From stunning beaches and exciting nightlife to ancient ruins and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Cancun has something for every traveler. Whether you're here to relax on white-sand beaches, explore Mayan history, or dive into thrilling water activities, these top experiences will make your trip unforgettable.
Playa Delfines (Unofficial Gay Beach)
7. Hit the beach
Relax at Playa Delfines – Cancun’s most beautiful public beach is a must-visit, with soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and free shaded palapas (arrive early to snag one!). Playa Delfines is also the unofficial gay beach in Cancun, making it a great spot to meet LGBTQ+ travelers and soak up the sun.
CANCUN TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Cancun and the Riviera Maya? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
Travel Insurance – Don’t leave home without it! SafetyWing offers super affordable travel insurance with straightforward pricing and flexible extensions—even if your trip is already underway. Protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses and travel mishaps while you explore Cancun and beyond.
Hotel Discounts – Unlock unbeatable deals with Hotels.com. Create a free account to save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels. Plus, you can snag perks like free room upgrades—perfect for enjoying the city in style.
Car Rental Deals – Hit the road with Discover Cars and find the best rental rates worldwide. Compare prices from top providers and score incredible discounts. Their inexpensive full coverage option gives us peace of mind, and free cancellations up to 48-hours before pickup ensure flexibility when plans change.
Foreign Exchange & Money Transfers – Save on foreign exchange and money transfers with Wise. Not only do we use it for sending money between our U.S. and Mexican bank accounts, but its fair rates and transparent fees make it a go-to for travelers everywhere.
e-SIM Cards – Stay connected abroad with Airalo. An e-SIM is the easiest way to avoid hefty roaming charges. Just download the app, purchase a local or regional data plan, and toggle between your plans with ease. We love the convenience!
Surfshark VPN – Safeguard your personal data when using public Wi-Fi and stream your favorite shows abroad with Surfshark VPN. This budget-friendly product lets you bypass content restrictions, avoid censorship, and secure unlimited devices with ease.
🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. By booking services or shopping through these links, you’ll save money AND help keep our blog posts and videos coming your way. Thanks for the support!
Local Crafts at Parque de las Palapas
6. Explore Downtown Cancun
Experience the Local Vibes – Get a taste of authentic Cancun by strolling through Parque de las Palapas, where local vendors sell delicious street food, handcrafted jewelry, and unique souvenirs. When night falls, check out nearby Laser Hot Bar and 11:11 for an electric LGBTQ+ scene featuring drag shows, sexy go-go dancers, and plenty of dancing.
Joyà at Vidanta
5. See Cirque du Soleil's Joyà
A Magical Night of Acrobatics & Dining – For a unique and dazzling experience, don’t miss Cirque du Soleil’s Joyà, Mexico’s only permanent Cirque residency. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, sip Champagne, and watch world-class performers bring an enchanting story to life through music, acrobatics, and mind-blowing visuals. It’s the perfect date night or special occasion experience!
🌟 Pro tip – Planning a trip to Cancun? From the best gay hotels to must-visit bars and clubs, find it all in our Gay Travel Guide to Cancun.
Catamaran to Isla Mujeres
4. Discover Isla Mujeres
Sail to Paradise – Just a short boat ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres boasts some of the clearest turquoise waters in Mexico. Hop on a luxury catamaran tour to sail across the Caribbean, snorkel vibrant reefs, and lounge on Playa Norte—one of the best beaches in the country.
An Unforgettable Adventure – If you’re visiting Cancun between May and September, don’t miss the chance to snorkel with gentle whale sharks—the largest fish in the ocean! This is hands down one of our most exhilarating experiences in Mexico. After your swim, enjoy a refreshing ceviche lunch and drinks on the boat.
🌟 Pro tip – Apply eco-friendly sunscreen in advance, as the guides are not supposed to allow it once on the boat. Also, bring a quick dry towel like this one for added comfort. We always throw one or two in our day bag when traveling.
Tulum Ruins
2. Explore Tulum on a Multi-Activity Tour
Mayan Ruins, Cenotes & Sea Turtles – A full day of adventure awaits in Tulum! Start by exploring the breathtaking Tulum Ruins, perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean. Then, take a refreshing dip in Cenote El Sueño, snorkel with sea turtles in Akumal, and wrap up your day with lunch at a private beach club. Round-trip transportation from Cancun is included!
Step Into Ancient Mayan History – One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is an awe-inspiring site that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list. Marvel at the iconic El Castillo pyramid, learn about Mayan astronomy and mythology, and finish your tour with a swim in a crystal-clear cenote. Whether you rent a car or join an expert-guided tour, this is a must-do in Cancun.
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