10 Best Places to visit in Cancun Mexico

Cancun Mexico

Cancun, Mexico is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the beauty and culture of a foreign country. This city has something for everyone; from pristine beaches to historical ruins and everything in between.

But if you’re looking to explore beyond Cancun’s main attractions, then you’re in luck! There are plenty of amazing places just outside the city limits that should not be missed.

From local markets and quaint fishing villages to hidden cenotes and lush jungles, this list will help you plan your next Cancun getaway with ease.

10 best places to visit in Cancun Mexico

Read on to find out the 10 best places to visit in Cancun Mexico!

1. Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is the most popular tourist destination in Mexico. Located in the state of Yucatan, about 120 kilometers from Cancun, this ancient Maya city was once one of the largest and most powerful cities in the Maya civilization.

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2. Tulum

Tulum

If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cancun, then Tulum is the perfect spot. Located about an hour and a half south of Cancun, Tulum is known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. It’s also home to some of the best Maya ruins in Mexico.

Although it’s becoming more popular with tourists, Tulum still has a laid-back vibe. You can find plenty of affordable accommodation options, as well as restaurants serving up fresh seafood

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When it comes to things to do in Tulum, there’s plenty to keep you busy. In addition to lounging on the beach, you can go snorkeling or scuba diving, explore the Maya ruins, or take a day trip to one of the nearby cenotes (natural swimming holes).

3. Xel-Ha

Xel-Ha
Xel-Ha is a beautiful natural aquarium located in the Riviera Maya. It is one of the must-see places near Cancun Mexico. The place is full of amazing undiscovered species of fish and other marine life. There is a reason why Xel-Ha is called a natural aquarium.

The place where Xel-Ha is located was once a coral reef. But, due to some natural disasters, the reef got destroyed leaving behind a big hole. Later on, this big hole filled with water and became what we see today as Xel-Ha.

This happened over a period of time and as a result, is an amazing place where you can find thousands of different species of fish. If you are looking for an underwater adventure, then Xel-Ha is the place for you.

You can snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal clear waters and get up close and personal with the marine life. There are also many other activities that you can do at Xel-Ha such as swimming with dolphins, zip-lining, kayaking, and more.

4. Coba

Coba

A place to get away from the hustle and bustle of Cancun, look no further than Coba. This small town is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya and is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery.

Coba is home to a number of Mayan ruins, including the largest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula. The pyramid, known as Nohoch Mul, is over 140 feet tall and is a great place to explore if you're interested in history and archaeology.

In addition to its archaeological sites, Coba also offers a number of activities for visitors to enjoy. 

You can go swimming in one of the many cenotes (sinkholes) or take a hike through the jungle to see some of the area's wildlife.

Whether you're looking to escape the crowds or just want to explore some of Mexico's history and culture, Coba is definitely worth a visit.

5. Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen

If you're looking for a beautiful place to relax and enjoy some time in the sun, look no further than Playa del Carmen. This picturesque town is situated on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, making it the perfect spot for some beach time.

In addition to its natural beauty, Playa del Carmen is also home to some great restaurants and shops. Be sure to check out 5th Avenue for some great shopping and dining options

6. Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island located off the coast of Cancun in Mexico. Here is some information that you might find helpful:
  • Isla Mujeres is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and colorful coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities.
  • The island is relatively small, with a total area of only about 4.22 square miles (10.93  square kilometers).
  • Isla Mujeres is easily accessible by ferry from Cancun. The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes and there are several departures throughout the day.
  • The island has a rich history and was once an important Maya trading center. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and learn about the island's history at the Museo Maya de la Isla.
  • Golf carts are a popular mode of transportation on the island, and many visitors rent them to explore the island's attractions, including Punta Sur, a scenic point at the southern tip of the island.
  • Isla Mujeres has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment.
  • The island is also known for its annual Whale Shark Festival, which takes place in July and celebrates the migration of the gentle giants to the waters around the island.

7. Akumal

Akumal

If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sun, Akumal is the perfect spot. This small town is located on the Riviera Maya, about an hour south of Cancun. Akumal means “place of the turtles” in Maya, and it lives up to its name – there are plenty of turtles to be found swimming in the clear waters off the beach.

Snorkeling is a popular activity here, as is simply lounging on the white sand beaches. If you get tired of relaxing, there are also plenty of ruins to explore nearby, including the ancient Mayan city of Tulum.

8. Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is a small town located just south of Cancun. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Cancun and relax on one of the many beaches. There are also a number of Mayan ruins in the area that are definitely worth exploring.

9. Cenotes

Cenotes

The cenotes are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cancun. There are over 60 different cenotes spread out across the state of Quintana Roo.

The word “cenote” comes from the Mayan word “ts’onot” which means “deep well”. Cenotes were used by the Maya for sacrificial offerings and as a source of fresh water.

Today, tourists can visit many of these cenotes and swim in their crystal clear waters. Some of the more popular cenotes include Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, and Angelita.

When swimming in a cenote, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not touch any of the stalactites or stalagmites as they are very fragile.

10. El Meco

El Meco

El Meco is an archaeological site located in the municipality of Isla Mujeres, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It is believed to have been a Maya port city, and it features a number of ruins, including a temple and a pyramid.

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