Cancun is known as one of the world’s top vacation destinations for good reason, thanks to unbeatable beaches, dynamic nightlife and cultural experiences.
Luxury, tropical beauty and family friendly adventure all come together in Cancun. Located on the coast of southeastern Mexico, the destination is one of the world’s top vacation destinations, thanks to its white-sand beaches, dynamic nightlife and countless cultural experiences. Cancun is home to many resorts and hotels — but for an escape from the sometimes-busy bustle of the destination, we recommend booking a luxurious suite on the Riviera Maya, located just south of Cancun. You’ll still be close enough to the action but with enough space for all your rest and relaxation needs. Below, discover some of Cancun’s very best experiences.
What To Do In Cancun
- Playa Delfines: You’re never far away from a beautiful beach when you visit Cancun. But if you had to pick just one to visit, the pristine Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach) might be the one. Its powdery white sands, swaying palm trees and turquoise waters are the epitome of a Riviera Maya paradise.
- Museo Maya de Cancun: Located in the heart of the city’s hotel zone, a visit to this Cancun attraction is a journey into the past. The museum’s collection includes more than 400 incredible artifacts that chronicle the fascinating rise-and-fall of the Mayan empire.
- Isla Mujeres: A Cancun day trip like no other, Isla Mujeres is located a short ferry ride from the destination. Once you’re on dry land, you and your family will enjoy secluded beaches, crystal clear waters for snorkeling, romantic lighthouses and a vibrant town center filled with local art, restaurants and shopping.
- Puerto Morales: Located right in between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, this peaceful fishing village boasts a laid-back vibe and some great seafood restaurants. Don’t miss the famous El Faro Inclinado (“the leaning lighthouse”), which is a perfect place for an off-beat family photo.
- Croco Cun Zoo: Cancun’s wild side is on full display at this sanctuary, which is home to all kinds of creatures, from playful spider monkeys to slithery boa constrictors. And of course, you’ll want to pay a visit to the Zoo’s family of crocodiles — if you’re feeling brave enough, you can even walk amongst them!
- Cancun Nightlife: You can’t visit Cancun without sampling some of its legendary nightlife. Coco Bongo is one of the area’s most popular clubs, with high-tech, interactive shows, delicious cocktails and a dance floor that can’t be beat. If you want to get into salsa dancing, MamboCafé is your best bet, with nightly lessons that will have you strutting your stuff in no time.
Where To Eat In Cancun
- Café Antoinette: If you can’t start your morning without coffee and breakfast, go straight to Café Antoinette. This French-inspired eatery features fresh-made pastries, Parisian-style décor and plenty of caffeinated beverages.
- Lorenzillo’s: This famed restaurant, located on the buzzing Boulevard Kukulkán, is a must if you love lobster. Lorezillos’ offerings are brought in fresh every day from Baja and Isla Mujeres, and they’ll prepare it just the way you like it, whether you prefer steamed, grilled or broiled.
- La Habichuela: There’s no shortage of terrific Mexican cuisine to be found in Cancun. But one of the very best spots is La Habichuela, which has been dazzling diners with its authentic flavors for close to 50 years. An ideal lunch or dinner choice for all ages, the lush garden provides a perfect setting for a delicious meal.
- Thai Cancun: International flavors abound in Cancun — including those found at this beloved Thai restaurant. Thai Cancun not only offers some of the best Thai food you’ll ever taste, it’s also located in an extremely picturesque place overlooking the gorgeous Nichupte Lagoon. Ask for a table on the open-air patio for a spectacular sunset-accompanied dinner.
Where To Shop In Cancun
- La Isla Paradise Experience: Explore more than 160 national and international stores at the open-air La Isla Cancún Shopping Village. The luxury brands are all here, including Rolex, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Salvatore Ferragamo, Marc Jacobs, Carolina Herrera, Tiffany and many more. And, when the sun goes down, La Isla transforms into one of the hottest nightlife spots in Cancun.
- Luxury Avenue Boutique Mall: The name says it all. If you’re in the mood for an upscale Cancun shopping spree, Luxury Avenue delivers. With an impossibly chic ambiance, the most glamorous international brands can be found here, from Burberry to Cartier, from Coach to Fendi. And make some time for coffee or cocktails at Luxury Avenue’s Coffee Bar, offering an extensive menu to choose from.
- Kukulcán Plaza: Variety is the name of the game when it comes to this exciting retail destination. At Kukulcán Plaza, you’ll find classic Mexican craft shops alongside glamorous jewelry boutiques, in addition to well-known names like Forever 21, Harley Davidson, Oakley and many more.
Where To Stay
- Grand Luxxe at Vidanta Riviera Maya: If you’re in the mood for a romantic Cancun getaway, this one is for you. The AAA Five-Diamond award-winning Grand Luxxe at Vidanta Riviera Maya has been described by Condé Nast Traveler as a “jungle paradise built for luxury.” Here, you get exclusive access to a secluded beach, Jacuzzis overlooking the Caribbean Sea, an array of dining options and spacious master suites.
- The Grand Mayan at Vidanta Riviera Maya: The expansive Grand Mayan offers guests easy beach access, a wide selection of live entertainment (including Cirque du Soleil), a full-service spa and upscale suites. Kids will love it here, too, thanks to the longest lazy river in Latin America, a splash-filled wave pool and creative activities supervised by the resort’s dedicated Joy Squad.
