Best things to see and do in Cancún

Known simply as Dos Ojos, this world-famous spot for snorkelling and diving is part of a flooded cave system north of Tulum on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, and attracts thousands of visitors every year to its gorgeous blue ‘cenotes’, or sinkhole entrances.

These entrances feature amazingly clear blue water, so are ideal for snorkelling or even just taking photos of the turquoise waters and lush jungle surroundings. If you’re really brave, some cenotes offer visitors the chance to cave dive, throwing yourself off a cliff and plummeting hundreds of feet down into the pool below.

If you still have some energy left at 10.30pm, head over to party till the early hours at Coco Bongo. This nightclub is famous around the world for its procession of conga lines, acrobats, live bands, dancers and performances, turning a normal night out into a fantastic experience for all the senses.

Every night at Coco Bongo is completely different, with special effects, balloons, soap bubbles and confetti adding to the loony atmosphere of cocktails and general weirdness. Most clubs you won’t remember in the morning – this one you definitely will.

Sailing to Isla Contoy offers a serene escape to one of Mexico's most beautiful and secluded natural reserves. Known as a protected sanctuary for birds and marine life, Isla Contoy is only accessible to a limited number of visitors each day, ensuring its pristine environment. The island boasts white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. As you sail, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and have the chance to explore the island’s untouched beauty, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

If you like the hustle and bustle of a local market, then head to Mercado 23, one of Cancún’s first and most famous. With stalls heaving with meat, fish, fruit, grains, tortillas, groceries and plants, many locals do their food shopping here, and just walking around gives a real sense of Mexican culture.

If you fancy buying a few souvenirs, head to Mercado 28, which features brightly coloured stalls selling a vast range of Mexican arts and crafts, as well as plenty of clothes and accessories. Remember that negotiating a good price is part of the experience, so as long as you have your haggling head on, you should grab a few bargains.

A little closer to the main hotel district, these excavated ruins date back to 1800BC and feature 47 stone structures that recall the atmosphere and history of the Mayan World. Look hard and you’ll see images of kings engraved on the walls.

While you’re there, watch out for the site’s hundreds of iguanas, which have become used to the thousands of visitors El Rey attracts every year.

Translated as the Underwater Museum of Art, the Museo Subacuático de Arte is one of Cancún’s top attractions, as well as a vital lifeline for the region’s coral reefs. The museum was created to draw people away from nearby reefs, which were being damaged by the huge amount of visitors, and now thousands visit this unique underwater art collection every year instead.

Located between the coast of Cancún and Isla Mujeres, the underwater museum consists of 475 submerged sculptures, which provide a stunning experience for visitors and an important home for local marine life. You can either look at the exhibits in a glass-bottomed boat or grab a snorkel and mask and get really close up.

Club Med Cancun offers a perfect mix of luxury, adventure, and relaxation, making it the ideal destination for your next vacation. Nestled on the tip of the Riviera Maya, this all-inclusive resort boasts stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and easy access to some of Cancun's top attractions. Whether you're looking to relax on pristine beaches, dive into exciting water sports, or explore ancient Mayan ruins, Club Med Cancun has something for everyone. With gourmet dining , kids' clubs , and a wide range of activities , it's the perfect getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.