9 Cancun Hidden Gems: A Guide to Local Spots and Activities Beyond the Beach

Cancun is often heralded for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, but this vibrant city has far more to offer.

I have lived in Cancun since 2010 and have seen many changes over the years, some good and some bad. However, what remains constant, besides the allure of its coastal charms, is the variety of cultural, historical, and natural wonders that most travelers are unaware of.

In this post, I will share Cancun’s hidden gems that you can add to your bucket list for your next Cancun trip.

Whether you are traveling solo or with friends and family, this post will help you plan your next trip to Cancun and visit the most interesting off-the-grid places.

After reading this post, you will know how to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Mayan heritage and enjoy a medley of activities that extend far beyond the typical beach day.

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Cancun Hidden Gems: Discover the best off-the-grid places and activities in Cancun

Looking for Cancun Hidden Gems? You are in the right place. I live in Cancun, and in this post, I will share all the most interesting off-the-grid places and activities in Cancun.

While Cancun is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, the city is also speckled with lesser-known treasures that promise an authentic experience off the beaten track.

From bustling local markets to serene kayak excursions, these hidden gems offer a glimpse into the rich culture and natural beauty of Cancun away from the tourist crowds.

1. Explore the Local Markets

Discover the colorful sights and sounds of Cancun’s local markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs. Mercado 28 is a local favorite, offering a maze of vendors where you can haggle over unique Mayan artifacts or sample local delicacies.

However, if you want to shop where locals do, you must stop by Mercado 23, a bit further away from Mercado 28 but within walking distance. You will find fresh fruits and vegetables, but also local shops and art, including an esoteric one with books, magic tools, and candles for rituals.

Authentic tortillas, spices, cheeses, meat, and other shops of all sorts.

It’s always quite crowded, so be aware of pickpocketers. This money belt can come in handy!

How to get there

If you are coming from the Hotel Zone, you can hop on bus R1 or R2.

R1 line one will take you to either Km 0 of Avenida Kukulcan, or you can get off at Puerto Cancun, in front of Avenida Uxmal, and then walk from there (see Google Maps).

If you take R2, you could get off past the Ceviche roundabout and then walk from there. Ask the driver if he is going to Avenida Yaxchilan, and you can stay on the bus until he turns. ( See Google Maps ).

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from your hotel or rent a car. There are parking spots close to both markets. Make sure to lock the car and don’t leave any valuables on display. Driving in Cancun is relatively safe. In my opinion, it is one of the safest ways to move around Cancun.

Cancun markets Map

CANCUN HIDDEN GEMS

2. Visit the Lesser Known Archaeological Sites of Cancun

While the ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum get most of the attention, Cancun is home to a few smaller, less crowded archaeological sites.

El Rey

Among the archeological sites in Cancun, El Rey Archaeological Area is the most accessible one, situated in the Hotel Zone, right in front of the popular Playa Delfines. It is a quiet spot where you can admire ancient Mayan structures amidst iguanas sunbathing on the rocks.

It was a coastal trading post and port during the Late Postclassic period of Mayan civilization. The site features several structures, including plazas, temples, and residential areas, spread out over an area of approximately 10 acres.

• Entry Fee: As of my last update, the entry fee for El Rey was around 80 Mexican pesos (about $4 USD) per person.
• Opening hours: 8 am – 4.30 pm
• How to get there: You can access El Rey by Bus R1 and R2, by taxi or by car. If you have your car, there is no parking available, but you can park by Playa Delfines if you can find space. It’s free, but you should leave a tip for the local staff who will direct you to the parking area.

El Meco

El Meco is located just north of Cancún’s city center, approximately 5 miles away in Puerto Juarez. It was an important ceremonial center and port for the ancient Maya. The site features a large pyramid called El Castillo and overall covers an area of approximately 5 acres.

• Entry Fee: The entry fee for El Meco is 45 Mexican pesos (about USD 2) per person. Prices may vary, so it’s advisable to check current rates before visiting.
• Opening hours: 8 am – 4.00 pm
• How to get there: I wouldn’t rely on local transportation in this case, as it’s quite far off. I would

San Miguelito

San Miguelito is another Mayan archaeological site located within the Hotel Zone of Cancún. It is smaller in size compared to El Rey but still offers insight into Mayan history and culture.

The site features several structures, including temples and platforms, and is located inside the Cancun Maya Museum, showcasing artifacts found at the site and in the surrounding areas, as well as interesting information on Mayan Culture.

• Entry Fee: The entry fee for San Miguelito is typically included in the ticket price for the Cancún Mayan Museum, which also grants access to El Rey. As of my last update, the combined ticket price was around 80 Mexican pesos (about $4 USD) per person.
• How to Get There: San Miguelito is conveniently located within the Hotel Zone of Cancún, making it easily accessible for visitors staying in the area. It can be reached by taxi, rental car, or public transportation (R1 R2 Bus line in the hotel Zone).

3. Take a Local Food Tour

One of Cancun’s highlights is the variety of amazing restaurants of all sorts, from fine dining to cheap eateries. While the restaurants of the hotel zone mainly offer international cuisine, you can still try authentic local food in some of the off-the-grid eating spots in Cancun Downtown.

Joining a local food tour is the best way to have a taste of them all, so that you can pick the one you like the most and go back for a full dining experience.

That’s what I did. I joined this tour to see what they were offering, and even as a local, I discovered great hidden eateries in Cancun that I wouldn’t have found on my own.

The tour offers a blend of street food experiences and local restaurants, allowing you to taste dishes such as cochinita pibil and other regional specialties.

You will also stop by some amazing murals that have been commissioned by local artists to embellish a distressed area.

4. Kayak in the Lagoon Nichupté

The Nichupte Lagoon is one of my favorite places in Cancun, which is often overlooked. Yes, there are crocodiles in Cancun, and they are the most dangerous predator in the area, even more so than sharks.

Having said that, there are a few interesting things that you can do on the Nichupté Lagoon, which are safe and crocodile-proofed, and serene.

My favorite experience is kayaking through the mangroves in the Nichupte Lagoon and witnessing the diverse wildlife, from exotic birds to crocodiles, if they happen to be there, in their natural habitat.

If you are interested in bird watching, I recommend joining the early morning tour when there are more birds around and less noise from the motorboats.

CANCUN HIDDEN GEMS

5. Visit the Lesser Known Beach of Isla Blanca

Isla Blanca is a spectacular wild beach north of Cancun in the district of Playa Mujeres. It’s a quiet, pristine beach away from the main tourist area. Its powdery white sands and clear waters make for a perfect secluded getaway.

Kite surfers especially love it for the ideal conditions, both for learning on the lagoon side and practicing on both sides.

Despite the name, it’s not an island, just a stretch of beach at the very end of the Mexican Caribbean Coast.

To get there, you will need a car. I doubt that a taxi will want to take you there, as most of it is on a dirt road with lots of potholes, and I am not sure about public transportation.

It’s about 50-minute drive from the Hotel Zone, depending on where is your starting point, of course.

6. Have Dinner at El Pocito Autentic Mexican Restaurant

El Pocito is one of the oldest and most authentic restaurants in Cancun. Located near a shady area in Cancun (Avenida Lopez Portillo). It’s a very simple and modest restaurant serving authentic Yucatecan food. I recommend going with a taxi and asking him to pick you up right there. Do not wander around the area, it’s not pretty and not safe.

7. Take a Walk at the Malecon Tajamar at Sunset or at Sunrise

The Malecon is an area in downtown Cancun, located right in front of the Nichupte Lagoon, where locals gather at sunrise for exercise and at sunset, either for the same reason or simply to socialize with friends after a day of work. Additionally, it’s extremely hot during the rest of the day, and there is no shade.

The Malecon Tajamar in Cancun is actually one of the few areas in Cancun that is not a mall, where you can take a stroll surrounded by nice views and mangroves.

I love the mornings because you can catch the sunrise over the lagoon. Sunsets are lovely too, as you will admire the sunset behind the tall buildings of Plaza Las America. The sky sometimes lights up with many shades of orange, pink, red, and yellow. It’s a kind of show-off some days.

After an evening stroll at the Malecon Tajamar, you can always go to the Plaza Las Americas Mall and do some window shopping or get something to eat in their food mall.

8. Dive or snorkel at the MUSA (Underwater Museum)

If you love being in the water, you cannot miss the Cancun Underwater Museum, MUSA.

MUSA, as it’s known locally, is an underwater museum that you can only visit either by snorkeling or diving. It boasts over 500 sculptures nestled on the sandy ocean floor in shallow waters.

This unique attraction draws underwater enthusiasts worldwide, offering an unparalleled experience.

The idea for MUSA originated in 2005 when marine park director Jaime Gonzalez Cano sought to protect coral reefs from damage caused by tourism. With artist Jason Taylor’s expertise, the project blossomed, featuring contributions from numerous artists.

Since opening in 2010, MUSA’s mission has been to conserve coral reefs and foster new growth—a testament to the power of art and conservation.

Tours usually include multiple sites and leave either from Isla Mujeres or from Cancun.

9. Visit Isla Contoy

Not quite a Cancun hidden gem, as it has become quite popular, I wanted to include Isla Contoy because it’s one of the few preserved islands where tourism hasn’t had a significant impact yet.

Joining one of the tours to Contoy Island is one of the best things to do in Cancun that you should add to your travel itinerary.

Isla Contoy, a small natural reserve northeast of Cancun, hosts over 150 bird species and various marine life.

Visits are limited to 200 people per day, with tours being the only way to access the island. The government controls access to preserve its flora and fauna, with no overnight stays, hotels, or restaurants available.

Tours depart from Cancun or Isla Mujeres, lasting around 8 hours and including breakfast and lunch. Activities include beach relaxation, guided hikes, and visits to a visitor’s center and small museum. Tours may also stop at Isla Mujeres.

Accessible only by boat, the journey from Cancun takes less than an hour. Various tour operators offer similar itineraries, some including a stop at Isla Mujeres, while others are exclusive to Isla Contoy.

Cancun Hidden Gems: Frequently Asked Questions

Before diving into the bustling streets and vibrant culture of Cancun, get your most pressing questions answered to make the most of your visit beyond the beaches.

Which restaurants offer an authentic culinary experience in Cancun?

Besides la Habichuela, La Parrilla is a lively restaurant for a Mexican-style fun dinner, but my favorite with the most authentic Yucatecan cuisine is El Pocito.

Keep in mind that el Pocito is located in a shady area, and although the restaurant is safe, be sure to ask your taxi driver to drop you off and pick you up at the restaurant, and avoid walking around, especially at night.

Is Cancun, Mexico, safe?

While Cancun is considered a safe destination, it’s still recommended to avoid certain shady areas and exercise common sense as you would in any city.

Stay in well-lit and populated areas, avoid displaying valuables, and remain aware of your surroundings. Tourist areas are routinely patrolled, but pick-pockets are quite active.

Can I drink water in Cancun?

It’s recommended to drink bottled water during your stay to avoid any potential stomach issues. Most restaurants and hotels provide purified water, but it’s always safer to request or buy bottled water. The other option is to purchase water-to-go filter bottles.

These are fantastic to use as they filter out any sort of bacteria and heavy metals from the water and allow you to stay hydrated anywhere you go.

What’s the best way to move around in Cancun?

My favorite way to get around in Cancun is by renting a car, as it gives you more freedom to explore. Just make sure to have insurance and be mindful of local driving laws.
Taxis are ok, but don’t have a good reputation in Cancun as they don’t have a meter, and so they tend to rip you off. Make sure to ask about the price and have it put in writing, specifying the currency. The least safe way to move around in Cancun is by bike or motorbike, so please avoid those.

Cancun Hidden Gems: Final Thoughts

After enjoying the spectacular Cancun beaches or relaxing in your beautiful all-inclusive Cancun resort, make sure you head out and explore Cancun’s hidden gems, from the mystic ruins of the nearby Maya archaeological sites to the modern allure of the Museo Maya Cancun, where local history comes vividly to life or join a water activity, you will have the whole Cancun experience.

Before you go

• The Only 3 Overwater Bungalows Near Cancun for the Ultimate Luxury Experience
• 3 Reasons Why Spring is a Great Time To Visit Cancun
• 10 Things You Should Avoid When Traveling to Cancun [Tips from a Local]
• These 5 Beaches in Cancun are the Safest for Swimmers