Places Near Cancun That You Can Visit on a Day Trip

Cancun is famous for its white sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, outdoor activities, and gorgeous All-inclusive resorts.

But if you’re looking to explore beyond the city, there are so many places to visit near Cancun and in this post I will share my favorite ones on and off the beaten path. From historical sites to magical towns. Imagine yourself wandering through ancient Mayan ruins or relaxing in tranquil cenotes.

Venture beyond Cancun, and you’ll find charming towns like Isla Mujeres and Tulum. Each offers unique experiences, from picturesque beaches to rich cultural traditions. These destinations are perfect for day trips, making your Cancun visit even more memorable.

Of course, if you just want to relax in your beautiful hotel and get pampered, it’s also a great idea, and this is a list of my favorite hotels in Cancun for you 🙂

Hey there! I’m Isabella, an Italian expatriate in Cancun since 2010. I started this site to offer updated travel tips on Cancun and its surroundings. It’s my commitment to help you plan your amazing trip to sunny Cancun.

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Places Near Cancun: Popular Destinations

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres, an island just a short ferry ride from Cancun, is perfect for a day trip. Playa Norte is one of the island’s highlights. It is known for its stunning beaches, which have soft white sand and clear turquoise water.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular here, especially around the MUSA underwater museum. The island has a laid-back vibe, with friendly locals and plenty of cute shops and cafes.

You can choose between going by ferry and renting a golf cart to explore the island at your own pace. You can visit the Garrafon Natural Reef Park for snorkeling, zip-lining, and kayaking, or relax and soak up the sun.

Or you can take a boat tour of Isla Mujeres.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is an energetic town located about an hour south of Cancun. Famous for its lively Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue), this pedestrian street has shops, restaurants, and bars.

I used to live in Playa del Carmen 20 years ago and it has changed dramatically since then but it didn’t lose its charm.

The best part about Playa del Carmen and what makes me like this city more than any others in the area is the beach’s proximity to the town center, where the quinta avenida is. Actually the Quinta Avenida in Playa Del Carmen runs along the beach so you can get to the sea at any moment when you are tired of shopping or eating.

The entire town actually revolves around the quinta avenida which is the highlight of Playa del Carmen, a long strip lined with shops of all kind, restaurants and bars, where locals and tourists alike gather at any time of the day.

If you go out early morning you will see joggers, at breakfast time people enjoy the variety of coffe places and restaurants for a quick breakfast or coffee. Co working places are also available in the city center. Shops open around 10 until late night. And you will find restaurants for all budgets and palates.

In the surroundings of Playa del Carmen you can find amazing cenotes for a refreshing dip as an alternative option to the caribbean sea.

Tulum

Tulum is famous for its ancient Mayan ruins that sit on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. These ruins are a must-see, offering stunning views and a peek into Mexico’s history.

The town has a bohemian vibe and is known for its eco-friendly resorts and yoga retreats. Tulum’s beaches are some of the best in the region, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water.

Also around Tulum you can find a lot of natural gems to explore, including many cenotes, such as Cenote Corazon, and Grand Cenote and alternative beaches such Xpu-ha, Xcacel and Akumal. The town also has fantastic restaurants that serve fresh, local cuisine. A lot of vegan options are also available.

Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is a quieter alternative to Cancun, located just 30 minutes south. This charming fishing village boasts less crowded beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Visit the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, for incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities. The town square and local market are great spots to experience the local culture and buy handmade crafts.

Don’t miss the leaning lighthouse, a quirky landmark that has become a symbol of the town. Puerto Morelos is ideal if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of bigger tourist spots.

El Cuyo

El Cuyo is a hidden gem located about two and a half hours from Cancun. This small, off-the-beaten-path village is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

El Cuyo is known for its pristine beaches, which are often empty, making it a great spot for relaxation. The area is also popular for kite surfing, thanks to its favorable wind conditions.

The nearby Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve offers bird watching, especially flamingos, and other wildlife adventures. El Cuyo’s remote location means fewer tourists and a more authentic experience.

El Cuyo has always been my favorite escape from Cancun when I wanted to get away from the crowd. It’s tranquil, laid back, the roads are not pavend but you can find a lot of great restaurants and cafe and beautiful accomoodations for all budget.

However, sometimes the power goes off and WIFI is cranky, but that’s probably the definition of internet detox and one of the reasons why you go there. Deep in my heart I hope they will never fix that.

Outdoor Adventures

Cancun boasts thrilling outdoor activities, from exploring stunning underwater caves to soaring through the jungle canopy. You’ll get the chance to experience unique ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes.

Cenote Diving

Cenote diving near Cancun offers a unique diving experience. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water, often connected by underground rivers. Diving in a cenote, you can explore intricate cave systems adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. The water’s clarity allows for excellent visibility, making it a diver’s paradise. Popular spots include Dos Ojos and Gran Cenote. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner, there are tours available to match your skill level. Don’t forget to bring an underwater camera; the sights are truly unforgettable.

Eco Parks

Eco parks in Cancun are ideal for families and adventure seekers. They are not my favorite places to go, because they are crowded and noisy, and I don’t really think they are so “Eco-friendly” as they claim. But for the sake of information I will include them here.

These parks offer a mix of natural beauty and exciting activities. At Extreme Adventure Park Cancun, you can enjoy ATV rides, horseback riding, and snorkeling in beautiful cenotes. Xcaret and Xel-Há are other popular choices, featuring activities like swimming with dolphins, exploring underground rivers, and witnessing traditional Mexican performances.

Ziplining

Ziplining in Cancun is a thrilling way to see the jungle from above. Extreme Adventure Eco Park is known for its zipline tours, which include multiple runs through the treetops. You can also combine ziplining with other activities like ATV riding and cenote swimming for a full day of adventure.

The platforms offer stunning views and the rush of flying through the air is exhilarating. Safety is a priority, so you’ll be equipped with harnesses and guided by experienced instructors.

Cultural Experiences

Discovering the cultural experiences near Cancun lets you delve into the rich history and vibrant local life of the region. Explore ancient ruins and bustling markets for an unforgettable experience.

Chichen Itza

Although very crowded and full of vendors, Chichen Itza is a must-visit at least once in your life. This ancient Mayan city is home to the impressive El Castillo pyramid, also known as the Temple of Kukulcán. Standing at 98 feet tall, it’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a Unesco heritage site. Besides the pyramid, explore the Great Ball Court, Temple of the Warriors, and the Sacred Cenote.

If you are staying in the area you can enjoy the light and sound show that brings the history of Chichen Itza to life. To visit, you can join a guided tour, which usually includes transport from Cancun or you can rent a car and get there at your own pace and spend the night in the nearby town Piste’ or Valladolid, si that you can explore this interesting colonial town.

Coba Ruins

The Coba Ruins offer a different glimpse into Mayan history. Nestled in the jungle, this site features the Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest in the region, which is not possible to climb anymore. But it’s still worth a visit. Walk or bike around the site, which covers over 30 square miles, to see various structures, including ball courts and stelae.

Many tours combine a visit to Coba with a swim in a nearby cenote, making it a perfect day trip. I would rather rent a car, though and spend the night there. There are many cute hotels for all budget to spend a tranquil night in this laid back town.

Beaches near Cancun

Cancun is surrounded by incredible beaches with white sands and clear waters. Whether you love snorkeling, quiet escapes, or vibrant marine life, you’ll find a perfect spot near Cancun.

Akumal Beach

Akumal Beach is famous for its sea turtles. You’re likely to see them swimming close to shore, making it a great spot for snorkeling.

Now the area dedicated to swimming with turtles is only accessible with local tours, but you can always swim around it on your own and you may see turtles anyway because they roam free in the caribbean sea.

The beach has soft, white sand and calm waters, which makes it perfect for kids and beginners in snorkeling. There are plenty of local shops where you can rent snorkeling gear or book a guided tour.

It’s also home to several beachside restaurants offering fresh seafood. It’s a great place to spend the whole day.

It’s located about one hour south of Cancun.

Cozumel

Cozumel, an island off the coast of Playa del Carmen, is known for its stunning coral reefs. It’s a top destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts and a popular port for big cruises.

You could spend a few days in Cozumel and enjoy all the spectacular beach clubs along the coast line. If you don’t scuba dive, there are a lot of amazing snorkeling spots and local tours that can take you there.

You can explore Palancar Reef or swim in the clear waters of Playa Palancar. The beaches here have many amenities, like beach clubs, restaurants, and rental shops for water sports equipment.

Taking a day trip to Cozumel is easy. Ferries leave regularly from Playa del Carmen, which is around an hour from Cancun.

Isla Blanca

Isla Blanca is a hidden gem just a short drive from Cancun. It’s a narrow strip of land with the Caribbean Sea on one side and a lagoon on the other.

The beache here is quiet and pristine, perfect for a peaceful day. It’s also an excellent place for kiteboarding due to the consistent winds.

Keep in mind there are limited facilities, so pack your own snacks and drinks. This adds to the feeling of a secluded getaway.

At the back of the beach you can admire a huge lagoon which brighten up at sunset

Playa Maroma

Playa Maroma is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The water is incredibly clear and the sand is powdery white.

You can relax under a palapa or take part in activities like snorkeling, kayaking, or even horseback riding along the beach. The area also has several luxury resorts if you decide to stay overnight.

Day passes are available for non-guests, which gives you access to resort amenities. This beach offers both relaxation and adventure.

Location: About 50 minutes south of Cancun, near Playa del Carmen.

Final thoughts

As you can see Cancun is surrounded by amazing places and it makes a great base from where take some great day trips and at the same time enjoy a spectacular beach and splurge in one of its beautiful All Inclusive resorts.