Cancun Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico)



Photo of crystal clear waters and snorkellersCancun features all kinds of tourist attractions and entertainment, which are based both on and away from Cancun's beaches. Many tourists head to Cancun for the superb underwater scenery and attractions available around the coastline, where both scuba diving and snorkelling have become major pastimes.

Other tourist attractions around Cancun include a host of water sports, various cruise packages, kayaking, horseback riding, mountain biking, go-karting, swimming with dolphins, and even hiking to ancient Mayan ruins, where you can enjoy demonstrations of traditional Mayan ceremonies. For families staying in this part of Mexico, both the MayaVentura and the Acuario Interactivo (Interactive Aquarium Cancun) are bursting with attractions, which are always big with children, whatever their age.


Picture of dive boat waiting by the beach

Water Sports / Scuba Diving

Water sports, scuba diving and snorkelling have all become leading attractions around the resort of Cancun, along with sportfishing. A number of dive schools are available throughout Cancun, such as the Nautilus Dive Training Centre along the Boulevard Kukulcán, where you are able to obtain expert tuition and practice in pools before actually diving in the sea itself. Beneath the waters you will discover a wealth of marine attractions, including beautiful coral reefs and many colourful creatures, such as dolphins. Other popular water sports include sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and even parasailing, on the Skyrider at Aquaworld.
Open hours: daily - hours vary
Admission: charge

Photo taken at the Dolphin Discovery

Dolphin Discovery / Discover Island

Address: Isla Mujeres, 77400, Mexico, MX
Tel: +52 998 849 4039
For many, the nearby Dolphin Discovery is one of the region's most memorable attractions and located just outside of Cancun, on the nearby Isla Mujeres. The Dolphin Discovery can be reached by a short boat trip from the Playa Langosta and lies in the very heart of the Isla Mujeres, close to the beaches and main shops. Many people come here to swim with the dolphins, learn more about these highly intelligent creatures, or simply enjoy observing their play. There are three packages available, suiting different ages - the Dolphin Encounter, the Dolphin Royal Swim and also the Dolphin Swim Adventure.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, concessions

Photo of yacht departing for fishing trip

Yachting / Cruises

Address: Gran Marina de Cancun, Boulevard Kukulcán, Cancun, 77500, Mexico, MX
Various cruises are available around the Cancun coastline and offer a great way to sightsee and enjoy some truly spectacular views of the city itself, along with commentary and refreshments. Boats and yachts are available for hire at the Gran Marina de Cancun should you prefer to explore the waters at your own pace.
Open hours: daily - seasonal variations
Admission: charge

Interactive Aquarium picture (Acuario Interactivo)

Interactive Aquarium Cancun (Acuario Interactivo)

Address: Boulevard Kukulcán, La Ilsa Shopping Village, Cancun, 77500, Mexico, MX
Tel: +52 998 883 0411
A great way to spend a day out is to visit the Interactive Aquarium Cancun, where a host of quality attractions await. Highlights include many large aquariums with colourful marine fish, landscaped reefs and even the occasional diver, an 'interactive Adventure' area where it is possible to get up-close and personal with rays and starfish, and an unforgettable opportunity to swim and interact with friendly dolphins in an enormous pool. Also while at the Interactive Aquarium Cancun, you can feed the sharks from an underwater cage, visit the entertaining macaw parrots in the bird sanctuary, enjoy a meal at the onsite restaurant, and visit the boutique gift shop, to purchase your aquarium related souvenir.
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 20:00
Admission: charge

MayaVentura

Address: Boulevard Kukulcán, La Ilsa Shopping Village, Cancun, 77500, Mexico, MX
Tel: +52 998 835 025
MayaVentura is one of Cancun's most unique tourist attractions and features an enormous labyrinth where visitors face a range of challengers and obstacles, whilst looking for hidden treasures, including the 'Treasure of Ka Satun'. Providing plenty of fun for all the family, MayaVentura also offers an insight into the region's history and also hosts various cultural events, such as Mystic Night, where you can enjoy demonstrations of traditional Mayan dancing.
Open hours: daily - 13:00 to 22:00
Admission: charge