While I visited Cancun, Mexico for the first time, my eyes were immediately drawn to the beautiful turquoise blue waters against the white sandy beaches. I spent most of the days lounging on the beaches with refreshing ice cold cocktails in hand. I also made a point to explore the local Mayan ruins of the ancient city of Chichen Itza! The vibrant culture was also present in the local markets where I indulged in as many local foods as possible. The tacos al pastor and churros were my personal favorites. One of my best experiences while in Cancun was to watch the traditional Mexican dance performance, complete with colorful costumes and lively music. All in all, my time in Cancun was the perfect mix of cultural exploration and relaxation time.
Some attractions and things to do when visiting Cancun, Mexico:
Beach Day, beach day, beach day
Enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters of Cancun. Some popular beaches include Playa Delfines and Playa Norte. Feel free to enjoy the beach with an ice cold Margarita when available!
Visit the ancient Mayan ruins located in the hotel zone of Cancun, featuring several well-preserved structures.
Take a day trip to one of the most famous archaeological sites in Mexico, featuring the iconic Kukulcan Pyramid. It was amazing to see how well-preserved these ancient Mayan structures are kept. Note: requires a good amount of walking so be prepared with comfortable walking shoes and plenty of bottled water.
Swim in the beautiful natural sinkhole located near Chichén Itzá, surrounded by lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. Historically this was a Mayan sacred ground used for human sacrifices to the rain god, Chaac. This was truly an amazing sight to see and an invigorating jump from the top of the ridge into the clear blue water.
Take a ferry to this beautiful island located off the coast of Cancun, featuring pristine beaches, colorful streets, and snorkeling opportunities with an amazing coral reef. Playa Norte is located on the north end of this island with a very relaxed atmosphere. The southern end of the island has a light house and some ancient Mayan ruins to explore.
Snorkel and kayak through the coral reefs and clear waters of this beautiful park on Isla Mujeres. This park gets some mixed reviews and may be a bit pricey, but has a lot of fun activities if you have the budget and time to spare. The food was nothing to write home about.
Explore the natural and cultural park located just south of Cancun, featuring underground rivers, animal exhibits, and cultural performances. This is a fun activity for a day, with a laid back atmosphere and a small town authentic feel. In my opinion it is worth the 45 minute trip from Cancun.
Playa Tortugas
Enjoy a relaxing day at this beach located in the hotel zone of Cancun, featuring calm waters, beachside restaurants and a lively atmosphere. Easily access from the hotel zone or the main city of Cancun.
Some types of local foods and drinks to try while in Cancun:
Tacos al pastor
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served with onions, cilantro, and pineapple on a soft corn tortilla. These bad boys are my favorite, I can eat these all day for breakfast lunch and dinner.
Cochinita pibil
Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste and citrus juices, typically served in tacos or tortas.
Churros
Delicious dough covered in cinnamon and sugar served along side a cup of chocolate dip
Ceviche
Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice and served with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Guacamole
A classic Mexican dip made with mashed avocado, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro.
Horchata
A sweet and refreshing drink made with rice, cinnamon, and sugar.
Paloma
A tequila-based cocktail mixed with grapefruit soda, lime juice, and salt.
Michelada
A refreshing beer cocktail made with lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
Margarita
A classic Mexican cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. You can't go wrong with a delicious Margarita while watching the waves crash on the white sand beaches of Cancun. Who doesn't need a little tequila in their day?
Some local Cancun restaurant recommendations:
- Best Tacos al Pastor was a spot called Taquerias Los Parejas in Cancun
- Link
Additional summary:
Cancun, located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. The city was once a small fishing village, but it has since become a popular tourist destination known for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Its history is deeply rooted in the Mayan civilization, and many ancient Mayan ruins, such as Chichen Itza and Tulum, can be found nearby. Cancun's architecture is a blend of modern and traditional Mexican styles, and the city boasts numerous landmarks, including the Cancun Underwater Museum and the El Rey archaeological site. Cancun is also a foodie's paradise, with traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, ceviche, and guacamole, that are a hit with visitors. The city's vibrant culture is celebrated in its lively festivals, colorful markets, and bustling nightlife. Whether you're looking to explore the ancient ruins, indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine, or soak up the sun on the beaches, Cancun offers an abundance of experiences that are sure to enchant and delight visitors.