you go at your bank. It will save you money and it is better to pay for things in pesos. Be price savvy but not a cheapskate. It’s customary to negotiate prices at many of the shops but not customary to try and take advantage. Oh, and just have fun enjoying all that this tropical paradise has to offer.
CHECK OUT 10 TIPS FOR A FIRST TIME BACKPACKER IN AUSTRALIA
Alice V is a blogger at www.diyerfy.com. She writes about crafts, preschool activities, home décor, home improvement, weight loss, family adventures and local tourism in Southern California. She has many interests in life including astronomy, cooking, painting, and creating while having fun with her family.
