Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum remain some of the most popular tourist destinations for not only Americans, but for people from all around the world looking for a tropical slice of paradise. While staying at an all-inclusive resort is what most folks opt for, Quintana Roo (the respective state where Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum are) actually has quite a bit of adventure for those looking to get an experience that isn’t only sipping unlimited margaritas and eating unlimited tacos. If you’re headed to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or anywhere else in Quintana Roo and want to venture out, here are 8 things to do.
1. Swim Like a Mermaid With Karibbean Mermaids
By far, one of my favorite things I’ve EVER done on any trip abroad is swim as a mermaid in a cenote in Mexico. How did I do this? Well, with woman-owned Karibbean Mermaids. Owned by Argentinian-born, Mari, Karibbean Mermaids is not only an Instagrammable experience, but it’s a difficult one, and only recommended for strong swimmers, preferably with some free diving or scuba diving experience. How it works is you get dressed up in mermaid gear provided by Mari (a mermaid bra adorned with seashells, a mermaid fin which will restrict your legs, and a mermaid fin that replaces typical flippers), you take a few photos outside of the water while you connect with your inner-child, and then, you jump (or, scoot, since your legs are restricted) in the cenote where you swim around like Arial. It is way more challenging than it looks, but it makes for an extremely fun and unique adventure to take while abroad.
2. Visit Cenotes in Tulum
Cancun is known for its beaches, but nearby Tulum is known for its cenotes. Tulum and Cancun are not far from each other, so if you’re basing yourself in Cancun, it’s highly recommended to take a day tour out to some cenotes in Tulum. Some of the most popular are el Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera, and the heart-shaped cenote of Cenote Corazon. Cenotes are natural pits/sinkholes resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater, and they are unique to Mexico, so take advantage and try to visit at least one while there.
3. Snorkel In The Sea
The water in Cancun is notoriously clear, so why not take advantage and jump in and snorkel? Snorkeling tours are a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico, and often are run on catamaran tours with open bars and lunches included. Sip some local tequila and look for different species of fish, turtles, and even sharks.
4. Visit Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres, or the Island of Women, is a beautiful natural island not too far from mainland Mexico, and makes for a great day trip from Cancun. Isla Mujeres is a sight to see year-round, but it’s especially popular for whale shark spotting from mid-May to mid-September.
5. Dance The Night Away At Coco Bongo
If you’re looking for a night out on the town in Cancun, you’re in luck. One of the most famous nightclubs in the world is nearby: Cocobongo. For those who are sick of drinking the same beverages on site at their hotels, which is a common issue for those who stay at all-inclusives, have a night out on the town and take in the fun, party-centric Mexican nightlife. Of course, if you are a solo traveler, keep your wits about you and avoid getting too intoxicated. Buy a pass to skip the line here.
6. Chichen Itza
Tied with being my personal favorite day tour in Mexico with Karibbean Mermaids is a visit to one of the new wonders of the world, Chichen Itza. Chichen Itza is a complex of Mayan ruins and is one of the most popular day tours in the Yucutan Peninsula. I highly recommend booking an early-morning tour because, since it is indeed a wonder of the world, it goes without saying that Chichen Itza gets PACKED.
7. Go Scuba Diving
Cancun is a great spot to go diving, even if you’re a beginner. Plan accordingly since it’s advised there should be at least 24 hours between diving and flying (meaning, don’t save a dive for your last day of travels). One of the coolest parts about diving in Cancun, aside from seeing schools of fish and possible turtles, is MUSA, and underwater Museum which is non-profit organization devoted to the art of conservation.
8. Private Airport Transfer
Maybe this doesn’t sound like an idea for a day tour or of what to do, but Cancun International Airport is quite far from the actual city. It is well worth it to book a transfer prior to arriving, so that way, when you (and your party, if you’re not solo traveling) land, someone will be waiting for you with your name on a sign with a pre-paid price. No one loves to rip off a tourist as much as an airport taxi driver. I always avoid this by booking a ride ahead of time, either through Booking.com taxis, or by booking a private transfer via GetYourGuide (whichever one is the better deal!).
EXTRA: WHERE TO STAY:
In Cancun: JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa.
In Akumal: Bahia Principe Grand Coba
In Playa del Carmen: Grand Velas All-Inclusive
In Tulum: KAN Tulum
DISCLAIMER: I might make a small commission from some of the links throughout this article, but the price is the same for you. This helps keep my business running so I can continue to provide free travel tips!
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Woh I love your articles, bookmarked! .
Thanks!
These are great suggestions, thank you!
thank you for reading! Glad I could help!