25 Fantástico Things to Do in Cancun with Kids

Cancun is accessible, affordable, and offers that much-desired tropical feel. It’s no wonder families seeking fun in the sun love Cancun with its wide variety of activities and attractions. This famous Mexican vacation destination blends culture, history, and adventure, all alongside your dose of sand and surf. From exploring Mayan pyramids to swimming through an underwater museum, here are 25 fun things to do in Cancun with kids.

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1. Discover Chichen Itza, Wonder of the World

Visiting Chichén Itzá offers a rare chance to stand before one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Marvel at the astonishing mathematical and astronomical precision of ancient Maya engineering. Once a major city of the ancient Maya civilization, this UNESCO World Heritage Site includes some of the most iconic Mayan ruins.

Spanning roughly 4 square miles (10.36 sq km) on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Chichén Itzá comprises dozens of structures. These showcase the architectural brilliance and cosmological knowledge of the ancient Maya. The most famous is El Castillo, also known as Temple of Kukulcán. This pyramid aligned with the equinox sun that stands over 98 feet tall (30 meters).

Nearby is the Great Ball Court, the largest in Mesoamerica, where ritualistic games were played. El Caracol (The Observatory) features spiral staircases and celestial alignments, believed to have guided the Maya in tracking stars and planets. Also notable is the Temple of the Osario (High Priest’s Temple), built atop a cave and marked by serpent-head sculptures.

Chichen Itza with Kids Tips

Chichen Itza is the largest of the archaeological sites in the Cancun area, but a day trip here requires lots of planning and preparation. To make the most of your visit and simplify things, consider hiring a private guide or booking a group tour, as they can offer valuable insights into the history and culture of the ancient ruins.

You’ll want to arrive early to beat the crowds and explore this extensive site. Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Dress appropriately, too, as the weather can be hot and humid. You can expect to do a lot of walking, so comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for snacks and souvenirs.

2. Visit the Mayan Ruins of Tulum

Travel back in time to discover the rich history and culture of the Mayan civilization in Tulum. An archaeological site located just an hour south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum was the last great city constructed and inhabited by the Mayan people between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries. 

Here you’ll have the chance to explore the large, well-preserved Castillo and the Temple of the Frescoes, with its mural painting, as well as a range of other structures and buildings. It also has gorgeous coastal views, but the iguanas roaming the property may well be the feature the kids love best. Tulum’s ruins overlook a stunning beach where visitors can swim, so be sure to pack swimsuits and towels to cool off after exploring the ruins. A guided walking tour of Tulum will bring the stories of the past to life.

3. Play and Learn at Xcaret Park

Xcaret Park is a popular water and theme park that features underground rivers, a butterfly garden, an aviary, a coral reef aquarium, and a sea turtle center to explore. Visiting families also have the chance to enjoy cultural shows, live music, and traditional Mexican food. It’s also home to the all-inclusive Hotel Xcaret Mexico, where your family can stay for even more adventures.

4. Find Adventure at Xel-há Park

Part of the Xcaret family, Xel-ha is particularly great for families with kids of all ages. Plan for snorkeling, water slides, zip lines, cliff jumping. It’s ideal for first-time snorkelers and young adventurers. Enjoy shaded paths, family dining options, and gear included for a hassle-free day.

You can even go tubing along a gentle natural river fed by underground freshwater sources. Unlike artificial lazy rivers in typical theme parks, Xel-Há’s tubing route winds through real mangroves and jungle.

My family was tempted to do a Xel-ha/Tulum ruins combo package, but I’m so glad we didn’t. Each destination really deserves a day to itself, and any more could be too tiring, especially for younger children.

5. Go Snorkeling in Cancun’s Clear Waters

You don’t have to have a scuba diving certificate to enjoy a close-up view of beautiful coral reefs, colorful fish, and marine life in Cancun with kids. From parks like Xel-ha, to guided tours available at most resorts, there’s great snorkeling for families with kids of all ages. Sign up for a guided tour to find the best spots.

6. Swim in Cenotes

Adventurous families will especially enjoy the myriad cenotes available throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with fresh water that visitors can explore and swim in. Kids can indulge their inner Dora the Explorer and Indiana Jones as they navigate the underground rivers, which are connected to a vast network of cave systems.

Sign up for a cenote tour to explore the more popular sites, including Cenote Azul, Cenote Cristalino, Dos Ojos (Two Eyes), Gran Cenote, and Ik Kil. Located near Playa del Carmen, Cenote Azul is an open-air cenote where the swimming area is open to the sky, making it a good choice with children. It is unlike semi-open cenotes that have small openings in the ceiling of the cave allowing light to enter, and closed cenotes, which are completely underground.

Cenotes can run deep, so bring or rent life jackets to be on the safe side. (Ask your cenote tour guide if these are provided.) Bring dollars or pesos for entry. Note that sunscreen and mosquito repellent are prohibited in these waters, although you might want to bring them for when you’re done with swimming.

7. View Underwater Sculptures at MUSA

While certified scuba divers can descend for an intimate look at the underwater sculptures at the Museum of Underwater Art (MUSA), visitors can also appreciate this extraordinary site in other ways. Snorkeling tours offer a beginner-friendly option to view many of the installations in shallower waters. Meanwhile, glass-bottom boat rides provide a dry yet mesmerizing vantage point over the submerged exhibits and surrounding coral reefs. (Warning: waves here may cause motion sickness to those who are prone!)

Originally launched in 2010 to foster reef conservation in the Cancun and Isla Mujeres areas, MUSA now includes over 500 sculptures designed to support marine life. Back on land, visit the Galeria Villa Roda–MUSA to learn more about the museum’s history, talk with its founders, and stroll a garden of sculptural replicas. A stop at the MUSA workshop even allows guests to see how these living artworks are created and meet the artists behind the mission.

8. Take a Boat to Isla Mujeres

A small island located off the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres offers a laid-back experience of the Caribbean Sea. Swim the crystal clear waters, soak up the sun, and enjoy a slice of island life.

Looking for a little adventure while you’re here? Garrafon Natural Reef Park offers snorkelling, as well as a zip line, swimming pool, and restaurant. Meanwhile, picturesque Punta Sur, on the southernmost point of the island, is home to a sculpture park that features contemporary outdoor art by artists from around the world. There’s also a lighthouse and small Mayan temple.

9. See Sea Turtles in Cancun with Kids

Not only is Isla Mujeres known for its snorkelling, but it’s also a hatching ground for giant sea turtles, which lay their eggs here from May through September. The Turtle Farm (Tortugranja) is a conservation center that works to protect and rehabilitate turtles, gathering eggs and placing them in pens to keep them safe from predators. During nesting and hatching season, you can visit to witness baby turtles in the outdoor holding tanks. You can even take part in releasing them into the sea.

There are several other places in Cancun where you can see sea turtles, whether it’s snorkeling around Isla Mujeres or swimming with turtles at Tulum Beach. Akumal Beach is another popular spot for turtle sightings. Meanwhile, Xcacel Beach is a protected turtle nesting ground, where, if you get the timing right, you can see hatchlings making their way to the ocean.

10. Swim with Whale Sharks

Isla Mujeres is also a popular departure point for whale shark tours. The waters surrounding the island are known for their large population of whale sharks during migration season. For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, strong swimmers can sign up for a tour to swim with these gentle giants, which can grow up to 40 feet in length. (Minimum age 10, typically.)

Whale sharks can be seen in the waters around Cancun during their annual migration between June and September. During summer months, hundreds of whale sharks gather to take advantage of the plankton-rich waters and abundant fish spawning grounds created by the joining of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. This offers visitors an opportunity to catch the usually solitary creatures in groups.

11. Eat Yucatan Peninsula Cuisine

The Yucatan Peninsula is a diverse and culturally rich region located in southeastern Mexico, bounded by the Gulf of Mexico to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Fun fact: the Yucatan also includes Guatemala’s Petén Department and almost the whole of Belize. The area boasts a unique cuisine that blends Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean influences, with dishes like cochinita pibil (pork marinated in achiote paste and sour orange juice) and ceviche (raw fish marinated in lime juice). Encourage kids to take a bite of these and other new dishes, and reward them with flan or tres leches cake for dessert!

12. Ride or Watch Waves at Playa Delfines

Known for its strong currents and large waves, Playa Delfines is a popular surfing spot. On the southernmost end of the Zona Hotelera, this beach is a favourite for experienced surfers and boogie boarders, as well as for kiteboarding and parasailing.

Playa Delfines is an exhilarating spot for experienced, older kids, teens, and adults to ride the waves, but strong currents make it unsafe for young children. However, families with little ones can watch the action from the shore.

Although Playa Delfines is known as Dolphin Beach, sightings of dolphins are relatively rare, though you might still spot one if you go early in the morning to search from the beach’s lookout platform. With its colourful Cancún sign and expansive views, Playa Delfines also makes for a great family photo backdrop to remember your trip by.

13. Set Sail on a Pirate Ship Dinner Cruise

Embark on a high-seas family experience aboard a pirate ship dinner cruise. Options like Captain Hook (with lobster dinner) and Jolly Roger (with fireworks) offer lively entertainment with sword fights, treasure hunts, fireworks, and music, all set against a Caribbean sunset backdrop. Kids will be swept into swashbuckling tales while parents enjoy sea breezes and a festive dinner.

14. Stargaze at Ka’Yok’ Planetarium

Dive into the cosmos at Ka’Yok’ Planetarium, a kid-friendly gem in downtown Cancun where Maya astronomy meets modern science. Children can explore interactive exhibits, learn about constellations and planets, and even peer through telescopes during special viewing nights. It’s educational, air-conditioned, and a cool way to end a sun-soaked day.

15. Explore Playa del Carmen

Located in Quintana Roo, the charming coastal town of Playa del Carmen is known for its beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife, and fascinating cultural heritage. While here, your family can visit the Museo de Frida Kahlo, which fans of the artist will enjoy.

Fifth Avenue, or La Quinta Avenida, in particular, is a popular attraction. This pedestrian street runs through the heart of Playa del Carmen. It offers plenty of restaurants and cafes as well as shops selling everything from souvenirs and artisanal crafts to high-end designer clothes and accessories.

16. Dive into the Wonders of the Mesoamerican Reef

Puerto Morelos is another beautiful coastal town, located about halfway between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Known for its gorgeous beaches, it’s also home to the National Reef Park. This is part of the Great Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Take a Puerto Morelos snorkeling tour with kids to explore colorful coral formations and witness the diverse marine life that inhabits the reef.

17. See Crocodiles and Other Animals at Croco Cun

Kids fascinated by crocodiles and other creepy crawlers will want to check out Croco Cun Zoo. This wildlife conservation center is located in Puerto Morelos. Most of the animal residents have been donated to, rescued by, or seized by environmental authorities and placed under the zoo’s care. In addition to crocs, view snakes, iguanas, birds, and monkeys. The zoo is dedicated to the preservation of endangered and local species.

18. Connect with Nature in Botanical Gardens

Located just outside Puerto Morelos, Jardin Botanico Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marin is one of Mexico’s largest coastal botanical gardens. Also known as Yaax Che, the park honors Maya heritage and environmental conservation, with native orchids and medicinal plants. Look for a towering Ceiba tree, believed to connect earth and heaven in Maya tradition. (This myth that may have inspired Avatar’s Tree of Souls!)

Explore 160 acres (65 hectares) of jungle trails, Maya ruins, and mangroves. Keep your eyes open for spider monkeys, iguanas, and vibrant birds. Don’t miss the 130-foot suspension bridge and a lookout tower with sweeping views.

19. Get Wild at Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Situated near Tulum, Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mexico’s most ecologically diverse treasures. It encompasses a wide range of wildlife and ecosystems, including tropical forests, mangroves, marshes, and coral reefs. Additionally, it is home to 300 species of birds and a variety of other animals. Explore Sian Ka’an through guided boat tours, wildlife safaris, and ancient canal floats that trace Maya trade routes. Other eco-adventures include snorkeling, kayaking, and jungle hikes.

20. Play Golf on World-Class Courses

Cancun is home to several world-class golf courses that cater to players of all levels. Golf legend Jack Nicklaus designed both the 18-hole Riviera Cancun Golf Club, set among wetlands and ocean views. He was also behind the expansive Moon Palace Spa & Golf Club, featuring 27 holes across lush jungle and native landscapes. Families appreciate that Moon Palace also offers kids’ clubs and supervised activities, allowing children to play while parents tee off.

For a truly memorable golfing experience, El Camaleón Mayakoba winds through tropical jungle, mangroves, canals, and pristine Riviera Maya beachfront. Designed by Greg Norman, it’s known as the first PGA TOUR golf course in Latin America. The onsite Jim McLean Golf School provides personalized lessons for players of all ages — juniors included.

21. Go Off-Road for Jungle Thrills

Go off-road with an ATV ride that takes you through Cancun’s myriad and extensive jungles. A variety of companies offer ATV tours, providing your family the opportunity to explore off the beaten path. Some combine snorkelling and swimming in their packages, while . (Typically age 8+.)

22. Experience Cancun’s Zona Hotelera

Whether or not you’re staying at Cancun’s Hotel Zone, also known as Zona Hotelera, you’ll want to check out this strip of land along the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It separates the Caribbean Sea from the Nichupte Lagoon. The waters on the coast here are the stunning shade of turquoise for which Cancun is renowned. Also, you can walk for miles and miles along white-sand beaches, passing one popular hotel and hot spot after another.

Cancun’s Hotel Zone features several family-friendly nightlife spots like Hard Rock Café, Señor Frog’s, and Carlos’n Charlie’s. Check these out for upbeat music and casual dining create a fun atmosphere for all ages. Go early in the evening before the serious partiers take over.

23. Practice Spanish in Cancun with Kids

Why not turn your Mexico vacation into a language-learning adventure? Warm up before your trip with Rosetta Stone, which makes Spanish fun and approachable for both adults and kids. Once you arrive, encourage the whole family to greet hotel staff, order food, or ask for directions in Spanish. Locals truly appreciate the effort, and it’s a great way to build confidence.

24. Splash in the Caribbean Sea

With all the natural, historical, and cultural treasures Cancun offers, it’s easy to overlook one of its simplest and most joyful experiences: splashing in the warm, turquoise waves. Cancun’s coastline is lined with stunning soft sand beaches, from lively resort stretches to quieter public shores.

Be sure to check local flags and rip current warnings before jumping in. But when conditions are safe, the sea is nature’s playground. Playa Langosta and Playa Tortugas are two excellent beaches for kids in Cancun with shallow, calm waters and easy beach access.

25. Swim in Hotel Pools

A fantastic hotel pool is a must, especially when visiting Cancun with kids. With nearly 300 hotels and resorts in the Cancun area, most of which offer a swimming pool, the options are many. There are a few swim-time standouts for families.

The Grand at Moon Palace Cancun boasts a full-scale water park featuring water slides, splash zones, a lazy river, a small wave pool, and a FlowRider surf simulator. Additionally, Wyndham Alltra Cancun impresses families with its swashbuckling area complete with a medieval castle, waterslides, and pirate ship.

Hard Rock Hotel Cancun features a massive lagoon-style pool with swim-up bars, a kid-friendly wading pool with slides, and splash zones at the Kids Club. Foam parties and even DJ lessons for kids up the fun factor at this all-inclusive resort. My family loved it—and I bet yours will, too! Book through Hotels.com and earn a free night after 10 stays.

Why Cancun with Kids

Ready to turn your Mexico daydream into reality? Whether you’re mapping out jungle thrills or planning beachside downtime, a mix of culture, adventure, and family fun makes Cancun a fantástico choice for families!

Families traveling with very young children definitely should read these tips for Cancun with babies and toddlers.

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Which of these adventures would your family dive into first? Got any additional Cancun activities we should add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

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